We’ve upgraded our Ethereum validator stack from MEV-Boost to Commit-Boost as our default proposer-builder separation (PBS) sidecar. Commit-Boost standardizes how our validators communicate with stakeholders in the block construction process, making operations simpler while giving us room to innovate. Because Commit-Boost is modular, we can easily adapt to upcoming Ethereum features like preconfirmations and inclusion lists without re-engineering our setup.

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As Ethereum continues to mature as the settlement layer for global finance, institutional participants require infrastructure that delivers speed, certainty, and scalability without compromising security or decentralization. Proposer commitment applications, such as preconfirmations, play a central role in meeting these expectations, creating new opportunities for validators while improving transaction execution for end users.

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The Value of Blockspace

Blockspace represents the fundamental resource on any blockchain. For Ethereum, efficient blockspace allocation directly impacts network performance, transaction costs, and user experience. As institutional adoption accelerates, the demand for predictable, high-quality blockspace continues to grow. Validators control blockspace allocation through their role as block proposers. This position enables them to make commitments about how that blockspace will be utilized, whether guaranteeing transaction inclusion, providing execution certainty, or offering sequencing rights. These proposer commitments transform blockspace from a homogenous product to something that can meet the needs of all its users. For institutions, reliable access to blockspace means faster settlement times, reduced execution risk, and the ability to build applications that meet traditional finance performance standards.

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The Role of Commit-Boost

While proposer commitments present compelling opportunities, they also introduce operational complexity for validators. This is where Commit-Boost becomes essential infrastructure. Commit-Boost is an open-source validator sidecar that standardizes how Ethereum validators make commitments around blockspace. Commit-Boost operates as a modular platform, similar to an app store, allowing validators to opt into various commitment protocols including preconfirmations, inclusion lists, and blockspace futures. Commit-Boost is maintained by a non-profit entity with no token, no monetization plan, and full backward compatibility with the current PBS (Proposer-Builder Separation) pipeline. This credibly neutral approach reduces counterparty risk and ensures long-term alignment with Ethereum's core principles. For institutional staking operations, it delivers concrete advantages:

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• Operational Efficiency: A single sidecar replaces multiple implementations, reducing complexity during network upgrades.
• Risk Management: The standardized interface reduces the attack surface compared to running multiple sidecars. Currently used by 30% of Ethereum mainnet validators.
• Revenue Opportunities: Validators can offer preconfirmation and other block construction services to generate additional yield beyond standard block rewards.

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Conclusion

As Ethereum's validator landscape evolves, Blockdaemon remains at the forefront of institutional-grade infrastructure. Our platform supports the latest innovations in proposer commitments, ensuring our clients benefit from enhanced performance and new revenue opportunities while maintaining the security and reliability institutions require.

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To learn more about how institutional-grade infrastructure can support your blockchain strategy, contact our team to discuss tailored solutions for your organization's needs.

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