Cardano Staking - A Comprehensive Guide for Beginners

Crypto Basics

Cardano Staking - A Comprehensive Guide for Beginners

Learn about Cardano staking in this comprehensive guide and uncover the strategies and essential tips for beginners entering the world of ADA staking.

Marcus K

8 Minutes

MIN

Index

Overview of Solana Blockchain

Cryptocurrency enthusiasts constantly search for fresh and inventive approaches to maximize their digital assets and earnings. Over the past few years, staking Cardano has emerged as a popular method in this endeavor.

Staking Cardano presents an excellent opportunity for individuals interested in passive income generation. Staking involves actively contributing to a blockchain network and receiving additional cryptocurrency as a reward.

With its reputation as the "Ethereum killer," Cardano provides a dependable and secure platform for staking its native cryptocurrency, ADA.

This comprehensive guide will explore everything you need to know about Cardano staking, including what it is, how to stake it, the pros and cons, and where to do so. Let's dive in!

What is Cardano Staking?

Cardano is a proof-of-stake (PoS) blockchain founded by Ethereum co-founder Charles Hoskinson. PoS blockchains, unlike proof-of-work (PoW) blockchains like Bitcoin, validate transactions and produce blocks through staking rather than mining.

Staking involves locking away coins in a node to validate transactions and contribute to the network's security and stability. By staking ADA, you can earn staking rewards without moving or losing your coins.

In Cardano's PoS blockchain, nodes play a crucial role in the validation process. Nodes are groups of people who have pooled their staked ADA tokens together.

The more ADA coins locked away in a node, the higher the chances of producing blocks and earning rewards. Staking pools, often operated by those with technical expertise, allow users to pool their tokens with others or run their own staking pool.

How to Stake Cardano?

Staking Cardano is a straightforward process that can be done through reputable crypto exchanges or by staking directly with staking pool operators. Let's explore both methods.

Staking via an Exchange

If you prefer a user-friendly and convenient option, staking Cardano via a crypto exchange might be the right choice. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to stake Cardano via an exchange:

Find a reputable cryptocurrency exchange that supports ADA trading and staking, such as Binance or Coinbase.
Create an account on the exchange platform and complete the necessary verification process.
Deposit ADA tokens into your exchange wallet by either buying ADA directly on the exchange or transferring existing tokens from another wallet.
Navigate to the "Staking" page on the exchange platform and select "Cardano" as the cryptocurrency you want to stake.
Choose your desired staking duration, determining how long your ADA tokens will be locked away.
Enter the amount of ADA tokens you want to stake and review any associated fees.
Confirm your staking transaction and wait for the staking process to begin.

Staking with Staking Pool Operators

Staking directly with staking pool operators offers more independence and control over your assets. Here's how to stake Cardano with staking pool operators:

Obtain an ADA wallet that supports staking, such as Daedalus or Yoroi.
Transfer your ADA tokens to your chosen wallet from an exchange or any other source.
Research staking pool operators and choose a pool that aligns with your preferences and requirements.
Delegate your ADA tokens to the selected staking pool by following the instructions provided by your wallet.
Your ADA tokens will now be staked in the pool, and you will start earning staking rewards.

It's important to note that staking with staking pool operators allows you to retain full control of your funds and withdraw them at any time.

Pros and Cons of Cardano Staking

Before diving into Cardano staking, it's essential to consider the pros and cons. Let's explore the advantages and disadvantages of staking Cardano.

Pros of Cardano Staking

Passive Income: Staking Cardano allows you to earn a passive income by participating in the network and contributing to its security and stability.
Higher Yields: The potential yields from Cardano staking are typically higher than traditional investments, making it an attractive option for long-term holders of ADA tokens.
Energy-Efficient: Unlike crypto mining, staking requires minimal energy consumption and setup, making it a more environmentally friendly option.
User-Friendly: Staking Cardano is relatively simple, especially when staking via exchanges that offer user-friendly interfaces.
Network Participation: By staking ADA, you actively participate in the Cardano network, making it faster and more stable.

Cons of Cardano Staking

Volatility: The crypto market is known for its volatility, and the price of ADA can fluctuate dramatically. If the value of ADA depreciates significantly, potential losses from staking can quickly exceed the income earned.
Pool Selection: Choosing the right staking pool is crucial for maximizing rewards. While reputable pools exist, some pool operators may take advantage of contributors by claiming a significant portion of the rewards.
Risk of Loss: While staking itself is safe, losing your funds is risky if you lose access to your wallet's private key. It's important to ensure proper wallet security measures are in place.

Despite these potential drawbacks, Cardano staking remains an attractive option for those earning passive income from their ADA holdings.

Where to Stake Cardano?

You can stake your Cardano (ADA) tokens, including popular exchanges and dedicated wallets. Let's explore some of the platforms where you can stake Cardano.

Staking on Coinbase

Coinbase, a leading cryptocurrency exchange, offers Cardano staking with an annual percentage yield (APY) of 3.75%. Here's how to stake Cardano on Coinbase:

Create an account on Coinbase and complete the necessary verification process.
Select your desired Cardano staking pool and review the staking amount required.
Buy Cardano on Coinbase or transfer your ADA tokens from an external wallet into your Coinbase wallet.
Add your ADA to the selected Cardano staking pool and approve the associated fees and minimum lock-up period.
Wait for your Cardano staking rewards to arrive, typically every five to seven days after the initial holding period.

Staking on Binance

Binance, one of the largest cryptocurrency exchanges, offers Cardano staking with an APY of up to 6.1%. Here's how to stake Cardano on Binance:

Create an account on Binance if you don't already have one.
Visit the Binance "Staking" homepage.
Ensure you have sufficient funds in your Binance spot wallet.
Choose ADA from the list of tokens available for staking.
Follow the prompts on the screen for first-time staking on the platform.
Enter the desired amount for staking or choose the percentage of total assets to be staked.
Review the details and click "Confirm" to complete the staking process.

Staking on eToro

eToro, a popular social trading platform, offers automatic staking of supported cryptocurrencies, including Cardano. Here's how to stake Cardano on eToro:

Create an account on eToro and complete the necessary verification process.
Deposit ADA into your eToro wallet.
Automatic staking will begin, and you will start earning staking rewards.
The staking yield percentage depends on your membership status on eToro.

Risks of Cardano Staking

While Cardano staking offers numerous benefits, knowing the associated risks is important. Here are some risks to consider before staking Cardano:

Market Volatility: The value of ADA can fluctuate significantly, potentially impacting the overall returns from staking.
Pool Performance: The performance of the staking pool you choose can impact the rewards you receive. It's essential to research and select reputable and well-performing pools.
Lock-Up Period: Staking your ADA involves a lock-up period during which your tokens are locked and cannot be easily accessed or sold. If you need immediate liquidity, staking may not be suitable.
Loss of Private Key: Losing access to your wallet's private key can permanently cause you to lose your staked ADA. Keeping your private key secure and backing up your wallet is crucial.

It's vital to conduct thorough research and carefully consider these risks before engaging in Cardano staking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Is Cardano staking safe?

Yes, Cardano staking is generally considered safe. The ADA tokens used for staking never leave your wallet, and staking rewards are earned similarly to interest in a savings account. However, practicing proper wallet security measures to protect your funds is important.

Q2. Can I unstake my ADA at any time?

Yes, you can unstake your ADA anytime, but it's essential to consider the lock-up period associated with your chosen staking duration. Withdrawing your ADA before the end of the staking duration may result in losing staking rewards.

Q3. Can I stake Cardano if I don't have technical expertise?

Yes, even if you don't have technical expertise, you can stake Cardano by using reputable crypto exchanges that offer staking services. These platforms provide user-friendly interfaces that simplify the staking process.

Q4. How often are staking rewards distributed?

Staking rewards are typically distributed at the end of each epoch, which lasts approximately five days. The distribution of rewards is based on the snapshot taken at the end of each epoch, reflecting the distribution of staked ADA tokens.

Conclusion

Cardano staking offers a compelling opportunity to earn passive income and actively participate in the Cardano network. By staking ADA, you contribute to the network's security and stability while enjoying potentially higher yields than traditional investments.

Whether you choose to stake through exchanges or directly with staking pool operators, it's important to consider the pros and cons, research staking pools, and understand the associated risks. With this comprehensive guide, you are now equipped with the knowledge to begin your Cardano staking journey. Happy staking!

Disclaimer

The information provided on this website does not constitute investment advice, financial advice, trading advice, or any other advice, and you should not treat any of the website's content as such.

Token Metrics does not recommend buying, selling, or holding any cryptocurrency. Conduct your due diligence and consult your financial advisor before making investment decisions.

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📈 Launch Coin’s Wild Ride: From 54 SOL to $4 Million

Token Metrics Team

4 min

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The crypto world thrives on narratives, and few have captured attention in recent weeks like Launchcoin. Born from a blend of SocialFi innovation and meme-driven virality, Launchcoin has surged into the spotlight—offering both eye-popping returns and warnings of extreme volatility. Powered by Token Metrics’ AI insights, here’s a detailed look at where Launchcoin stands today.

🚀 AI Detected the Breakout Early

On April 20, 2025, Token Metrics’ proprietary AI model flipped bullish on Launchcoin. Since then, the token has rallied over 3x, proving the strength of the signal. Backed by machine learning models that track on-chain data, sentiment, and price action across multiple timeframes, the Trader Grade for Launchcoin is currently at a whopping 93.15%, designating it a Strong Buy in the short term.

However, after such an exponential surge, the platform’s analysts expect natural pullbacks as early buyers and whales begin to take profits. These corrections are healthy and expected in any meteoric price run—and should not be confused with a loss of fundamental strength.

🧠 Token Metrics Investor Grade: A Balanced Perspective

While short-term indicators are overwhelmingly bullish, the Investor Grade remains neutral, pointing to a more measured view on Launchcoin’s long-term potential. This signals that while there’s momentum, there are still structural risks—particularly due to its meme coin characteristics and reliance on hype cycles.

Still, a neutral long-term grade isn’t bearish. It suggests Launchcoin is currently stable at its elevated valuation, but investors should monitor developments carefully—especially as new features and ecosystem growth unfold.

📈 Launchcoin’s Wild Ride: From 54 SOL to $4 Million

The Launchcoin story has already minted millionaires. One trader reportedly turned an $8,191 investment (54 SOL) into $4 million after purchasing 14.62 million LAUNCHCOIN tokens when the market cap was below $500,000. This kind of exponential return is rare—even in crypto—and helped drive speculative interest across social media and trading forums.

Within just 22 days, Launchcoin’s market cap crossed $300 million, illustrating how quickly meme-based projects can capture market momentum, especially when they ride the wave of a compelling narrative.

🔄 Listings and Market Access

Launchcoin’s liquidity and accessibility have improved significantly. The token is now trading on major centralized exchanges:

Spot listings: Bitget, KuCoin, Gate.io, and MEXC
Futures: Recently launched on ByBit

These listings have broadened exposure, attracting a wider investor base and allowing leveraged traders to participate. Increased liquidity also reduces slippage, enabling larger capital inflows while minimizing execution risk.

🎭 From PASTERNAK to LAUNCHCOIN: The Rebranding

Initially launched as PASTERNAK, named after Believe’s founder Ben Pasternak, the project was rebranded to Launchcoin on May 2, 2025. The new name better reflects its core value proposition: empowering creators to launch tokens through a SocialFi model.

The model is simple but revolutionary—anyone can create a token by posting on social media with the “@launchcoin” tag. This lowers the barrier for entry into token creation and adds viral potential to every social interaction.

🧨 Risk and Volatility: A Speculative Bet

Despite its recent success, Launchcoin remains a highly speculative asset. Its meteoric rise is reminiscent of meme coin cycles seen with tokens like PEPE or DOGE. While Launchcoin offers a unique utility layer with its token-creation feature, its current valuation includes a significant hype premium.

Token Metrics encourages traders to stay nimble. With the AI trading signals, users can track grade changes in real-time, ensuring they’re not caught off guard by sharp reversals or cooldowns.

🧠 Final Thoughts

Launchcoin represents a blend of viral marketing, social token innovation, and AI-predicted trading opportunity. With strong short-term momentum, neutral long-term positioning, and significant ecosystem buzz, it’s a token to watch—but not without caution.

Whether you’re a trader riding the momentum or an investor assessing long-term viability, Token Metrics provides the data-driven edge to navigate Launchcoin’s volatility with confidence.

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Best Long-Term Crypto Picks for the 2025 Bull Market

Token Metrics Team

4 min

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In a market full of noise, value investors are asking one critical question: what should I hold long-term?

Here are some of our top picks, based on fundamentals, traction, and longevity.

1. Grass – AI + Revenue

Grass stands out in the AI space. With over $15M in revenue from its browser extension and data resale model, it’s one of the few protocols generating real-world value. It’s a top AI blue chip we’re confident holding over multiple cycles.

2. Peaq – DePIN Infrastructure

Peaq positions itself as the Chainlink of decentralized physical infrastructure. While still under $1B FDV, it’s been consistent in development and narrative strength.

3. Sui – Consumer-Focused L1

Sui isn’t just another L1. Between Phantom wallet support, SuiPlay hardware, and growing dApp adoption, Sui has the elements to outpace older chains like Solana or Avalanche in user growth.

4. Parcl – Real Estate Derivatives

For exposure to real-world assets, Parcl offers a compelling play. Their UI is retail-friendly, listings are strong, and the market cap remains under $150M. This is one to watch as RWA adoption grows.

5. BitTensor – AI Infrastructure Layer

With a unique emission model and growing subnet usage, BitTensor remains the top AI infra token. Some even compare its long-term potential to early Bitcoin.

Bonus Mentions:

Uniswap / Aave / Compound – battle-tested DeFi with upcoming fee-sharing upgrades
Chainlink – oracle king still dominating infrastructure
Hyperliquid – sustainable revenue, EVM chain, and perps dominance

Final Words

The 2025 bull market will create noise—but also opportunity. These tokens aren’t just trendy—they’re infrastructure plays with real utility and upside. Allocate accordingly.

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SUI Price Analysis: Short-Term Momentum Builds Amid Long-Term Uncertainty

Token Metrics Team

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SUI, a rising Layer 1 blockchain network, has been gaining traction recently—and Token Metrics' AI-powered tools were ahead of the curve in identifying its bullish momentum. On April 24th, the Token Metrics Trader Grade issued a bullish signal for SUI, and since then, the price has climbed nearly 22%, confirming the strength of the short-term trend.

But there’s more to this move than just price action. Token Metrics offers a unique perspective by analyzing both short-term and long-term signals through its proprietary Trader Grade and Investor Grade ratings. These grades offer a layered view of an asset's potential by using machine learning to evaluate over 80 on-chain, off-chain, and technical indicators.

Token Metrics AI: Bullish for Traders, Bearish for Investors

As of the latest data, SUI holds a “Strong Buy” rating on the Token Metrics Trader Grade, signaling powerful momentum for short-term traders. This suggests that swing traders and scalpers could benefit from the current trend, particularly if the price can decisively break through the immediate resistance at $4.25.

However, the Investor Grade tells a different story. While the short-term outlook is bullish, the long-term view remains cautious. The Investor Grade currently recommends a Sell, suggesting SUI may face challenges in sustaining gains over a multi-month time frame. This divergence highlights the importance of aligning your investment strategy with the appropriate time horizon.

TVL Growth Validates SUI’s Ecosystem Expansion

Beyond AI ratings, Token Metrics also factors in fundamental metrics—and one of the strongest tailwinds for SUI right now is its rapidly growing Total Value Locked (TVL). According to DeFi Llama, SUI’s TVL has surged to a new all-time high of $2.11 billion, cementing its position as the 8th largest blockchain by TVL.

This growth in TVL indicates that more capital is being deployed in the SUI ecosystem. It reflects increased user engagement with decentralized applications (dApps) on the network and signals rising confidence among DeFi participants. From a fundamental standpoint, this bodes well for SUI’s long-term utility—even if its price action hasn't yet caught up to the full extent of this growth.

Key Technical Levels: Breakout or Pullback?

From a technical analysis standpoint, SUI is now testing a major resistance at $4.25. A confirmed breakout above this level could send the asset surging toward new all-time highs, potentially igniting a new wave of momentum-driven buying.

However, if the price fails to breach this resistance zone, a pullback is likely. In that scenario, the $3.00 to $3.20 range should act as a solid support area. These levels will be critical for traders to monitor, and Token Metrics' real-time alerts can help users stay on top of such breakouts or reversals.

Trading Smarter with Token Metrics

Whether you're trading short-term breakouts or evaluating long-term positions, Token Metrics helps crypto investors make data-driven decisions. The platform’s dual-grade system—Trader Grade for momentum-based insights and Investor Grade for long-term trends—equips users with nuanced information to act with confidence.

Moreover, Token Metrics integrates this data directly into its AI Trading Agent and custom alerts system, ensuring you never miss an opportunity or warning signal. With instant access to heatmaps, technical breakdowns, and AI-based predictions, SUI traders can manage risk more efficiently and capitalize on emerging trends before the rest of the market catches on.

Final Thoughts

SUI is showing promising signs, especially with its network fundamentals improving rapidly and short-term momentum turning bullish. Still, the cautious long-term outlook suggests that traders should proceed with a balanced approach—watching both breakout levels and support zones, while leveraging tools like Token Metrics for real-time decision-making support.

As always, combining AI-driven insights with strong risk management is the key to navigating volatile markets like crypto. SUI is one to watch—and Token Metrics helps you stay one step ahead.

Token Metrics Media LLC is a regular publication of information, analysis, and commentary focused especially on blockchain technology and business, cryptocurrency, blockchain-based tokens, market trends, and trading strategies.

Token Metrics Media LLC does not provide individually tailored investment advice and does not take a subscriber’s or anyone’s personal circumstances into consideration when discussing investments; nor is Token Metrics Advisers LLC registered as an investment adviser or broker-dealer in any jurisdiction.

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