Summary

  • Rocket Pool governance approved RPIP-71 to enable rETH withdrawals through random megapool exits as part of the Saturn 2 upgrade.
  • The protocol will retain its 4 ETH validator bond requirement to preserve decentralization.
  • Snapshot votes in late September and early October 2026 backed the changes while deferring separate onchain governance proposals.

Rocket Pool voters approved RPIP-71. It adds a withdrawal queue for the rETH liquid-staking token. They kept the existing 4 ETH validator bond.

The move pushes the Saturn 2 upgrade ahead. It gives rETH holders smoother exit options.

The changes meet demand for better liquidity in decentralized liquid staking on Ethereum. Rocket Pool runs a decentralized protocol that supplies both liquid staking and node staking products for Ethereum.

Context

Users stake ETH with rETH tokens and keep liquidity through tradable assets. Rocket Pool requires node operators to post a 4 ETH bond. This requirement sets the protocol apart from more centralized choices.

Approval of RPIP-71 builds on earlier governance steps. Voters backed the addition of withdrawal tools through random megapool exits.

Details

The Snapshot votes closed in late September and early October 2026 with backing for the withdrawal queue addition to Saturn 2. This keeps the 4 ETH bond intact and defers RPIP-85 onchain voting for later.

"Voters approved adding a withdrawal queue for rETH to the Saturn 2 upgrade while retaining 4 ETH validator bonds."

, CryptoNews (Source)

Rocket Pool pairs node operators who run validators with rETH holders who receive staking rewards. The new queue smooths exits through random megapool mechanisms. The bond requirement keeps supporting network decentralization.

Outlook

Implementation of the approved RPIP-71 features will proceed within the Saturn 2 upgrade timeline. The withdrawal queue and retained 4 ETH bonds set the immediate parameters for rETH liquidity and validator participation.