Learning the friendly way

Livepeer är ett decentraliserat nätverk för videostreaming, med målet att göra videoinnehåll mer tillgängligt och prisvärt för alla. Projektet lanserades 2017 och var det första fullt decentraliserade live-videoprotokollet – ett alternativ till traditionella, centraliserade streamingtjänster som YouTube och Twitch.

Plattformen fungerar genom att koppla samman innehållsskapare med datoroperatörer som tillhandahåller datorkraft. Denna peer-to-peer-modell kan minska kostnaderna för videobehandling med upp till 50–90 % jämfört med molnbaserade lösningar, samtidigt som kvaliteten bibehålls.

TL;DR

Decentraliserad videoinfrastruktur:
Livepeer bygger ett nätverk där AI-bearbetning och videotranskodning kan utföras av oberoende noder i stället för dyra serverhallar.

Kostnadseffektiv streaming:
Tack vare sin decentraliserade marknadsplats kan Livepeer erbjuda konkurrenskraftiga priser och tillförlitliga tjänster till utvecklare och plattformar.

Ethereum-baserat protokoll:
Byggt på Ethereum ger det utvecklare frihet att skapa videolösningar utanför storföretagens kontroll.

LPT-tokenen:
Livepeers inbyggda token används för staking och styrning av nätverket, inte som direkt betalningsmedel.

Hur fungerar Livepeer?

När någon vill streama video använder de normalt stora serverhallar för att bearbeta innehållet. Livepeer gör det istället möjligt att distribuera jobbet över ett globalt nätverk av datorer – så kallade orchestrators – som hjälper till att transkoda video till olika kvaliteter (t.ex. 1080p, 720p, 480p). Det gör att videor fungerar oavsett enhet eller internetuppkoppling.

Det här gynnar både innehållsskapare, tittare och datoroperatörer:

• Skapare betalar mindre för högkvalitativ streaming
• Operatörer tjänar pengar genom att bidra med datorkraft
• Tittare får samma upplevelse som på traditionella plattformar

För utvecklare innebär det ett billigt, flexibelt och decentraliserat alternativ till att själva bygga upp videoinfrastruktur.

Vem ligger bakom Livepeer?

Livepeer grundades 2017 av Doug Petkanics (CEO) och Eric Tang (CTO) – två mjukvaruutvecklare med lång erfarenhet av startupvärlden. Doug har tidigare varit med och grundat Wildcard och studerat vid University of Pennsylvania, medan Eric är teknisk visionär med fokus på hur blockchain kan effektivisera streaming.

De såg hur videoinnehåll blev allt dyrare att distribuera, samtidigt som några få stora aktörer kontrollerade större delen av infrastrukturen. Livepeer föddes ur idén att göra streaming mer öppet och decentraliserat – utan att tumma på kvalitet eller prestanda.

Transkodningsnätverket

Grunden i Livepeer är dess videotranskodningsnätverk. Varje gång en video ska streamas behöver den konverteras till flera olika format för att fungera på olika enheter och nätverk. Det är det här jobbet som Livepeer distribuerar över tusentals datorer världen över.

Operatörerna tävlar om att erbjuda bästa möjliga tjänst till lägsta pris, vilket skapar ett naturligt effektivt system där kvalitet och kostnad balanseras.

Säkerhet och staking

För att få utföra arbete i nätverket måste operatörerna stakea LPT-tokens. Det fungerar som en säkerhetsinsats – om de fuskar eller levererar dålig service riskerar de att förlora sina tokens. Det här håller kvaliteten hög.

Andra användare kan också välja att delegera sina LPT till operatörer de litar på, och i gengäld få en andel av belöningarna, utan att själva behöva köra någon hårdvara.

Ekonomiska incitament

Livepeer fungerar som en öppen marknadsplats för videobearbetning. De operatörer som erbjuder bäst kombination av pris, tillförlitlighet och kvalitet får jobben. Själva betalningarna sker i ETH eller andra kryptovalutor, medan LPT används för staking, governance och belöningar.

Vad är LPT?

LPT är Livepeers native token och används inte främst som betalmedel utan för att:

• Säkra nätverket: Operatörer måste stakea LPT för att få jobba i nätverket
• Styra protokollet: Tokeninnehavare kan rösta om viktiga beslut och uppgraderingar
• Få belöningar: Genom delegation kan du få en del av intäkterna från operatörer
• Utföra arbete: LPT representerar rätten att bidra till nätverket och tjäna på videobearbetning

Tokenen följer en inflationsmodell där nya LPT skapas som belöning – men värdet balanseras av användning och nätverkets tillväxt.

Hur köper och säljer man LPT?

Nyfiken på att utforska LPT? Du kan enkelt köpa, sälja, handla och lagra Livepeer-tokenen direkt i Tap-appen – tillsammans med dina andra digitala tillgångar.

Eftersom LPT:s värde är kopplat till hur mycket Livepeers infrastruktur används, påverkas efterfrågan av hur många utvecklare och innehållsskapare som väljer att bygga på plattformen.

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Harvest Finance is a decentralised yield farming protocol that automates the process of earning maximum returns on crypto investments. Launched in 2020 on the Ethereum blockchain, it functions as a yield aggregator that automatically moves users' funds between different DeFi protocols to capture the highest available yields. It now operates on additional blockchains such as Binance Smart Chain and Polygon.

The platform was designed to solve one of the biggest challenges in DeFi yield farming: the time and expertise needed to constantly monitor and switch between different protocols to maximise returns. Instead of users having to do this manually, Harvest Finance does it automatically, making yield farming accessible to everyone.

TLDR

Automated yield farming: Harvest Finance is a DeFi protocol that automatically farms the highest yields available from various DeFi protocols and pools, optimising returns using advanced farming techniques.

Yield aggregator: Harvest Finance serves as a yield aggregator where assets are deposited into strategic vaults to maximise their yield.

Vault system: Users deposit their crypto assets into specialised vaults, receiving fTokens in return that represent their share of the vault and accumulated rewards.

Native token (FARM): FARM is the governance token that allows holders to vote on protocol parameters and share in farming revenue. FARM token holders can vote on proposals for the operational treasury and may receive a fee from Harvest operations

What is Harvest Finance (FARM)?

Harvest Finance simplifies the complex world of yield farming by creating an automated system that does the hard work for users. When you deposit your crypto into a Harvest vault, the protocol automatically deploys your funds to various DeFi platforms that offer the best returns at any given time.

Think of it like having a professional fund manager for your crypto, but instead of a human making decisions, smart contracts automatically move your money to wherever it can earn the most. The protocol automatically farms the highest yield by moving funds between farming pools on your behalf, eliminating the need for users to constantly research and switch between different platforms.

The platform supports various types of assets including stablecoins, popular cryptocurrencies, and liquidity pool tokens. When you deposit assets, you receive fTokens (like fUSDC for USDC deposits) that represent your share of the vault and track your earnings over time.

Harvest Finance's goal is to make yield farming more accessible by automating the process and optimising the potential returns using the latest farming techniques, bringing sophisticated DeFi strategies to everyday users.

Who created Harvest Finance?

The founders of Harvest Finance remain anonymous, which was common for many DeFi projects launched in 2020. The team is completely anonymous, though the project succeeded in attracting a relatively sizable community and has been involved in the community by doling out grants.

Despite the anonymous nature of the founding team, Harvest Finance has built a strong reputation in the DeFi community through its transparent operations and community involvement. The token was distributed via fair launch with no token sales to investors, demonstrating the team's commitment to decentralised principles.

The project launched during the height of the 2020 DeFi summer when yield farming became extremely popular, and the anonymous team capitalised on the growing demand for automated yield optimisation tools.

How does Harvest Finance work?

Vault Strategy System

The platform operates through a system of specialised vaults, each designed for different types of assets and risk profiles. When you deposit crypto into a vault, you receive fTokens that represent your share of that vault's total holdings.

The magic happens behind the scenes, where the protocol's strategies automatically deploy your funds to various DeFi protocols like Compound, Curve, Uniswap, and others based on where they can earn the highest yields. The system constantly monitors yield opportunities and automatically rebalances to maximise returns.

Automated Yield Optimisation

Harvest Finance's protocol design automatically farms the highest available yields and distributes the profits to users in the pool. This means users don't need to understand the complexities of different DeFi protocols or spend time managing their positions.

The protocol uses sophisticated algorithms to determine the best allocation of funds across different yield farming opportunities, taking into account factors like APY rates, smart contract risks, and gas costs for rebalancing.

Profit Sharing Model

When the automated strategies generate profits, these are shared among all users in the vault proportional to their deposits. A portion of the profits is also distributed to FARM token holders who stake their tokens in profit-sharing pools, creating an additional incentive layer for the community.

What is FARM?

FARM serves as the governance and profit-sharing token of the Harvest Finance ecosystem:

• Governance Rights: Holders can vote on protocol parameters and propose or veto the introduction of new Vaults, giving the community control over the platform's direction.
• Profit Sharing: FARM, when deposited in Profit Sharing pools, becomes a means of participating in farming revenue, allowing token holders to earn a share of the protocol's success.
• Protocol Incentives: Harvest at launch required a native crypto so as to be able to incentivise yield farmers, and allow Harvest to stake other platforms and collect rewards in return.
• Community Participation: The token creates alignment between users and the protocol's long-term success, as both benefit from higher yields and more efficient farming strategies.

FARM operates as an ERC-20 token on Ethereum, making it compatible with the broader DeFi ecosystem and easily tradeable on decentralised exchanges. While FARM is originally an ERC-20 token, it also exists on other blockchain platforms such as Polygon and Binance Smart Chain, expanding to multiple blockchains to offer yield farming opportunities across different ecosystems

How can I buy and sell FARM?

For those looking to participate in automated yield farming, FARM tokens are readily available through the Tap app. You can purchase, sell, and store FARM tokens securely while managing them alongside your broader crypto portfolio.

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Building wealth doesn’t require a finance degree, a huge bank account, or advanced knowledge of the stock market. What you need most is clarity. Understanding the basics of investment can help you reach major goals like buying property, funding your education, or planning for retirement. When you learn how to put your money to work, you create opportunities for long-term growth, greater financial security, and even future revenue streams.

This guide breaks down what an investment is, how it works, the different types available, and how you can start today.

What Is an Investment?

An investment is something you purchase with the expectation that it will increase in value or generate income over time. You trade resources (usually money, but sometimes time or effort) for a future benefit. In simple terms, investing is like planting a seed today that grows into a tree tomorrow.

In finance, investments can include assets such as stocks, bonds, real estate, commodities, cryptocurrencies, mutual funds, and other financial instruments. These assets may generate profit through interest payments, dividends, rent, or increases in market value.

Outside of money, people also “invest” in education, skills, or personal development. The idea remains the same: you commit resources now for long-term reward. Whether you’re an individual saving for the future or a corporation expanding operations, investment is a powerful tool for building wealth and increasing economic value.

How Do Investments Work?

Investments typically generate returns in two main ways: income and appreciation.

1. Income

Some investments pay you regularly even if you never sell them. Examples include:

• Dividends from stocks, which come from a company’s profits
• Interest from bonds, which compensates you for lending money
• Rent from real estate properties
• Coupon payments from fixed-income securities

Income-focused assets can help you create predictable cash flow, support long-term goals, and diversify your portfolio.

2. Capital Appreciation

Appreciation occurs when an asset increases in market value.
Example:
You buy a share for $100, and later the share price rises to $150. If you sell it, your profit is the $50 gain minus any cost or tax.

Most investors rely on a mix of income and appreciation depending on their financial strategy.

Risk and Return

All investments involve risk, such as:

• Market volatility
• Credit risk (for bondholders)
• Depreciation of property or goods
• Currency fluctuations
• Liquidity constraints

In general, higher potential return usually comes with higher risk. Understanding your risk tolerance is essential for proper portfolio planning and long-term success.

Compounding

Compounding occurs when your earnings begin to generate additional earnings. For example, interest added to a bank account earns more interest later. Compounding accelerates wealth-building and is one reason long-term investing is effective.

Types of Investments

There are many investment vehicles available in the marketplace, each with distinct features, costs, and risk levels.

A. Stocks (Equities)

Stocks represent ownership in a company. When you buy a stock on an exchange, you become a shareholder. Your potential returns come from:

• Share price growth
• Dividend payments

Stocks are often more volatile but historically deliver higher long-term returns. They’re typically best for investors seeking growth and willing to handle market fluctuations.

B. Bonds (Fixed-Income Securities)

Bonds are loans you provide to a corporation or government. In exchange, you receive:

• Regular interest payments
• Return of your principal at maturity

Government bonds, corporate bonds, and foreign bonds vary in credit risk and coupon rates. Bonds help balance a portfolio and provide steady income.

C. Mutual Funds

Mutual funds pool money from multiple investors and invest in professionally managed portfolios of:

• Stocks
• Bonds
• Commodities
• Other securities

They offer diversification and professional management but may include management fees. Investors purchase shares of the fund at the end-of-day price.

D. Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs)

ETFs are similar to mutual funds but trade on stock exchanges like individual shares. They often track stock market indexes, commodity markets, or sectors. ETFs typically have lower fees and offer flexibility, diversification, and transparency.

E. Real Estate

Real estate investments include:

• Rental properties
• Residential or commercial buildings
• Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs)
  
  

Real estate offers potential income through rent, capital appreciation, and tax benefits. It also serves as a physical asset with market value tied to local economies.

F. Alternative Investments

These include:

• Commodities (gold, silver, oil, agriculture)
• Cryptocurrencies
• Private equity
• Venture capital
• Collectibles (art, coins, metals)

Alternative products often have higher volatility or lower liquidity but can strengthen diversification strategies.

How Much Money Do You Need to Start Investing?

Today, you can begin investing with $1 to $100 thanks to:

• Fractional share purchasing
• Micro-investment apps
• Zero-minimum brokerage accounts

The amount matters less than consistency. For example, investing $100 every month over 10 years can yield more than investing $1,000 just once, because compounding rewards regular contributions.

Before you begin, ensure you:

• Have a bank account in good standing
• Maintain an emergency fund
• Understand basic investment terms
• Are aware of costs, fees, and taxes

The barrier to entry is lower than ever, making investing accessible for almost anyone.

Advantages of Investing

1. Wealth Growth Through Compounding

Your money earns returns, and those returns earn more over time. Compounding is one of the most powerful financial tools available.

2. Passive Income Potential

Dividends, interest payments, rental income, and other streams can supplement your salary and eventually support financial independence.

3. Protection Against Inflation

Cash loses purchasing power over time. Investments in assets like equities, commodities, or real estate historically outpace inflation rates and help preserve long-term value.

4. Tax Benefits

Many investment accounts offer tax incentives:

• 401(k) and IRA contributions may reduce taxable income
• Roth accounts allow tax-free withdrawals
• Long-term capital gains are often taxed at lower rates

Always consult a tax professional for personalized advice.

Risks and Considerations

1. Risk of Loss

All investments carry the possibility of losing principal. No product offers guaranteed returns.

2. Market Volatility

Prices fluctuate based on supply, demand, economic policy, regulation, behavioral economics, and global events.

3. Liquidity Challenges

Some assets (like real estate, certificates of deposit, or certain bonds) are not easily converted to cash.

4. Knowledge Requirements

Successful investing requires ongoing learning, research, and understanding of financial statements, corporate law considerations, and market dynamics. Professional advice can be useful in complex situations.

How to Start Investing

1. Set Your Financial Goals

Define your purpose: retirement, education, purchasing property, or building long-term wealth. Timeline matters because it influences your strategy.

2. Check Your Financial Foundation

Ensure:

• A stable monthly budget
• An emergency fund
• High-interest debt under control
  
  

3. Understand Your Risk Tolerance

Consider your age, life stage, income stability, and comfort with market swings.

4. Choose Your Investment Account

Options include:

• Employer 401(k) plans
• IRAs (Traditional or Roth)
• Taxable brokerage accounts
  
  

5. Select a Brokerage or Platform

Look for:

• Low fees
• Educational tools
• Customer support
• Privacy and security features
  
  

Robo-advisors can offer automated, passive management based on your profile.

6. Start Small and Stay Consistent

Use strategies such as dollar-cost averaging, automatic transfers, and regular rebalancing.

7. Seek Guidance When Needed

Financial advisors, online courses, and platform research tools can help you navigate complex decisions.

Calculating Return on Investment (ROI)

Use this simple formula:

ROI = (Current Value – Original Cost) ÷ Original Cost × 100

For example:
You invest $1,000. It grows to $1,250.
ROI = (1250 – 1000) ÷ 1000 × 100 = 25%

ROI helps you compare different investments, though it does not account for time, risk, or market conditions. If you wish to learn more, you can check out our blog article on ROI.

Conclusion

Investing is the practice of putting your money to work so it can grow over time. You don’t need a large starting amount, just a plan, patience, and consistency. By understanding how investments function and choosing the right strategy for your needs, you can build wealth, protect your purchasing power, and work toward long-term financial goals. With knowledge, discipline, and the right tools, you can confidently take your first step into the world of investing.

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Bitcoin can't seem to catch a break lately. It has been stuck under $92,000 for days and down 17% from the beginning of the month. But if you're wondering when the tide might turn, you're asking the right question. Three catalysts could flip the script, and they're all coming into focus sooner than you think.

The crypto king has been trading sideways since Thursday, frustrating bulls who remember the highs above $110,000 from just four weeks ago. While bears point to softening job numbers and shaky AI investment sentiment, bulls are betting on governments cranking up money printing to cover ballooning deficits. Both camps might be right, and the current weakness could actually be setting the stage for Bitcoin's next major move.

The Inflation Shield Is Back in Play

The iShares TIPS Bond ETF—which tracks Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities—just bounced off support at 110.50 on Thursday and resumed climbing. When this ETF rises, it signals investors are bracing for higher inflation. That's typically good news for Bitcoin, since traders start hunting for alternative hedges against eroding purchasing power.

Meanwhile, interest rate expectations are tightening the screws. According to CME's FedWatch Tool, traders now see a 78% chance the Federal Reserve keeps rates at 3.50% or higher through January 26. That's up dramatically from just 47% in late October. Lower rates usually help leveraged companies breathe easier and boost consumer spending—both positives for risk assets like Bitcoin.

The problem? Uncertainty is everywhere. The US government funding issues that dragged on until November 12 has the Fed thinking twice about any December rate cut. Traders have marked one date on their calendar: the November jobs report dropping December 16.

2026 Could Bring Fireworks

The first half of 2026 is shaping up to be a game-changer. Fed Chair Jerome Powell's term expires in May, and President Donald Trump has been vocal about wanting someone who'll ease up on monetary restrictions. No nomination timeline yet, but Senate confirmation typically takes months—enough time for markets to start pricing in a more dovish stance.

There's more: Bloomberg reported that US regulators just finalized rules slashing capital requirements for major banks starting January 1, 2026. Combined with the Trump administration's push for economic stimulus through expanded borrowing (remember the "One Big Beautiful Bill Act" from July?), these moves could light a fire under risky assets like Bitcoin.

Derivatives Are at a Standstill

Bitcoin options traders aren't feeling confident yet. Put options (bets on price drops) are trading at a 10% premium over equivalent call options (bets on gains)—a clear sign of defensive positioning. With $22.6 billion in BTC options set to expire December 26, most traders are sitting tight until this "skew" normalizes back toward 5% or lower.

The Bottom Line

Bitcoin's path back up remains open, though the timing depends on how these key factors unfold. Inflation expectations are trending upward, regulatory changes for banks could ease financial conditions by early 2026, and potential Fed leadership shifts may signal a less restrictive monetary environment ahead. Meanwhile, derivatives markets suggest traders are waiting for clearer signals before committing to bullish positions.

The December economic data releases and the year-end options expiry will likely influence near-term sentiment, but the more substantial catalysts appear positioned for the first half of 2026. Whether Bitcoin reclaims its recent highs quickly or takes a more gradual path will depend on how these forces interact in the months ahead.

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The study of token economics is known as tokenomics. It covers all elements of a cryptocurrency's creation, management, and sometimes removal from a blockchain network. The term "tokenomics" is formed by pairing up the two words "token" and "economics" and is largely used within the crypto ecosystem to project the potential of a cryptocurrency. Tokenomics, simply put, is how token value is determined and what affects its value. 

Tokenomics and cryptocurrencies

Tokenomics and cryptocurrencies are closely connected. Tokenomics refers to the set of rules and principles that govern how cryptocurrencies work. It includes important aspects like how many tokens exist, how they are distributed, and what they can be used for. These rules are crucial for designing and managing cryptocurrencies effectively.

Tokenomics plays a significant role in determining the value of cryptocurrencies. It influences how people perceive and evaluate a cryptocurrency's worth. Factors such as token scarcity (limited supply), the usefulness of tokens in various applications, and the level of demand for them can impact the price and acceptance of a cryptocurrency.

Well-designed tokenomics can foster trust and adoption, and increase the overall value of a digital currency. Conversely, poorly designed tokenomics can hinder adoption and limit the perceived value of a cryptocurrency when traded for fiat currencies or other cryptocurrencies. Therefore, creating a solid and thoughtful tokenomics model is essential for the success and widespread acceptance of cryptocurrencies.

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An example of tokenomics: Bitcoin

Bitcoin operates on a specific set of tokenomics. It has a maximum supply of 21 million coins that will ever enter circulation, ensuring scarcity and value appreciation over time. Ethereum, for example, has an unlimited amount of coins. The issuance of new Bitcoins through mining creates incentives for network security while halving events reduces the rate of new supply.

Additionally, Bitcoin's decentralised nature and widespread adoption contribute to its value, with market demand and utility driving its price in the open market. These tokenomics elements make Bitcoin a deflationary digital asset with a unique economic model within the cryptocurrency ecosystem.

Why is tokenomics important?

Tokenomics is especially important in the crypto space due to the lack of regulation. Since there are no laws governing cryptocurrencies, tokenomics provide an opportunity for cryptocurrencies to be evaluated according to their real-life merit, not just how they are traded on exchanges.

What are the benefits of tokenomics?

Tokenomics offers several benefits within the cryptocurrency ecosystem. Firstly, it establishes clear rules and incentives, ensuring a fair and transparent economic system for participants. Tokenomics can incentivise desirable behaviour, such as staking or contributing to network security, promoting overall network growth and sustainability.

Additionally, tokenomics enables the creation of utility and value for tokens, providing variable economic benefits to holders. It allows for the development of decentralised applications (dapps) and the creation of vibrant ecosystems around cryptocurrencies. Similarly, tokenomics facilitates liquidity and trading opportunities, enabling users to buy, sell, and exchange tokens in various markets.

Overall, tokenomics fosters innovation, incentivizes participation, and contributes to the overall growth and success of the cryptocurrency ecosystem.

What are the negatives of tokenomics?

While tokenomics has numerous advantages, there are some downsides to consider. One downside is the potential for market volatility, as token prices can be subject to rapid fluctuations influenced by various factors, including market speculation and investor sentiment.

Additionally, inadequate or poorly designed tokenomics models may result in economic inefficiencies, lack of token utility, or even vulnerability to manipulation. It's important to note that tokenomics may not guarantee long-term value stability, and investors should carefully assess the risks associated with specific tokens and projects before engaging in the cryptocurrency market.

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The different tokenomics terms explained

Asset valuation

The process of determining the value of a coin or token. This is especially useful for users who want to purchase new coins or tokens. If they can estimate how much a coin or token will be worth in the future, it might be easier to decide whether or not its price is worth tapping into. Coin and token valuation is also important for traders who have made a significant purchase of a coin or token, and want to assess if its price is likely going up or down.

Inflation

In the context of tokenomics, inflation refers to the increase in the token supply over time, resulting in a decrease in the token's purchasing power and value. Inflation can impact the economic stability of a cryptocurrency ecosystem, and its management is crucial to maintain the desired balance between supply, demand, and overall token value.

Deflation

In tokenomics, deflation refers to the decrease in the token supply, leading to a potential increase in the token's purchasing power and value over time. Deflationary tokenomics can promote scarcity, create incentives for holding tokens, and potentially drive price appreciation within the cryptocurrency ecosystem.

Supply and demand elasticity

If a coin has high supply-and-demand elasticity, its price will likely be more affected by changes in demand relative to its supply. This means that if demand for a particular coin rises, the coin will experience more positive price action ($$) than if demand for the same coin fell.

Supply and demand elasticity = (% change in quantity supplied) / (% change in quantity demanded).

Community rewards

When a coin or token has a substantial community surrounding it, it can play a role in contributing to improving the asset’s fundamentals. This is an example of market-based governance that has the potential to lead to a rise in the coin or token's value as it is considered an indicator of trust in the network.

Pump and dump schemes

A pump and dump scheme is a manipulative practice within tokenomics where a group artificially inflates the price of a token through coordinated buying, creating a "pump." This creates a false sense of value and attracts unsuspecting users. Once the price reaches a peak, the group sells off their holdings, causing a rapid price decline, or "dump," leaving other users at a loss. Pump and dump schemes are considered fraudulent and can lead to significant financial losses for those involved.

In conclusion

Tokenomics plays a vital role in the cryptocurrency ecosystem by establishing rules, incentives, and economic principles for cryptocurrencies. It influences the value and acceptance of cryptocurrencies by determining factors such as scarcity, utility, and demand.

Well-designed tokenomics can foster trust, adoption, and increase the overall value of cryptocurrencies. However, it's important to be aware of potential downsides, such as market volatility and poorly designed tokenomics models. Understanding tokenomics helps participants evaluate the real-life merit of cryptocurrencies and make informed decisions.

Audius is one of the most interesting projects in the Web3 space. A decentralized music streaming platform built to give power back to the artists. Instead of relying on record labels or centralized platforms, Audius connects creators directly with fans, letting them publish, share, and monetize their music on their own terms. It’s a platform where listeners stream music freely, while artists earn rewards in the platform’s native cryptocurrency, AUDIO.

Founded in 2018 by Roneil Rumburg and Forrest Browning, Audius has attracted millions of monthly users and hundreds of thousands of artists, including support from big names like Katy Perry, Nas, Steve Aoki, and Jason Derulo. Its mission is simple: remove middlemen and let artists truly own and profit from their work.

How Does Audius Work?

Under the hood, Audius runs on a decentralized network powered by content and discovery nodes. Content nodes host and secure music files on behalf of artists, while discovery nodes index them so fans can easily find tracks. This system replaces centralized servers with a distributed network, ensuring better censorship resistance and transparency.

Artists can upload music directly to Audius, choose how they want to share it (free or paid), and even unlock exclusive content for top fans. Unlike traditional streaming platforms that pay based on plays, Audius rewards artists for overall engagement, from trending tracks to verified uploads and fan interaction.

Originally built on the Ethereum blockchain, Audius later migrated its content system to Solana for faster, cheaper transactions while keeping AUDIO as an ERC-20 token. That hybrid setup combines Ethereum’s reliability with Solana’s scalability.

What Makes Audius Different?

Audius challenges the norms of the music industry by flipping the profit structure. In traditional streaming, artists might receive only about 12% of total revenue. On Audius, artists receive 90% of the rewards directly in AUDIO tokens, while the remaining 10% goes to node operators who help secure the network.

This approach creates a more transparent and equitable mode, one that empowers artists to connect directly with listeners, share exclusive releases, or run their own communities. The platform even partners with TikTok, allowing creators to link Audius tracks directly to TikTok videos, giving exposure across mainstream social media.

Because content is hosted through decentralized storage (via AudSP, an IPFS-based system), artists retain control over their music files. That makes the platform both censorship-resistant and artist-friendly, a rare combination in the streaming world.

The AUDIO Token

The AUDIO token is the backbone of the Audius ecosystem. It serves several roles:

• Staking and Network Security. Node operators stake AUDIO to run network infrastructure and earn rewards.
• Governance. Each AUDIO token grants one vote in protocol decisions, giving users a voice in how the platform evolves.
• Feature Access. Holding or staking AUDIO unlocks premium features, early access to new tools, and artist badges.

AUDIO has an initial supply of one billion tokens and is used for platform rewards, community incentives, and ongoing network security. Holders can also earn additional AUDIO through staking or by helping to grow the ecosystem.

Why Audius Matters

Audius is more than a music app; it’s a proof of concept for how blockchain can reshape creative industries. In short, it offers:

• Direct artist-to-fan connections without middlemen
• Transparent revenue sharing through on-chain rewards
• Censorship-resistant storage for music and metadata
• Cross-chain scalability with Ethereum and Solana interoperability

For artists, it’s a fairer deal. For listeners, it’s a chance to support creators directly and explore new music communities powered by crypto.

Bottom Line

Audius reimagines what music streaming could be in the Web3 era: a fair, open, and decentralized ecosystem where creativity and ownership coexist. It bridges blockchain technology and cultural expression, proving that decentralization isn’t just for finance.

Where to Get AUDIO

Interested in the project? You can get the AUDIO token directly on the Tap app and start exploring the decentralized future of music today.

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