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
Token Metrics Team

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Fundamental Grade Crypto API: Invest with Conviction Using Real Project Signals

Token Metrics Team
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Most traders chase price action; Fundamental Grade Crypto API helps you see the business behind the token—community traction, tokenomics design, exchange presence, VC signals, and DeFi health—consolidated into one score you can query in code. In a few minutes, you’ll fetch Fundamental Grade, render it in your product, and ship a due-diligence UX that drives trust. Start by grabbing your key at the Get API Key page, Run Hello-TM to verify your first call, then Clone a Template to go live fast.

What You’ll Build in 2 Minutes

A minimal script to fetch Fundamental Grade from /v2/fundamental-grade for any symbol (e.g., BTC).

  • Optional curl to smoke-test your key in seconds.
  • A drop-in pattern to display the grade + key drivers in dashboards, screeners, and research tools.

Endpoints to consider next:

  • /v2/tm-grade (technical/sentiment/momentum)
  • /v2/price-prediction (scenario planning)
  • /v2/resistance-support (risk levels)
  • /v2/quantmetrics (risk/return stats)

Why This Matters

Beyond price, toward quality. Markets are noisy—hype rises and fades. Fundamental Grade consolidates hard-to-track signals (community growth, token distribution, liquidity venues, investor quality, DeFi integrations) into a clear, comparable score. You get a fast “is this worth time and capital?” answer for screening, allocation, and monitoring.

Build trust into your product. Whether you run an investor terminal, exchange research tab, or a portfolio tool, Fundamental Grade lets users justify positions. Pair it with TM Grade or Quantmetrics for a balanced picture: what to buy (fundamentals) and when to act (signals/levels).

Where to Find The Fundamental Grade

The Fundamental Grade is easily accessible in the top right of the API Reference. Grab the cURL request for seamless access!

Build Smarter Crypto Apps & AI Agents with Token Metrics

Token Metrics provides real-time prices, trading signals, and on-chain insights all from one powerful API. Grab a Free API Key

How It Works (Under the Hood)

Fundamental Grade aggregates multiple project-quality signals into a normalized score and label (e.g., Strong / Average / Weak). Typical sub-signals include:

  • Community: momentum across channels (dev activity/user traction signals where applicable).
  • Tokenomics: supply schedule, distribution, unlock dynamics, incentives.
  • Exchange Presence: venue coverage, depth/liquidity proxies.
  • VC/Investor Signals: quality/durability of backing and ecosystem support.
  • DeFi Health: integrations, TVL context, composability footprint.

At query time, you call /v2/fundamental-grade with a symbol; responses include the overall score plus component scores you can visualize. For dashboards with many assets, batch fetches and short-TTL caching keep pages responsive. If you push alerts (e.g., “Fundamental Grade upgraded”), prefer webhooks or queued jobs to avoid hammering the API.

Production Checklist

  • Rate limits: Know plan caps; add client throttling and request queues.
  • Retries/backoff: Exponential backoff + jitter; surface actionable error messages.
  • Idempotency: Prevent duplicate downstream actions on retried calls.
  • Caching: Use memory/Redis/KV with short TTLs; pre-warm popular symbols.
  • Webhooks & jobs: For alerts, use signed webhooks or scheduled jobs; log delivery outcomes.
  • Pagination/Bulk: When covering many tokens, paginate or process in batches.
  • Error catalog: Map 4xx/5xx to user-visible fixes; log request IDs.
  • Observability: Track p95/p99 and error rate per endpoint; alert on spikes.
  • Security: Keep API keys in secrets managers; rotate regularly.

Use Cases & Patterns

  • Screener Maker: Rank tokens by Fundamental Grade, filter by market cap/sector, and add “rising fundamentals” badges for discovery.
  • Dashboard Builder: On each token page, show the headline grade with a component chart; link to methodology for transparency.
  • Research & PM Tools: Flag downgrades/upgrades to prompt re-evaluation; attach notes to component changes (e.g., DeFi health drop).
  • Allocator / Risk: Require a minimum Fundamental Grade before inclusion; rebalance only when grade crosses thresholds.
  • Community/Discord: Post weekly upgrades as digest messages with links back to your app.

Next Steps

  • Get API Key — generate a key and start free.
  • Run Hello-TM — verify your first successful call.
  • Clone a Template — deploy a screener or token page today.
  • Watch the demo: VIDEO_URL_HERE
  • Compare plans: Scale confidently with API plans.

FAQs

1) What does the Fundamental Grade API return?

A JSON payload with the overall score/grade plus component scores (e.g., community, tokenomics, exchange presence, VC backing, DeFi health) and timestamps. Use the overall grade for ranking and component scores for explanations.

2) How fast is the endpoint? Do you publish SLOs?

The API is engineered for predictable latency. For high-traffic dashboards, add short-TTL caching and batch requests; for alerts, use jobs/webhooks to minimize round-trips.

3) Can I combine Fundamental Grade with TM Grade or signals?

Yes. A common pattern is Fundamental Grade for quality filter + TM Grade for technical/sentiment context + Trading Signals for timing and Support/Resistance for risk placement.

4) How “accurate” is the grade?

It’s an opinionated synthesis of multiple inputs—not financial advice. Historical studies can inform usage, but past performance doesn’t guarantee future results. Always layer risk management and testing.

5) Do you offer SDKs and examples?

You can use REST directly (see JS/Python above). The docs include quickstarts, Postman, and ready-to-clone templates—start with Run Hello-TM.

Research

Indices Hub: Join the Waitlist for TM Global 100 (2025)

Token Metrics Team
5
MIN

If you’ve been waiting for a simple, rules-based way to own the Token Metrics Global 100—without micromanaging tokens—this hub is for you. The TM Global 100 is a rules-based crypto index that holds the top 100 assets in bull markets and moves to stablecoins in bear markets, with weekly rebalancing and transparent holdings/transaction logs you can verify at any time. It’s designed for hands-off allocators who want disciplined exposure and for active traders who want a core that adapts to regimes—without guesswork or endless rebalancing. Below you’ll find how it works, who it’s for, and exactly how to join the waitlist so you’re first in line when trading opens.

→ Join the waitlist to be first to trade TM Global 100.

Why Indices Matter in October 2025

Search intent right now: investors want credible, rules-based crypto exposure that can participate in upside while reducing drawdown pain. A crypto index is a basket of assets selected and maintained by rules—so you avoid one-off bets and constant manual rebalancing.

With liquidity rotating quickly across sectors, weekly rebalancing helps maintain alignment with current market-cap leaders, while regime switching provides a disciplined, pre-defined response to bearish conditions. The result is a clear, consistent process that removes emotional decision-making and operational drag.

Definition

A crypto index is a rules-based basket of digital assets that’s constructed, weighted, and rebalanced on a set schedule.

How the TM Global 100 Index Works (Plain English)

  • Regime switching: Bullish: Hold the top-100 crypto assets by market cap.
  • Bearish: Exit all positions into stablecoins and wait for a new bullish signal.
  • Weekly rebalancing: Reflects updated rankings and weights across the market-cap universe.
  • Transparency: Strategy modal shows methodology and thresholds; Gauge → Holdings Treemap → Transactions Log make every change visible.

What you’ll see on launch: Price tile, gauge (“rebalances weekly”), 100 tokens, one-click Buy Index flow, and a 90-second checkout via embedded wallet.‍See the strategy and rules.

Benefits at a Glance (Why This Beats DIY)

  • Time saved: No more manual coin-picking, sizing, and calendar rebalances.
  • Lower execution drag: One click vs. dozens of individual orders that can add slippage.
  • Stay current: Weekly rebalances help you capture market-cap changes without constant monitoring.
  • Discipline in drawdowns: Automatic switch to stablecoins removes panic decisions.
  • Radical visibility: Holdings treemap, table, and transactions log show what you own and what changed—every week.
  • Operational simplicity: Embedded wallet and a unified dashboard; no juggling chains and exchanges.

Step-by-Step: How to Get Early Access (Waitlist)

  1. Open the Indices Hub: Head to the Token Metrics Indices hub.
  2. Choose TM Global 100: Open the index page and review the Gauge → Strategy → Holdings.
  3. Join the Waitlist: Add your email to be notified the moment trading opens.
  4. (Optional) Connect Wallet: Pre-connect your wallet for a faster launch-day checkout.

Launch-Day Flow (~90 seconds): Tap Buy Index, review fees/slippage, confirm, and see your position in My Indices. Track Rebalances: After each weekly rebalance or regime change, check the Transactions Log for updates.

→ Join the waitlist to be first to trade TM Global 100.

Decision Guide: Is This Right for You?

  • Hands-Off Allocator: Want broad exposure without micromanaging? Yes—rules-based + weekly rebalances.
  • Active Trader: Need a core that sits in stables during bears while you hunt edges elsewhere? Fits.
  • TM Member/Prospect: Already trust Token Metrics research? This is the rules-based version of “own the market.”
  • Risk-Aware Newcomer: Prefer a clear framework over vibes? Methodology is visible and auditable.
  • DIY Basket Builder: Tired of missed rebalances and slippage? One click can reduce execution drag.
  • Data-First Analyst: Want to verify? See the holdings, weights, and transaction history anytime.

FAQs

1) What is a TM Global 100 index?

It’s a rules-based crypto index that holds the top 100 assets by market cap in bullish regimes and moves to stablecoins in bearish regimes. It rebalances weekly and shows transparent holdings and transactions.

2) How often does the index rebalance?

Weekly, with additional full-portfolio switches when the market regime changes.

3) What triggers the move to stablecoins?

A proprietary market signal. When bearish, the index exits all token positions into stablecoins and waits for a bullish re-entry signal.

4) Can I fund with USDC or fiat?

At launch, funding and settlement options surface based on the embedded wallet and supported chains. USDC payouts are supported for selling; additional entry options may be introduced later.

5) Is the wallet custodial?

No. The Embedded Wallet is self-custodial—you control your funds while using a streamlined, on-chain checkout.

6) How are fees shown?

Before you confirm, the Buy flow shows estimated gas, platform fee, maximum slippage, and the minimum expected value.

7) How do I join the waitlist?

Go to the Token Metrics Indices hub or the TM Global 100 strategy page and submit your email. We’ll notify you the moment trading opens.

Security, Risk & Transparency

  • Self-custody: Embedded smart wallet; you hold the keys.
  • 2FA & session hygiene: Use strong auth practices for your TM account.
  • Fee clarity: Gas, platform fee, and slippage are displayed before you confirm.
  • Auditability: Holdings, treemap, and transactions log are always visible.
  • Model limits: Regime logic can be wrong, and markets can gap; rules reduce discretion—not risk.
  • Regional availability: Product surfaces may vary by region as we expand.

Crypto is volatile and can lose value. Past performance is not indicative of future results. This article is for research/education, not financial advice.

Conclusion

If you want a disciplined, rules-based core that adapts to market regimes, Token Metrics Global 100 is built for you. Weekly rebalances, transparent holdings, and one-click buy remove operational friction so you can focus on your strategy.

→ Join the waitlist to be first to trade TM Global 100.
Research

Top Crypto Index for Hands-Off Portfolios (2025)

Token Metrics Team
4
MIN

If you want broad exposure to cryptocurrencies without constant chart monitoring, a top crypto index offers a streamlined way to participate in the market. Token Metrics provides innovative tools to help you understand and access such indices efficiently.

Opening Hook

If you’re seeking an uncomplicated, rules-driven approach to crypto investing that adapts to market conditions, a top crypto index might be worth exploring. These indexes automate the process of capturing upside potential while managing risk during downturns, making crypto investing more accessible for a variety of investor profiles.

What is a Crypto Index?

A crypto index is a systematic, rules-based collection of digital assets that reflects a specific universe—such as the top 100 cryptocurrencies by market capitalization. It relies on transparent methodologies and scheduled rebalancing to ensure that the composition remains aligned with market dynamics. These indexes aim to provide broad exposure while reducing the need for individual asset management.

How Top Crypto Indexes Function in 2025

Many modern crypto indexes incorporate regime switching mechanisms: during bullish periods, they hold top assets; during bear markets, they shift to stablecoins to mitigate losses. Weekly rebalancing updates the constituents based on current market rankings, and transparency tools such as strategy descriptions, gauges, and transaction logs allow users to verify holdings and changes in real-time.

Benefits of Using a Crypto Index Over DIY Approaches

  • Time efficiency: Automates rebalancing and regime switching, saving manual effort.
  • Lower slippage: Executes large baskets with minimal impact on prices.
  • Consistency: Ensures regular rebalancing and discipline during volatile periods.
  • Transparency: Clear logs and dashboards allow for full accountability.
  • Speed: Simplified onboarding with quick allocation processes.

Getting Early Access to Top Crypto Indexes

To gain early exposure, follow these steps:

  1. Open the Token Metrics Indices hub.
  2. Select TM Global 100 and view its details.
  3. Tap “Join Waitlist” and enter your email (optionally connect your wallet).
  4. Review strategy criteria, holdings, and rebalancing rules.
  5. Once launched, connect your wallet, review estimated fees, and confirm your allocation.
  6. Funds appear in your index portfolio, enabling easy tracking and management.

Is This Index Suitable for You?

Consider your investment style:

  • Hands-Off Allocator: Ideal if you prefer broad market exposure with minimal management.
  • Active Trader: Use as a core component, complemented by higher-beta bets.
  • New to Crypto: Great for beginners seeking transparent exposure through simplified flows.
  • DIY Enthusiast: Replace complex basket-building with a rules-based index.
  • Self-Custody User: Benefit from integrated self-custodial wallets with clear transaction records.

FAQs

What is a top crypto index?

It is a rules-based basket that tracks a defined universe of digital assets—such as the top 100 by market cap—using transparent methodology and scheduled rebalancing.

How often does the index rebalance?

The index rebalances weekly, with regime switches occurring when market signals change, ensuring adaptability during different market cycles.

What prompts the move to stablecoins?

A proprietary market-regime signal triggers the transition, exiting token positions to stablecoins during bearish periods and re-entering when signals turn bullish.

Can I fund with USDC or fiat?

At launch, the embedded wallet will support supported funding options based on your chain or wallet. USDC payout is available upon sale; further options may follow.

Is the wallet custodial?

No. It’s an embedded, self-custodial smart wallet—giving you full control over your private keys and funds.

How are fees shown?

Estimated gas, platform fee, slippage, and minimum expected value are displayed before you confirm the transaction, providing full transparency.

How do I join the waitlist?

Visit the Token Metrics Indices hub or the TM Global 100 page, tap “Join Waitlist,” and follow the instructions to register your interest and prepare for launch.

Disclaimer

Crypto assets are highly volatile and can result in significant losses. Past performance does not guarantee future results. This content is for research and educational purposes only and not financial advice.

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