Liquidium Prepares to Launch Open Bitcoin Staking Framework

By Maria Irene · 7 July 2025

Liquidium is gearing up to release an open-source liquid staking token (LST) framework tailored for the Runes protocol, aiming to make Bitcoin-native staking more accessible and flexible. Built directly on Layer 1 Bitcoin, the framework will allow users to convert $LIQ into $sLIQ, unlocking a new staking mechanism with daily incentives.

The update introduces a 30% daily buyback programme tied to both Liquidium protocols. Users who opt into staking through the framework will benefit from consistent buybacks funded through protocol activity. This mechanism aims to create ongoing demand for $LIQ, while offering users a way to engage with the platform without giving up liquidity.

What makes this release different is its reusability. By keeping the framework open, Liquidium is offering other developers and projects the ability to build on top of the same staking architecture, creating the possibility of broader adoption within the emerging Runes-based ecosystem. The open design could serve smaller platforms looking to integrate LSTs without having to build core infrastructure from scratch.

The Runes protocol itself has been gaining attention for bringing a new form of fungible token activity to Bitcoin. With Liquidium’s approach, staking is no longer limited to high-barrier DeFi systems. By offering a native Bitcoin experience with minimal friction, Liquidium is placing itself at the centre of this evolving space.

Still, the model invites scrutiny. A 30% daily buyback rate raises questions about long-term sustainability and the mechanics behind the returns. While such figures may appeal to early adopters, the structure will need to withstand fluctuations in usage and revenue. Clarity on how these incentives are funded will be important, especially as interest grows.

There’s also the matter of security. Bitcoin’s native layer is known for its resilience, but any staking framework layered on top will naturally introduce new code, risks and responsibilities. Liquidium’s choice to make its framework public could invite peer review and auditing, but adoption will likely hinge on trust as much as on design.

The announcement is timely, given the current appetite for decentralised systems that do more than hold assets. As Bitcoin evolves beyond its store-of-value status, services like staking, lending and token swaps are becoming more sought after. Liquidium appears to be building for that future, starting with a focus on reusability, transparency and user control.

By lowering the barrier to entry for staking on Bitcoin, Liquidium’s open framework could nudge the network further into practical DeFi territory. Whether the wider market embraces it remains to be seen, but the tools are nearly in place.