Zilliqa is a pioneering Layer 1 blockchain that introduced sharding to improve scalability, utilizing a hybrid Practical BFT and Proof-of-Work consensus mechanism. This innovative architecture enables higher throughput compared to many traditional blockchains, processing thousands of transactions per second as the network scales. The project has been active since 2017, demonstrating longevity in a volatile space, and maintains a dedicated development team based in Singapore.

On the staking front, ZIL offers non-custodial staking with reasonable yields, though the staking ecosystem is less developed compared to major PoS chains like Ethereum or Solana. EVM compatibility has been a more recent focus through Zilliqa 2.0 upgrades, which aim to attract Ethereum developers, but adoption remains limited compared to established EVM-compatible chains like Polygon or Avalanche.

Key concerns include relatively low DeFi TVL, modest developer activity compared to top-tier L1s, and the challenge of differentiating in an increasingly crowded L1 landscape. The Zilliqa 2.0 roadmap shows promise with EVM integration and improved tokenomics, but execution risk remains. ZIL suits investors who believe in sharding technology's long-term potential but should be approached with awareness of its competitive positioning challenges.