Lido DAO, governing the largest DeFi protocol, recently shifted its alliance to Axelar and Wormhole for crypto bridge development, rejecting LayerZero’s unsanctioned advances.This strategic move highlights the intensifying competition and significance of cross-chain interoperability in the blockchain space.“This is more about principle than technology,” says Robinson Burkey of Wormhole Foundation, underscoring the community-driven ethos in blockchain governance.
Amidst the dynamic landscape of blockchain interoperability, Lido DAO’s recent endorsement of Axelar and Wormhole over LayerZero marks a pivotal moment in DeFi collaborations and decentralized governance.
Unsanctioned Moves by LayerZero and Lido DAO’s Strategic Response

Last October, LayerZero launched a bridge for Lido’s stETH without the DAO’s explicit consent, igniting a debate on the ethics of “permissionlessness” in blockchain development. This unilateral decision, perceived as a breach of protocol by the Lido community, has led to a significant shift in alliances, favoring Axelar and Wormhole’s collaborative proposal for enhanced cross-chain functionality. The event underscores the delicate balance between innovation and community consensus in the decentralized world.
The Importance of Community Endorsement in Blockchain Protocols
The crux of this development lies in the community-driven governance model that underpins decentralized protocols like Lido DAO. While LayerZero’s initial action wasn’t technically impermissible, it was seen as a disregard for the DAO’s decision-making process. The recent 81% vote in favor of Axelar and Wormhole reflects the community’s preference for collaborative approaches and respect for decentralized governance, setting a precedent for future protocol developments and partnerships.
Axelar and Wormhole’s Joint Proposal: A New Era for Cross-Chain Interoperability
The joint proposal by Axelar and Wormhole introduces an innovative multi-signature bridge method, combining the strengths of both networks. This approach promises enhanced security and flexibility for transferring staked ETH across chains, representing a significant leap in cross-chain interoperability. The endorsement by Lido DAO, with its substantial TVL, not only boosts the credibility of Axelar and Wormhole but also sets a new standard for bridge protocol developments in the blockchain industry.
LayerZero’s Response and Future Implications for DeFi
LayerZero’s subdued response to this shift in community preference signals a broader implication for DeFi protocols. It highlights the importance of aligning with community values and the potential consequences of overlooking decentralized governance principles. This incident serves as a case study for emerging DeFi protocols, emphasizing the need for ethical practices and community-centric approaches in a rapidly evolving digital finance landscape.
Conclusion
The recent developments in Lido DAO’s endorsement of bridge protocols underscore a critical aspect of DeFi ecosystems: the power and influence of community governance. As blockchain technology continues to evolve, the balance between innovation and community consensus will remain a pivotal factor in shaping the future of decentralized finance. The strategic alliance between Lido DAO, Axelar, and Wormhole sets a new benchmark for collaboration, security, and respect for decentralized protocols in the blockchain industry.
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