Crypto Basics

What Is Proof of Stake? A Complete Guide to PoS in 2025

Learn how Proof of Stake works, why it powers modern blockchains, and how investors can earn rewards through staking in 2025
Token Metrics Team
6 min
MIN

Introduction: Why Proof of Stake Matters

In the world of blockchain, consensus mechanisms are what keep networks secure and functional. One of the most important of these is Proof of Stake (PoS)—a model that has become the standard for next‑generation blockchains like Ethereum, Cardano, and Solana.

In 2025, PoS dominates the crypto landscape, offering a more energy‑efficient, scalable, and inclusive alternative to the older Proof of Work (PoW) model. This article breaks down how PoS works, why it matters, its benefits and risks, and how platforms like Token Metrics can help investors optimize staking strategies.

What Is Proof of Stake?

Proof of Stake is a consensus mechanism that allows blockchains to validate transactions and create new blocks based on the number of tokens held (or “staked”) by network participants.

Instead of using powerful computers to solve complex puzzles (as in Proof of Work), PoS relies on validators—individuals or entities who lock up tokens as collateral to help maintain the network.

In return, these validators earn staking rewards, making PoS not only an essential part of blockchain operations but also a way for investors to generate passive income.

How Does Proof of Stake Work?

  1. Staking Tokens:
    Participants lock up their tokens (e.g., ETH, ADA) in a wallet or staking pool.

  2. Validator Selection:
    The network algorithm selects validators to propose and confirm new blocks based on their stake size and other factors (sometimes including randomness).

  3. Block Validation:
    Validators verify transactions and add new blocks to the chain.

  4. Reward Distribution:
    Validators earn rewards in the form of newly minted tokens or transaction fees.

  5. Penalties (Slashing):
    Misbehavior—such as double‑signing or being offline—can result in losing a portion of the staked tokens, ensuring network security and accountability.

Proof of Stake vs. Proof of Work

Proof of Work (PoW):

  • Used by Bitcoin.
  • Requires high‑energy mining operations.
  • Limited scalability.

Proof of Stake (PoS):

  • Used by Ethereum (post‑Merge), Cardano, Solana, and many others.
  • Energy‑efficient—uses 99% less energy than PoW.
  • More scalable, enabling faster and cheaper transactions.

In 2025, PoS is considered the future of blockchain consensus thanks to its efficiency and accessibility.

Major PoS Blockchains in 2025

  1. Ethereum (ETH):
    Transitioned to PoS in 2022 during The Merge, allowing ETH holders to stake and earn rewards.

  2. Cardano (ADA):
    Pioneered a research‑driven PoS model (Ouroboros) for secure and sustainable blockchain growth.

  3. Solana (SOL):
    Combines PoS with Proof of History for high‑speed, low‑cost transactions.

  4. Polkadot (DOT):
    Uses a Nominated Proof of Stake (NPoS) model, letting token holders nominate validators for network security.

  5. Token Metrics AI (TMAI):
    Integrates PoS into its ecosystem while leveraging AI analytics for blockchain intelligence.

Benefits of Proof of Stake

  1. Energy Efficiency:
    PoS drastically reduces environmental impact compared to PoW mining.

  2. Accessibility:
    Anyone can stake tokens—no need for expensive mining hardware.

  3. Passive Income:
    Token holders earn rewards by participating in staking pools or running validator nodes.

  4. Decentralization & Security:
    PoS encourages broader participation, strengthening network security.

Risks of Proof of Stake

While PoS is revolutionary, it’s not without challenges:

  • Slashing Penalties: Validators who act maliciously or go offline risk losing their stake.
  • Centralization Risks: Large holders may dominate staking pools, reducing decentralization.
  • Liquidity Issues: Staked tokens are often locked for a period, limiting flexibility.
  • Regulatory Uncertainty: As staking becomes more widespread, governments are exploring potential regulations.

Platforms like Token Metrics help mitigate these risks by offering in‑depth analytics on validators, staking pools, and network activity.

How to Earn with PoS: Staking in 2025

1. Solo Staking:
Run your own validator node. This requires technical expertise and meeting minimum staking requirements (e.g., 32 ETH for Ethereum).

2. Pooled Staking:
Join staking pools that combine funds from multiple users, making it easier for beginners to participate.

3. Liquid Staking:
Use platforms like Lido or Rocket Pool to stake while maintaining liquidity through derivative tokens you can trade or use in DeFi.

4. Exchange Staking:
Centralized exchanges (e.g., Coinbase, Binance) offer simple staking options, though they often take a fee.

Using Token Metrics for PoS Insights

Token Metrics empowers PoS investors with:

  • AI‑Driven Analytics: Identify the most profitable staking opportunities.
  • Validator Ratings: Evaluate validators based on performance, uptime, and security.
  • Portfolio Optimization: Balance your staked assets across multiple blockchains.
  • Market Signals: Get alerts when staking yields or network conditions change.

This makes staking easier, safer, and more profitable for both beginners and experienced investors.

Practical Tips for PoS Investors

  1. Diversify: Stake across multiple blockchains to minimize risk.
  2. Research Validators: Choose validators with strong reputations and consistent uptime.
  3. Stay Liquid: Use liquid staking platforms for flexibility.
  4. MonitorRewards: Use Token Metrics to track real‑time staking yields and make adjustments.

The Future of Proof of Stake

In 2025, PoS is expected to power the majority of leading blockchains, supporting innovations in DeFi, NFTs, AI‑driven ecosystems, and real‑world asset tokenization.

Its combination of efficiency, scalability, and accessibility makes it the go‑to consensus mechanism for the next era of Web3 development.

Conclusion

Proof of Stake has redefined how blockchains achieve consensus, making networks more sustainable, secure, and inclusive. For investors, PoS offers an exciting opportunity to earn passive income while supporting blockchain ecosystems.

By leveraging AI‑powered analytics from Token Metrics, you can maximize staking rewards, identify top‑performing validators, and manage risk effectively.

In 2025, understanding PoS isn’t just for developers—it’s an essential tool for every crypto investor.

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Token Metrics Team

Recent Posts

Crypto Basics

How to Buy Cryptocurrency in 2025: A Beginner's Step-by-Step Guide - Why Token Metrics Is the Best Crypto Trading and Research Platform to Start

Token Metrics Team
8 min
MIN

Cryptocurrency has gone from niche curiosity to mainstream financial instrument. As of 2025, millions of people across the globe are investing in digital assets like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and thousands of altcoins. But for beginners, the first question remains: How do you buy cryptocurrency safely and smartly?

This highly informative guide walks you through everything you need to know about buying cryptocurrency in 2025 — from setting up your first account to using AI-powered Crypto trading and research platforms like Token Metrics for smarter investing.

🔍 What Is Cryptocurrency?

Cryptocurrency is a form of digital money that uses blockchain technology to enable secure, decentralized transactions. Unlike fiat currencies controlled by central banks, crypto is powered by peer-to-peer networks and verified by cryptographic algorithms.

Popular cryptocurrencies include:

  • Bitcoin (BTC) – The original digital gold
  • Ethereum (ETH) – Smart contract platform
  • Solana (SOL), Cardano (ADA), XRP – High-utility altcoins
  • TMAI – The utility token of Token Metrics

🧭 How to Buy Cryptocurrency: Step-by-Step Guide

Buying crypto in 2025 is easier than ever. Here’s a clear roadmap to help you get started:

✅ Step 1: Choose a Trusted Crypto Platform

The first step is selecting a reliable platform for buying cryptocurrency. You have two main options:

1. Crypto Exchanges

These include centralized platforms like:

  • Token Metrics
  • Coinbase
  • Binance
  • Kraken
  • Bitstamp

2. AI Crypto Platforms (Best Option in 2025)

Token Metrics is a powerful platform that combines AI research, real-time market insights, and trading features in one place. It helps beginners avoid risky coins and focus on data-backed opportunities.

✅ Step 2: Create and Verify Your Account

Once you've chosen a platform:

  • Register with your email and create a strong password
  • Complete KYC (Know Your Customer) verification by uploading an ID
  • Enable 2-Factor Authentication (2FA) for security

Token Metrics also allows wallet integration for seamless tracking and trading.

✅ Step 3: Fund Your Account

You can deposit money using:

  • Bank Transfer (ACH, SEPA)
  • Credit or Debit Card
  • PayPal or Apple Pay (on some platforms)
  • Stablecoins or other crypto (if you already have a wallet)

On Token Metrics, users can also connect their DeFi wallets and use swap integrations to convert assets instantly.

✅ Step 4: Pick the Right Cryptocurrency

With over 20,000 coins on the market, choosing the right one is critical.

That’s where Token Metrics shines:

  • Use the Ratings Page to view AI-generated grades for thousands of tokens


  • Navigate to the Moonshots Tab for under-the-radar altcoins with 10x–100x potential
  • Check the Investor and Trader Grades to compare short-term and long-term opportunities
  • View real-time data on volume, market cap, ROI since entry, and technical signals

✅ Step 5: Make Your Purchase

Once you've chosen your coin:

  • Enter the amount (e.g., $500 worth of ETH)
  • Choose your payment method
  • Review the transaction and confirm

Token Metrics offers a built-in Buy button and Swap Widget so you can trade directly from the Moonshots page — no need to leave the platform.

✅ Step 6: Store Your Cryptocurrency Securely

There are two main storage options:

  • Hot Wallets – Software-based, ideal for active trading
  • Cold Wallets – Hardware devices like Ledger and Trezor for long-term storage

Token Metrics supports integrations with wallets and encourages users to withdraw assets to secure storage after trading.

💡 Tips for Buying Crypto in 2025

  1. Start small – Don’t invest more than you can afford to lose.
  2. Use Dollar-Cost Averaging (DCA) – Invest small amounts regularly instead of going all in.
  3. Diversify – Don’t put all your funds into one coin.
  4. Follow trends – Use Token Metrics to identify top-performing sectors like AI, DeFi, and gaming.

🤖 Why Token Metrics Is the Best Platform for Buying and Trading Crypto

✅ 1. AI-Powered Price Predictions

Token Metrics uses advanced machine learning models trained on 80+ data points to generate real-time price forecasts.

✅ 2. Trader & Investor Grades

Each token is evaluated daily based on:

  • On-chain data
  • Technical indicators
  • Sentiment analysis
  • Developer activity

This helps you filter out hype and focus on fundamentals.

✅ 3. Moonshots Finder

Looking for 100x altcoins? The Moonshots tab curates a list of tokens with the highest potential, based on proprietary AI momentum signals.

✅ 4. Real-Time Alerts

Get notified when:

  • A token hits your target price
  • Bullish or bearish signals trigger
  • Grades change rapidly

Alerts are delivered via:

  • Email
  • Telegram
  • Discord
  • SMS

✅ 5. One-Click Trading

No more copy-pasting contract addresses or juggling wallets. Just click Buy directly from the Token Metrics dashboard.

✅ 6. API Access for Advanced Users

Developers and institutions can connect via the MCP Server, which standardizes access across:

  • OpenAI Agents
  • Cursor IDE
  • Claude Desktop
  • GraphQL UIs like Windsurf
  • CLI tools

🔐 How to Stay Safe When Buying Crypto

  1. Avoid phishing links
  2. Use only verified exchanges
  3. Store private keys securely
  4. Double-check recipient addresses before sending crypto

Token Metrics adds a layer of safety by helping you avoid scam tokens and showing real-time AI insights before you buy.

📈 Crypto Investment Trends to Watch in 2025

  • AI-Powered Trading Bots
  • Real-World Asset (RWA) Tokenization
  • Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs
  • Layer-2 Scaling (Arbitrum, Optimism)
  • Decentralized Social & Gaming Tokens

With so many innovations, it's crucial to use a tool like Token Metrics to stay ahead of the curve.

🏁 Final Thoughts

Buying cryptocurrency in 2025 is simple, but succeeding in crypto requires strategy. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned trader, using a smart platform like Token Metrics will help you:

  • Avoid rookie mistakes
  • Discover winning tokens
  • Time your entries and exits using AI
  • Maximize your ROI in bull and bear markets

Don’t just buy crypto. Buy it with intelligence.

Research

How Does Cryptocurrency Work? Guide to the Future of Money - Why Token Metrics Is the Best AI Crypto Trading and Research Platform to Master It

Token Metrics Team
8 min
MIN

What Is Cryptocurrency?

Cryptocurrency is a digital form of money that exists on a decentralized network. Unlike traditional currencies like the dollar or euro, it isn’t controlled by a central bank or government. Instead, it uses cryptography to secure transactions, validate ownership, and prevent double-spending.

The most popular cryptocurrencies today include:

  • Bitcoin (BTC) – The original and most valuable cryptocurrency
  • Ethereum (ETH) – A programmable blockchain for apps and smart contracts
  • TMAI – The native token of Token Metrics used for AI-powered crypto research and trading

🧠 How Cryptocurrency Works: A Step-by-Step Breakdown

At the heart of all cryptocurrencies is blockchain technology — a distributed ledger that records transactions in a transparent, immutable, and secure manner.

Step 1: Blockchain Basics

A blockchain is a chain of blocks — each block containing a list of transactions. Every time a transaction occurs (like sending Bitcoin from Alice to Bob), it’s broadcast to a decentralized network of nodes. These nodes validate the transaction and add it to the blockchain.

Once added, it’s permanent and tamper-proof.

Step 2: Decentralized Consensus

To ensure security, cryptocurrencies use consensus mechanisms like:

  • Proof of Work (PoW) – Used by Bitcoin. Miners solve cryptographic puzzles to validate transactions and earn new coins.
  • Proof of Stake (PoS) – Used by Ethereum 2.0. Validators are chosen based on how much crypto they stake in the network.

These systems remove the need for centralized authorities like banks.

Step 3: Wallets and Addresses

To send and receive crypto, users need a wallet — a digital app or hardware device that stores private and public keys.

  • Public Key = Like your bank account number (shareable)
  • Private Key = Like your password (keep it secret)

Step 4: Making Transactions

  1. You enter the recipient’s address and amount.
  2. The transaction is signed with your private key.
  3. It’s broadcast to the blockchain.
  4. Miners or validators confirm it.
  5. It’s added to the blockchain and becomes irreversible.

Step 5: Supply and Demand

Most cryptocurrencies have limited supply. For example, Bitcoin has a max cap of 21 million coins. As supply decreases and demand increases, the price tends to go up — making crypto attractive to investors.

📊 Why Cryptocurrency Matters

  • Decentralization: Removes intermediaries like banks
  • Security: Powered by cryptographic encryption and public verification
  • Transparency: All transactions are publicly recorded
  • Borderless: Send and receive globally in minutes
  • Ownership: No one can seize your funds without your private key

🤖 How Token Metrics Helps You Understand and Trade Crypto Better

Now that you know how cryptocurrency works, the next question is: How do you invest smartly?

That’s where Token Metrics comes in — the best AI-powered crypto research platform for beginners, traders, and institutions.

🔹 1. AI-Powered Price Predictions

Token Metrics uses machine learning models trained on 80+ metrics (technical, on-chain, fundamental, sentiment) to forecast prices for thousands of coins — helping you make data-driven decisions instead of guessing.

🔹 2. Trader and Investor Grades

Each token is assigned two AI-generated grades:

  • Trader Grade – For short-term price action
  • Investor Grade – For long-term potential

These grades update daily and help filter thousands of tokens instantly.

🔹 3. Moonshot Finder

Want to find the next 100x altcoin? Token Metrics features a Moonshots tab, showcasing small-cap tokens with breakout potential based on AI momentum detection.

You can review:

  • Entry date
  • Live ROI
  • Market cap
  • Grade changes
  • Volume trends

🔹 4. Buy/Sell Alerts in Real-Time

Never miss a trade. Token Metrics sends instant alerts when tokens:

  • Hit your target price
  • Trigger bullish/bearish signals
  • Experience grade increases

Alerts are available via:

  • Telegram
  • Slack
  • Discord
  • Email
  • SMS

🔹 5. One-Click Trading

Once you find a great coin, you can trade directly on Token Metrics using the built-in Swap Widget — no need to switch to another platform.

🔹 6. Developer Access via MCP Server

Want to integrate Token Metrics into AI agents or dev tools?

Use the MCP Server to connect real-time data with tools like:

  • Claude / ChatGPT agents
  • Cursor IDE
  • Windsurf GraphQL
  • Slide builders like Tome
  • CLI tools and more

With one Crypto API key, developers and data teams can query identical results across multiple tools — unlocking fast, consistent, and autonomous crypto infrastructure.

🧠 How to Get Started with Token Metrics

  1. Sign up for free at tokenmetrics.com
  2. Access daily updated grades, moonshots, and charts
  3. Set custom alerts and start building your portfolio
  4. Upgrade to Premium or use $TMAI for trading discounts and enhanced limits

🚨 Risks of Cryptocurrency

While crypto offers exciting opportunities, it’s important to be aware of potential risks:

  • Price Volatility – Prices can spike or crash quickly
  • Regulatory Risks – Laws vary across countries and change frequently
  • Security Threats – Always use trusted wallets and enable 2FA
  • Hype & FOMO – Don’t trade based on social media trends without research

Token Metrics helps you mitigate these risks by using AI to cut through the noise and focus on data that matters.

🔮 The Future of Cryptocurrency

Cryptocurrency is evolving rapidly. Trends to watch include:

  • Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs
  • Layer-2 scaling (Arbitrum, Optimism)
  • AI agents for autonomous trading
  • Real-world asset tokenization
  • Decentralized Finance (DeFi) growth

As crypto matures, platforms like Token Metrics will play a key role in helping users capitalize on opportunities intelligently.

✅ Final Thoughts

Understanding how cryptocurrency works is essential for anyone looking to join the digital economy. From how blockchains secure transactions to how tokens gain value, crypto offers a radically transparent, decentralized financial system.

But success in crypto isn’t just about buying a coin and hoping it rises.

It’s about research. Timing. Strategy. And tools.

That’s why thousands of users trust Token Metrics — the all-in-one AI crypto platform that helps you:

  • Identify high-potential tokens
  • Get real-time price predictions
  • Trade with confidence

Build a smart, diversified portfolio.

Crypto Basics

Is Moonshot Legit? Uncovering the Truth About Token Metrics Moonshots in 2025

Token Metrics Team
8 min
MIN

In the fast-paced world of crypto, everyone’s chasing the next 100x altcoin. But with thousands of tokens launching every month—and scams lurking around every corner—it’s natural to ask: “Is Moonshot legit?”

In 2025, one platform has gained massive attention for its AI-powered ability to surface early-stage altcoins before they explode: Token Metrics Moonshots.

This article takes a deep dive into what Moonshots are, how they work, and whether they’re truly legit—or just another overhyped crypto tool.

What Is a Moonshot in Crypto?

A moonshot refers to a low-market-cap cryptocurrency with the potential to grow exponentially—sometimes delivering 10x, 50x, or even 100x returns.

Moonshots typically:

  • Are early-stage projects with high risk and high reward
  • Operate in trending sectors like AI, DePIN, Gaming, or Real World Assets
  • Have strong tokenomics or narrative appeal
  • Haven’t yet hit mainstream exchanges like Coinbase or Binance

But identifying moonshots early is hard without deep technical knowledge, insider access, or hours of research—until Token Metrics came along.

What Is Token Metrics Moonshots?

Token Metrics Moonshots is an AI-powered feature inside the Token Metrics platform that uses real-time data and advanced machine learning to surface high-potential altcoins before they pump.

Key Highlights:

  • Scans 6,000+ tokens daily
  • Evaluates each using 80+ data points: technicals, on-chain data, fundamentals, sentiment, and more
  • Surfaces a handpicked shortlist of “Moonshot” tokens each day
  • Tracks real-time ROI so you can monitor past performance transparently

Unlike meme calls on Telegram or Twitter influencers shilling bags, Moonshots are backed by structured data and AI analysis.

How to Use Token Metrics to Find Moonshots

Token Metrics makes finding potential 100x coins as easy as clicking a few buttons. Here’s the exact process:

Step 1: Go to the Ratings Page

  • Log into Token Metrics and navigate to the Ratings tab.
  • This is the engine room—where all tokens are ranked by Trader Grade and Investor Grade, using AI to spot breakout momentum.

Step 2: Click on the Moonshots Tab

  • Inside Ratings, select the Moonshots tab.
  • Instantly, you'll see a curated list of tokens flagged by AI as having exceptional upside potential.


Step 3: Review Key Metrics

Each Moonshot includes:

  • Trader Grade and how much it has changed
  • 24H volume and market cap
  • Date of Moonshot entry
  • Live ROI since entry

Want to know if the algorithm works? Toggle to Past Moonshots to track actual results over 7–14 days. Many have shown 3x–9x returns in just a few days.

Step 4: Choose a Token to Explore

  • Click on any Moonshot token to open its Token Details Page.
  • Review charts, fundamentals, exchange listings, and top wallet holders.
  • AI gives you data. You make the call.

Step 5: Buy in Seconds

  • Ready to act? Click the “Buy” button directly on the Moonshots page.
  • Token Metrics opens a swap widget, letting you purchase the token instantly—without leaving the platform.

Is Moonshot Legit? Let’s Look at the Evidence

✅ Transparent Results

Token Metrics shows the live performance of every current and past Moonshot. You can verify:

  • Entry price and date
  • Current ROI
  • Performance over 7/14 days

This transparency builds trust. You’re not guessing—you’re measuring results.

✅ AI-Driven, Not Influencer-Driven

Most “100x picks” online are based on hype or paid promotions. Moonshots are based on data—real metrics like:

  • Liquidity trends
  • Momentum score
  • Exchange activity
  • Token fundamentals

That means no emotion, no bias, no hidden agendas.

✅ Real Use Cases & Track Record

In 2025, Moonshots helped users catch tokens before they were listed on major exchanges. Real examples from Q2 2025 include:

All of these were surfaced by Moonshots before they appeared in trending lists or news headlines.

✅ Built Into a Trusted Platform

Token Metrics is a well-known crypto research platform used by retail and institutional investors alike. Its tools have been featured in:

  • Forbes
  • Nasdaq
  • CoinTelegraph

The Moonshots feature is just one layer of a larger AI analytics platform that includes:

  • Trader/Investor Grades
  • Bullish/Bearish Signals
  • Prebuilt Indices
  • Custom Alerts
  • Developer API

If you’re already using Token Metrics, Moonshots is the fastest way to find early-stage altcoins backed by AI research.

Common Questions About Moonshots

❓Are all Moonshots winners?

No. Like any strategy in crypto, not every Moonshot performs. But the system is designed to identify tokens with strong probability of breakout, not guarantees.

That’s why you should:

  • Do your own research using the Token Details page
  • Spread risk across multiple picks
  • Use position sizing to manage downside

❓Can I trust AI to pick tokens?

In 2025, AI is outperforming human traders in speed, objectivity, and signal processing. Token Metrics trains its models on thousands of historical and real-time data points—delivering consistent, data-driven picks without emotional bias.

❓What plan do I need to access Moonshots?

Moonshots are available on the Advanced Plan and higher. You can start with a 7-day free trial to test it out yourself.

Final Verdict: Is Moonshot Legit?

Yes—Token Metrics Moonshots is a legit, AI-powered discovery tool for finding early-stage altcoins before they go viral.

It’s not a guaranteed win button. But it levels the playing field, giving everyday users access to tools once reserved for hedge funds and crypto insiders.

If you're tired of missing the next big altcoin pump or relying on influencer tips, Moonshots gives you back control—backed by real data.

How to Get Started

  1. Sign up for a free trial at tokenmetrics.com
  2. Go to Ratings → Moonshots
  3. Explore today’s picks and past performance
  4. Click “Buy” to act directly in the app

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