Crypto Basics

What is a Decentralized Exchange (DEX) and How does it Work?

Learn everything about decentralized exchanges (DEX) and how it works, in this descriptive guide.
Token Metrics Team
7 Minutes
MIN

Cryptocurrencies have revolutionized the financial industry, allowing individuals to make transactions without intermediaries such as banks or financial institutions. 

However, traditional centralized exchanges, where cryptocurrencies are traded, have been criticized for their lack of transparency, security vulnerabilities, and susceptibility to hacking. 

Decentralized exchanges, on the other hand, provide a more secure and transparent way of trading cryptocurrencies. If you are a cryptocurrency enthusiast, you may have heard about DEX. But what is a DEX, and how does it work? 

In this article, we will explore the concept of decentralized exchanges, their benefits and drawbacks, and how they differ from centralized exchanges.

What is a DEX?

A decentralized exchange, or DEX, is a platform that allows users to trade cryptocurrencies without intermediaries or a centralized authority. DEXs are built on blockchain technology and use smart contracts to execute trades automatically.

Unlike centralized exchanges, where users have to deposit their funds into a third-party wallet, DEXs allow users to trade directly from their wallets, providing more control over their funds.

How does a DEX work?

DEX (Decentralized exchanges) use a peer-to-peer network of computers to connect buyers and sellers, allowing them to trade cryptocurrencies directly without intermediaries. 

DEXs operate using a decentralized order book, where users can submit buy and sell orders. When a buyer and seller agree on a price, a smart contract is executed automatically, transferring the funds from the buyer's wallet to the seller's wallet.

How to use DEX?

To get started with a decentralized exchange (DEX), you need to follow few steps:

  • Choose a DEX that suits your needs and has the cryptocurrencies you want to trade.
  • Connect your digital wallet to the DEX platform.
  • Transfer your cryptocurrency from your wallet to the DEX to start trading.
  • Keep in mind that DEX transactions may have higher fees and longer transaction times than centralized exchanges.

Note: Before utilizing a DEX, traders need to obtain a software crypto wallet that is compatible with the specific exchange. For instance, if someone intends to use an Ethereum based DEX, they should have an Ethereum-compatible wallet such as MetaMask.

How do DEX fees work?

DEX fees are generally higher than those charged by centralized exchanges because there is no central authority to process transactions. Instead, transactions on a DEX are processed through a network of users who are incentivized to keep the network running. 

This incentive comes in the form of transaction fees paid by users who want their transactions to be processed quickly. The more people who are using the network, the higher the fees will be. 

Additionally, some DEXs charge a fee for listing new tokens on their platform, which can be a way for the exchange to generate revenue. To avoid overpaying on fees, it's important to do your research and compare fees across different DEXs. 

With a little bit of knowledge and careful consideration, you can make the most of your DEX trading experience while minimizing fees.

What are the most popular DEXs?

There are several DEXs available in the market, each with its unique features and benefits. 

Uniswap - Uniswap is among the most popular DEXs, which is based on the Ethereum blockchain and allows users to trade Ethereum-based tokens. 

PancakeSwap - Another popular DEX is PancakeSwap, which is based on the Binance Smart Chain and offers lower fees compared to other DEXs. 

SushiSwap - SushiSwap is also a well-known DEX that offers yield farming, allowing users to earn additional tokens by providing liquidity to the platform. 

1inch - Another popular DEX is 1inch, which aggregates liquidity from multiple DEXs, providing users with the best possible price for their trades.

DEX Volume
Image Source: The Block Crypto Data

With a range of options available, it's important to do your research and compare different DEXs to find the one that best suits your trading needs.

Benefits of using a DEX?

Decentralized exchanges provide several benefits over centralized exchanges, including:

Security - One of the main benefits of DEXs is their security. Unlike centralized exchanges, where users' funds are held in a third-party wallet, DEXs allow users to maintain control over their funds at all times. DEXs use smart contracts to execute trades automatically, eliminating the risk of a hack or a security breach.

Transparency - Another benefit of DEXs is their transparency. All trades on a DEX are recorded on the blockchain, which is a public ledger. This means that anyone can view the trades and verify that they have been executed correctly.

No KYC Requirements - Many centralized exchanges require users to complete a KYC (Know Your Customer) process to verify their identity. DEXs, on the other hand, do not require any KYC information, providing users with more privacy and anonymity.

Access to More Coins - Unlike centralized exchanges, which often have a limited selection of coins available for trading, DEXs provide access to a broader range of cryptocurrencies.

Potential downsides of using a DEX?

While decentralized exchanges offer several benefits, they also have some drawbacks, including:

Lack of Liquidity - One of the main drawbacks of DEXs is their lack of liquidity. Because DEXs operate on a peer-to-peer network, the number of buyers and sellers can be limited, making it challenging to execute trades quickly.

Complexity - DEXs can be more complex to use than centralized exchanges, requiring users to have a certain level of technical knowledge and experience with blockchain technology.

Slower Transaction Times - Because DEXs use a peer-to-peer network to execute trades, transactions can be slower than on centralized exchanges, where trades are executed almost instantly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is the difference between a centralized exchange and a decentralized exchange (DEX)?

Centralized exchanges are traditional exchanges where users deposit their funds into a third-party wallet, and trades are executed by a central authority. In contrast, DEXs allow users to trade directly from their wallets and use smart contracts to execute trades automatically, eliminating the need for a third-party intermediary.

Q2. Are decentralized exchanges safe?

Decentralized exchanges are generally considered to be safer than centralized exchanges, as they use smart contracts to execute trades automatically, eliminating the need for a third-party intermediary and reducing the risk of a security breach.

Q3. What are the benefits of using a decentralized exchange?

Decentralized exchanges provide several benefits, including increased security, transparency, and access to a broader range of cryptocurrencies.

Q4. Are decentralized exchanges more difficult to use than centralized exchanges?

Decentralized exchanges can be more complex to use than centralized exchanges, requiring users to have a certain level of technical knowledge and experience with blockchain technology.

Q5. What is the main drawback of using a decentralized exchange?

The main drawback of using a decentralized exchange is the lack of liquidity, which can make it challenging to execute trades quickly.

Q6. How can I start using a decentralized exchange?

To start using a decentralized exchange, you will need to have a cryptocurrency wallet that supports the DEX you want to use. You can then connect your wallet to the DEX and start trading cryptocurrencies.

Conclusion

Decentralized exchanges (DEXs) are regarded as a noteworthy breakthrough in the cryptocurrency arena, although they do not possess the same level of user-friendliness as centralized exchanges (CEXs).

DEXs' efforts towards decentralization and anonymity align with the fundamental values of cryptocurrency, making them particularly appealing to individuals who prioritize these tenets. With the anticipated influx of investors in the cryptocurrency market, it is foreseeable that DEXs will emerge as a more influential player in the financial landscape.

So, if you're looking for a more secure and transparent way to trade cryptocurrencies, consider giving decentralized exchange a try.

Disclaimer

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

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

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Recent Posts

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.

📥 Custom Alerts

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

🛠️ 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.

Crypto Basics

Bitcoin Price Prediction for July 2025: Key Trends, Insights, and What Investors Can Expect

Token Metrics Team
8 min
MIN

As of July 2025, Bitcoin (BTC) is experiencing a major breakout, surging past $119,000 after breaching the critical $110,000 resistance level. This surge, driven by institutional capital inflows, supply constraints, and favorable macroeconomic trends, has reignited optimism in the broader crypto market.

But how high can Bitcoin go in 2025—and beyond? Is this rally sustainable? What are the risks? In this highly informative and SEO-optimized blog post, we’ll provide a detailed Bitcoin price prediction for 2025, using real-time data from the Token Metrics AI crypto trading and research platform, along with key macro, on-chain, and policy-level insights.

🚀 The Bullish Breakout: Bitcoin Turns Upward in June 2025

On June 28, 2025, the Token Metrics AI signal for Bitcoin turned bullish, signaling a strong shift in momentum. Since then, Bitcoin has:

  • Surged past $118,000
  • Broken the psychological and technical resistance at $110,000
  • Shown strong price action supported by both on-chain and institutional metrics

This wasn’t just a technical rally—it’s been fundamentally driven by several powerful tailwinds.

📊 Institutional Adoption: The Driving Force Behind Bitcoin’s Surge

1. Bitcoin Spot ETFs See Billions in Inflows

Major financial institutions—BlackRock, Fidelity, and Charles Schwab—have led the charge in Bitcoin ETF adoption. As of Q3 2025:

  • Total net inflows to U.S.-based Bitcoin ETFs have surpassed $25 billion
  • These products are now used in 401(k)s, pension funds, and private wealth portfolios

Institutional buyers are not flipping BTC like retail investors. Instead, they’re accumulating and holding, tightening supply and driving long-term demand.

2. Declining Exchange Reserves

Another bullish on-chain indicator: BTC reserves on exchanges have dropped from 3.25 million to just 2.55 million BTC—a level not seen since 2017. This suggests:

  • More Bitcoin is being moved to cold wallets
  • Less BTC is available for sale
  • Market sentiment is shifting from “sell” to “HODL”

When supply tightens while demand rises, prices move up—a simple but powerful formula playing out in real time.

📈 Policy Tailwinds: Pro-Crypto Regulations in the U.S.

The current U.S. regulatory landscape is the most Bitcoin-friendly in history.

🔹 Bitcoin Reserve Proposal

There are growing discussions in U.S. policy circles around holding Bitcoin as a strategic reserve asset, similar to gold. This has further validated BTC as:

  • A legitimate sovereign-grade asset
  • A hedge against inflation and geopolitical uncertainty

🔹 Clarity on Custody and Taxes

Clear guidelines on:

  • Crypto tax treatment for institutions
  • Custodianship rules for ETFs and banks
  • Greenlight for banks to hold digital assets

…have dramatically increased institutional confidence in Bitcoin.

💰 Macroeconomic Trends Supporting BTC’s Growth

1. Weakening U.S. Dollar

The U.S. Dollar Index (DXY) has fallen due to:

  • Rising national debt
  • Slowing economic growth
  • High interest rates suppressing consumer demand

This has led investors to rotate into store-of-value assets like Bitcoin.

2. Rising Geopolitical Risk

Tensions in the Middle East (e.g., Israel-Iran) and ongoing trade disputes have fueled demand for assets that are:

  • Borderless
  • Non-sovereign
  • Resistant to censorship

Bitcoin fits all three criteria, increasing its role as a digital safe haven in times of global instability.

⚠️ Risks to Monitor in 2025

While the Bitcoin outlook is bullish, several risks could slow momentum:

❌ 1. Energy Usage Concerns

Bitcoin’s Proof-of-Work (PoW) consensus mechanism remains energy-intensive. Critics argue this could:

  • Attract stricter environmental regulations
  • Reduce adoption in ESG-conscious portfolios

❌ 2. Regional Regulatory Uncertainty

Not all jurisdictions are as pro-Bitcoin as the U.S. In 2025, some countries (especially in Asia and Europe) continue to:

  • Restrict Bitcoin trading
  • Propose heavy taxation
  • Limit institutional adoption

❌ 3. Price Corrections

With BTC up significantly since the start of 2025, short-term pullbacks are likely. Corrections of 15–25% are common in bull cycles—investors should be prepared with clear entry and exit strategies.

📉 Bear Case Scenario

If institutional inflows slow down or new regulation spooks the market:

  • Bitcoin could retrace to $90,000–$100,000
  • This would represent a healthy correction, not a full trend reversal
  • Long-term fundamentals still remain intact

📊 Token Metrics AI Forecast: Bitcoin Price Prediction for 2025–2026

Using on-chain data, macro indicators, and real-time signals from the Token Metrics platform, the current forecast is:

This outlook is supported by Token Metrics AI signals, which have maintained a bullish position since late June 2025.

🧠 How Token Metrics Helps You Navigate Bitcoin and Beyond

While Bitcoin is a macro asset, altcoins often outperform it in bull markets. Token Metrics helps investors identify these opportunities with:

🚀 Moonshots

  • Daily low-cap altcoin picks with 10x–100x potential
  • Live ROI, market cap, and trader grade metrics
  • AI-driven early discovery engine

📈 Real-Time Buy/Sell Signals

  • Use Trader Grade for short-term trades
  • Use Investor Grade for long-term conviction picks

💹 Crypto Indices

  • Thematic portfolios (AI, RWA, Layer 1s, etc.)
  • Easy exposure to sectors likely to boom after BTC leads the rally

🔔 Take Action Today

If you’re looking to ride the current Bitcoin bull cycle and find the next big altcoins to complement your portfolio, start using Token Metrics today:

✅ Track real-time signals
✅ Discover early Moonshots
✅ Analyze risk with AI
✅ Make informed crypto investment decisions

👉 Sign up now at TokenMetrics.com

Crypto Basics

What Is Bitcoin Halving? Why It’s Crucial for Crypto Investors in July 2025

Token Metrics Team
8 min
MIN

In the ever-evolving world of cryptocurrency, few events carry as much long-term impact as the Bitcoin halving. For seasoned investors and newcomers alike, understanding Bitcoin halving is essential—not just to grasp how Bitcoin works, but to predict major market cycles and capitalize on new investment opportunities.

In this comprehensive, SEO-optimized guide, we’ll break down what Bitcoin halving is, how it works, why it matters to crypto investors, and how you can use Token Metrics’ AI-powered tools to navigate the markets before and after a halving event.

What Is Bitcoin Halving?

Bitcoin halving (or “halvening”) is a programmed event that occurs roughly every four years, where the block reward given to Bitcoin miners is cut in half.

Why It Happens:

Bitcoin was designed to have a maximum supply of 21 million coins. To control the rate at which new BTC enters circulation, Bitcoin's protocol reduces the mining reward by 50% every 210,000 blocks (approximately every four years).

A Quick History of Bitcoin Halvings

The next halving is expected around 2028, reducing the reward to 1.5625 BTC per block.

Why Is Bitcoin Halving Important?

✅ 1. Reduces Inflation Rate

Bitcoin halving slows the issuance of new BTC. After every halving, the inflation rate of Bitcoin drops, increasing scarcity. This contrasts with fiat currencies, which are often inflated through central bank printing.

✅ 2. Triggers Supply Shock

With fewer BTC entering circulation daily, supply is reduced. If demand remains the same or increases, price tends to go up—basic supply and demand economics.

✅ 3. Creates Market Cycles

Historically, halvings have preceded bull markets:

  • 2012 halving → 2013 bull run

  • 2016 halving → 2017 bull run

  • 2020 halving → 2021 bull run

  • 2024 halving → expected 2025 bull market

Smart investors use halving cycles to time their entries and exits.

Bitcoin Halving Impact: Historical Price Movements

These stats show why every halving becomes a critical entry point for crypto investors.

How Token Metrics Helps Investors Navigate Bitcoin Halving Cycles

While Bitcoin halving is a macroeconomic event, profiting from it requires micro-level strategy and data. That’s where Token Metrics comes in—a powerful AI-driven crypto research and trading platform that helps investors take full advantage of post-halving market conditions.

🔍 Token Metrics Features That Help Post-Halving

1. AI-Powered Ratings

Token Metrics uses machine learning to analyze 6,000+ crypto assets daily, providing:

  • Trader Grade – short-term momentum indicators
  • Investor Grade – long-term fundamental quality
  • Historical ROI Data – benchmark token performance over time

This is critical for identifying high-quality altcoins that typically surge after Bitcoin halvings.

2. Moonshots Engine – Discover Low-Cap Gems Early

After each halving, altcoins tend to follow Bitcoin’s lead. Token Metrics scans the entire market to detect undervalued low-cap tokens with 10x–100x potential.

Each Moonshot includes:

  • Entry date and live ROI
  • Market cap and 24H volume
  • Trader Grade and historical signals

You can track live performance or buy instantly using the integrated on-chain swap widget.

3. Bullish/Bearish Signals

Token Metrics issues AI-generated buy/sell signals on Bitcoin, Ethereum, and altcoins—crucial during volatile post-halving periods.

Use these signals to:

  • Confirm trend reversals
  • Set automated alerts
  • Capture optimal entry and exit points

4. Indices for Smart Diversification

‍

Want exposure to multiple post-halving winners?

Token Metrics offers AI-managed indices by:

  • Sector (AI, DeFi, RWA, Gaming)
  • Theme (Moonshot, Low Cap, Top 100)
  • Chain (Ethereum, Solana, Base)

These prebuilt portfolios allow you to ride sector rotations after Bitcoin surges.

5. Token Details Page

Every token has a detailed page including:

  • Fundamental data
  • Exchange listings
  • Top wallet holders
  • Live charting
  • Real-time grade movement

Use this to evaluate new investments and manage risk during the halving cycle.

When Should You Invest Around Bitcoin Halving?

✅ Before the Halving

Best for accumulating Bitcoin or high-conviction altcoins while prices are consolidating.

✅ After the Halving

Smart traders rotate into altcoins once Bitcoin begins trending upward.

🧠 Use Token Metrics Moonshots and Signals to identify which tokens are gaining momentum post-halving.

Pro Tips for Bitcoin Halving Trading in 2025

  1. Don’t FOMO – Halvings are long-term cycles. Focus on quality entries and conviction.
  2. Diversify – Allocate across Bitcoin, Ethereum, and select altcoins using TM Indices.
  3. Set Alerts – Token Metrics lets you set custom alerts for price, volume, or grade changes.
  4. Use ROI Benchmarks – Compare your tokens against past halving performance using Token Metrics' historical tools.
  5. Build with AI Agents – Devs can use TM’s API & MCP Server to build bots that trade halving cycles automatically.

Final Thoughts: Why Bitcoin Halving Matters More Than Ever

The 2024 Bitcoin halving has already happened, and 2025 is positioned as a critical year for crypto investors. If history repeats, we’re in the early stages of the next major bull market.

But riding the halving wave requires more than blind luck. You need:

  • Data-backed research
  • Timing signals
  • Portfolio strategies
  • Altcoin discovery engines

With Token Metrics, you’re not guessing—you’re trading with AI precision, real-time alerts, and proven ROI frameworks.

Get Started Today

  • ✅ Create your Token Metrics account: tokenmetrics.com
  • 🚀 Explore Moonshots, Ratings, and Buy/Sell Signals
  • 🧠 Use AI tools to trade smarter this halving cycle

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