Crypto Basics

Solana Staking - A Step by Step Guide for Beginners

Learn everything about staking Solana and unlock a passive income stream. Uncover step-by-step insights to maximize your crypto earnings.
Marcus K
7 Minutes
MIN

Cryptocurrency enthusiasts always look for new and innovative ways to make the most of their digital assets. Over the past few years, staking Solana has become a prominent method in this pursuit. 

With Solana, your investment transcends traditional boundaries, offering the unique opportunity to secure the network while earning passive income through lucrative rewards. 

This comprehensive guide aims to provide an in-depth understanding of staking Solana, encompassing essential information such as the process, the requirements and considerations involved, effective strategies for maximizing staking rewards, and a comprehensive guide on getting started.

The Basics of Solana Staking

Solana's proof-of-stake (PoS) mechanism enables quick confirmation of transaction sequences. To enhance the performance of the PoS consensus mechanism, Solana also utilizes the Proof-of-History (PoH) protocol. 

The PoH protocol securely orders transactions and events written on the decentralized ledger, making the entire Solana blockchain significantly faster and ideal for dApps by offering lower transaction costs.

Solana's approach to PoS, known as Delegated Proof-of-Stake (DPoS), adds a twist to the regular PoS. DPoS enables voting and delegation by incentivizing users to stake their SOL tokens. 

Users stake their SOL to participate in the DPoS consensus operation, and the nodes choose delegates from the block production process. The network finalizes the number of delegates, with their voting power determined by the amount of SOL they have staked. 

This system ensures that only elected voters and delegates can validate transactions, prioritizing validators who have staked the most SOL.

The Solana Token (SOL)

SOL is Solana's native utility token for paying transaction fees, validating the network, and staking. The versatility of Solana's blockchain allows for the development of various decentralized applications (dApps) on its platform, leading to the emergence of new use cases for SOL.

To stake SOL and participate in the rewards program, you need a suitable wallet to store and manage your holdings. Wallets like Phantom, Exodus, and Solflare are popular choices among Solana users due to their user-friendliness, availability for dApps, and staking options. 

While these wallets are generally secure, it's important to exercise caution as they are exposed to the internet. For those with significant holdings or a cautious approach, using a hardware wallet provides an extra layer of safety.

Staking Requirements and Considerations

When staking SOL, you lock up a certain number of tokens for a specific period. The minimum amount of SOL required for staking is 0.01 SOL, which serves as the minimum reserve. 

Unlike some blockchains, no minimum amount of SOL is required to become a validator. However, validating blocks can incur a daily transaction fee of 1.1 SOL, so validators should consider their staking amount accordingly. 

During the staking period, you cannot spend your staked tokens, but it's important to note that SOL never leaves your wallet, and you can unstake your tokens at any time.

Staking SOL actively contributes to the stability of the Solana network by adding resources, and in return, you earn SOL as a staking reward. However, staking SOL also carries certain risks. 

Validators or delegators who engage in malicious behavior, such as generating invalid transactions or censoring certain types of transactions or participants, may have their stakes slashed. 

Slashing is punitive to discourage such behavior and protect the network's integrity. Delegating your tokens to reputable validators is crucial to minimize the risk of being impacted by their actions.

Step-by-Step Guide to Staking Solana

Staking SOL can be done through a crypto exchange or a dedicated wallet. Several platforms, including Coinbase, Kraken, Binance, and more, offer Solana staking programs, allowing users to stake SOL directly from their exchange accounts. 

Wallets such as the official Solana Wallet and Exodus also support SOL staking. Let's explore the step-by-step process for staking SOL via a crypto exchange and a wallet.

Staking SOL via a Crypto Exchange

  1. Sign up for a crypto exchange that supports Solana staking by providing the necessary personal information and completing the verification process, if required.
  2. Acquire SOL tokens by purchasing them on the exchange or transferring them from another wallet or exchange.
  3. Navigate to the staking section of the exchange and select a validator to delegate your tokens to.
  4. Follow the instructions provided by the exchange to delegate your SOL to the chosen validator.
  5. Once you have delegated your SOL, you can start earning staking rewards. However, it is important to monitor your rewards regularly and ensure that your chosen validator maintains a high level of uptime and security.

Staking SOL via a Wallet

  1. Choose a reputable and secure wallet that supports SOL staking, such as the official Solana Wallet or Exodus.
  2. Acquire SOL tokens by purchasing them on a crypto exchange or transferring them from another wallet or exchange.
  3. Transfer your SOL tokens to the staking wallet and navigate to the staking section.
  4. Delegate your SOL to a validator by following the staking wallet's specific instructions.
  5. After delegating your SOL to a validator, you can earn staking rewards, typically paid weekly.

Advanced Strategies for Maximizing Staking Rewards

To maximize your staking rewards and enhance your Solana staking experience, consider implementing the following strategies:

Maximizing Rewards With Multiple Validators

Monitoring validator performance is crucial for maximizing rewards. Platforms like Validators. app provides valuable insights into validator performance, allowing you to choose multiple validators for risk management. 

Distributing your SOL among multiple network validators offers a safer way to spread your funds, minimizing the impact of potential failures, increased commissions, or shutdowns by a single validator. 

While this strategy may incur multiple transaction fees, they are typically low, making the added sense of safety worthwhile.

Operating as a Validator

Running a validator node makes Solana a resistant and high-performing blockchain. Validators process and handle transactions while earning rewards and increasing censorship resistance through decentralization. 

While no minimum amount of SOL is required to run a validator, a reserve of 0.02685864 SOL coins is necessary to participate in the consensus. It is important to stake a sufficient amount of SOL to ensure the profitability of running a validator node.

Building a Solid Reputation and Attracting Delegators

Validators who meet the strict requirements of the Solana Foundation Delegation Program can receive delegations from a token pool managed by the foundation. 

To qualify for delegation, validators must fulfill testnet participation criteria and all baseline criteria. Failure to meet these requirements results in the revocation of delegation until the criteria are satisfied. 

Building a solid reputation and consistently meeting the criteria can attract delegators and enhance your staking rewards.

Staking Solana on a Non-custodial Wallet

In addition to exchanges, other ways exist to stake Solana, including using non-custodial wallets that support SOL staking. Wallets like Phantom Wallet, Solana's official wallet, provide staking options. 

The process involves funding your wallet with SOL crypto, selecting a Solana validator, and reviewing and confirming the transaction details. Non-custodial wallets offer an additional layer of security as you retain full control over your private keys.

Recent Network Developments

Solana Labs has been actively implementing changes to enhance network reliability and consistency. In a blog post from March 2023, co-founder Anatoly Yakovenko emphasized the importance of providing a fast, dependable, and scalable network for a fully decentralized web. 

Before the 1.14 release, core engineers addressed issues affecting network speed and usability, such as gas metering, transaction flow control, and fee markets. 

The most recent network upgrade, v1.16, has reduced hardware requirements for validators, making it more accessible and cost-effective to participate in the network's consensus mechanism. Optional zero-knowledge-compatible transaction encryption has also been introduced, enhancing privacy and security.

Conclusion

Staking Solana offers the opportunity to actively participate in shaping the future of a high-performance blockchain platform while earning rewards. 

By understanding the basics of Solana staking, choosing reputable platforms, and implementing advanced strategies, you can maximize your staking rewards and enhance your crypto investment strategy. 

Stay informed about recent network developments and make informed decisions to maximize your Solana staking experience.

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 that any cryptocurrency should be bought, sold, or held by you. Conduct your due diligence and consult your financial advisor before making investment decisions.

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Crypto Basics

Crypto Moonshot - The Ultimate Guide to High-Risk, High-Reward Opportunities in Crypto in July 2025

Token Metrics Team
8 min
MIN

In both tech and investing, the term “moonshot” has become a buzzword. But what does it really mean—especially in the world of cryptocurrency? In 2025, where crypto markets move faster than ever and fortunes are made in weeks, understanding what a moonshot is—and how to spot one—can be the difference between average returns and life-changing gains.

In this guide, we’ll explore what a moonshot is, where the term originated, how it applies to crypto, and how platforms like Token Metrics are using AI to identify real moonshot opportunities before they go mainstream.

What Is a Moonshot?

At its core, a moonshot refers to a bold, ambitious goal or project that aims for massive success—despite high risk and low probability. The term comes from the U.S. Apollo missions, which set out to put a man on the moon in the 1960s—a seemingly impossible goal at the time.

In the tech world, “moonshot” often describes breakthrough innovations with radical upside potential, like:

  • Electric cars replacing gasoline
  • AI replacing human labor
  • SpaceX launching Mars colonization

In crypto, a moonshot is an early-stage altcoin with the potential for 10x, 50x, or even 100x returns—if discovered before the crowd.

What Is a Moonshot in Crypto?

A crypto moonshot is a low-cap cryptocurrency project that has strong fundamentals, an emerging narrative, or technical signals that suggest it could deliver explosive gains in a short timeframe.

These tokens are usually:

  • Undervalued or under-the-radar
  • Not yet listed on major exchanges like Binance or Coinbase
  • In sectors with rising interest (AI, DePIN, Layer 2, RWA, etc.)
  • Backed by a solid team, roadmap, or tech innovation

But moonshots come with high risk. For every 100x winner, there are dozens of tokens that go to zero. That’s why smart investors use data, not hype, to find real opportunities.

Why Do Traders Hunt for Moonshots?

1. Asymmetric Returns

With moonshots, you risk $100 for the chance to earn $10,000. That level of upside doesn’t exist in traditional markets.

2. Small Capital, Big Potential

You don’t need millions to win big. Moonshots give retail traders a fighting chance to outperform institutions—if they find the token early enough.

3. Innovation at the Edge

Moonshot tokens often represent the bleeding edge of blockchain innovation—from decentralized AI to tokenized real-world assets.

The Problem with Finding Moonshots

Despite the massive upside, most traders miss the real moonshots and end up buying the hype too late.

Why?

  • Too much noise: Social media is flooded with pump-and-dump schemes.
  • Lack of research: Retail investors often follow influencers instead of analyzing fundamentals.
  • Fragmented data: It’s hard to compare tokens across metrics like on-chain activity, technicals, sentiment, and fundamentals.

This is why platforms like Token Metrics are changing the game.

How Token Metrics Helps You Find Real Moonshots

Token Metrics is an AI-powered crypto analytics and trading platform that includes a dedicated Moonshots feature—designed to help users find early-stage altcoins before they pump.

What Makes It Different:

  • AI-driven token scoring using 80+ metrics
  • Real-time Trader Grades and Investor Grades
  • Transparent entry dates, market caps, and live ROI
  • In-app Buy button for instant on-chain swaps

You don’t have to guess. The platform’s AI analyzes thousands of tokens daily and surfaces a curated list of Moonshots based on data—not hype.

How to Use Token Metrics Moonshots?

Step 1: Go to the Ratings Page

From your Token Metrics dashboard, click on the Ratings tab to access AI scores for thousands of tokens.

Step 2: Click the “Moonshots” Tab

Inside Ratings, select the Moonshots tab to view tokens with the highest potential based on current trends.

Step 3: Review the Data

Each Moonshot includes:

  • Trader Grade (with change %)
  • 24H volume
  • Market cap
  • Entry date
  • ROI since entry

You can also explore Past Moonshots to verify previous performance.

Step 4: Do Your Due Diligence

Click a token to open its full details page—real-time chart, top holders, fundamental analysis, exchange listings, and more.

Step 5: Buy Instantly

Click the Buy button to use the integrated swap widget for direct on-chain purchases—no need to leave the platform.

Are Moonshots Legit?

Yes—if you use the right tools.

Moonshots are not meme coins or influencer pumps. A legitimate moonshot is backed by data, momentum, and real fundamentals.

With Token Metrics, you can:

  • Avoid emotional trading
  • Use AI insights to guide decisions
  • See historical results to validate picks
  • Get alerts when new moonshots emerge

In short: Moonshots are legit if they’re backed by research—not hype.

Final Thoughts: Why Moonshots Matter in 2025

The crypto landscape is becoming more competitive every day. Gone are the days when you could randomly buy a new token and expect 10x returns.

In 2025, traders need smart tools, real data, and automated insights to stay ahead of the curve.

That’s where Moonshots come in.

They represent the cutting edge of early-stage discovery—where small bets can lead to massive wins. And with platforms like Token Metrics leading the charge, moonshot investing is becoming smarter, faster, and more accessible than ever before.

Crypto Basics

What Is Moonshot Crypto? How Token Metrics Is Revolutionizing Early-Stage Altcoin Discovery in July 2025

Token Metrics Team
8 min
MIN

In 2025, crypto markets are more competitive—and more crowded—than ever. Thousands of tokens launch every month, and most vanish into obscurity. But every now and then, a hidden gem explodes, delivering 10x, 50x, or even 100x returns to early investors.

These rare, high-upside tokens are called moonshots.

In this article, we’ll break down what moonshot crypto really means, why it matters, and how you can discover legit moonshot opportunities using Token Metrics, the leading AI-powered crypto analytics platform.

What Is Moonshot Crypto?

A moonshot in the crypto world refers to a low-market-cap altcoin that has the potential to rise exponentially in value. The term is derived from the phrase “shooting to the moon,” symbolizing massive growth in a short time.

Common Traits of Moonshot Tokens:

  • Low market cap (usually under $50M)
  • Early-stage with limited exchange listings
  • Strong narrative (AI, DePIN, RWA, Gaming, etc.)
  • Innovative tech or use-case
  • Undervalued or undiscovered by the broader market

Moonshots aren’t guaranteed winners. They’re high-risk, high-reward opportunities—but for savvy investors, they can be game-changers.

Why Moonshots Matter in Crypto Trading

In traditional markets, consistent 2x or 3x returns are considered extraordinary. In crypto, however, early access to the right token can yield 100x+ returns in a matter of weeks.

Moonshots are especially important because:

  • They maximize asymmetric risk-reward.
  • They help small portfolios outperform big capital.
  • They offer access to innovation early, before VC rounds or CEX listings.

The challenge? Finding these tokens before the crowd does. That’s where Token Metrics comes in.

Introducing Token Metrics Moonshots

Token Metrics Moonshots is a proprietary feature that uses artificial intelligence to scan the entire crypto market and identify high-potential altcoins before they go viral.

Instead of relying on social media hype or guessing based on charts, Token Metrics analyzes over 80+ data points per token, including:

  • Technical indicators
  • On-chain activity
  • Fundamental quality
  • Social sentiment
  • Exchange volume
  • Developer metrics

The AI then surfaces a curated list of Moonshot tokens that show early signals of explosive growth.

How to Use Token Metrics to Find Moonshot Cryptos

Here’s a step-by-step guide to accessing and using the Moonshots feature on Token Metrics:

Step 1: Go to the Ratings Page

  • From the Token Metrics dashboard, navigate to the Ratings tab.
  • This is the hub where tokens are scored and ranked using Trader Grades and Investor Grades powered by AI.

Step 2: Click on the “Moonshots” Tab

  • Inside the Ratings page, you’ll find the Moonshots tab at the top.
  • This section displays the tokens that Token Metrics' AI has flagged as high-upside, early-stage opportunities.

Step 3: Review Key Metrics

For each Moonshot token, Token Metrics shows:

  • Trader Grade and how it’s changed recently
  • 24H volume and market cap
  • Date of entry (when the token was flagged)
  • Live ROI (how much it has gained since being listed)

Want to verify the results? Switch to Past Moonshots to see performance over 7 or 14 days.

Step 4: Choose a Token to Explore

  • Click on any token to view its Token Details Page.
  • This gives you access to real-time charts, fundamentals, code audits, exchange listings, and top wallet holders.
  • Use this page to build confidence before investing.

Step 5: Buy in Seconds

  • Token Metrics integrates a swap widget that lets you buy Moonshot tokens directly from the platform.
  • No need to jump between apps or copy wallet addresses—just click Buy and swap instantly.

Is Moonshot Crypto Legit?

Let’s address the elephant in the room: Is Moonshot crypto real, or just marketing hype?

Here’s why Moonshots are not only legit—but one of the most powerful trading tools in the crypto space:

✅ Transparent Performance

  • Every Moonshot is tracked in real time.
  • You can see the exact date it was added, entry price, and ROI since entry.
  • Toggle to Past Moonshots to validate historical performance.

✅ AI-Driven, Not Hype-Driven

  • Token Metrics doesn’t rely on influencers or speculation.
  • It uses quantitative models to scan thousands of tokens daily and surface winners based on hard data.

Moonshot vs Meme Coin: What's the Difference?

Not all low-cap coins are Moonshots.

Who Should Use Moonshots?

✅ Retail Traders

Looking for early entries into next-gen altcoins

✅ Crypto Investors

Seeking data-backed portfolio diversification

✅ DeFi Enthusiasts

Exploring new sectors like RWA, AI, Gaming, or Layer 2

✅ Builders and Analysts

Using Token Metrics API to integrate Moonshot data into dashboards, bots, or research workflows

Moonshots Are Now a Developer Tool Too

With the Token Metrics API and MCP Server, developers can access Moonshot data in real time using:

  • OpenAI Agents
  • Claude Desktop
  • Cursor IDE
  • Windsurf
  • CLI and VS Code integrations

Build AI crypto trading agents, compliance dashboards, or custom alerts with a single unified key and protocol. Start free at
👉 https://app.tokenmetrics.com/en/api

Final Thoughts: Moonshots Are the New Alpha

In 2025, finding alpha in crypto requires more than luck or hype—it requires precision, speed, and data-driven tools.

Token Metrics Moonshots is one of the only legit, AI-powered solutions that lets retail and institutional traders alike discover early-stage crypto projects before they go parabolic.

So, what is Moonshot crypto?
It’s not a meme. It’s a method.

Crypto Basics

How to Invest in Cryptocurrency Using Token Metrics AI Tools (July 2025 Guide)

Token Metrics Team
8 min
MIN

Cryptocurrency continues to redefine global finance, and in 2025, more investors than ever are looking to tap into the opportunities it offers. But with over 20,000+ tokens in the market and extreme volatility, investing in crypto isn’t as simple as “buy and hold.” To succeed, you need a strategy powered by real-time data, AI analytics, and smart risk management.

That’s where Token Metrics comes in. This AI-powered crypto research and investment platform helps investors make data-backed decisions with confidence. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to invest in cryptocurrency step-by-step—using Token Metrics’ powerful AI tools.

What Is Cryptocurrency Investing?

Cryptocurrency investing involves allocating capital into digital assets like Bitcoin, Ethereum, or altcoins with the goal of generating long-term returns. Unlike traditional investing, crypto markets are:

  • Decentralized: No central authority controls them.
  • 24/7: They never close.
  • Highly volatile: Prices can swing 10–50% in a single day.
  • Innovation-driven: New projects can rise or fall quickly based on tech adoption.

To succeed, you need more than luck—you need data, insights, and tools that give you an edge.

Step-by-Step: How to Invest in Cryptocurrency Using Token Metrics

✅ Step 1: Educate Yourself

Before investing, understand the basics:

  • What is blockchain?
  • What is a cryptocurrency token?
  • How does trading differ from investing?
  • What are the risks?

Token Metrics offers research pages, video tutorials, and AI-generated insights to help you get up to speed quickly.

✅ Step 2: Choose a Crypto Investment Strategy

There are several ways to invest in crypto:

1. HODLing (Buy and Hold)

  • Ideal for long-term believers in projects like Bitcoin or Ethereum.
  • Token Metrics’ Investor Grade helps you identify strong long-term assets based on fundamentals, code quality, and adoption metrics.

2. Swing Trading

  • Capitalize on medium-term market cycles (7–30 days).
  • Use Token Metrics’ Trader Grade to spot assets with strong short-term upside momentum.

3. Narrative/Thematic Investing

  • Invest based on trends like AI, Real World Assets (RWA), or DePIN.
  • Token Metrics offers AI-powered indices and sector filters to help you find tokens that match your belief in a growing niche.

4. Moonshot Investing

  • Target low-cap altcoins with explosive growth potential.
  • Token Metrics’ Moonshots feature uses AI to highlight daily tokens with 10x–100x potential—before they hit major exchanges.

✅ Step 3: Discover Tokens with Token Metrics AI Tools

Token Metrics scans 6,000+ tokens daily and gives each one a score based on:

  • Technical Analysis (MACD, RSI, trend)
  • On-Chain Data (volume, wallets, transfers)
  • Fundamental Metrics (team, roadmap, tokenomics)
  • Sentiment & Social Data (buzz, mentions, FUD)
  • Exchange Data (liquidity, slippage, volume)

Top features include:

📊 Ratings Page

  • View Trader and Investor Grades for all tokens.
  • Sort by market cap, volume, or recent performance.

🚀 Moonshots

  • AI-curated list of high-upside altcoins.
  • View live ROI, Trader Grade, market cap, and entry date.

📈 Signals

  • Real-time Bullish and Bearish alerts for major tokens.
  • Combine with custom alerts to automate decision-making.

đŸ“„ Custom Alerts

  • Set alerts for price changes, grade movements, or signal triggers.
  • Get notifications via email, Telegram, or Slack.

đŸ› ïž Token Details Page

  • Dive deep into token charts, historical performance, wallet holders, and exchange listings—all in one place.

✅ Step 4: Build Your Portfolio

Once you’ve identified the tokens you want to invest in, it’s time to create a diversified crypto portfolio. Here’s how:

  • Allocate 60% to long-term holds (BTC, ETH, strong layer-1s).
  • Allocate 20% to sector themes (AI, DePIN, Gaming, RWAs).
  • Allocate 20% to moonshots with strict risk management.

Token Metrics offers AI-generated portfolios and model indices to help you follow proven allocation strategies.

✅ Step 5: Execute Trades Safely

Once you’re ready to invest, Token Metrics makes execution simple:

  • Click the “Buy” button directly from any Token Details or Moonshots page.
  • Use the integrated on-chain swap widget to buy instantly.
  • No need to manually copy contract addresses or search on DEXs.

✅ Step 6: Monitor and Adjust

Use Token Metrics to continuously monitor your investments:

  • Watch for Trader Grade downgrades or bearish signals.
  • Use Past Moonshots to analyze winning and losing patterns.
  • Export data for backtesting or share with advisors.

Advanced users can also plug into the Token Metrics API or MCP Server to build custom dashboards, AI bots, and automated strategies.

Why Token Metrics Is the Best Crypto Investment Tool in 2025

Here’s what makes Token Metrics different from other platforms:

Tips for Investing in Cryptocurrency Safely

  • ✅ Use a secure wallet: Store your tokens in hardware wallets like Ledger or Trezor.
  • ✅ Never invest more than you can afford to lose: Crypto is volatile. Stay disciplined.
  • ✅ Avoid emotional trading: Let Token Metrics’ AI help you stay data-driven.
  • ✅ Stick to your strategy: Whether it’s HODLing or Moonshot hunting, don’t deviate based on hype.
  • ✅ Use alerts to avoid missing out on sudden moves.

Final Thoughts: Invest Smarter, Not Harder

In 2025, crypto investing is no longer about gambling or following influencers. It’s about using AI, data, and automation to make smarter, faster, and more profitable decisions.

With Token Metrics, you gain access to:

  • Proven AI-driven analytics
  • Moonshot altcoin discovery
  • Real-time signals and alerts
  • Tools for long-term investing and short-term trading
  • The infrastructure to build your own AI crypto bots and agents

Whether you’re new to crypto or looking to take your portfolio to the next level, Token Metrics is the ultimate investment companion.

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