Crypto Basics

Ethereum Vs. Ethereum Classic: What's the Difference?

Know the difference between Ethereum and Ethereum Classic, and find which ones is better.
Token Metrics Team
4 minutes
MIN

Ethereum and Ethereum Classic are two of the most popular cryptocurrencies in the world today. Both of these digital currencies have exploded in value over the past few years and have become some of the most sought-after investments in the crypto market. 

But what is the key difference between ETH and ETC? 

Ethereum (ETH) and Ethereum Classic (ETC) are both blockchain networks, but they have a few key differences that make them unique. Ethereum is a newer platform that is designed to be more scalable and secure than Ethereum Classic. Ethereum Classic, on the other hand, is an open source blockchain network that has a focus on decentralization, immutability, and censorship resistance. In this article, we'll compare the two networks and explain why Ethereum is the better choice for most investors.

Overview of Ethereum and Ethereum Classic

Ethereum (ETH) is a decentralized blockchain network that runs smart contracts and enables the development of decentralized applications (dApps). Ethereum was created by Vitalik Buterin and officially released in 2015. 

Ethereum Classic (ETC) is an extension (not a clone) of the original Ethereum, which was forked away by the Ethereum Foundation by launching a new protocol just an year later in 2016. 

To be precise, Ethereum Classic was created when the original Ethereum network and currency were split following the DAO hack in 2016. Ethereum and Ethereum Classic are both open source networks that are maintained by their respective development teams. Unlike Bitcoin, both Ethereum and Ethereum Classic use a Proof-of-Work consensus algorithm. Both these networks also use a native digital token to fuel their networks. 

As Ether is the native token of the Ethereum network, you can use it to pay for transaction or computational services on the Ethereum network. Similarly, ETC tokens are used by participants on the Ethereum Classic network.

But, the majority of the crypto crowd still needs a clean chit over the key differences that make them absolutely distinct. 

So, let’s get into it.

Differences between Ethereum and Ethereum Classic

Scalability - Ethereum (ETH) and Ethereum Classic (ETC) are both open-source blockchain networks that allow you to build decentralized applications. However, Ethereum has been designed to be more scalable. That means the network can handle more transactions at a higher speed, making it a better choice for everyday applications. 

Security - While both Ethereum and Ethereum Classic are secure blockchain networks, Ethereum is more scalable and has a better security track record. Ethereum Classic has been dealing with network security issues since its inception. 

Decentralization - Decentralization is one of the core values offered by blockchain networks like Ethereum and Ethereum Classic. Decentralization on the Ethereum network is slightly better than Ethereum Classic, but both networks have a long way to go before they can be considered decentralized. 

Immutability - Immutability is another core value offered by blockchain networks. However, the Ethereum and Ethereum Classic networks are still very far from achieving full immutability. Both networks have suffered from various instances of data manipulation. 

Censorship resistance - Censorship resistance is another core value offered by blockchain networks. However, both Ethereum and Ethereum Classic are far from achieving full censorship resistance. Both networks can be subjected to censorship by governments and other centralized entities. 

ETH vs ETC - Which is the Better Choice for Investors?

While both Ethereum and Ethereum Classic are great investments, we believe Ethereum is the better choice for most investors for a few reasons. First, Ethereum is more decentralized. Second, Ethereum has been around longer than Ethereum Classic. This means the network is more scalable, secure, and well-established than its competitor. Finally, Ethereum has a wider range of applications than Ethereum Classic.

Overall, Ethereum is the better blockchain network when compared to Ethereum Classic.

The Bottom Line

Ethereum and Ethereum Classic, both of these networks have exploded in value over the past few years and have become some of the most sought-after investments in the crypto market.

When the DAO got hacked and lost $50 million, Ethereum needed a solid technology to replace the old one. So, a hard fork was done. But many traditional supporters of Ethereum did not want to go with the hard fork, and they stayed with the old blockchain technology. As a result, Ethereum Classic was born.

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

Token Metrics does not recommend that any cryptocurrency should be bought, sold, or held by you. Do conduct your own due diligence and consult your financial advisor before making any investment decisions.

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Token Metrics Team
Token Metrics Team

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How Do I Manage Risk in Crypto Trading?

Token Metrics Team
8 min
MIN

Cryptocurrency trading can be highly profitable—but it’s also one of the riskiest markets in the world. Prices can swing wildly in seconds, projects can collapse overnight, and emotional decisions often lead to costly mistakes.

If you want to survive (and thrive) in crypto trading, you must learn how to manage risk effectively. In this guide, we’ll break down why risk management is critical, the top strategies to protect your capital, and how Token Metrics can help you trade smarter, safer, and with more confidence using AI-driven insights.

Why Risk Management Is Non-Negotiable in Crypto

In traditional markets, a 5% price movement is big news. In crypto? Daily moves of 10–20% are normal.

  • High volatility: Crypto is more speculative than stocks or forex.
  • Unregulated space: Scams and market manipulation are more common.
  • Emotional trading: Fear and FOMO lead to poor decisions.

Without a solid risk management plan, even experienced traders can lose everything.

Top Risk Management Strategies for Crypto Trading

1. Only Invest What You Can Afford to Lose

This is rule number one.

  • Never invest rent, emergency savings, or money you can’t afford to lose.
  • Treat crypto like a high-risk asset class—because it is.

2. Diversify Your Portfolio

Don’t put all your funds into one token.

  • Spread across different coins & sectors: Bitcoin, Ethereum, AI tokens, DeFi, etc.
  • Balance risk levels: Mix large-cap coins with small-cap moonshots.

How Token Metrics Helps:
Use AI-driven indices to build a diversified, auto-rebalanced portfolio aligned with your risk tolerance.

3. Use Stop-Loss Orders

Set stop-loss levels to automatically sell if prices fall below a certain threshold.

  • Prevents small losses from becoming catastrophic.
  • Helps maintain discipline during market dips.

Pro Tip: Place stops at strategic support levels, not random round numbers.

4. Size Your Positions Properly

Don’t go “all-in” on one trade.

  • Position sizing ensures no single trade wipes out your portfolio.
  • A common rule: risk 1–2% of your capital per trade.

5. Avoid Overleveraging

Leverage amplifies gains—but also losses.

  • Start with low or no leverage until you’re experienced.
  • High leverage trading can lead to instant liquidation in volatile markets.

6. Keep Emotions in Check

Fear, greed, and FOMO (fear of missing out) destroy portfolios.

  • Stick to your strategy.
  • Don’t chase pumps or panic-sell during dips.

How Token Metrics Helps:
Our AI-powered bullish and bearish signals take emotions out of trading by giving you data-backed entry and exit points.

7. Stay Informed

Markets move on news—regulations, partnerships, or even tweets.

  • Follow credible sources for updates.
  • Use narrative tracking to spot market-shifting trends early.

How Token Metrics Helps:
Our AI tracks emerging narratives (e.g., AI tokens, DeFi, RWAs), so you can adjust positions before the crowd reacts.

8. Use Risk/Reward Ratios

Before entering a trade, ask:

  • Is the potential reward worth the risk?
  • Aim for at least a 2:1 or 3:1 reward-to-risk ratio.

9. Practice Secure Asset Storage

Risk management isn’t just about trades—it’s also about keeping your crypto safe.

  • Use hardware wallets for long-term holdings.
  • Enable 2FA on exchanges.

10. Review & Adjust Your Strategy

Markets evolve—your plan should too.

  • Track your wins and losses.
  • Optimize your strategy using performance data.

How Token Metrics Helps You Manage Risk

Token Metrics isn’t just a research platform—it’s an AI-powered risk management assistant.

1. AI-Powered Trade Insights

Get real-time bullish and bearish signals to time entries and exits more effectively—reducing impulsive trades.

2. Trader & Investor Grades

Quickly assess tokens for short-term trading potential (Trader Grade) or long-term viability (Investor Grade)—helping you avoid high-risk projects.

3. AI-Managed Indices

Use auto-rebalanced AI indices to maintain diversification and reduce risk exposure.

4. Moonshot Finder

Interested in high-risk, high-reward tokens? Our Moonshot Finder filters low-cap projects using AI, helping you avoid scams and rug pulls.

5. Narrative Detection

Our AI tracks emerging narratives so you can anticipate market movements early—reducing exposure to collapsing trends.

Example: Risk Management Using Token Metrics

Imagine you want to invest $5,000 in crypto:

  • Without Token Metrics: You randomly choose 3 coins based on hype and YouTube videos. Two collapse, and your portfolio drops 50%.

  • With Token Metrics: You build a diversified AI-managed index of large-cap and promising small-cap tokens, use stop-loss levels, and set alerts for bullish/bearish signals. Your portfolio drops only 10% in a downturn—saving thousands.

This is how data-driven trading transforms risk into opportunity.

Practical Risk Management Checklist

  1. Never invest more than you can afford to lose.

  2. Diversify across coins and sectors.

  3. Use stop-loss orders to cap losses.

  4. Avoid overleveraging at all costs.

  5. Set realistic reward-to-risk ratios (2:1 or better).

  6. Use AI-powered tools like Token Metrics for smarter trades.

  7. Stay informed about news and emerging narratives.

  8. Secure your assets with hardware wallets and 2FA.

  9. Track and adjust your trading strategy regularly.

  10. Trade with logic, not emotions.

Final Thoughts

So, how do you manage risk in crypto trading? It’s about balancing your portfolio, using smart tools, and staying disciplined.

While volatility is unavoidable, you can control how much you’re exposed to it. With Token Metrics, you gain AI-powered insights, trade signals, and portfolio tools that help you reduce risks while maximizing opportunities.

In crypto, it’s not just about making profits—it’s about keeping them.

Research

What’s the Best Time to Trade Cryptocurrency?

Token Metrics Team
8 min
MIN

Cryptocurrency trading is a 24/7 market—unlike stocks, there’s no opening or closing bell. This leads many traders to wonder: “When is the best time to trade cryptocurrency?”

The truth is, timing your trades can make a huge difference in profitability. Trading during periods of high liquidity or increased volatility can provide better opportunities, while poorly timed trades can lead to slippage and losses.

In this guide, we’ll explore the best times to trade crypto, how different time zones affect price movements, and how Token Metrics can help you identify the right moments to enter or exit trades using AI-powered insights.

Why Timing Matters in Crypto Trading

Even though the crypto market never sleeps, trading activity is not equal throughout the day.

  • High liquidity: When more traders are active, spreads are tighter, making it easier to enter and exit trades at good prices.
  • Volatility opportunities: Price swings create profit potential—but also risk.
  • Market overlaps: When multiple regions are active, volume surges.

Knowing when the market is most active can help you reduce trading fees, minimize slippage, and maximize your gains.

The Best Times to Trade Cryptocurrency

1. Overlap Between U.S. and European Markets (1:00 PM – 5:00 PM UTC)

The busiest period for crypto trading is when U.S. and European sessions overlap.

  • Why?

    • The U.S. is home to major crypto exchanges and institutional traders.
    • Europe contributes significant trading volume and liquidity.

  • Benefits:

    • Higher volatility for short-term traders.
    • Tighter spreads for efficient execution.

This overlap often sees the biggest price movements of the day—perfect for day traders and scalpers.

2. Early U.S. Trading Hours (12:00 PM – 3:00 PM UTC)

The start of the U.S. session brings increased activity from institutional investors and retail traders waking up to market news.

  • Best for:

    • News-based trades (after U.S. economic announcements).
    • Entering/exiting positions with high liquidity.

3. Weekend Volatility (Saturday & Sunday)

Crypto is unique because weekend trading can be extremely volatile due to:

  • Lower liquidity (fewer institutional players).
  • Retail-driven price movements.

  • Who benefits:

    • Swing traders looking for sharp moves.
    • Those willing to tolerate higher risk for bigger gains.

4. After Major News & Events

The “best time” isn’t always about the clock—it’s about market catalysts.

  • Regulatory updates.
  • Exchange announcements.
  • Macro events (interest rate changes, economic data).

These events can cause instant surges or drops—great for traders who react quickly.

Does the Day of the Week Matter?

Yes. Research shows:

  • Mondays & Fridays: Often more volatile as traders adjust positions before/after the weekend.
  • Midweek (Tuesday–Thursday): Tends to have steady, higher trading volumes.

For swing traders, entering positions midweek may reduce erratic weekend exposure.

How Token Metrics Helps You Trade at the Right Time

Timing trades isn’t just about watching charts—it’s about analyzing multiple data points in real time. That’s where Token Metrics gives you a powerful edge.

1. AI-Powered Trading Signals

Get real-time bullish and bearish alerts based on 80+ data points, helping you know when to enter or exit trades confidently.

2. Narrative Tracking

Our AI monitors emerging crypto narratives (AI tokens, DeFi, RWA, etc.) so you can act before the crowd—crucial for timing market moves.

3. Trader & Investor Grades

Use Trader Grades for short-term opportunities and Investor Grades for long-term positions, aligning your trades with market momentum.

4. AI-Driven Indices

Don’t want to time trades manually? Token Metrics offers auto-managed crypto indices that rebalance based on AI-identified market conditions.

Tips for Timing Crypto Trades

  1. Trade During High Liquidity Windows: Overlaps between U.S. and European sessions are best.
  2. Watch for News: Major announcements can create rapid price moves—be ready.
  3. Avoid Low-Volume Hours: Late-night trading (UTC) often has higher slippage.
  4. Use AI for Precision: Let Token Metrics guide entry and exit points with data-backed insights.
  5. Set Alerts: Use Token Metrics’ customizable alerts for price, grades, and signals so you never miss an opportunity.

Example: Using Token Metrics for Timing

Imagine you’re planning to trade Ethereum. Instead of guessing when to enter:

  • You use Token Metrics Trader Grades to spot when ETH has strong short-term potential.
  • You set AI-powered alerts for price changes and bullish signals.
  • You execute your trade during the U.S.-EU overlap when liquidity is highest—reducing slippage and maximizing efficiency.

This data-driven approach takes the guesswork out of timing.

Final Thoughts

So, what’s the best time to trade cryptocurrency?

  • Weekdays during the U.S.-EU overlap (1:00–5:00 PM UTC) offer the best liquidity and volatility.
  • Early U.S. hours and weekends can also present opportunities—but with higher risks.
  • Major news events often create the best entry/exit windows.

But the truth is, there’s no universal “perfect time.” The real key is using data-driven insights to trade at your best time—when probabilities are in your favor.

That’s why Token Metrics is essential for traders. With AI-powered trading signals, narrative tracking, and portfolio management tools, Token Metrics helps you time the market intelligently, not emotionally.

Whether you’re a day trader chasing volatility or a long-term investor, Token Metrics puts the right data at your fingertips—so you can trade with confidence, anytime.

Research

How Do I Keep My Cryptocurrency Safe?

Token Metrics Team
8 min
MIN

The cryptocurrency market has created life-changing wealth for millions, but it has also attracted hackers, scammers, and bad actors. From exchange hacks to phishing scams and rug pulls, billions of dollars in crypto have been lost due to poor security practices.

If you’re serious about trading or investing in crypto, one of your top priorities should be keeping your cryptocurrency safe. In this guide, we’ll walk through the biggest risks to your crypto security, best practices to protect your assets, and how Token Metrics can help you make informed, safe decisions when navigating the crypto market.

Why Is Cryptocurrency Security So Important?

Unlike a traditional bank account, cryptocurrency transactions are irreversible. If your funds are stolen, there’s usually no way to recover them.

  • No centralized authority: There’s no bank to call for refunds.
  • Pseudonymous transactions: It’s nearly impossible to trace funds once they’re moved.
  • High-value targets: Hackers actively target crypto investors due to the potential for large payoffs.

This means you are your own bank—and you’re responsible for protecting your funds.

Common Threats to Your Cryptocurrency

Before learning how to protect your crypto, you need to know what you’re up against:

1. Exchange Hacks

Crypto exchanges are frequent targets for hackers. Even top-tier exchanges like Mt. Gox and FTX have experienced devastating losses.

2. Phishing Attacks

Scammers use fake websites, emails, or social media accounts to trick you into revealing your private keys or login credentials.

3. Malware & Keyloggers

Cybercriminals install malicious software on your devices to steal passwords and seed phrases.

4. Rug Pulls & Scams

Fraudulent projects lure investors with promises of high returns, then disappear with the funds.

5. Human Error

Lost passwords, mishandled private keys, or accidental transfers can lead to permanent loss of funds.

How to Keep Your Cryptocurrency Safe

Here’s a step-by-step approach to safeguarding your crypto:

1. Use a Secure Wallet

Hardware Wallets:

  • The safest option for long-term storage.
  • Devices like Ledger or Trezor keep your private keys offline, out of reach of hackers.

Software Wallets:

  • Convenient for active trading but more vulnerable to attacks.
  • Use reputable wallets like MetaMask or Trust Wallet and enable strong security features.

Pro Tip: Use a hardware wallet for long-term holdings and a software wallet for small, active trading balances.

2. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

Always enable 2FA on your exchange accounts, wallets, and email addresses.

  • Use Google Authenticator or Authy, not SMS-based 2FA, which is susceptible to SIM swaps.

3. Beware of Phishing & Fake Websites

  • Double-check URLs before logging into exchanges or wallets.
  • Never click links from suspicious emails or DMs.
  • Bookmark the official websites of your exchanges and platforms.

4. Keep Your Seed Phrase Offline

Your wallet’s seed phrase is the master key to your funds.

  • Write it down on paper and store it securely (safe, vault).
  • Avoid storing it in digital form (cloud storage, photos).
  • Consider splitting the phrase into parts and storing them in separate locations.

5. Research Projects Before Investing

Many scams and rug pulls target uninformed investors chasing hype.

How Token Metrics Helps:

  • Use AI-powered Investor Grades to assess projects for long-term viability.
  • Leverage Moonshot Finder to discover vetted early-stage tokens with real growth potential—not scams.

6. Diversify Your Storage

Don’t keep all your crypto in one place.

  • Use multiple wallets for different purposes (trading vs. holding).
  • Spread funds across hardware, software, and exchange wallets.

7. Stay Updated on Threats

The crypto landscape changes fast.

  • Follow credible crypto news platforms.
  • Monitor regulatory updates and security alerts.
  • Use Token Metrics to stay ahead of market narratives and avoid projects flagged as high-risk.

How Token Metrics Helps You Stay Secure

While Token Metrics isn’t a wallet or exchange, it’s a powerful AI-powered platform designed to help you make safer investment decisions.

1. AI-Powered Risk Analysis

Token Metrics uses AI-driven evaluations to score projects, helping you avoid high-risk tokens and scam projects.

2. Investor & Trader Grades

Our proprietary grading system helps you quickly identify safe, high-quality assets for both short-term trading and long-term holding.

3. Moonshot Finder

Interested in low-cap tokens? The Moonshot Finder helps you spot legitimate early-stage projects before they pump—without falling into scams.

4. Narrative & Market Tracking

Stay ahead of emerging narratives and security concerns with Token Metrics’ real-time AI-driven analysis, helping you dodge risky trends.

Practical Security Checklist for Every Crypto Holder

  1. Use a hardware wallet for long-term holdings.
  2. Enable 2FA on all accounts—never rely on SMS-based security.
  3. Store seed phrases offline and securely.
  4. Avoid suspicious links and verify all URLs.
  5. Research every project using platforms like Token Metrics.
  6. Diversify storage across multiple wallets.
  7. Stay informed about new threats and market risks.

Final Thoughts

So, how do you keep your cryptocurrency safe? It comes down to strong storage practices, personal vigilance, and making informed investment decisions.

While hardware wallets and 2FA secure your assets, knowing where to invest is just as important. That’s where Token Metrics comes in—using AI-powered analysis to help you avoid scams, choose safe projects, and trade with confidence.

In crypto, you are your own bank—so take your security seriously. And with Token Metrics guiding your decisions, you can navigate this high-risk market safely and profitably.

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