Crypto Basics

What is Polkadot (DOT) Crypto and Is It a Good Investment?

Learn everything about Polkadot (DOT) crypto and how it works in this descriptive guide.
Token Metrics Team
8 minutes
MIN

Polkadot is an innovative, interoperable blockchain network that has the potential to revolutionize the crypto industry. It is the brainchild of Dr. Gavin Wood, one of the co-founders of Ethereum.

Polkadot provides a platform for different blockchains to interact with each other, enabling the exchange of data and assets between them.

With its scalability, robust security features, and cross-chain compatibility, Polkadot is quickly becoming one of the most popular networks for developers and users. This comprehensive guide will provide an overview of the Polkadot network and its features and a look at some of the projects built on the platform. From its scalability to its security and interoperability, this guide will cover the basics of Polkadot and why it is revolutionizing the blockchain industry.

History of the Polkadot Network

‍The Polkadot network is a scalable, interoperable blockchain network designed to connect numerous blockchain networks and facilitate data and asset transfer between them. It was proposed by Gavin Wood, one of the co-founders of Ethereum, and was funded by a successful ICO in 2017. 

The network is powered by a native token known as DOT, which governs the network and exchanges data between chains.

Polkadot is unique in that it is designed to be "hack-proof", due to its implementation of a "democratic" consensus mechanism. While a small number of miners control other blockchain networks, Polkadot's consensus is controlled by a large pool of validators who are democratically elected by users of the network. This ensures that no one party can completely control the network, making it resistant to cyber-attacks.

Polkadot's Scalability

One of the biggest issues affecting the blockchain industry is scalability. Networks like Ethereum can only process 15 transactions per second, which is far from sufficient for mass adoption. If a blockchain network hopes to be used by large corporations and governments, a low transaction capacity is a huge barrier to entry.

Polkadot uses a unique relay chain system to solve the scalability problem. The relay chain system acts as a bridge between different blockchains, allowing them to connect to each other. The chains are controlled by validators who process transactions for chains they are not a part of. 

This allows for transactions on the Polkadot network to be processed by a network of blockchains instead of one single blockchain. This allows for a significant increase in transaction capacity, with one estimate showing 200,000 transactions per second.

The Security Benefits Of Polkadot

Polkadot is committed to providing secure, stable blockchain networks that are not susceptible to cyber attacks. To achieve this, Polkadot uses a unique governance model that allows a large pool of validators to secure the network against attacks.

‍Any party can become a validator on the network by staking DOT tokens. Validators are then rewarded for their work by being paid a portion of DOT token fees generated by the network. 

Validators have a lot of power on the Polkadot network and are responsible for:

  • Confirming transactions
  • Producing blocks
  • Processing cross-chain communication, and 
  • Governing the network. 

If a validator behaves maliciously on the network, the network can punish them by reducing their reward or completely removing them from the network.

Polkadot's Interoperability

One of the biggest problems facing blockchain networks is interoperability. Blockchains cannot communicate with each other, which is a significant barrier to the implementation of blockchain technology on a large scale. Polkadot uses a unique system known as the relay chain to enable cross-chain communication between different networks. 

For example, let's say that a business wants to move funds from a corporate blockchain network to a public blockchain network for the purpose of trading digital assets. Currently, there is no way for these blockchains to communicate with each other, which makes the process extremely difficult and expensive.

With Polkadot's relay chain, the funds are sent from one blockchain to the relay chain; then they are sent to the other blockchain. The relay chain allows blockchain networks to communicate with each other and exchange data, removing the interoperability barrier.

Projects Built on Polkadot

Polkadot has a handful of projects being built on its network. Acala is one such project.

Acala is the ultimate DeFi solution, providing a secure and scalable blockchain platform built on Polkadot, along with a variety of cross-chain financial tools. Users can trade, borrow, provide liquidity, access staking derivatives, and earn high-interest returns on their digital assets. Compatible with Ethereum and optimized for DeFi, Acala's all-in-one network offers endless possibilities for decentralized finance.

How to Buy Polkadot Crypto?

To buy Polkadot’s token, follow these 3-simple steps:

1. Select a Cryptocurrency Exchange

If you’re new to investing in cryptocurrency, you’ll have to open an account with a cryptocurrency exchange. If you’re deciding between exchanges, pay attention to the platform’s security features, account minimums and added fees. Eg: Binance, Coinbase, Kraken

2. Submit Your Polkadot Order

Once you get an exchange account, you can fund it by either linking your bank account or entering your debit card information. Some exchanges allow you to use a credit card, but think twice before using credit as it might charge excess fees. When you’re ready to purchase Polkadot, use the ticker symbol—DOT—and enter the amount you want to invest, such as $50 or $100.

3. Store Your Polkadot

Whenever you buy cryptocurrencies, you have to handle storage on your own. Properly storing your investment is essential to ensure you keep your tokens safe. There are several storage options:

Hard Wallet: A hard wallet resembles a flash drive or USB drive. It’s a small, physical device that plugs into your computer or laptop and stores your private and personal crypto keys. They are considered “cold” because they aren’t connected to the internet or a network when not actively in use.

Paper Wallet: This form of storage is less popular than it used to be but can be a viable storage option. With a paper wallet, you write down keys or apps to download a QR code. If you lose it, you can recover your cryptocurrencies.

Software Wallet: Software wallets are apps or programs you can download to manage your cryptocurrencies electronically. Because they’re connected to the internet and networks, they’re less secure, but they make it easy to trade your holdings.

Crypto Exchanges: Some cryptocurrency exchanges, such as Coinbase, has built-in storage and store cryptocurrencies on your behalf. But relying on an exchange for storage can be risky, and you may want to consider other solutions for long-term storage.

Is Polkadot A Good Investment?

Although Polkadot might experience a bearish 2023, this indeed can be the right time to invest. Because, In 2021, Polkadot concreted its worth to potential traders and investors with apparent proof.

How?

Polkadot has actually kept its promise as the DOT token went on to hit an all-time high along with ranking well among the crypto peers in 2021. Despite a market crash or a price drop, Polkadot is still estimated to be in the profit zone. 

To cut it short, crypto prediction experts suggest that 2023 is the ideal time to buy DOT tokens, yet, it’s suggestible to do your own research and analysis before you make the call.

Future Of Polkadot Crypto

Polkadot is a fairly young asset of the crypto world,  but it saw a great surge in its popularity among cryptocurrencies in 2021 and 2022. Experts project that Polkadot's position would rise over time and confront other high-ranking cryptos like Ethereum.

Polkadot’s big aspect is its interoperability with various independent blockchains. Interoperability is a broad term used in the crypto space to describe the process of interacting between two or more different blockchains.

Although many networks share similar concepts, Polkadot is the only platform that makes this vision a reality, as it is the first solution that can achieve significantly high interoperability.

The Bottom Line

The Polkadot network aims to be the internet of blockchains by allowing different blockchain networks to connect with each other and exchange data. With its scalable network, robust security features, and cross-chain compatibility, Polkadot is quickly becoming one of the most popular networks for developers and users.

With the implementation of the relay chain, Polkadot is positioning itself as the first truly interoperable blockchain network and a game-changer in the blockchain industry.

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Crypto Basics

Best Crypto Exchanges for July 2025

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Cryptocurrency adoption has surged in 2025, with Bitcoin reaching over $118,000 and Ethereum climbing above $3,000. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced trader, choosing the right exchange or trading app is critical. But while exchanges handle your transactions, it’s tools like Token Metrics that give you the edge—using AI to deliver real-time analytics, trading signals, moonshot altcoin picks, and price predictions.

In this guide, we’ll cover the top exchanges and apps for July 2025, along with Token Metrics, the best platform for AI-powered crypto research and trading.

🔝 Top Crypto Platforms for July 2025

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🧠 Token Metrics: Best AI Crypto Trading Platform

Token Metrics stands out not as an exchange, but as an AI-powered research, analytics, and trading platform. It gives retail and institutional investors data-driven insights to make smarter trades across any exchange.

Why Token Metrics is #1 for AI Crypto Trading:

  • AI-Generated Buy/Sell Signals
    Token Metrics’ signals dashboard uses over 80 data points to issue bullish or bearish calls on top tokens. For example, the AI turned bullish on Bitcoin on June 28, just before it surged past $118,000.

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  • Moonshots for Early-Stage Altcoins
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  • Price Forecasting Models
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  • Custom Alerts
    Users can set alerts based on price, trader grade, or AI signals, delivered instantly via Email, Telegram, SMS, or Slack.

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  • Integrated Swap Widget
    You can research, analyze, and buy tokens directly via Token Metrics’ swap widget—all in one dashboard.

Whether you’re trading on Kraken, Coinbase, or Binance, Token Metrics plugs into your strategy and helps you trade with confidence, using real-time AI insights.

⚙ Top 5 Crypto Exchanges for July 2025

đŸ„‡ Kraken – Best for Low Fees

  • Maker Fees: 0.00%–0.25%
  • Taker Fees: 0.10%–0.40%
  • Minimum Deposit: $10
  • Crypto Offered: 300+

Kraken is ideal for fee-sensitive traders. It’s available on web, mobile, desktop, and Kraken Pro. However, it's not available in all U.S. states and lacks FDIC or SIPC insurance.

đŸ„ˆ Gemini – Best for Security & Experienced Traders

  • Maker Fees: 0.00%–0.20%
  • Taker Fees: 0.03%–0.40%
  • Minimum Deposit: $0
  • Crypto Offered: 70

Gemini is the most secure exchange in 2025, with FDIC insurance, crypto insurance, and advanced features through its ActiveTrader terminal. But it has a complex fee structure and limited assets.

đŸ„‰ Coinbase – Best for Beginners

  • Maker Fees: 0.00%–0.40%
  • Taker Fees: 0.05%–0.60%
  • Minimum Deposit: $0
  • Crypto Offered: 240

Coinbase is ideal for newcomers with its clean UI, beginner-friendly tools, and educational content. It’s available in 172 countries, though advanced traders might want more features.

đŸ“± Crypto.com – Best Mobile App & Bitcoin Trading

  • Maker Fees: 0.00%–0.25%
  • Taker Fees: 0.05%–0.50%
  • Minimum Deposit: $20
  • Crypto Offered: 417

With a sleek mobile app and support for Bitcoin options and futures, Crypto.com is perfect for on-the-go traders. However, it only supports a hot wallet and has limited global access.

đŸȘ™ BitMart – Best for Altcoins

  • Fees: Varies by tier (0.04%–0.60%)
  • Minimum Deposit: Not disclosed
  • Crypto Offered: 1,700+

BitMart is the best place to find rare altcoins. With copy trading and BitMart Academy, it’s useful for altcoin hunters. But its lack of transparency on security is a concern.

✅ Why Token Metrics Complements These Exchanges

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⚠ Reminder: Crypto Is Risky

Crypto markets are volatile and speculative. While these exchanges and tools can improve your strategy, always do your own research (DYOR) and consult professionals when investing.

Final Thoughts

If you want to trade crypto in July 2025, pair a high-quality exchange like Kraken or Coinbase with a research powerhouse like Token Metrics. Exchanges execute trades—but Token Metrics tells you what to trade, when to trade, and why.

Crypto Basics

What Is an NFT? Complete Guide to Non-Fungible Tokens (2025)

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Over the past few years, NFTs (Non-Fungible Tokens) have exploded in popularity—revolutionizing the way we think about digital ownership, art, gaming, collectibles, and more. In 2025, NFTs continue to shape the future of the internet, transforming everything from music rights to virtual real estate.

If you're wondering “What is an NFT?” or how they actually work, this guide breaks it down for you. We’ll also explore how AI-powered tools like Token Metrics can help you identify high-value NFT-related tokens and investment opportunities.

🔍 What Does NFT Stand For?

NFT stands for Non-Fungible Token. Let’s break that down:

  • Token: A digital asset that exists on a blockchain.
  • Non-Fungible: It’s unique and cannot be replaced with something else of equal value. (Unlike cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, where each BTC is the same.)

So, an NFT is a unique digital asset stored on a blockchain, representing ownership of a specific item—like artwork, music, a tweet, a game character, or a piece of virtual land.

🎹 What Can Be an NFT?

NFTs aren’t just limited to pixelated apes or JPEGs. In 2025, NFTs power a broad range of digital assets:

  • Digital Art: Artworks, animations, and generative art
  • Collectibles: Rare items like trading cards or profile picture (PFP) projects
  • Gaming Assets: In-game skins, weapons, characters, and land (e.g., in The Sandbox or Decentraland)
  • Music and Media: Songs, albums, and exclusive content drops
  • Virtual Real Estate: Land parcels in the metaverse
  • Domain Names: Blockchain-based domain ownership
  • Identity & Access: Membership passes, event tickets, or certification credentials

Each NFT has a unique identifier and metadata that distinguish it from any other asset.

đŸ› ïž How Do NFTs Work?

NFTs are built and recorded on blockchains, most commonly on Ethereum using ERC-721 or ERC-1155 standards. Here’s how they work:

  1. Minting: Turning a digital file into a token on the blockchain
  2. Metadata: Storing details like title, creator, image URL, and traits
  3. Ownership: A smart contract verifies the wallet that owns the NFT
  4. Transferability: NFTs can be sold, traded, or gifted using marketplaces

Because of blockchain immutability, ownership is transparent, verifiable, and permanent.

📈 Why Are NFTs Valuable?

Several reasons explain the rising value and popularity of NFTs:

  • Digital Ownership: You own the asset—not a platform
  • Proven Scarcity: Many NFTs are limited in supply
  • Creator Royalties: Artists earn fees on secondary sales
  • Utility & Access: Some NFTs unlock real-world benefits, games, or private groups
  • Social Status: PFPs like CryptoPunks or Bored Ape Yacht Club are digital status symbols
  • Speculation: Many treat NFTs as investments, betting on future appreciation

In 2025, NFTs have gone beyond hype to form the foundation of Web3 identity and ownership.

💰 How to Buy an NFT

To buy an NFT, you’ll need:

  1. A crypto wallet (like MetaMask)
  2. Some ETH or other supported crypto for payment and gas fees
  3. An NFT marketplace like OpenSea, Blur, Magic Eden, or Rarible

Steps to Buy:

  • Fund your wallet
  • Connect to a marketplace
  • Browse collections
  • Click “Buy Now” or place a bid
  • Approve the transaction

Once purchased, the NFT is transferred to your wallet and viewable on your profile.

⚠ Are NFTs Safe?

NFTs are secure if you follow best practices. However, scams and phishing attacks are common.

Security Tips:

  • Never share your seed phrase
  • Verify contract addresses before minting
  • Don’t connect your wallet to unknown sites
  • Use hardware wallets for high-value NFTs
  • Bookmark official sites

🧠 How Token Metrics Helps You Identify NFT-Related Investments

NFTs are not just collectibles—they’re tied to blockchain ecosystems and tokens. Platforms like Token Metrics help you identify high-potential NFT projects, gaming ecosystems, and utility tokens powering the space.

✅ How Token Metrics Helps:

  • AI-powered Grades: See which NFT-related tokens are trending with Trader & Investor Grades
  • Moonshots Tab: Find small-cap NFT tokens with 10x–100x potential
  • Thematic Indices: Invest in curated NFT indices powered by Token Metrics AI
  • Token Details Page: Dive deep into any NFT-related token’s fundamentals, holders, and performance

Whether it’s $IMX, $MAGIC, $APE, or a metaverse play like $MANA, Token Metrics gives you a data-driven edge.

đŸ§© Popular NFT Blockchains in 2025

NFTs are no longer limited to Ethereum. In 2025, several chains offer faster, cheaper minting and trading:

Token Metrics tracks all these chains, offering a cross-chain perspective for NFT investing.

đŸȘ™ What Are NFT Tokens?

Many NFT ecosystems have their own fungible tokens used for governance, staking, or ecosystem rewards. Examples include:

  • $APE (Bored Ape Yacht Club)
  • $MAGIC (TreasureDAO)
  • $IMX (Immutable X)
  • $LOOKS (LooksRare)
  • $BLUR (Blur marketplace)

These tokens can rise in value based on NFT trading volume, user adoption, and staking incentives. Token Metrics’ analytics help traders spot breakout opportunities early.

🚀 Future of NFTs in 2025 and Beyond

NFTs are evolving fast. In 2025, they’re used for more than art and gaming:

  • NFTs as IDs: Used for logging into apps and verifying reputation
  • Real-world assets: Tokenizing real estate, music royalties, and legal contracts
  • DeFi integrations: NFTs used as collateral in lending protocols
  • Event access: NFTs as tickets for IRL and virtual experiences
  • AI x NFTs: Generative AI tools minting and managing NFT metadata autonomously

Expect continued innovation, and stay ahead using tools like Token Metrics.

🧠 Final Thoughts: Are NFTs Worth It?

NFTs are more than a trend — they represent the digitization of ownership in the Web3 era. From art and identity to games and finance, NFTs unlock new possibilities for creators and collectors alike.

If you're looking to explore NFT opportunities beyond collectibles—Token Metrics gives you the data, AI tools, and insights you need to invest intelligently.

Crypto Basics

How to Create a Crypto Wallet: A Complete Beginner’s Guide (2025)

Token Metrics Team
6 min
MIN

As the popularity of cryptocurrencies continues to grow in 2025, more people are seeking safe and secure ways to manage their digital assets. The first step in your crypto journey? Creating a crypto wallet.

In this guide, we’ll explain:

  • What a crypto wallet is
  • Different types of wallets
  • How to create one (step-by-step)
  • Tips for securing your wallet
  • How Token Metrics can help you trade smarter after setup

đŸȘ™ What Is a Crypto Wallet?

A crypto wallet is a digital tool that allows you to store, receive, and send cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and thousands of altcoins. Instead of holding physical money, it stores your private and public keys, giving you access to your blockchain assets.

Two Major Types:

  1. Hot Wallets – connected to the internet (ideal for active users)
  2. Cold Wallets – offline and more secure (ideal for long-term storage)

Whether you're buying Bitcoin for the first time or diving into DeFi tokens, you'll need a crypto wallet to safely store and manage your coins.

đŸ”„ Hot Wallets vs. 🧊 Cold Wallets

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Hot wallets are easier to set up and use, while cold wallets offer greater protection against hacks and malware.

đŸ› ïž How to Create a Crypto Wallet (Step-by-Step)

Option 1: Creating a Hot Wallet (e.g., MetaMask or Trust Wallet)

Step 1: Download the App or Browser Extension

Step 2: Create a New Wallet

  • Click “Create a Wallet”
  • Set a strong password

Step 3: Backup Your Recovery Phrase

  • Write down the 12 or 24-word seed phrase
  • Store it offline (NOT on your phone or computer)

Step 4: Confirm Your Recovery Phrase

  • MetaMask will ask you to re-enter it to ensure it's saved correctly

Step 5: Wallet is Ready

  • You can now receive, send, and store ETH, ERC-20 tokens, and NFTs

✅ Pro Tip: Connect your wallet to Token Metrics to explore trading signals, moonshots, and AI analytics directly.

Option 2: Creating a Cold Wallet (e.g., Ledger Nano X)

Step 1: Buy a Ledger or Trezor device

  • Always order from the official website to avoid tampered devices

Step 2: Install Wallet Software

  • Download Ledger Live or Trezor Suite

Step 3: Set Up Device and PIN

  • Follow the on-screen instructions
  • Create a secure PIN code

Step 4: Write Down Your Recovery Phrase

  • The device will show a 24-word seed phrase
  • Write it down and store it in a fireproof safe

Step 5: Start Receiving Crypto

  • Use Ledger Live or Trezor Suite to generate wallet addresses
  • Send crypto from exchanges or other wallets

✅ Pro Tip: Use your cold wallet to store moonshots and long-term assets, then analyze performance using Token Metrics Portfolio tools.

đŸ›Ąïž Tips for Securing Your Crypto Wallet

  1. Never share your seed phrase
    Anyone with your seed phrase can steal your funds

  2. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
    For added protection on wallet apps and exchange accounts

  3. Use a strong, unique password
    Avoid reusing passwords across multiple accounts

  4. Avoid phishing sites
    Always double-check URLs before connecting your wallet

  5. Keep backups offline
    Use metal seed plates or paper stored in multiple safe locations

🔎 How Token Metrics Supports Your Wallet Journey

While Token Metrics doesn't create wallets, it integrates seamlessly with your Web3 wallets to help you maximize profits and minimize risks.

1. AI-Powered Ratings

Once your wallet is set up, use Token Metrics to find top-rated tokens across risk levels, market caps, and sectors.

2. Moonshots Dashboard

Explore early-stage tokens with massive upside using the Moonshots tab—only available to Premium members.

3. Real-Time Alerts

Set up alerts for price, investor grade, or bullish/bearish signals—and receive them directly to your connected wallet’s contact info.

4. Track Your Portfolio

Monitor wallet performance across tokens with a real-time dashboard powered by on-chain data.

📩 What Can You Store in Your Crypto Wallet?

Different wallets support different blockchains, so always check compatibility before sending assets.

đŸ“Č Best Wallets to Use in 2025

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🔄 Wallet Creation FAQs

Q: Is creating a crypto wallet free?
Yes, most wallet apps like MetaMask or Trust Wallet are free.

Q: Can I create multiple wallets?
Absolutely. Many investors use different wallets for different purposes (e.g., trading, staking, savings).

Q: What happens if I lose my recovery phrase?
You lose access to your wallet permanently. Always store it securely.

Q: Do I need a wallet to use Token Metrics?
No, but connecting a wallet enhances your experience by allowing you to monitor portfolios, moonshots, and alerts in real time.

🧠 Final Thoughts

Creating a crypto wallet is your gateway to the decentralized world of digital finance. Whether you’re a seasoned trader or a beginner buying your first token, having a secure wallet is non-negotiable.

By choosing the right wallet (hot or cold), securing your keys, and combining it with powerful tools like Token Metrics, you can build a smart, secure, and profitable crypto journey.

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