[dsimmons]

> If the costs to run a validator are too expensive or need too many resources then you just end up promoting a centralized solution.

If I recall correctly, the current number (32) was picked somewhat arbitrarily because, at least at the time, it was "enough" without being "too much" (in terms of incentives, skin in the game, and penalties for bad behavior).

I'd have to use a Googly device to find the price of Ether at the time when this decision was made, but I'm pretty sure it was a lot less than it was now. And once it'd been put into effect, it's difficult (e.g. unfair) to change it.

Longer-term, it likely won't remain so high, especially as the price of ETH appreciates. I believe I recall seeing discussions of changing this number in the future, but it's not the nearest-term priority.

For now, there are decent options around staking pools. Lido is the elephant in the room, but more and more people have been moving to Rocket Pool because it better promotes decentralization.