A free NFT giveaway rewards users who take part in the promotion. Free NFT is the new meta in 2022. Everyone wants to reward their community with exciting prizes, whether they are whales, influencers, or brand-new [NFT projects](/news/article/upcoming-solana-nft-projects).

## How to get a free NFT giveaway

The project determines it. Some giveaways are only available to NFT holders, whereas others are intended to attract new community members. In either case, they both seek the same thing: exposure.
There are two types of giveaways you can join:

1.	Retweet and like contests

The rules for these contests are simple and clear. Typically, the project team will ask participants to like and retweet a specific post. Tagging others in the comments section or following other accounts is also sometimes required.

Some organisers reward multiple winners with NFTs, cryptocurrencies, or even cash.
Twitter influencers, projects, and even marketplaces regularly hold such contests. You can find them on Twitter by searching "NFT giveaway”.

2.	Fan art contests

Nowadays, many digital asset initiatives and influencers hold fan art contests. Participants must create original works of art to win NFTs and other exciting prizes. The artwork submissions must frequently draw inspiration from the organisers' projects.

For example, [Deadfellaz's](https://www.deadfellaz.io/) famous "Draw the Undead" derivative art contest required participants to create artwork based on their NFTs. Nonetheless, the team allowed non-holders to participate by drawing inspiration from two of the collectables.

Of course, these competitions require time and effort. They are, however, an excellent way for an artist to gain exposure.

## Who is handing out free NFTs?

Giveaways can be found everywhere these days, from Discord to Twitter and even Reddit. But who is organising these competitions, and where can you find them?

Two types of creators organise them. They are: 

1.	NFT projects giveaways

Giveaways are an effective strategy for growing one's audience, and projects are aware of this. Most new projects run giveaways on Twitter or Discord to gain more followers. Some giveaway their first-ever NFT collectables, while others distribute money, cryptocurrencies, or other resources.

2.	NFT influencer giveaways

Most NFT influencers are as concerned with their community as their projects. Indeed, their free NFTs could be surprisingly inventive!

GaryVee, for example, offered a free [VeeFriends](https://veefriends.com/) for every 12 copies of his book sold during the first 24 hours. This clever campaign made his book "Twelve and a Half" a best-seller, while buyers received free collectables.

However, you should double-check the influencer's account before participating in a giveaway.

## Free NFT giveaway - Legitimate?

"It depends" is the brief response. The digital market is still new to many people compared to other markets, and scammers are aware of this. Unfortunately, thousands of [digital wallets](/news/article/crypto-wallet-multiple-currencies) or accounts have been compromised by hackers.

One of their tricks, for example, is to host free NFT giveaways that requires you to connect your wallet to a specific platform. This should raise a red flag because legitimate influencers or projects do not request personal information or a digital wallet connection in exchange for a giveaway.

Second, keep an eye out for the giveaway prize. If, as the old cliche goes, something seems too good to be true, then guess what? It probably is. Naturally, some initiatives and influencers can be kind, but few would provide large cash prizes.

## Bottom line

NFT giveaways are a fantastic way to grow a community while rewarding current members. You can enter free Twitter contests that require liking and retweeting posts or compete in art competitions to show your talent.

NFT projects and influencers frequently host giveaways, but double-check their accounts before participating! 


Is a Free NFT Giveaway Legit?

Launched in 2021, [Phantom wallet](https://phantom.app/) is a non-custodial crypto wallet built for the Solana blockchain. It is used to interact with Solana-based tokens, smart contracts, NFTs, and decentralized applications (DApps). It is available as a browser extension and mobile app.

It can be accessed using major browser extensions such as Chrome, Firefox, Brave, and Edge. As a mobile app, it is compatible with iOS devices as well as Android.

## Key features

Phantom wallet stands out with its many features. They include;

i.	Simple user interface: Its simple user interface makes it beginner friendly. Anyone can use it to interact with the SOL blockchain. All service options are available on the first page.

ii.	Non-custodial: Users have complete control of their private keys, which give access to their funds. It has no access to users’ data or funds.

iii.	Supports Ledger: It can be connected to Ledger, a leading and highly secure hardware wallet for extra security.

iv.	Built-in exchange: It features a built-in decentralized exchange that allows users to swap SOL-based tokens within it.

v.	NFT compatible: It supports NFT collectibles from the SOL blockchain. It has a feature that automatically groups similar NFTs for easy accessibility. However, it only supports Solana NFTs.

vi.	[Crypto staking](/news/article/what-is-staking-crypto) capabilities: It allows users to stake SOL and receive rewards. Crypto staking is a good way to earn passive income from cryptocurrencies.

vii.	Great security: A strong password is the first line of defense. It is required to protect funds from thieves and hackers. It also features a recovery key phrase to restore access to it. Biometric authentication is another security feature offered to those using its mobile app version. The feature enhances its security even when accessing it on the go.

viii.	Privacy: It prioritizes privacy. Users don't have to provide any personal information to create it. They only need to create a password to start using it. It also does not track any personally identifiable information, users' account addresses, or asset balances.

## Pros and cons

There are many reasons to use Phantom wallet to interact with the SOL blockchain. Some of its advantages include;

### Pros

•	It is easy to use, therefore beginner friendly.

•	It is non-custodial, therefore, does not have control over users' funds.

•	It features a built-in swap and is compatible with NFTs.

•	It supports Ledger (a hardware wallet) for increased security.

•	It prioritizes privacy and features great security.

### Cons

•	It does not support any other network.

## Conclusion

Phantom is a great wallet. It is especially perfect for newbies venturing into the crypto space through Solana, one of the most active and fastest-growing ecosystems in the crypto space.

It is easy to use, feature-rich, and highly secure. It easily gives access to all Solana services. It can be accessed as a web extension and mobile application. There is a lot to like about it.



Solana Phantom Wallet Guide

Blockchain is the tech that underpins cryptocurrency, but is not, in itself, a cryptocurrency. It is a decentralised [ledger](https://blockchainsimplified.com/blog/types-of-blockchain-ledger/) which tracks digital assets on a peer-to-peer network. 

On this network, every node (computer/server) connects to every other and each node holds the same copy of the ledger. 

So, [blockchain](/news/tag/blockchain-tag) is an ever-growing, secure and shared record-keeping system where each user of the data retains a copy of the records. These records are only updated when most parties agree to the update. 

 
 

## Examples 

In a simple sense, this is like your bank account statement or records of your sales and purchases of raw materials. It is similar, in some ways, to an Excel spreadsheet tracking equipment used by a hospital. 

A good analogy for explaining blockchain is that of a large book. Think of it as an old book-based ledger, where each page refers to the previous page through a page number. In this analogy the book is blockchain, a page is a block and an entry on that page is a blockchain transaction. 

It is easy for you to see if a page has been removed or deleted, just as it is to see if a block has been changed. It is also simple to arrange the pages, thanks to age numbering, and, therefore, identify suspicious behaviour. 

The fact the pages (or blocks on the blockchain) are built tightly on top of each other and numbered makes it impossible to tamper with previous entries without someone noticing. 

 
 

## Blockchain parts, and what they look like 

A generic blockchain will include certain features. These include: 

- Address – unique identifiers – of the sender and receiver. This is usually a public key 

- Transaction – representing the transfer value – one address to another 

- Block – multiple transactions and other elements, including: 

1. Reference to the previous block 

2. Nonce – the number generated and used only once 

3. Timestamp – creation time of block 

4. Merkle Root – hash of all nodes of a Merkle tree 

5. Transactions – a record of an event, such as the transfer of crypto from the sender to the receiver’s account 

 
 

## How blockchain works 

Here is a simplified explanation of how it works. 

#### Transaction initiated
The node starts, first creating and then signing it with a private key. The transactions may be cryptocurrency transfers or smart contract invocation. 
#### Transaction validated and broadcast
The transaction is verified pre-broadcast and then it is broadcast to other peers, who validate based on pre-set validity criteria.
#### Find a new block
The transaction is received and validated by miners, then included in a block and the mining starts. Miners then race to finish the block they have created. 
#### New Block found 
When the miner solves the math puzzle, the block is considered mined or finalized, and the transaction is confirmed. 
#### Add a new block to Blockchain 
The new block is validated, the transactions/smart contracts executed, and it is broadcast to peers. The peers also validate and execute the block, and it is now part of the blockchain. The next block links itself back to this one with a hash pointer, which refers to the previous block. 

## Benefits of Blockchain 

Blockchain offers a range of benefits, perhaps most notably [decentralization.](/news/article/dns-servers) This means there is no need for a third party or intermediary as it is based on a consensus mechanism. It is also transparent and can be trusted; a blockchain and its transactions are a public record and immutable, meaning it is almost impossible to change data written on the blockchain. 
Blockchain is highly available, as it is a system based on thousands of nodes in a network, and data is replicated and updated for every need. It is also highly secure as all transactions are cryptographically secured. Only valid, verified transactions are included in the blockchain. 
Simplicity is also a benefit, creating a single, shared ledger among parties. For example, it could be used as a one-place healthcare record. 
Blockchain also allows faster dealings, with the quick settlement of trades, and cost savings, especially as there is no third party or clearing house seeking payment or fees. Additionally, blockchain allows smart contracts to be run, programs that execute business logic on behalf of users, and can be used for smart property, where you link an asset, digital or physical, to a blockchain. 


## Blockchain problems 

There are some issues with blockchain, however.  Perhaps most commonly discussed are problems like scalability (they are not scalable as financial networks. Yet.), and adoption. It is still seen as a relatively immature, nascent technology so we are yet to see mass adoption of blockchain.  Some people have raised issues of privacy and confidentiality around public blockchains, where anyone can see everything. 

What is Blockchain?

In 2022, interoperability and bridging have been the top priority of developers. Alongside Polygon Bridge, several [bridges](/news/article/binance-bridge) are already in place that connect different blockchains. Among them, the top blockchains that provide a solution for this problem have been [Binance](/news/article/guide-to-binance-uk) and [Avalanche](/news/article/avalanche-crypto-metamask). 

[Polygon](https://polygon.technology/) is also an emerging network for interoperability. It offers two bridges that allow easy transfers between MATIC and Ethereum. Here, we discuss the workings of Polygon and explore how you can transfer tokens between different networks! 

## Polygon Bridge explained

It is yet another solution in the crypto space for asset transferring between different blockchains. Since the blockchain provides scalable infrastructure for networks supported by [Ethereum](/news/article/ethereum-the-merge), moving assets between blockchains is necessary. That's why a bridging mechanism was created to allow interoperability.

This provides the MATIC network with a cross-chain feature, which operates on a trustless smart contract. With the availability of this feature, you can send ERCs and [NFTs](/news/article/polygon-nft-drops-2022) to its side chains. 

There are two [Polygon bridges](https://wiki.polygon.technology/docs/develop/ethereum-polygon/getting-started/#pos-vs-plasma); one is Proof-of-Stake (PoS), and the other is Plasma. PoS bridging is a widely used option as it is highly flexible and supports more token standards.  

## How to use a PoS bridge

The following steps will guide you on using the PoS bridge. 

1.	Firstly, go to the [web wallet](https://wallet.polygon.technology/) and choose the Polygon Bridge option.
2.	Link your cryptocurrency wallet, like [MetaMask](/news/article/what-is-metamask) or any other, to it. Then, you need to sign a verification message and proceed to it by verifying the URL.
3.	It will redirect you to the bridging interface. Else, you can go to that page by selecting the option from the menu bar on the left. 
4.	Then you would need to send tokens from Ethereum to the Matic network. For this, click on the ‘Deposit’ tab and select the token you have to bridge. 
5.	After that, enter the amount as per your preference and proceed with ‘Transfer.’
6.	Next, it will show you important reminders about what it supports and what it does not. After reading that, you can go ahead with ‘Continue’.
7.	Then you will be able to review the estimated transaction fee. Here check all the transaction details and proceed with ‘Continue’.
8.	 Next, it will ask for your approval via signature. If all the details are correct, continue by clicking ‘Confirm’.
9.	Your transaction will take a few minutes. Meanwhile, you can monitor its status through [Etherscan](https://etherscan.io/).  
 
[Polygon](/news/article/polygon-crypto) provides a formidable infrastructure for Ethereum-compatible blockchains whose bridging tool completes it by providing cross-chain asset transfers. It has two bridging options; PoS and Plasma. 

PoS can be ideal as it allows flexibility and supports many tokens. If you own a crypto wallet, like MetaMask, you can easily integrate it with the Polygon Bridge to transfer your assets between different blockchains.
 


Polygon Bridge Guide: Transfer Your Asset

An imminent closure is looming for [Argo blockchain](/news/article/argo-blockchain-stock) as multi-million funding has been called off. It is a Bitcoin mining services firm which is listed on NASDAQ as well as London Stock Exchange. 

On 31 October 2022, the firm released an [official statement](https://www.londonstockexchange.com/news-article/ARB/strategy-company-ops-update/15693615) in which it revealed to its stakeholders that fundraising of £24 million, which is approximately $27 million, has been cancelled. It stated that “the Company no longer believes this subscription will be consummated.”

## No assurance of a definitive deal from Argo Blockchain

It has shared that it will explore other options to secure financing. However, it does not give any assurance for definitive deals. Nonetheless, it will strive to raise enough for the following year. 

It also revealed that if it failed to secure sufficient funds, it may “become negative cash flow.” If that happens, then the firm might have to curtail its operations or move towards complete closure. 

## What steps has Argo blockchain taken to optimise liquidity?

[Argo blockchain](https://argoblockchain.com/) is taking several steps to preserve cash and increase liquidity. It has sold around 3,843 new Bitmain S19J Pro machines for around £4.8 million ($5.6 million). It was the last batch from the original Bitmain order and was planned to be installed in October 2022. Currently, the company is maintaining a hash rate capacity of 2.5 EH per second. 

Earlier, the miner firm sold out mined [BTCs](/coins/btc) to pay off its debt to the crypto investment company Galaxy Digital. The company is owned by a well-known American investor Michael Novogratz. 

In June, the firm traded around 637 Bitcoins; in July, the total number of Bitcoins sold was 887. With this move, it became one of the Bitcoin [mining firms](/news/article/mining-company) to sell mined BTCs during the extremely bear market. Other firms that also sold mined tokens included Bitfarms, Riot Blockchain, and Core Scientific.



Argo Blockchain is at risk of closure

A new blockchain is coming, adding to the [Synapse](https://synapse.network/) crypto offering. To understand why you should care about this new creation from Synapse Network, we must first define some of the technology involved. First, let’s talk about what the Synapse Protocol can do right now.

According to their website, Synapse crypto comprises an economically secure method to reach consensus on the validity of cross-chain transactions and a cross-chain messaging framework, enabling developers to build truly native cross-chain apps".

So, if the Synapse Protocol already does this, what more does it need? Well, apparently, the next step for them is to roll out the Synapse blockchain. Synapse released news that it deployed its own blockchain on 28 July.

This new blockchain is significant for developers who make cross-chain apps, and for crypto users who want to bridge their assets across chains, swap stablecoins on-chain, add to liquidity pools, and stake [ETH](/coins/eth) to earn SYN.

The Synapse Protocol was ALREADY able to do all the above for users. However, with the rollout of Synapse V2 and its own blockchain, there is now a much deeper level of fundamental security to the entire Synapse crypto ecosystem. More on this later.

Now, the new blockchain by Synapse Protocol will be an optimistic rollup, reducing fees for customers using their services.

## What is an optimistic rollup?

An ["optimistic rollup"](https://www.alchemy.com/overviews/optimistic-rollups), according to Ethereum.org, is a protocol designed to do a very important thing: reduce pressure on Ethereum by processing transactions off-chain and verifying them for fraud, then telling the network whether to accept the transaction.

It vastly improves processing speeds for users and makes things much more secure. Optimistic rollups publish transaction results on-chain, fully using [Ethereum’s verification process](https://ethereum.org/en/developers/docs/consensus-mechanisms/pos/), but store the transaction data elsewhere. This makes completing transactions much faster.

In simple terms, in an optimistic rollup, transactions are executed outside of Ethereum. What's more, the technology introduced by Synapse V2 will make transactions faster, [cost less gas](https://ethereum.org/en/developers/docs/gas/), and be more secure.

## The Synapse Chain

The basics of the Synapse Chain are defined in three protocols that are the backbone of Synapse. They are as follows:

1.	Generalized Cross-Chain Communication
2.	Optimistic Security Model
3.	Synapse Bridge

## Generalized Cross-Chain Communication

Synapse developed a generalized message system that can send data across different blockchains securely and seamlessly. Now, developers can deploy their applications on a single blockchain and communicate with multiple other chains. This has resulted in Synapse building a tool that can provide the same user experience, but from one application layer. Essentially, Synapse's generic messaging is a massive leap for combining blockchains in a universal way.

## Optimistic Verification

Synapse realizes one fact about the crypto and blockchain world: it will be multi-chain. There will be many, many blockchains, all doing different things, and all of them will need to somehow interact with one another to some degree. That's great for Synapse, who have developed excellent cross-chain infrastructure. So, what’s the problem?

Security. Many [interoperability platforms](https://finance.yahoo.com/news/top-ten-interoperability-cryptocurrencies-144813796.html) which enable cross-chain communication do not have high security standards. This changes with optimistic verification, an important part of Synapse V2. In this way, during a bridge transaction, there is a small window of time in which off-chain actors verify the transaction. This makes the...

## Synapse Bridge

Users can utilize Synapse Bridge to swap on-chain assets across more than 15 EVM and non-EVM blockchains. It supports both canonical token bridging and liquidity-based [cross-chain bridging of assets](https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/feature/The-best-cross-chain-bridges).

The Synapse Bridge has processed almost $11 billion in total volume since inception and shows little signs of slowing down. It is also available to developers for use in integrating cross-chain apps. 

There is a Synapse crypto token too. On 28 July, when Synapse released its V2 announcement, the price of Synapse crypto digital asset, SYN, spiked 32%!

[The Synapse Chain](https://synapse.mirror.xyz/L6dBb7aXIJ1Ll5_sxP2bIJxVEYNd43ZzIV6dRylQJxw) is an optimistic rollup blockchain executed with Ethereum, but it is also much more. According to their website, Synapse V2 will feature "generalized cross-chain messaging (that) enables any arbitrary data to be sent across blockchains, expanding mass-market use cases of cross-chain infrastructure to NFTS, smart contract calls...".

This is a massive development that will allow the users of the Synapse cross-chain token bridge to expand the use of Synapse in a big way – and allow them to access much more with their tokens.

## Synapse Protocol’s Impact

Cross-chain liquidity is something that is masterfully executed by Synapse. In less than one year, Synapse bridged $11 billion in volume with almost 1 million transactions. In its first year, it also served 150,000 users.

Synapse also partners with DeFi apps, allowing users to exchange assets between different blockchain games or infrastructures.


Synapse Crypto Protocol V2 Explained

Before exploring the Shiden Network price prediction, we need to understand what Shiden is.

[Shiden](https://shiden.astar.network/) is a [Kusama](https://kusama.network/)-based smart contract platform for decentralised applications (DApps). It was designed to support "layer 2" solutions, secondary frameworks built on top of existing blockchains to improve network scalability and transaction speeds. The network is intended to function as a [parachain](/news/article/polkadot-parachain-auctions) on Kusama.

Parachains are user-created blockchains linked to Kusama's Relay Chain, the network's main blockchain. The Relay Chain handles Kusama's shared security, consensus, and transaction settlements. Parachains benefit from the Relay Chain's base features by being integrated into it.

## Shiden Network: Astar's test network

The project is only the beginning of a much larger project: Astar (formerly known as Plasm). Shiden serves as a "Canarian network" or "test network" for Astar, whose goal is to provide a scalable and decentralised application development platform that defines and makes [Web 3.0](/articles/learn-moni/web-3.0-crypto) a reality.

Astar is a protocol that runs on the [Polkadot](/news/article/polkadot-price-uk) network and incorporates every feature thoroughly tested on the Shiden Network. In essence, we can say that Astar is a superset of Shiden's stable functions, with the platform serving as the space for the protocol's rapid developments.

## How Shiden works

Shiden Network architecture is divided into two layers. The base layer is a layer-1 blockchain built with Parity's Substrate framework's Substrate Runtime Module Library. The second layer is a scaling solution built on the Plasma Group's Optimistic Virtual Machine (OVM) fork.

The OVM module allows developers to customise their scaling design. Projects can use Plasma or rollup types, such as optimistic or zero-knowledge (ZK) rollups, to connect their application layers to Shiden's base layer. The layer-2 solutions store data and regularly commit state transitions on a layer-1 chain.

The base layer built using Substrate is the parachain that connects to the Polkadot Relay Chain. Shiden includes support for Substrates' native WebAssembly VM and an EVM module for smart contracts written in Solidity or Vyper.

Shiden Network also includes an X-VM (Cross Virtual Machine) that aims to make the two VMs on the network interact with one another.

## SDN - The native token

Shiden's native cryptocurrency, SDN, is used for [staking](/news/article/crypto-lending) and rewarding nodes, paying transaction fees, and rewarding DApp operators. It has a critical role in maintaining and operating the Shiden network.

SDN performs the following functions:

1.	DApp Staking: DApp Staking is a scheme that allows users to stake SDN on DApps. DApp staking enables users to earn SDN rewards while also allowing DApp developers to earn rewards that are in proportion to the number of nominations they receive.
2.	Network staking: Token holders can stake SDN on the network and act as network collators (block producers on the chain).
3.	Fees - Users pay for network actions and transactions in SDN.
4.	Layer-2 Development - On Shiden, application developers can connect SDN to their smart contracts to use or create a Layer-2 version of their applications.
5.	On-chain Governance - SDN will be used to facilitate governance activities such as proposal submission and referendum voting.

## Shiden Network price prediction

SDN, which has a $71.39 million total supply and a $30.94 million circulating supply, is currently ranked #758 in the entire cryptosystem with a price of $0.33. Currently, its market capitalisation is $10.15 million, its maximum supply is $70 million, and its total equity market capitalisation is $22.95 million.

![Shiden1.png](https://s3.eu-west-2.amazonaws.com/prod-monitalks-media/Shiden1_5247cbf6ce.png)
 
According to [DigitalCoinPrice's](https://digitalcoinprice.com/forecast/shiden-network) price prediction, SDN price is expected to reach an average of $0.35 by the end of 2022. Additionally, the data shows that SDN's price will reach $1.35 in 2025. Comparatively, the coin does not appear overly bullish until 2030, when its average value is likely around $4.60.

## Is Shiden a good investment?

Looking at the Shiden Network price prediction, there is no universal consensus on whether future SDN price movements will be positive or negative. Indeed, future potential growth depends on various factors, including announcements, new technological solutions developed by Shiden projects, the crypto environment in general, legal status, and so on. 

## Bottom line

Shiden and its sister network Astar provide a distinct offering within the Kusama/Polkadot ecosystem. Not only for the unique ability to deploy DApps on multiple chains very easily and fully integrated with Substrate technology, but also for the incentive policy for DApp creators, which no other blockchain offers.

Furthermore, the DApps Rewards system is one of the protocol's most notable features. Not only because of the tremendous support it offers DApp developers, but also because of the opportunity it provides users to nominate and place their trust in said DApps while also receiving benefits for such trust.

Shiden is a project currently under development, and its development is closely related to what Kusama can provide for its users.


Shiden Network Price Prediction

[The Polkadot ATH](https://cointelegraph.com/news/polkadot-hits-all-time-high-in-development-activity) (all-time high) in platform advancement activity was reached recently. Data from the GitHub programming repository shows that the platform acknowledged more than 500 additions daily in September, a high for the multichain protocol.

A record 26,258 messages were transferred between its parachains, according to data from Polkadot's XCM cross-consensus interoperability protocol. On Polkadot's GitHub, 14,930 developer contributions were recorded in all.

[Polkadot](https://polkadot.network/) is an open-source, multichain protocol that unites and secures a network of specialised blockchains, allowing cross-chain transfer of data or asset type, thus making blockchains interoperable. The platform was created to serve as the foundation for Web3, a decentralised internet of blockchains.

According to project developers, 66 blockchains are operational on the platform and its parachain startup network Kusama. More than 140,000 messages have been sent and received between chains across 135 communications channels since the system's launch. The Polkadot and Kusama Treasuries have distributed 346,700 KSM and 9.6 million DOT ($72.8 million) to finance budgetary requests in the ecosystem.

## Parachain slot auction

Parachains are individual layer-one blockchains that run simultaneously on Polkadot and are initially tested on Kusama. [Auctions for parachain slots](/news/article/polkadot-parachain-auctions) are in the form of equity loans, with the position going to the project with the highest bid. The first auction took place in November.

The platform has continued to auction off parachain slots to innovative projects. The most recent cryptocurrency projects to receive a parachain were the identity protocol Kilt, the metaverse infrastructure company BridgePort, and the data solution firm Integritee.

## Future roadmap

Rob Habermeier, the network founder, recently published a roadmap for enhancing the scalability of [Polkadot](/news/article/polkadot-price-uk) and Kusama. Highlights include the potential to cut parachain blocking time in half while increasing space block provided tenfold through asynchronous support, which decouples parachain extension from relay chain extension. 

If the upgrade were implemented, network speed could rise to between 100,000 and 1 million transactions per minute.

After the Polkadot ATH was reached, there is more development activity to come. By the end of the year, Kusama will be the first platform to build the asynchronous support upgrade, followed by Polkadot. Establishing a blockchain on Kusama and the simultaneous launch of smart contracts would theoretically constitute another network update planned for the impending introduction of "pay-as-you-go" parachains. By doing this, the platform's development process would speed up.


Polkadot ATH Reached in Development Activity

The South Korean Government plans to incorporate digital IDs as an app into mobile devices in the future, [according to Bloomberg](https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2022-10-16/south-korea-aims-to-boost-economy-with-digital-id-on-blockchain). The 'blockchain IDs' will be comparable to conventional resident registration cards. The report says that digital IDs will be available in 2024, with 45 million residents expecting to use the technology within two years.

## How blockchain IDs could be helpful to Korean Citizens

Hwang Seogwon, an economist at Korea's Science and Technology Policy Institute, said they could use digital IDs in finance, healthcare, taxes, and transportation. In contrast, Suh Bo Ram, Director-General of [Korea's](/news/article/samsung-south-korea-exchange) Digital Government Bureau, said the technology could help businesses that haven't yet fully transitioned online.

## Plan for the implementation of digital IDs in Korea

The plan also includes adopting a decentralised identification system. That means the government will not have access to information saved on phones, such as how and where they can use the digital IDs. 

According to the Portulans Institute, an American think tank, such technology is not new to the tech-savvy nation. South Korea ranks first among all nations using technology for life, commerce, and government. It would also not be the first blockchain-based ID system used in the country. [More than one million South Koreans have adopted a blockchain-powered driver's licence](https://techwireasia.com/2020/08/blockchain-based-drivers-licenses-hit-the-road-in-south-korea/) that functions through Korea's PASS smartphone application by August 2020.

## Will other countries follow Korea in implementing digital IDs?

While [South Korea](/news/article/daniel-shin-home-raided) is leading the way in these areas, other countries to follow soon. 

According to a June 2021 report from market research firm ReportLinker, [the blockchain identification industry will expand another $3.58 billion by 2025](https://finance.yahoo.com/news/blockchain-identity-management-market-grow-091500421.html), or a compound annual growth rate of 71%.

Brenda Gentry, CEO of Bundlesbets.com, recently told a crypto news website that regardless of how competent and decentralised the ID management system is, it would still require recognition from government bodies or corporations.



Blockchain IDs to be Given to Koreans

[SOS](https://www.finder.com/uk/how-to-buy-opendao) will not be available for purchase on an exchange in the United Kingdom. So, where can you buy OpenDAO in the UK?

Users can still buy SOS by using a decentralised exchange (DEX). Decentralised exchanges run on blockchains such as Ethereum and are essentially exchanges allowing users to trade any asset with one another directly.

1.	Find SOS on a decentralised exchange and ensure OpenDAO is tradable for ETH, Ethereum's native asset. Popular DEXs include Uniswap, SushiSwap, and 1INCH. 

2.	Using an exchange such as CoinJar, purchase ETH to trade for SOS. Users must buy enough ETH to swap for SOS and ETH to cover Ethereum network transaction fees (gas). You can find out how much gas fees currently cost by using a service like Etherscan. 

3.	To connect to the DEX, deposit the ETH into a web 3.0 wallet such as MetaMask.

4.	Follow the on-screen instructions to trade ETH for SOS on the DEX of your choice. Users must ensure they have enough ETH in your wallet to cover gas costs. 

5.	Wait for the transaction to complete before receiving the SOS tokens in your wallet.

6.	Users can now keep the tokens in their web 3.0 wallet or transfer them to a more secure location, such as a hardware wallet.

## Best OpenDAO wallets to store your SOS

Investors can keep their SOS on the exchange they bought it on or move it to a personal wallet:

•	Some people prefer to use their wallets to ensure total ownership of their assets or to use them in conjunction with other applications such as DeFi services. 

•	Hardware wallets are regarded as the safest type of cryptocurrency wallet because they use a physical device to improve security in various ways.

## Is OpenDAO a good investment?

Purchasing cryptocurrency can be a risky endeavour, but there are precautions users can take to reduce risk, such as conducting thorough research about [OpenDAO](/news/article/daomaker-guide) before purchasing: 

Investors can spend time researching a coin before deciding to invest, especially if the coin's price is seemingly spiking for no apparent reason. 

Stick to reputable exchanges: Stick to more well-known crypto exchanges to avoid losing money in a scam. Try to store cryptocurrency in a hardware wallet instead of on an exchange.

Investigate the coin's creators and developers: A frequent red flag is anonymous teams. You might want to consider alternative cryptocurrency investments if you can't find information on the coin's creator.

## How to trade, convert or sell OpenDAO

Users can convert or sell their SOS on the same exchange where they purchased it: 

1.	Sign into the exchange where SOS is.
2.	Compare crypto exchanges to convert or sell your [OpenDAO](/news/article/nrch-crypto-explained) if you keep it in a digital wallet. 
3.	Select Sell or Convert and enter a sell order. 
4.	Select the amount of SOS you want to convert or sell. 
5.	Confirm the selling price and fees, and then complete the sale of OpenDAO. 
6.	Complete your transaction and save your SOS in a wallet.

## OpenDAO Vision

1.	Maintain USDO health:

•	Maintain [peg](https://opendao.gitbook.io/whitepaper-v4/introduction/dao-mission-statement).

•	Increase liquidity.

•	Use only appropriate collateral to support USDO borrowing.

2.	Increase the circulation of USDO. Increase the amount of USDO in the market by pre-seeding various lending markets.
3.	Boost USDO Adoption 
4.	Encourage native use cases, such as on-chain applications, off-ramps, and real-world acceptance. 

The DAO is responsible for ensuring that only high-quality collateral is whitelisted. Following this goal, OPEN token holders can stake OPEN for veOPEN, which grants them voting rights in governance matters such as minting more USDO, determining which collateral on the whitelist is accepted, and seeding whitelisted markets. 

veOPEN holders receive mint and interest fees generated by the OPEN protocol. If a whitelisted collateral market experiences a black swan collapse, treasury OPEN must be sold to cover any losses.

After a three-month lock, OPEN locked in to create veOPEN can only be unstacked. Only committed OPEN holders have the right to vote on governance and fees. 

## Use Cases for OpenDAO

As a stablecoin, USDO is for whatever purpose the user desires. On various AMMs, different USDO token pairs allow the swap of USDO against other tokens such as BUSD, USDC, and USDT. OpenDAO is working to develop various native use cases for USDO.


How to Purchase OpenDAO in the UK

Avalanche bridging is mainly known for connecting ERC-20 tokens between Avalanche and Ethereum. But now, its cross-chain ability has expanded to several blockchains other than [Ethereum](/news/tag/ethereum). The latest addition to the list of network's compatible tokens is Bitcoin. 

Now, the platform allows [cross-chain support for transferring Bitcoins](https://medium.com/avalancheavax/avalanche-bridge-adds-native-bitcoin-support-6306236fb506). This means you can trade BTCs and get exposure to Avalanche's ecosystem. Let's look at how your native BTC can be bridged to the AVAX platform!

## What's Avalanche bridging?

Avalanche bridging is the capability of the network to work as a cross-chain. It allows the trading of different ERC-20 and ERC-721 tokens on the platform. The contract chain or C-chain of AVAX enables the support for multiple tokens. This has enabled the platform to grow as a diversified ecosystem for DApps.

The bridge was launched last year and developed using the [web3](/articles/learn-moni/web-3.0-crypto) infrastructure of ChainSafe. However, it was limited only to the Ethereum blockchain. But, several other network tokens now enjoy compatibility with the [AVAX](/news/article/avax-vs-solana) network.

## Avalanche bridging for Bitcoin (BTC)

AVAX blockchain recently also initiated support for native Bitcoin through Bridge. Now, [BTC](/coins/btc) holders can also experience different services of the AVAX ecosystem. On Avalanche they can enjoy secure BTC transactions along with the opportunity to earn better yields. 

Like other tokens, Bitcoin is also represented as an ERC20 on the c-chain. The symbol for this token is 'BTC.b,' which indicates that it is bridged from the Bitcoin blockchain. These tokens are backed by BTCs locked in the Bridge enclave. 

It uses the innovative technology of Intel SGX (Software Guard Extensions). It is cutting-edge tech that helps solve various challenges of cross-chain transfers making the bridge tamper-proof and highly secure for BTC transactions. 

## How to bridge Bitcoin to Avalanche?

The first step for Avalanche bridging of BTC is to install the [Core Wallet extension](https://chrome.google.com/webstore/detail/core/agoakfejjabomempkjlepdflaleeobhb) on your browser. Next, open the Core app and click the 'plus' button on the right. Here you will find different options, look for the 'bridge' one and click it.

![avalanche 1.png](https://s3.eu-west-2.amazonaws.com/prod-monitalks-media/avalanche_1_8acb4650a3.png)
 
Now, you can change the blockchain to Bitcoin from the dropdown menu. After that, you can transact BTCs to your Core wallet. You can do that by clicking on the 'add Bitcoin' option under the selected blockchain. It will show your BTC address on which you can receive payments. Note it down and send BTCs to it.

![avalanche 2.png](https://s3.eu-west-2.amazonaws.com/prod-monitalks-media/avalanche_2_347e71b7f1.png)
 
Once you have sent the amount to your Core address, add it for bridging. After that, click on 'Transfer' to convert your tokens into bridged ones. And finally, you will be ready to use them on the AVAX blockchain. For further clarification, you can follow [this tutorial](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JG1y_aFeMJc&t=25s).

## In a nutshell

The Avalanche network's introduction of cross-chain features for Bitcoins through its bridge will help users experience innovative DeFi projects on the AVAX blockchain. Using the Core wallet, you can easily convert your BTCs into ERC20 bridged tokens. The SGX technology is one of the unique features, making it a complete platform for native BTC transfers.  



Everything to know about Bitcoin Avalanche bridging

The asset management behemoth, [BlackRock Inc](https://www.blackrock.com/corporate), has rolled out a blockchain technology exchange-traded fund ([ETF](/news/article/crypto-etfs)). The firm has extended its services to European consumers, giving traditional markets more exposure to investing in blockchain companies. 

The latest BlackRock ETF has been named [iShares Blockchain Technology UCITS ETF (BLKC)](https://www.ishares.com/ch/institutional/en/products/328618/ishares-blockchain-technology-ucits-etf). The product was introduced on September 27 and consists of 50 holdings. Among them, 35 companies are blockchain-related, while others firms aid the blockchain industry. 

## BlackRock ETF offering EU investors exposure to blockchain

Previously, the Blackrock introduced a similar ETF product in the US. Now, it is seeking expansion in European market. 

The firm's product strategist for thematic and sector ETFs, Omar Moufti, has said that the new offering will allow customers to interact with leading companies in the distributed ledger ecosystem. 

Moufti further pointed out that these technologies will "become increasingly relevant for our clients as use cases develop in scope, scale and complexity."

## Blockchain BlackRock ETF holdings

There are 50 holdings, including around 75% of crypto exchanges and mining firms. On the other hand, firms supporting the blockchains make up the remaining 25%. Moreover, this new BlackRock ETF does not deal in crypto investments directly.

The top five holdings are [Coinbase](/news/article/blackrock-crypto) (13.20%), the fintech firm Block (11.40%), Riot (10.50%), Marathon Digital Holdings (11.13%) and USD cash (13.00%).

Other companies the new BlackRock ETF invests in include twenty-three IT firms, six financial, one communication, and one industrial company. 

## A Metaverse ETF is in the works

Bloomberg recently [reported](https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2022-09-29/blackrock-plans-another-crypto-etf-after-feeble-iblc-debut#xj4y7vzkg) that BlackRock plans to introduce a unique exchange-traded fund related to Metaverse, which may include virtual or social media platforms. Its ticker and fees are yet to be confirmed. 

Earlier in August, the world's largest asset manager made its way into the crypto space by offering its institutional clients [Bitcoin spot](/news/article/blackrock-investing) exposure. Now, it is working on several other products related to digital assets to expand in the market. 



New BlackRock ETF invest in 35 crypto-related companies

[Pantera Capital's](https://panteracapital.com/press/) founder and CEO, Dan Morehead, said the hedge fund intended to raise $1.25 billion for a second [blockchain](/articles/learn-moni/what-is-blockchain) fund.

Morehead [said at a Singapore conference](https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2022-09-28/pantera-capital-s-morehead-seeks-1-25-billion-for-blockchain-fund#xj4y7vzkg) on Wednesday that the company's goal is to close the blockchain fund by May. According to reports, the fund will invest in digital tokens and equity to draw institutional investors.

 ![pantera.png](https://s3.eu-west-2.amazonaws.com/prod-monitalks-media/pantera_60f4e2d7bc.png)

Additionally, the CEO mentioned that he wants to purchase more shares of some of the businesses in which Pantera has already invested but whose valuations have declined. This includes companies like [FTX](/news/article/what-is-ftx), Anchorage Digital, Amber Group, Coinbase, and Flashbots.

The fund's goal is to support investors in [cryptocurrencies](/articles/learn-moni/cryptocurrency-price-charts) who might be beginning to lose hope due to price declines in 2022, which have been further impacted by the general decline in global financial markets.

The Pantera CEO said, 
"We want to provide liquidity for people that are kind of giving up because we're still very bullish for the next 10 or 20 years."

"Unfortunately, crypto pricing has become correlated with risk assets, which I don't think has to be true. I hope that soon crypto will decouple from the macro markets."

## Pantera Capital investment funds

The investment firm has grown to be one of the most active in the crypto space since its launch in 2013, with currently $4.5 billion in assets under management.

There are currently five funds available: venture, Bitcoin, early-stage token, liquid token, and blockchain funds.

The first blockchain fund launched in 2021 to raise $600 million. The firm announced in January 2022 that it had secured more than $1 billion in commitments. This active investment invests in a mix of venture equity, early-stage tokens, and liquid tokens.

Morehead claims that the firm's second fund will invest in equity and digital tokens. Pantera anticipates that investments will be closed in May 2023.

pantera capital logo blockchain fund on bitcoin

Pantera Capital set to raise $1.25B blockchain fund

The [Cardano (ADA)](https://cardano.org/) network welcomes a new update, Vasil. After the [Ethereum Merge](/news/article/ethereum-the-merge) last week, on Thursday, September 22, the Cardano hard fork was successfully released. It is the most significant upgrade on the blockchain since last year’s smart contract update. It is likely to enhance the capability and performance of the blockchain. 

Charles Hoskinson, the co-founder of the network, announced the deployment of the Vasil in a [live Twitter space](https://twitter.com/IOHK_Charles/status/1573055811382829056). Meanwhile, [Input Output Hong Kong (IOHK)](https://iohk.io/), a blockchain firm, also proclaimed the procedure’s success. 

In a tweet, the firm said the launch took place at 21:44:00 UTC and collaborated with the Cardano foundation.

![cardano.png](https://s3.eu-west-2.amazonaws.com/prod-monitalks-media/cardano_306c5cc934.png)
 
Previously, IOHK also disclosed one significant feature of ADA’s recent update: block transmission will be possible without complete validation.

## What is the Cardano hard fork upgrade?

A hard fork is a blockchain split that results in two branches of the same protocol. It validates previously invalid transactions and blocks or vice-versa to develop a new version. There can be several reasons behind this update, like the performance limitations. 

In [Cardano’s](/news/tag/cardano) case, the Vasil update improved the network’s performance. It is to enhance the transaction speed and lower the transaction cost. Moreover, its Plutus smart contract will be upgraded to improve the decentralised applications.  

Though the Vasil has been deployed, the full features of this advancement will be accessible to the developers after September 27, as the upgrade is a lengthy five-day procedure. 

Before it went live, Charles Hoskinson said that the [Cardano hard fork](/news/article/cardano-vasil-hardfork) is one of the hardest to execute for the developers. This is the reason it got delayed and rescheduled several times. Initially, it was planned to take place in June but got postponed because of bugs in the mainnet causing compatibility issues. 
 




The Cardano hard fork upgrade goes live

AvengerDAO is a new community-driven security project that BNB Chain has created, the native blockchain of Binance. Its purpose is to protect users from fraud, harmful actors, and possible exploits.

[The decentralized autonomous organization (DAO)](/news/article/daomaker-guide) with a focus on security was established in collaboration with well-known crypto projects and industry leaders in the field of information security, such as Certik, TrustWallet, PancakeSwap, and Opera, to name just a few.

A passive application programming interface (API) called Meter, a subscription-based alert system called Watch, and a programmable fund management system called Vault make up most of the AvengerDAO security endeavour.

These three core components are referred to collectively as "Vault." AvengerDAO will add layer protection whenever a user on the BNB Chain interacts with any applications or counterparties. The Meter API system retrieves security ratings on smart contracts, domains, and addresses and notifies users if there is a weakness in the system's security.

## BNB Chain unveils a new mechanism managed by the network's community

The Watch system provides real-time notifications to users about active exploits. The Vault functions as an escrow service, holding users' assets until certain pre-determined criteria are satisfied before releasing those funds.

[Gwendolyn Regina, investment director at BNB Chain](https://cointelegraph.com/news/bnb-chain-launches-a-new-community-run-security-mechanism-to-protect-users), explained how the community would be responsible for security decisions. She also stated that the community would survey existing security auditing service providers to determine the types of common security vulnerabilities that are currently present. She said, "We believe that when other expert security audit firms become members of the DAO, we will jointly obtain a greater understanding of the security landscape, and we will work toward improving it."

From the beginning of September, users of PancakeSwap can retrieve the security ratings of smart contracts with which they are interacting if certain members of AvengerDAO, such as the security decentralized application (DApp) Hashdit, have already released an integration with PancakeSwap. 

BNB Chain has placed a particular emphasis on the safety of its users and has introduced several new safety measures in the previous few months. Before the AvengerDAO debut, the BNB Chain introduced Dappbay with an innovative feature called Red Alarm that launched before the AvengerDAO launch. This function analyzes the risk associated with the project in real time and notifies users of potentially dangerous DApps. Within a month after its introduction, the DappBay Red Alarm function recognized more than fifty on-chain projects as a significant threat to users.

During July alone, the safety feature assessed 3,300 contracts. AvengerDAO aims to become a multidimensional security initiative focusing on detecting real-time vulnerabilities and exploits, in contrast to Red Alarm, which was only intended to flag vulnerable smart contracts and projects that posed a financial risk. Red Alarm was created to identify projects and smart contracts that posed a financial risk.



BNB Chain introduces a new security system

The Raiden Network token (RDN) is the native token of the Raiden Network, an off-chain scaling solution for the Ethereum blockchain. It is similar to Bitcoin's Lightning Network. It allows users to initiate fast and low-cost transactions.

## The network

The Raiden Network, unlike the Ethereum blockchain, does not require consensus for its operations. It instead uses digital signatures, and hash-locks called balance proofs to enable token transfers between network participants.

The protocol has a few advantages that make it a worthwhile project.

•	Instant transfers: users can instantaneously send, receive and confirm token transfers. Token transfers are as fast as sending text messages.

•	Low transaction fees: Transaction fees are pretty low. Low transaction fees allow users easily transfer small amounts of ERC20-based tokens.

•	Increased privacy: compared to the Ethereum blockchain, the Raiden protocol provides better privacy levels.

## The token

RDN coins are ERC20 cryptocurrencies used to pay for various services in the Raiden protocol. They can be used for access to micropayments and API (Application Programming Interface). They are also a reward incentive used to reward users for contributing to the protocol.

The tokens were launched on October 18th, 2017. Only 100,000,000 of them will ever exist. As of writing, 66,793,931 RDNs are in public circulation.

According to [Coinmarketcap](https://coinmarketcap.com/currencies/raiden-network-token/), each Raiden Network token is currently worth $0.06096. They are ranked 1,005th largest cryptocurrencies by market cap. RDN is available on several exchanges, including Gate.io, Bancor Network, Tokenmy, and CoinDCX.

It is worth noting that RDNs can't be bought directly with fiat money. To buy them, you'll first have to buy other cryptocurrencies like ETH or BTC from a fiat-to-crypto exchange. Once you have your ETH or BTC, you'll go to an exchange that lists RDNs and use your ETH or BTC to buy them.

As they are ERC20 tokens, you can store them in any ERC20-compatible wallet, including MetaMask, MyEtherWallet, Trezor, or Ledger.

## Price prediction

RDN coins are currently experiencing a bear run. However, several crypto prediction platforms believe they are worth holding.

Priceprediction.net predicts they may trade at an average price of $0.12 in 2023, $0.17 in 2024, and $0.23 in 2025. If you hold on to them for longer, the site predicts they may trade above $1 in 2029 and above $2 in 2031.

Digitalcoinprice is not as positive as Priceprediction.net, but it does predict some slight positive price appreciation. According to the site, the cryptocurrency might trade at an average price of $0.0870 in 2023, $0.0906 in 2024, and $0.11 in 2025. 

## Bottom line

Overall, the RDN project looks like a promising solution to the scalability issues faced by Ethereum and other [cryptocurrencies](/trade). At the same time, most investors agree that RDN is worth considering as a long-term investment option. Before you spend any of your hard-earned money on this cryptocurrency, do your research. All information shared here is the author's opinion and should not be perceived as financial advice.




Raiden Network token (RDN): What you should know

[Bitgert](https://bitgert.com/) is a network platform that aims to create a quick blockchain business for users. It is an engineering company with one of the fastest blockchains, processing 100,000 transactions per second (TPS). Their blockchain launched in July 2021, and in the short time since it has been in use, its popularity has increased significantly. 

It is a blockchain that provides high speed and almost no transaction fees. The fastest blockchain as of 2022, its expanding ecosystem boasts projects for Defi, NFTs, [Metaverse](/articles/learn-moni/top-metaverse-crypto-coins), Web#, and other technologies. The ecosystem also includes the BRISE Wallet, an iOS and Android-compatible wallet that supports BRC20, ERC20, and BEP20.

## The token BRISE

BRISE- the Bitgert coin is the chain's native and utility token. The BRISE dApp Wallet acts as a peer-to-peer payment method. The token's use cases for holders go beyond simply buying, selling, and holding. They want it to be used as a global utility payment system. The blockchain's buyback concept makes BRISE a very appealing token to hold. Token holders receive 5% of the contract's buyback tax. Investors tend to buy and hold the coin, increasing its demand and price. It has 420 quadrillion tokens in circulation and a maximum supply of one quintillion coins. 

## Product offerings of the Bitgert Chain

The platform promises ongoing partnerships with various chains to increase cross-chain compatibility in its ecosystem's future developments. Here is the following list of some of the chain's promising offerings:

1.  Bitgert audit solution
Bitgert Audit is a [blockchain](/articles/learn-moni/what-is-blockchain) security solution that provides free contract audits to any project wishing to secure blockchains and smart contracts.

2.  BRISE wallet
It is a DApp multi-coin cryptocurrency wallet that was introduced in October 2021 and a portal to decentralised blockchain applications. Users can currently swap, send, receive, and store a variety of crypto assets. On this wallet, trading BEP20/ERC20 compatible tokens is quick and highly secure.

3.  BRISE staking 
Staking allows users to earn passively. This programme enables BRISE token holders to stake their tokens and earn 4% of transaction fees in BUSD rewards.

4.  Bitgert bridge
Users can transfer assets from Binance Smart Chain Mainnet to Bitgert Chain using this product offering. It will also enable other blockchain developers to migrate to Bitgert, where they will benefit from lower gas fees and a faster chain.

5.  BRISE swap
It is a quick and inexpensive DEX on the Binance Smart Chain and enables users to swap and trade tokens and coins between blockchains. 

## Is Bitgert coin a worthy investment?

Bitgert is a crypto engineering firm with the fastest blockchain, processing 100,000 transactions per second (TPS). BRISE, the blockchain's native token, has seen tremendous success since it was first traded in July last year. Expectations for the token are high, as improvements to BItgert's chain should see it perform well this year. Despite the above-average performance, the token's journey to one cent remains long.
 



A comprehensive guide to Bitgert platform and coin

Near protocol is on the run to become the quickest digital ledger in the world. 

The tier 1 blockchain network offers a platform for the [creation of decentralized applications by developers](https://www.coindesk.com/learn/creation of decentralized applications by developers what-is-a-dapp-decentralized-apps-explained/) (DApps). Since Ethereum is the most widely used layer one [blockchain](/news/article/blockchain-use-cases), this technology is Ethereum's new rival.

The token's price, which climbed to an all-time high of $20.44 in January 2022, is built around the concept of sharding, which attempts to break the system infrastructure into several pieces, also known as nodes, only need to process a subset of the network's transactions.

The network NeaCollective built uses a method called [Proof-of-Stake](https://cointelegraph.com/news/inside-the-blockchain-developer-s-mind-proof-of-stake-blockchain-consensus) (PoS) that supports smart contracts, thereby allowing efficient energy use and transactional cost. 

## Key takeaways under Near protocol

·	Near protocol is a tear one blockchain system that has implemented sharding to increase transactional throughput.

·	Between March and April 2022, the Near token's value doubled to more than $17. 

·	The network uses Proof-of-Stake as a staking technique to encourage wide-scale participation among its users. 

## How does the Near protocol achieve this?

The proliferation of decentralized applications (DApps) in the Bitcoin sector, including everything from games to financial services, has skyrocketed. But it's also apparent that scale is still a problem for most blockchains. 

It is no news that many digital ledgers have scalability issues, especially more established ones like Bitcoin and Ethereum. The root source of the problems is their inability to quickly process enormous volumes of transactions at reasonable prices.

This problem is being addressed by initiatives like this fast-growing technology, which creates a centralized system with a different architecture called [sharding](https://www.gemini.com/cryptopedia/glossary#sharding) to solve the issue. It entails segmenting the blockchain into smaller chains that are being worked on by various validators and that are frequently linked to one another. The network effectively avoids the issue of growing too large by slicing itself into smaller pieces.

This innovation is by no means the very first ecosystem to use sharding. It has been considered an Ethereum fix since 2013 and, as a result, claims that it offers "infinite scalability," which means that the number of transactions occurring on the framework can grow indefinitely without slowing down.

Sharding allows the technology to divide the cryptographic ledger into smaller, easier-to-manage chunks, lowering the computing effort, lightening the network's pressure and boosting transaction throughput. 

This protocol follows other Proof-of-Stake (PoS) programs with extremely cheap transaction fees compared to other blockchains like Bitcoin and Ethereum. 

According to the [Near](https://docs.near.org/concepts/basics/transactions/gas) website, the cost of transacting money is approximately 4.5 x 10-5 native tokens, making their transactions almost as inexpensive as those of Solana. 

As earlier mentioned, the digital application uses a PoS system against Ethereum's [Proof-of-Work](https://ethereum.org/en/developers/docs/consensus-mechanisms/pow/) (PoW). However, despite its features, the protocol still has much to prove as Ethereum's opponent. Others have been around for longer and are becoming popular; two of the most well-known are Solana and Polkadot, whose native tokens are SOL and DOT, respectively. 



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