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Understanding the Evolution and Impact of Web 3 Technology

Discover what Web 3 is, its core technologies, applications, challenges, and how AI-powered tools like Token Metrics aid in analyzing this emerging decentralized internet layer.
Token Metrics Team
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Introduction to Web 3

The digital landscape is continually evolving, giving rise to a new paradigm known as Web 3. This iteration promises a shift towards decentralization, enhanced user control, and a more immersive internet experience. But what exactly is Web 3, and why is it considered a transformative phase of the internet? This article explores its fundamentals, technology, potential applications, and the tools available to understand this complex ecosystem.

Defining Web 3

Web 3, often referred to as the decentralized web, represents the next generation of internet technology that aims to move away from centralized platforms dominated by a few major organizations. Instead of relying on centralized servers, Web 3 utilizes blockchain technology and peer-to-peer networks to empower users and enable trustless interactions.

In essence, Web 3 decentralizes data ownership and governance, allowing users to control their information and digital assets without intermediaries. This marks a significant departure from Web 2.0, where data is predominantly managed by centralized corporations.

Key Technologies Behind Web 3

Several emerging technologies underpin the Web 3 movement, each playing a vital role in achieving its vision:

  • Blockchain: A distributed ledger system ensuring transparency, security, and immutability of data. It replaces traditional centralized databases with decentralized networks.
  • Decentralized Applications (dApps): Applications running on blockchain networks providing services without a central controlling entity.
  • Smart Contracts: Self-executing contracts with coded rules, enabling automated and trustless transactions within the Web 3 ecosystem.
  • Decentralized Finance (DeFi): Financial services built on blockchain, offering alternatives to traditional banking systems through peer-to-peer exchanges.
  • Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs): Unique digital assets representing ownership of items like art, music, or virtual real estate verified on a blockchain.

Together, these technologies provide a robust foundation for a more autonomous and transparent internet landscape.

Contrasting Web 3 With Web 2

Understanding Web 3 requires comparing it to its predecessor, Web 2:

  • Data Control: Web 2 centralizes data with platform owners; Web 3 returns data ownership to users.
  • Intermediaries: Web 2 relies heavily on intermediaries for operations; Web 3 enables direct interaction between users via decentralized protocols.
  • Monetization Models: Web 2 monetizes mainly through targeted ads and user data; Web 3 offers new models such as token economies supported by blockchain.
  • Identity: Web 2 uses centralized identity management; Web 3 incorporates decentralized identity solutions allowing greater privacy and user control.

This shift fosters a more user-centric, permissionless, and transparent internet experience.

Potential Applications of Web 3

Web 3's decentralized infrastructure unlocks numerous application possibilities across industries:

  • Social Media: Platforms that return content ownership and revenue to creators rather than centralized corporations.
  • Finance: Peer-to-peer lending, decentralized exchanges, and transparent financial services enabled by DeFi protocols.
  • Gaming: Games featuring true asset ownership with NFTs and player-driven economies.
  • Supply Chain Management: Immutable tracking of goods and provenance verification.
  • Governance: Blockchain-based voting systems enhancing transparency and participation.

As Web 3 matures, the range of practical and innovative use cases is expected to expand further.

Challenges and Considerations

Despite its promise, Web 3 faces several hurdles that need attention:

  • Scalability: Current blockchain networks can encounter performance bottlenecks limiting widespread adoption.
  • User Experience: Interfaces and interactions in Web 3 must improve to match the seamlessness users expect from Web 2 platforms.
  • Regulatory Environment: Legal clarity around decentralized networks and digital assets remains a work in progress globally.
  • Security: While blockchain offers security benefits, smart contract vulnerabilities and user key management pose risks.

Addressing these challenges is crucial for realizing the full potential of Web 3.

How to Research Web 3 Opportunities

For individuals and organizations interested in understanding Web 3 developments, adopting a structured research approach is beneficial:

  1. Fundamental Understanding: Study blockchain technology principles and the differences between Web 2 and Web 3.
  2. Use Analytical Tools: Platforms like Token Metrics provide data-driven insights and ratings on Web 3 projects, helping to navigate the complex ecosystem.
  3. Follow Reputable Sources: Stay updated with academic papers, technical blogs, and industry news.
  4. Experiment with Applications: Engage hands-on with dApps and blockchain platforms to gain practical understanding.
  5. Evaluate Risks: Recognize technical, operational, and regulatory risks inherent to emerging Web 3 projects.

This approach supports informed analysis based on technology fundamentals rather than speculation.

The Role of AI in Web 3 Research

Artificial intelligence technologies complement Web 3 by enhancing research and analytical capabilities. AI-driven platforms can process vast amounts of blockchain data to identify patterns, assess project fundamentals, and forecast potential developments.

For example, Token Metrics integrates AI methodologies to provide insightful ratings and reports on various Web 3 projects and tokens. Such tools facilitate more comprehensive understanding for users navigating decentralized ecosystems.

Conclusion

Web 3 embodies a transformative vision for the internet—one that emphasizes decentralization, user empowerment, and innovative applications across multiple sectors. While challenges remain, its foundational technologies like blockchain and smart contracts hold substantial promise for reshaping digital interactions.

Continuing research and utilization of advanced analytical tools like Token Metrics can help individuals and organizations grasp Web 3’s evolving landscape with clarity and rigor.

Disclaimer

This article is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or legal advice. Readers should conduct their own research and consult with professional advisors before making any decisions related to Web 3 technologies or digital assets.

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Crypto Basics

How to Invest in Cryptocurrency - A Step by Step Guide

Token Metrics Team
8 minutes

If you are wondering how to invest in the cryptocurrency space, this is the perfect place to be.

As the world of cryptocurrency continues to expand, it is important to understand what to consider before investing in cryptocurrency. This guide will provide you with a comprehensive overview of the most important things to consider before investing in cryptocurrency, including what to look for in a potential investment, alternative ways to buy a crypto, how to keep your cryptocurrency secure, and tips for investing responsibly.

Introduction to Cryptocurrency Investing

Cryptocurrency investing can be an exciting and potentially profitable venture. But it's important to understand the risks associated with investing in cryptocurrency and the steps you should take before investing your hard-earned money. Cryptocurrency investing is a relatively new concept and the market is constantly evolving. It's important to do your research and understand the potential risks and rewards before jumping in.

In order to make an educated decision about whether or not cryptocurrency investing is right for you, you need to understand the basics of cryptocurrency investing. A cryptocurrency is a form of digital currency that is not controlled by any central authority, such as a government or bank. Instead, it is created and maintained by a decentralized network of computers that use cryptography to secure transactions. Cryptocurrency is typically exchanged for goods and services, or for other forms of currency.

There are a few key differences between cryptocurrency and traditional currencies. For one, cryptocurrency is not backed by any physical asset, such as gold or a government-issued currency. Additionally, cryptocurrency is not regulated by any government or financial institution. This means that the value of cryptocurrencies can be highly volatile and unpredictable, which can make investing in them a risky endeavor.

What to Consider Before Investing in Cryptocurrency

Before investing in cryptocurrency, it is important to understand the risks associated with it. Cryptocurrency is not backed by any physical asset, so its value is highly volatile and unpredictable. This means that investments can quickly lose value, and there is no guarantee that you will get your money back. Additionally, cryptocurrency is not regulated by any government or financial institution, so it can be difficult to know who to trust and who to avoid.

When considering whether or not to invest in cryptocurrency, it's important to understand the different types of cryptocurrencies available. There are thousands of different cryptocurrencies on the market, each with its own set of characteristics and features. It's important to research each type of cryptocurrency and determine which one might be the best fit for your investment goals.

You should also consider the cost of investing in cryptocurrency. Cryptocurrency is a global market, so the cost of investing in it can vary significantly from one country to the next. Additionally, different exchanges may charge different fees for trading. It's important to research the fees associated with each exchange to ensure you are getting the best deal.

Finally, it's important to understand the potential tax implications of investing in cryptocurrency. Many countries have different regulations regarding the taxation of cryptocurrency investments, so it is important to understand the rules in your area before investing.

Alternative Ways to Buy Cryptocurrency

When it comes to investing in cryptocurrency, there are a few different ways to go about it. The most popular way to purchase cryptocurrency is through an online exchange. These exchanges are typically easy to use and offer a variety of different cryptocurrencies. Additionally, some exchanges offer lower fees than others, so it's important to shop around for the best deal.

Another option for investing in cryptocurrency is to purchase it directly from an individual. This can be done through a peer-to-peer platform, such as LocalBitcoins. This allows you to purchase cryptocurrency directly from another individual, without having to go through an exchange. However, this method can be riskier than using an exchange, as there is no guarantee that the person you are purchasing from is legitimate.

Finally, there are some platforms that allow you to purchase cryptocurrency with a credit or debit card. This is typically the easiest and most convenient way to purchase cryptocurrency, but it also has some drawbacks. Credit and debit card purchases typically come with higher fees than other methods, and the transactions can be reversed if the seller does not deliver the cryptocurrency as promised.

The 5-Step Process of Crypto Investing

Follow this 5-step process to make first cryptocurrency investment.

Step #1 Choose a Broker or Crypto Exchange

If you are new to crypto, you can start off by choosing a broker or a crypto exchange. Although both serve the same purpose, there is a tiny difference between them.

Cryptocurrency Exchange is a third-party company that can help you invest in crypto with a convenience fee. Both buyers and sellers can actively trade cryptocurrencies using the platform. Having said that, make sure to learn enough about the standard crypto trading platforms before investing.

Step #2: Create and Authenticate Your Account

Once you are set with the platform, now you have to simply create an account and then authenticate yourself to start hassle free trading. 

Step #3: Link Your Bank Account to Your Crypto Account 

Now that you have verified your account, it is time to add your bank account or use a debit card to ensure cash deposit to invest in crypto. 

Step #4: Place Your Cryptocurrency Order

Yes! You are almost there. You just need to take one more step of placing your cryptocurrency order to start your trade. You can enter the ticker symbols, such as BTC for Bitcoin, and invest as you please. 

Step #5: Choose Your Storage Method

Since cryptocurrency exchanges are not regulated or secured widely, it is essential that you choose an appropriate storage method to avoid the risk of theft or hacking. It is best to store cryptocurrencies offline or in a cold wallet like Ledger.

How to Keep Your Cryptocurrency Secure?

Once you have purchased your cryptocurrency, it is important to take steps to keep it secure. The first step is to create a secure wallet to store your cryptocurrency. There are a variety of different wallets available, so you should research each one and determine which one is best for your needs.

Once you have chosen a wallet, it is important to create a strong password and keep it safe. This password should be unique and difficult to guess. Additionally, you should enable two-factor authentication whenever possible. This will require a second form of verification, such as a code sent to your phone, before you can access your wallet.

It is also important to keep your wallet backed up. Many wallets offer the ability to export your funds to a secure backup. This will ensure that you can recover your funds if something were to happen to your wallet. You should also keep your wallet updated with the latest security patches to help ensure that your funds are safe.

Tips for Investing Responsibly

Cryptocurrency investing can be an exciting and potentially lucrative venture, but it's important to invest responsibly. Before investing, it's important to understand the risks associated with cryptocurrency investing, such as the potential for highly volatile prices. Additionally, it's important to understand the tax implications of investing in cryptocurrency and ensure that you are following all applicable laws.

It's also important to diversify your investments. Rather than investing all your money into a single cryptocurrency, it's wise to spread your investments across a variety of different coins and tokens. This will help to reduce your risk and ensure that you are diversifying your portfolio.

Finally, it's important to invest only what you can afford to lose. The cryptocurrency market is highly unpredictable, so there is always the potential for losses. It's important to remember that investing in cryptocurrency is a long-term process and that short-term gains should not be your primary focus.

As an investor, you need an acute understanding of what could be the potential cryptocurrencies that make you good fortune. And for that, you need to dig deeper into analyzing hundreds of coins to know and understand the best investments to make. 

We help with that. Token Metrics is an AI-based crypto-research platform that can save you hours of research and bring you accurate data to make an informed decision. 

Click here to get ahold of the BEST plans available for crypto investors like you. 

Conclusion

Cryptocurrency investing can be an exciting and potentially profitable venture, but it's important to understand the risks and rewards before investing your hard-earned money. This guide has provided you with a comprehensive overview of the most important things to consider before investing in cryptocurrency, including what to look for in a potential investment, alternative ways to buy cryptocurrency, how to keep your cryptocurrency secure, and tips for investing responsibly. With the right knowledge and strategies, you can invest in cryptocurrency with confidence and reap the rewards of a successful investment.

Research

Cryptocurrency Taxes - How is Crypto Taxed? Explained

Token Metrics Team
5 Minutes

Crypto is a huge industry that covers everything from technology to currencies, and even how it's taxed. First off, you don’t owe taxes on crypto if you’re merely “hodling,” as aficionados would say. But if you’ve gained any income from crypto in a financial  year — either from staking, lending, or selling — you may owe taxes on the proceeds.

The IRS treats all cryptocurrencies as capital assets, and that means you owe capital gains taxes when they’re sold at a profit. This is exactly what happens when you sell more traditional securities, like stocks or funds, for a gain.

Let’s say you bought $1,000 in Ethereum and then sold the coins later for $1,600. You’ll need to report that $600 capital gain on your taxes. The taxes you owe depend on the length of time you held your coins.

If you held your ETH for one year or less, the $600 profit would be taxed as a short-term capital gain. Short-term capital gains are taxed the same as regular income — and that means your adjusted gross income (AGI) determines the tax rate you pay.

Federal income tax brackets top out at a rate of 37%. To be in the top bracket for 2023, you would need to make $578,126 or more as a single filer.

In this article, we'll discuss some of the basics of how crypto is taxed. We'll also go through tips for saving tax when dealing with cryptocurrencies.

Crypto Is Taxed in Two Ways

There are two ways to tax crypto: as property and as a commodity.

Property taxes apply when you buy, sell or trade cryptocurrencies. Commodity taxes apply if you use your crypto to pay for goods or services — for example buying things from Amazon with Bitcoin.

How Is Crypto Taxed?

Cryptocurrency is taxed as property. This means that you can claim the fair market value of your cryptocurrency in the year it was acquired and later sold or exchanged for other cryptocurrencies, fiat currency, or goods/services.

Cryptocurrency is not taxed as a currency. The income tax treatment of cryptocurrencies varies depending on whether you're purchasing them through an exchange (such as Coinbase), mining them yourself, or earning them through another activity like freelance work.

If you mine coins yourself, they are considered capital gains and reported on Schedule D with other business assets held at fair market value when sold off at their peak price during 2017-2018; however, if they were mined during 2014-2015 then they would be treated like ordinary income instead since there weren't any real-world uses for this type of digital money yet back then!

Cryptocurrencies may be considered business income under Section 199A(a)(1)(B) which exempts certain trades done by non-corporate entities from taxation but only if those trades meet specific criteria such as being done "for consideration" (defined below). In order for something to qualify under section 199A(a)(1)(B), two conditions must be met: 1) You must have received payment/gains derived from selling goods/services 2) Those gains were derived from selling goods/services that had been produced either domestically located within United States territory OR imported into United States territory AND THEN EXPORTED OUTSIDE OF US TERRITORY.

What Happens if You Don’t Report Cryptocurrency on Taxes?

If you don't report cryptocurrency on taxes, you could face a penalty. This can range from a fine to jail time for tax evasion and other criminal charges, depending on the laws in your country. In addition to facing criminal penalties for failing to report crypto income, there are also some civil penalties that apply if you don't pay back taxes owed from crypto-based income:

  • Interest accrued on any unpaid taxes owed by late payment
  • Amounts owed in restitution (if applicable)

Tips to Save Tax on Your Crypto Gains

  • Keep a record of your crypto transactions.
  • Use a crypto tax software to calculate your taxes.
  • Invest in tax-advantaged retirement accounts, such as an employer-sponsored 401(k) or traditional IRA. If you don't have enough money saved up from working, consider opening one of these accounts through an online broker like Charles Schwab or Vanguard — and then use it to buy Bitcoin or other cryptocurrencies! You can also set up a self-directed IRA so that you control how the funds are invested and who uses them for expenses like traveling outside the country (taxes will apply).

Like any other investment, the IRS will demand a share of your crypto profits, unless you follow certain tax strategies.

The IRS is aware of cryptocurrency, and it's looking for you. Since the IRS has been auditing cryptocurrency investors and issuing 1099-K forms to individuals who have made taxable gains from their crypto investments, it's clear that they know something about cryptocurrencies.

The IRS has also been targeting exchanges and other businesses involved with cryptocurrency trading or holding cryptocurrencies themselves. If you're an exchange and don't report your income correctly, this could result in hefty penalties from the IRS — and even more serious consequences if you're found guilty of evading taxes altogether!

Conclusion

Crypto is a hot topic, with many people wondering how they should use it and report it on taxes. The IRS says that crypto is taxable as property or capital gains, depending on the type of crypto you own and what you do with it after receiving your profits. You can also report crypto-based income for other tax purposes (such as self-employment), but only if you have documentation to prove when the event occurred and how much income was generated from these transactions (which may be difficult).

Research

Crypto Staking: How to Stake Cryptocurrencies? Explained

Token Metrics Team
5 minutes

Crypto staking is an innovative way to earn passive income from cryptocurrencies. It offers a great opportunity for cryptocurrency investors to make money without having to actively trade or mine.

In this comprehensive guide, we will discuss what crypto staking is, how it works, the different types of staking, the risks and rewards associated with it, and the best staking platforms to get started.

Whether you are a beginner or an experienced investor, this guide will provide you with the necessary information to help you make informed decisions about crypto staking. With this guide, you will be well on your way to growing your cryptocurrency portfolio in no time.

What is Crypto Staking?

We’ve all heard of mining cryptocurrencies, but did you know there are other ways to earn coins? One of those methods is known as staking, which refers to the process of earning interest on coins held in a staking wallet or a smart contract. The interest is paid out in the form of cryptocurrencies, usually the native token of the platform you are staking your crypto on.‍

Staking is a low-maintenance way of earning extra coins, and it’s available to most cryptocurrencies, including the ones with a proof-of-work consensus like bitcoin. Just remember, the more popular coins, like bitcoin, have a much lower chance of generating a stake, making them less profitable than smaller alt coins and tokens.

How Does Crypto Staking Work?

When you stake a cryptocurrency, you’re lending your coins to the network in exchange for a percentage of the network’s new coins. Your coins are held in a staking wallet (or a smart contract), which is a designated software program designed to facilitate the staking process. The staking wallet holds your coins for you until the end of the staking period, during which time those coins are unavailable for trading.

When the staking period ends, the staking wallet sends your coins back to your wallet along with any rewards earned through staking. The amount of reward earned through staking depends on the network’s collective staking power, which is often determined by the number of coins held in the staking wallet.

Types of Crypto Staking

Proof-of-Stake (PoS) - Proof-of-stake is a broad consensus method that doesn’t require energy-intensive mining. Instead, coins held in a wallet earn interest as a form of reward. The amount of interest earned is based on the number of coins held. PoS is used by a number of popular blockchain networks, like Ethereum. 

Delegated-Proof-of-Stake (DPoS) - Delegated-proof-of-stake is a variation of proof-of-stake that allows network members to vote on delegates to manage the network. The more coins that are staked, the more voting power is available to select delegates. The delegates are responsible for validating transactions on the blockchain and receiving a cut of any transaction fees as a reward.

Risks and Rewards of Crypto Staking

One potential risk is the possibility of losing access to your staked coins. If you are staking your coins on a third-party platform or through a staking pool, there is a chance that the platform could become inaccessible or go offline. This could prevent you from being able to access your staked coins or claim your rewards.

Another risk is the potential for your staked coins to be stolen. If you are staking your coins on a platform that is not secure, or if you are using an insecure wallet to store your staked coins, there is a chance that your coins could be stolen by hackers. This could result in significant losses, especially if the stolen coins are a large portion of your overall cryptocurrency holdings.

Finally, there is also the risk of volatility in the cryptocurrency market. The value of your staked coins could go up or down depending on market conditions, and this could affect the potential rewards you receive from staking. If the value of your staked coins decreases significantly, you could end up losing money even if you are earning rewards through staking.

Overall, staking cryptocurrencies can be a good way to earn rewards and help secure a blockchain network, but it is important to carefully consider the risks before deciding to stake your coins. It may be helpful to do some research and carefully evaluate the security and reliability of any platform or staking pool that you are considering using.

Tips for Successful Crypto Staking

Here are a few tips and tricks for you to ensure a successful crypto-staking trajectory:

  • Find a cryptocurrency with a high potential for growth. Staking is only beneficial if the network is growing and gaining value. 
  • Don’t spread yourself too thin by investing in too many networks. Staking is a long-term strategy, so it’s best to focus your efforts on one network at a time. 
  • Don’t forget to reinvest the rewards you earn through staking. Reinvesting will help to grow your investment, which is the ultimate goal for staking.

Final Thoughts on Crypto Staking

Staking is an excellent way to earn passive income from cryptocurrencies, especially for those who want to earn income without trading or mining. The more coins that are staked, the more rewards are earned through staking.

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