# Validators

### Lending TON Tokens to Validators

1. **Innovative Validator Model**: Hipo utilizes an innovative model to lend staked TONs to validators, which is **decentralized and permissionless** compared to competitors.
2. **Validator Auction Model**: Validators can request to borrow staked TONs in each validation round by submitting their Return on Investment (ROI). Hipo's protocol selects the best ROI validators offer in an auction-like model, ensuring optimized APY for both stakers and validators.
3. **Secure Process**: All processes, including borrowing staked Toncoins and distribution of rewards, are safely executed through Hipo's smart contracts. The protocol has undergone [security audits](https://github.com/HipoFinance/audits) to ensure the integrity and safety of user funds.

<figure><img src="/files/v02Yh7bEEl4gnTzMwEs4" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>


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