Stellar's consensus protocol eliminates MEV (maximal extractable value) by design, unlike Ethereum and Solana where validators extract millions daily from user transactions. Stellar uses trusted validators accountable to the community rather than proof-of-stake incentives, creating fair markets where users aren't front-run.
This educational video explains MEV (maximal extractable value) and how Stellar differs fundamentally from Ethereum and Solana. MEV occurs when validators censor, reorder, or front-run user transactions to profit from arbitrage, extracting $1.2-12 million daily on Ethereum alone. Over 90% of Ethereum blocks contain MEV, and users cannot opt out. Stellar avoids this through its consensus protocol, which relies on known, trusted validators held accountable by the community rather than economic incentives. If a Stellar validator attempted MEV, the community could remove them without forking. The core message: Stellar was built for fair markets, not revenue extraction, ensuring validators and users align rather than compete.