Key Points
- Ethereum developers are considering the Pectra upgrade to improve network functionality.
- The Ethereum Foundation is contemplating a conflict of interest policy following community backlash.
Ethereum developers have recently been discussing an upgrade known as Pectra for the Ethereum Beacon Chain. This upgrade aims to enhance the network’s functionality.
Pectra Upgrade Development
During a recent meeting, developers deliberated on the features to be included in the upgrade and the timing of its launch. Certain features, like EIP 7549, have been confirmed for inclusion, while others, such as EIP 7688, are still under consideration.
One of the main topics of discussion was PeerDAS, a new technology that could greatly enhance the network’s data handling capabilities. While developers are enthusiastic about PeerDAS, there are concerns that its inclusion in Pectra could delay the upgrade.
To avoid potential delays, developers have considered splitting Pectra into two parts, although this approach also has its downsides. The current decision is to proceed with testing both the planned features for Pectra and PeerDAS together. PeerDAS will be activated on test networks later than the other features, and the inclusion of EIP 7688 will be decided in a future meeting.
Ethereum Foundation Controversy
These developments and discussions have been occurring amid a controversy involving the Ethereum Foundation. The controversy started on 18th May when prominent crypto trader Jordan Fish, also known as Cobie, questioned Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin about the ethics of EF developers receiving substantial financial incentives from projects built on the network.
Cobie’s tweet specifically mentioned EigenLayer, sparking a widespread discussion on social media about potential conflicts of interest. Following this, Ethereum Foundation researcher Justin Drake disclosed his advisory role at EigenLayer, revealing that he had received a significant incentive in Eigen tokens, estimated to be worth millions of dollars over a three-year vesting period.
This disclosure raised concerns about transparency and potential conflicts of interest between EigenLayer and the Ethereum Foundation. Drake clarified that this information had been public since 3rd May and that the timing of the disclosure with Cobie’s tweet was coincidental.
On 21st May, another Ethereum Foundation researcher, Dankrad Feist, also disclosed his advisory role at EigenLayer. Feist confirmed that he too had received a significant allocation of EIGEN tokens. He assured the community that his advisory role would not influence his positions on the development of EigenLayer.
In response to this community backlash, the Ethereum Foundation is considering implementing a formal conflict of interest policy. Meanwhile, Ethereum’s price remained relatively unaffected during this period, continuing to trade above $3700.
