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Crypto Index for Busy Professionals: Set-and-Forget Strategy with Built-In Protection

Discover a set-and-forget crypto index approach tailored for busy professionals, with diversification, automated rebalancing, AI-driven filtering, and built-in risk management—all designed to minimize time while maximizing efficiency.
Token Metrics Team
16
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In today’s fast-paced world, busy professionals juggle demanding careers, family commitments, and personal goals, leaving little time to dive into the complexities of cryptocurrency investing. Yet, the crypto market represents one of the most significant digital asset growth opportunities of the century. With over 6,000 tokens to track, volatile market cycles, and security considerations, actively managing a crypto portfolio can feel overwhelming. Built-in diversification in crypto index funds automatically spreads risk across multiple cryptocurrencies, reducing exposure to the volatility of any single asset. The idea of becoming a crypto day trader is exhausting just to imagine.Fortunately, there is a smarter way. More than 75% of professional investors plan to increase their crypto allocations in 2025, but they’re not spending hours monitoring charts or executing trades. Instead, they rely on automated crypto index strategies designed to work quietly and efficiently, freeing them to focus on their careers and lives. Welcome to the set-and-forget crypto revolution tailored specifically for busy professionals.

Why Set-and-Forget Crypto Fits Busy Professionals

The Busy Professional's Dilemma: Opportunity vs. Time The cryptocurrency market has experienced explosive growth, now boasting over $4 trillion in market capitalization. Bitcoin alone has averaged annual returns exceeding 100% since its inception, while institutional adoption accelerates, with more than $27.4 billion pouring into U.S. Bitcoin ETFs. These figures underscore the immense potential of digital assets as part of a diversified portfolio.However, what the headlines often omit is the staggering time commitment traditionally required to achieve such returns. Successful crypto investing typically demands hundreds of hours researching projects, analyzing market trends, executing timely transactions, managing wallets across multiple blockchains, and navigating complex tax implications. For busy professionals—whether physicians, attorneys, executives, engineers, or entrepreneurs—this level of active management is simply unfeasible.You didn’t build your career by chasing every fleeting opportunity; you succeeded through strategic, disciplined investment approaches. The same principle applies to crypto investing. To harness the growth potential of the cryptocurrency market without sacrificing your valuable time, a different investment strategy is necessary.Crypto index funds investing offers an accessible and straightforward way for busy professionals to gain diversified exposure to cryptocurrencies. This diversified approach helps mitigate risk and simplifies the investment process, making it easier to participate in the crypto market without the need for constant active management.

The Set-and-Forget Philosophy: Why It Works In traditional finance, passive investing through diversified index funds consistently outperforms active trading over the long term. Studies reveal that over 90% of day traders lose money, whereas investors who buy and hold diversified portfolios achieve solid returns with minimal effort. This evidence is now being mirrored in the evolving crypto market.Despite its higher volatility compared to traditional financial markets, the infrastructure for intelligent passive investing in crypto has matured significantly by 2025. This progress enables comprehensive exposure to the crypto market with less than two hours of annual management time—a game changer for busy professionals.The set-and-forget approach thrives on three core advantages:

  • Elimination of Emotional Decision-Making: Automated crypto index strategies operate on predetermined rules, removing the temptation to panic-sell during market crashes or chase FOMO-driven peaks. This disciplined approach consistently outperforms hands-on traders swayed by fear and greed.
  • Compound Growth Through Consistency: Instead of attempting to time the market perfectly, systematic investing captures long-term growth trends. Your portfolio benefits from the overall upward trajectory of the cryptocurrency market, smoothing out short-term volatility. This approach allows investors to gain exposure to the broader crypto market without the need for constant monitoring or active trading.
  • Opportunity Cost Optimization: Every minute spent monitoring crypto charts is time lost from advancing your career, nurturing relationships, or maintaining your health. For high-earning busy professionals, the opportunity cost of active management often exceeds any potential gains. Set-and-forget strategies return your time to your highest-value activities.

How the TM Global 100 Works

Token Metrics TM Global 100: Built for Your Schedule Token Metrics has pioneered a sophisticated set-and-forget crypto index fund designed explicitly for busy professionals: the TM Global 100 Index. Leveraging AI and machine learning to analyze over 6,000 digital assets, Token Metrics brings institutional-grade research and automation to your portfolio.Here’s why TM Global 100 fits seamlessly into your demanding schedule:

90-Second Initial Setup: Setting up your account is as quick as ordering coffee. You connect your embedded smart wallet, review the index methodology and current holdings, choose your investment amount, and execute. No complicated exchange accounts, no juggling multiple wallets, and no manual token purchases. The entire process is streamlined for non-technical users.

Weekly Automatic Rebalancing: Every Monday at 00:00 UTC, your portfolio automatically rebalances to maintain optimal exposure to the top 100 cryptocurrencies by market capitalization. The system sells tokens that have dropped out of the Top 100, buys new entries, adjusts weights to reflect market cap changes, and optimizes transaction fees—all handled by smart contracts. The TM Global 100 is a holdings based index fund that follows a systematic approach to tracking indices of the top cryptocurrencies, ensuring the portfolio remains aligned with market trends. You receive optional notifications but no action is required.

Transparent Monitoring Without Active Management: Token Metrics offers a clean dashboard with an interactive treemap of your holdings, real-time profit and loss tracking, transaction history, and performance analytics. Whether you check monthly, quarterly, or less frequently, your portfolio grows independently of your attention.

Tax Documentation Simplified: All transactions are logged with timestamps, quantities, prices, and fees, making tax reporting straightforward. Export data to popular crypto tax software or share with your accountant without scrambling to reconstruct trades.This infrastructure means you spend just 90 seconds setting up, zero hours managing ongoing operations, and perhaps 30 minutes quarterly reviewing performance. In total, less than two hours annually provides diversified exposure to 100 leading cryptocurrencies.

Index Methodology and Construction: How Your Crypto Index Is Built The foundation of any successful crypto index fund lies in its index methodology and construction. This process determines which cryptocurrencies are included in the fund, how much weight each one carries, and how often the portfolio is adjusted to reflect changes in the market. For busy professionals, understanding these mechanics is key to appreciating how crypto index funds provide diversified exposure while managing the risks of the volatile crypto market.Most crypto index funds start by selecting a universe of individual cryptocurrencies based on specific criteria—such as market capitalization, liquidity, or project fundamentals. For example, a market cap-weighted index fund will allocate a larger portion of the portfolio to established cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum, as their market capitalization dominates the crypto market. This approach helps ensure that your portfolio reflects the overall market trends and reduces the impact of any single cryptocurrency’s performance.Alternatively, some index funds use an equal-weighted methodology, giving each cryptocurrency the same allocation regardless of its market cap. This can increase exposure to emerging projects but may also introduce more volatility. Periodic rebalancing—often weekly or monthly—ensures that the portfolio stays aligned with the chosen index methodology, automatically adjusting for market changes and maintaining diversified exposure.By relying on a transparent, rules-based index methodology, crypto index funds help investors navigate the complexities of the crypto market, spreading risk across a broad portfolio and reducing the need for constant oversight. This systematic approach is especially valuable for those who want to invest in crypto without getting bogged down in the details of individual cryptocurrencies.

Comparing Traditional and Crypto Index Funds

Traditional Index Funds vs Crypto Index Funds: What Busy Professionals Need to Know For busy professionals weighing their investment options, it’s important to understand how traditional index funds and crypto index funds differ significantly. Traditional index funds typically track established indices like the S&P 500, offering diversified exposure to a basket of stocks or bonds. These funds are known for their stability, lower risk, and steady long-term growth, making them a familiar choice for many investors.Crypto index funds, on the other hand, invest in a portfolio of digital assets such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other leading cryptocurrencies. While crypto index funds offer the potential for higher returns, they also come with greater volatility and risk due to the rapidly evolving nature of the cryptocurrency market. The value of a crypto index can fluctuate dramatically in response to market trends, regulatory changes, or technological developments.For those new to crypto investing, traditional index funds may feel more comfortable and predictable. However, professionals with a higher risk tolerance and a long-term investment horizon may find that crypto index funds offer unique opportunities for growth and diversification that traditional financial markets can’t match. Ultimately, the right choice depends on your individual risk tolerance, investment goals, and willingness to embrace the dynamic world of digital assets.

Built-In Protection: The Safety Net Busy Professionals Need Unlike traditional buy-and-hold strategies, Token Metrics’ TM Global 100 includes intelligent risk management designed to protect your investment without requiring your attention. This is critical in the highly volatile crypto market, which has historically experienced multiple 80%+ corrections. Market volatility is a significant risk factor, and the TM Global 100 is specifically designed to address this through its automated risk management features.The TM Global 100 employs regime-switching logic, an AI-driven method that dynamically adjusts portfolio exposure based on market conditions. When proprietary market indicators signal bullish regimes, your portfolio holds the full basket of top 100 cryptocurrencies, capturing growth across the market. When bearish signals emerge, the system automatically converts holdings into stablecoins like USDC, preserving capital during downturns. Once conditions improve, funds redeploy back into the crypto market at lower prices.This automated safety net prevents panic-selling and shields your portfolio from severe drawdowns. For busy professionals without time to monitor market changes constantly, this feature offers peace of mind and a disciplined approach to risk.Consider a real-world example: you invest $100,000 in January, and by March, your portfolio grows to $140,000 amid a strong market. In April, bearish signals trigger a shift to stablecoins, locking in your gains. While the broader market drops 40% over the next two months, your position remains stable. When bullish conditions return in July, the system re-enters the market at lower prices, increasing your token holdings—all without you lifting a finger.

AI Filtering, Consistency, and Security

Quality Over Quantity: AI-Powered Filtering Not all cryptocurrencies in the Top 100 by market cap deserve inclusion in your portfolio. Some represent genuine innovation, while others are speculative or risky projects. Token Metrics enhances traditional market cap indexing with sophisticated quality filters powered by AI.Each token is evaluated using two complementary ratings:

Trader Grade: This rating assesses short-term momentum, technical strength, volume trends, and timing signals to ensure tokens demonstrate genuine market strength rather than pump-and-dump schemes.

Investor Grade: This grade evaluates long-term fundamentals such as development activity, network growth, use case viability, team quality, and competitive positioning, highlighting sustainable projects with real value.By analyzing over 80 data points per token, Token Metrics continuously refines your exposure, favoring quality holdings over blind market cap weighting. This institutional-grade due diligence is impossible to replicate manually and crucial for busy professionals who lack time for deep research.

The Compound Effect: Why Consistency Beats Timing One of the biggest pitfalls for busy professionals entering crypto is attempting to time the market perfectly. Waiting for the “right moment” often leads to missed rallies, panic during corrections, and suboptimal returns.Token Metrics’ set-and-forget approach aligns with Nobel Prize-winning economic research showing that consistent, disciplined investing outperforms attempts at market timing. By maintaining systematic exposure during bullish regimes and automatically managing risk during bearish phases, the TM Global 100 captures the long-term growth of the cryptocurrency market without emotional stress or guesswork.In fact, in 2025, over 60% of cryptocurrency trading volume flows through automated systems. Institutional investors, family offices, and professional traders overwhelmingly favor systematic strategies over reactive trading. Token Metrics democratizes access to these sophisticated investment methods for individual busy professionals.

Security Without Complexity Security is a paramount concern for busy professionals considering crypto investments. High-profile exchange hacks, lost private keys, and stolen funds are common headlines. Yet, few have the time or expertise to become cybersecurity experts.Token Metrics addresses these concerns with embedded smart wallet technology that offers self-custody without complexity. Your assets remain under your control, not on vulnerable exchanges. The wallet uses advanced features like multi-party computation, secure key sharding, social recovery mechanisms, and automatic security updates to protect your holdings.This approach combines institutional-grade security with consumer-grade simplicity. You don’t need to memorize seed phrases or manage hardware wallets. The system is designed so that busy professionals can confidently secure their digital assets without technical headaches.

Costs, Taxes, Getting Started, and Conclusion

Investment Minimums and Fees: What to Expect When considering crypto index funds, it’s essential to be aware of investment minimums and fees, as these factors can impact your overall returns. Minimum investment requirements vary by provider, with some crypto index funds accessible for just a few hundred dollars, while others may require a more substantial initial commitment.Management fees are another key consideration. Crypto index funds typically charge annual management fees ranging from 0.5% to 2.5%, which cover the costs of research, trading, and portfolio administration. Some funds may also include additional expenses, such as an expense ratio or transaction fees, which can differ significantly between providers.Before investing, take the time to review the fee structure and minimum investment requirements of any crypto index fund you’re considering. Understanding these costs will help you select a fund that aligns with your investment goals and risk tolerance, ensuring that fees don’t erode your returns over time. For busy professionals, choosing a fund with transparent, reasonable fees and accessible minimums can make crypto investing both efficient and cost-effective.

Tax Implications: Planning Ahead for Peace of Mind Tax implications are an important aspect of investing in crypto index funds that busy professionals can’t afford to overlook. In most jurisdictions, gains from the sale or exchange of cryptocurrencies are subject to capital gains tax, with rates depending on your income bracket and how long you’ve held the investment. The tax treatment of crypto index funds may also vary based on the fund’s structure and local regulations.To avoid surprises at tax time, it’s wise to consult with a tax professional who understands both traditional and digital asset investments. Keeping detailed records of all your transactions—including dates, amounts, and the purpose of each trade—will make tax reporting much simpler and help ensure compliance with current laws.By planning ahead and staying organized, you can minimize your tax liabilities and maximize your after-tax returns. This proactive approach allows you to focus on your long-term investment goals, knowing that your crypto index fund investments are managed efficiently and in line with regulatory requirements. For busy professionals, a little preparation goes a long way toward achieving peace of mind and financial success.

The Cost of Inaction for Busy Professionals While you’ve been “too busy” to invest systematically in crypto, the asset class has created more millionaires in the past decade than perhaps any other investment vehicle. Many of your peers—doctors, lawyers, executives—who allocated even modest portions of their portfolios to crypto index funds have experienced life-changing returns.The question is no longer whether busy professionals should invest in crypto. With 75% of institutional investors increasing allocations and crypto entering mainstream finance through ETFs, stablecoins, and tokenized assets, the opportunity is clear. The real question is how to invest intelligently without sacrificing the time that made you successful in your primary career.Token Metrics’ TM Global 100 offers the answer: broad exposure to crypto’s growth potential, built-in risk management, quality filtering of holdings, automated execution requiring zero ongoing effort, and transparent monitoring that fits your schedule.

Getting Started: Your Two-Hour Annual Commitment For busy professionals ready to add sophisticated crypto exposure to their portfolios, the process is straightforward:Hour One (Initial Setup): Visit the Token Metrics platform, review the TM Global 100 strategy and index methodology, create your embedded smart wallet (takes about 90 seconds), decide your allocation based on your investment goals and risk tolerance, and execute your initial purchase. That’s it.Quarterly 15-Minute Check-ins (Optional): Review your portfolio’s performance dashboard to see current holdings and returns, examine transaction logs to understand rebalancing activity, adjust your allocation if your circumstances change, and export data for tax reporting.This minimal time commitment ensures your crypto portfolio grows systematically while you focus on your career, family, and health.

Conclusion: Smart Professionals Automate The most successful professionals understand a core principle: automate everything that can be systematized and concentrate your energy on what requires your unique skills. Crypto investing is no exception.Token Metrics’ TM Global 100 represents years of development tailored for investors demanding sophistication without constant involvement. AI-powered analytics track over 6,000 projects, weekly automatic rebalancing captures market trends, regime-switching protection manages downside risk, quality filtering ensures legitimate exposure, and embedded wallets provide security without complexity—all functioning seamlessly whether you monitor daily or not.In 2025, the barrier to crypto investing is no longer technical knowledge or education—it’s decisional. Will you let being busy prevent you from participating in one of the most significant wealth-building opportunities of your generation? Or will you spend 90 seconds setting up a systematic, intelligent crypto index fund that works while you focus on what truly matters?For busy professionals who built successful careers through discipline, strategy, and intelligent automation, the choice is clear. Welcome to set-and-forget crypto investing. Your future self will thank you.Click here to get early access to TM100 indices at Token Metrics.

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FAQ: What is a crypto index fund?

A crypto index fund provides diversified exposure to a basket of cryptocurrencies based on rules such as market capitalization, liquidity thresholds, and scheduled rebalancing, reducing reliance on any single asset.

FAQ: How often do crypto index funds rebalance?

Rebalancing schedules vary by provider and methodology. Some funds rebalance weekly or monthly to maintain target weights and reflect market changes, while minimizing tracking error and transaction costs.

FAQ: What are the main risks of crypto index funds?

Key risks include market volatility, regulatory changes, custody/security considerations, and methodology risk (e.g., how constituents are selected and weighted). Transparent rules and risk management can help address these factors.

FAQ: How do fees impact returns?

Management fees, expense ratios, and transaction costs reduce net performance. Reviewing a fund’s full fee schedule helps you understand potential drag on returns and compare providers objectively.

FAQ: What tax considerations apply?

Tax treatment depends on jurisdiction and holding period. Capital gains may apply on sales and rebalancing events. Maintaining detailed records and consulting a qualified tax professional is recommended.

FAQ: How does AI help in crypto indexing?

AI can assist with quality screening, anomaly detection, market regime analysis, and risk controls. Platforms like Token Metrics use data-driven models to support systematic selection and monitoring.

Disclaimer

This article is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, investment, or tax advice. Digital assets are volatile and carry risk. Always conduct your own research and consult qualified professionals regarding your specific circumstances.

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About Token Metrics
Token Metrics: AI-powered crypto research and ratings platform. We help investors make smarter decisions with unbiased Token Metrics Ratings, on-chain analytics, and editor-curated “Top 10” guides. Our platform distills thousands of data points into clear scores, trends, and alerts you can act on.
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Recent Posts

Research

NFT Rarity - What it Means and How to Calculate it?

Token Metrics Team
5 minutes

Non-Fungible Tokens, or NFTs, have exploded in popularity in recent years, with many people looking to invest in or collect these unique crypto tokens. However, not all NFTs are created equal – some are more valuable than others. One key factor that determines the value of an NFT is rarity. In this article, we will explore what NFT rarity is, how it works, and how to determine the rarity of an NFT. By understanding these concepts, investors can make more informed decisions when it comes to buying and selling NFTs.

What are Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs)?

Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs) are a type of cryptocurrency token, like Bitcoin or Dogecoin. However, what sets NFTs apart from other crypto tokens is their "non-fungibility," meaning that they cannot be mutually exchanged. In other words, every NFT is unique and has its own set of properties, making them distinct from one another.

NFTs have become a popular market, with some tokens having high value compared to others. This has led to a surge in interest in NFTs, with many people wanting to invest in or collect them.

What is NFT Rarity?

One factor that determines the value of an NFT is rarity. NFT rarity refers to how common a specific NFT is within a collection. Typically, the rarer the NFT, the higher its price.

In simple words, NFT rarity refers to the uniqueness or scarcity of a non-fungible token (NFT). Each NFT is created with a unique identifier that makes it distinct from all other NFTs. However, within a collection of NFTs, there can be variations in the rarity or scarcity of the different tokens.

These variations can be based on a variety of factors such as the number of tokens in a collection, the design or artwork of the token, or the properties and attributes assigned to the token. Rarity can impact the value of an NFT, as collectors and investors may be willing to pay more for a rare or highly sought-after NFT. Additionally, NFT creators and collectors may use rarity as a way to create excitement and interest in a particular collection or token.

How Does NFT Rarity Work?

To understand how NFT rarity works, it's important to know that when a new NFT is minted, it has a set of unique properties, known as traits, that cannot be changed. While NFTs can share a trait, no two NFTs are typically identical in a randomized collection.

NFTs with rarer features are more likely to sell for a higher price than those with more common features. As the floor price of a collection increases, the rarer NFTs also tend to increase more in value than the average of the entire collection.

How to Determine NFT Rarity?

Knowing how to spot rarity beforehand can give investors an advantage when it comes to NFT collecting. This can save them time and money, and give them an edge over other traders in the marketplace with information about the value trajectory of a specific type of NFT over time.

There are a few different ways to determine the rarity of an NFT. One way is to use NFT Rarity sites like Rarity Tools. This can help you find if an NFT is rare and in high demand.

Another option is to use a Rarity Ranks Extension, such as the Rarity Ranks extension. However, installing extensions may be risky and steal your confidential data.

Another way to determine NFT rarity is to use a tool like OpenSea, which allows users to create, buy, and sell NFTs. By viewing an entire collection when clicking on an NFT, users can get a sense of the rarity of a specific token. The average collection size is 10,000 items, though this can vary for different projects.

Best NFT Rarity Checker

Determining the rarity of an NFT (Non-Fungible Token) is an important aspect of the NFT market. It can help buyers make informed decisions about the value and potential appreciation of a particular NFT. While there are several NFT rarity checkers available, it's difficult to identify the "best" one as different checkers may use different algorithms and data sources. Some popular NFT rarity checkers include Rarity.tools and Rarity Sniper.

Rarity.tools is a widely used platform that allows users to check rarity scores for a variety of NFT collections. Rarity Sniper provides a rarity score for each NFT, along with data on its trading history and price trends. Ultimately, the best NFT rarity checker depends on individual preferences and needs.

Why is Rarity Important for NFTs?

Rarity is important in the NFT market because it can affect the value and demand for a specific token. Because each look is limited to a specific number across the collection, some are statistically harder to come by – just like a Shiny Pokémon in the Pokémon universe. An NFT with a combination of rare attributes is more likely to sell for a higher price than those with more common traits.

Conclusion

In conclusion, NFT rarity is a key factor in determining the value of an NFT. By understanding how to spot and assess rarity, investors can make more informed decisions when it comes to buying and selling NFTs.

Tools like the NFT Rarity App and the Rarity Ranks Extension can be helpful in determining the rarity of a specific NFT. With this knowledge, investors can make more strategic decisions about their NFT investments and potentially maximize their returns.

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/NFT should be bought, sold, or held by you. Do conduct your own due diligence and consult your financial advisor before making any investment decisions.

Research

Non-Fungible Token (NFT): What It Means and How It Works?

Token Metrics Team
12 minutes

The most expensive NFT sale to date was Beeple's Everydays: The First 5000 Days, which sold for $69.3 million. This highlights the growing interest in NFTs and the potential for them to be used as a vehicle for sharing virtually any form of media using the blockchain.

But what is an NFT? Let's find out.

What is an NFT?

NFTs, or non-fungible tokens, are unique digital assets with blockchain-managed ownership. They are stored on a blockchain and cannot be replicated or destroyed, making them resistant to tampering. NFTs can represent a wide range of items, including game items, digital art, collectibles, event tickets, and even ownership records for physical assets.

Unlike traditional cryptocurrencies, which are interchangeable and can be easily replicated, NFTs are non-fungible, meaning they have unique qualities that make them one-of-a-kind. This is why NFTs have gained popularity in the art world, where they can be used to verify the authenticity of a digital artwork and ensure that it cannot be copied or stolen.

How Can We Ensure Unique Authenticity?

When someone purchases an NFT, they not only receive the artwork itself, but also a digital receipt that proves that the piece is original, unique, and authentic. This receipt is stored on the blockchain and can be easily accessed and verified by anyone who wants to confirm the ownership and authenticity of the NFT.

While it is technically possible for someone to take a screenshot of an NFT and claim that they own it, this does not give them legal ownership of the artwork. Just like taking a picture of the Mona Lisa at the Louvre does not mean that you own the painting, taking a screenshot of an NFT does not give you ownership of the artwork.

To legally own an NFT, you must purchase it using cryptocurrency and store it in a virtual showcase. This allows you to own and display your artwork in a way that is secure and verifiable, and it ensures that you are the legal owner of the NFT.

NFT Basics You Need To Know

Non-fungible tokens (NFTs) are unique digital files that are stored on a blockchain. A blockchain is a decentralized, public digital ledger that records every transaction that takes place on the decentralized web. This means that the entire history of an NFT, including its creator, properties, transactions, and smart contracts, is backed by a powerful blockchain.

NFTs are different from fungible tokens, such as Bitcoin or Ethereum, which are interchangeable and store value. In contrast, NFTs store data on the blockchain, making them unique and non-replicable.

Important Traits Of NFTs

Some key characteristics of NFTs include:

  • Digital ownership: NFTs are owned and controlled by the individuals who hold them in their digital wallets.
  • Permanent: The data associated with an NFT is permanently stored within the token itself. This can include images, messages, signatures, or any other data.
  • Permission-less: NFTs can be built on a permission-less blockchain, such as Ethereum, meaning that anyone can create and use them.
  • Programmable: Because an NFT is just a piece of code on a blockchain, it can be programmed to have various attributes. For example, an NFT artwork might be programmed to pay the artist royalties on every secondary sale of that artwork.
  • Unique: The uniqueness of an NFT can be verified on the blockchain, ensuring that it is one-of-a-kind and cannot be replicated.

How to Own One? 

To create an NFT, there are several steps that you can follow:

  1. Get your media ready: NFTs support a variety of file types, such as MP3 audio, JPG and PNG images, and 3D files like GLB.
  2. Set up a non-custodial wallet: This will allow you to securely store the cryptocurrency that you will use to buy, sell, and create NFTs. Wallets are also necessary for signing in and creating accounts on NFT marketplaces.
  3. Buy Ethereum or other fungible tokens: You will need to purchase cryptocurrency to cover the cost of minting your NFT.
  4. Connect your wallet to an NFT marketplace: Popular options include Rarible and OpenSea. Connect your wallet by tapping the "Connect" button in the top right corner of the screen. This will create your account and allow you to start creating, minting, and selling your NFTs.
  5. Upload your file and describe your asset: Once you have connected your wallet, you can upload your file to the marketplace and provide a description of your asset. Decide if you want to create a standalone piece or multiple copies of the same NFT.
  6. Mint your NFT: The minting process requires Ethereum for transaction approvals. Once complete, your digital artwork will be ready to be traded and purchased on the marketplace.

Once you have created your NFT, there are several things that you can do with it:

  • Buy and sell it on a marketplace
  • Trade or gift it to others
  • Use it in apps or games
  • Showcase your public NFT inventory on a platform or social media.

The Secondary Markets for NFTs

NFT minting platforms enable creators to create non-fungible tokens (NFTs) to retain more control over their creative output. These NFTs can be sold on the following secondary marketplaces:

  • OpenSea: The first and largest marketplace for NFTs, OpenSea is committed to using open protocols like Ethereum and interoperable standards like ERC-721 and ERC-1155 to enable new digital economies. The platform allows consumers to trade items freely, creators to launch new digital works, and developers to build marketplaces for their digital items. It recently launched the beta version of its Solana-based NFT marketplace.
  • Coinbase NFT: Coinbase recently opened its NFT marketplace to the public in beta. The marketplace acts as a social media platform where users can buy, sell, and interact with NFTs. It aims to make minting, purchasing, showcasing, and discovering NFTs easier.
  • Solanart: Solanart is the first and largest fully-fledged NFT marketplace on Solana. Users can easily access digital collectibles and explore, buy, and sell NFTs that run on the Solana blockchain.
  • Rarible: Rarible is a do-it-yourself NFT marketplace where creators can mint NFTs with ease. The platform's native governance token, "RARI," is used to incentivize users and give the community a voice. However, unrestricted access means that Rarible has become a place for people to mint counterfeit versions of existing NFTs.
  • Nifty Gateway: Owned by the Gemini crypto exchange, Nifty Gateway is a popular NFT marketplace that focuses on user-friendly and viral drops by celebrated artists.
  • SuperRare: SuperRare (SR) is one of Ethereum's first crypto-art NFT marketplaces. Only accepted artists can participate in the platform, where users can discover, buy, and sell tokenized digital art and showcase their collections.

The demand for secondary NFT sales is growing rapidly, leading to increased competition among these marketplaces. Like the early days of Web 1 and 2.0, the emergence of Web 3.0 has created an open market where these platforms must find ways to attract and retain customers.

Some Notable NFT Projects

The thriving NFT market has led to the launch of several high-value projects, including the following companies:

  • Yuga Labs: a blockchain technology company that develops Ethereum-based NFTs and digital collectibles. Yuga's first project, Bored Ape Yacht Club, is one of the most valuable NFT collectibles in the space. The company has also rewarded its holders with free NFTs and other perks. Yuga Labs recently acquired Larva Labs, which brings high-value projects like Cryptopunks and Meebits under the Yuga brand. The company is backed by investors like Coinbase, Samsung, and Mark Cuban.
  • Doodles: a collection of 10,000 Ethereum-based NFTs featuring unique visual traits designed by BurntToast. The Doodles collection includes rare heads, costumes, and colorways, and the universe is ever-expanding. Owners of Doodles have exclusive access to new products, merchandise, and events.
  • Okay Bears: a collection of 10,000 Solana-based NFTs. Ownership of an Okay Bear grants access to a virtuous community that will extend beyond the internet into the real world.

The Future of NFTs

Blockchain technology is known for its ability to represent assets and prove ownership. NFTs take this a step further by enabling people to potentially purchase non-fungible assets like land and gold. The global market cap for gold and real estate is over $300 trillion, so even a small percentage of that being tokenized would greatly increase the total crypto market cap. Tokenized real estate offers ordinary people the opportunity to invest in real estate, which has traditionally been difficult for the average person to participate in.

NFTs also have applications in other industries. For example, Nike recently filed a patent for NFT-enabled sneakers called "CryptoKicks." In 2019, Louis Vuitton announced plans to use NFTs to track the ownership of luxury fashion items. NFTs can also be used to tokenize certifications, degrees, and licenses, as well as sensitive data like medical records. The potential for NFTs to show ownership of any non-fungible commodity, whether real or virtual, is vast.

In conclusion, the use of non-fungible tokens (NFTs) has expanded beyond digital art and collectibles to include a wide range of real and virtual assets. The ability of NFTs to represent and prove ownership offers exciting possibilities for industries such as real estate, fashion, and even healthcare. As the technology and market continue to evolve, the potential applications for NFTs are endless.

Research

Future of Cryptocurrency - Is Crypto the Future?

Token Metrics Team
5 minutes

If you are wondering about the future of cryptocurrency, we did some digging to answer that, and more.

Cryptocurrency has gained popularity and value in recent years, with the most well-known cryptocurrency, Bitcoin, reaching an all-time high in late 2021. However, the future of the crypto market is uncertain and the subject of much debate. Some analysts predict continued growth, while others foresee a potential crash. In this article, we will explore the potential future of cryptocurrency, including potential growth, crashes, and the role of regulation. We will also discuss predictions for specific cryptocurrencies, such as Bitcoin and Ether, as well as altcoins and decentralized finance (DeFi) and autonomous organizations (DAOs).

Will cryptocurrencies take off? Understanding the potential future of the crypto market can help investors make informed decisions about their investments.

11 Significant Crypto Predictions for 2023

By examining the past trends and indications in the crypto market, it appears that the future of crypto holds exciting opportunities for investors. Here are some notable crypto predictions to keep an eye on in 2023:

Continued Popularity and Growth

Some analysts predict that the popularity and value of cryptocurrencies, particularly Bitcoin, will continue to rise in 2023. This could be due to increased acceptance by businesses and higher demand for Bitcoin exchange-traded funds (ETFs).

Steep Crash

However, others believe that the crypto market is unstable and vulnerable to a crash. In 2022, Bitcoin's price fell by roughly 40% due to factors such as slowing economic growth and rising interest rates. This bearish market may continue into 2023, leading to a potential crash.

Volatility and Regulation

Regardless of whether the market experiences growth or a crash, it is likely that Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies will continue to be volatile. This volatility could be mitigated by increased regulation of the crypto market, which some predict will play a more significant role in 2023.

DeFi and DAOs

The shift toward decentralized finance (DeFi) and autonomous organizations (DAOs) is expected to continue in 2023. DeFi aims to remove the need for middlemen in traditional financial products, while DAOs are a new type of internet community based on blockchain technology. These developments could help to increase the stability and growth of the crypto market.

Bitcoin's Price

Some analysts predict that Bitcoin's price will continue to rise, potentially reaching $100,000 by the end of the year. Others believe that the market is unstable and could experience a crash.

Increased Adoption

It is predicted that over 500 million people worldwide will invest in and own Bitcoin by the end of 2023. This could be due to increased awareness and acceptance of the cryptocurrency.

ETF Approval

The approval of the first spot Bitcoin ETF in the US is possible in 2023. This would allow investors to have direct exposure to the cryptocurrency itself, rather than just tracking Bitcoin futures contracts.

DeFi and DAOs

The shift toward DeFi and DAOs is expected to continue and could become the highest growth areas of the crypto market.

Ether's Performance

Some analysts predict that Ether, the second-largest cryptocurrency by market value, will outperform Bitcoin again in 2023.

Regulation

It is possible that regulation of the crypto market will play a more significant role in 2023, potentially helping to stabilize the market.

Altcoins

The performance of altcoins, or alternative cryptocurrencies, is uncertain. Some may experience growth, while others could struggle. It is important for investors to carefully research and evaluate individual altcoins before making any investments.

Key Takeaways

When we see crypto from the growth perspective, there is a fair chance of getting the climb in 2023, especially for Bitcoin. However, Ether can take over the throne owing to the stats of 2022.

If you are seeking expert research and analysis to inform your investment decisions, consider signing up for Token Metrics. Our platform can provide you with access to the best performing cryptocurrencies with just a click. Explore our plans to learn more.

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