I've got mixed thought and with recent ongoing server issues, I suspect they will push most things on the timeline including validators back. Having them functioning before the end of the year seems optimisitic. Also, I'm not sure anyone has broken down the math, but those expecting to see payouts like Gala nodes are in for a shock. Perhaps if you got a few and stacked them, but it's a substantial 'up front' investment. Good info. Sharing this on https://twitter.com/PraetoriaDigest.