Investors look forward to the highly anticipated [Ethereum Merge](/news/article/ethereum-merge-news) in the crypto market tomorrow. The Ethereum blockchain will move from Proof-of-Work (PoW) to a much more efficient consensus mechanism, Proof-of-Stake (PoS). This transformation may help the blockchain to become a highly efficient ecosystem as its energy consumption is expected to be reduced by 99.95%. 

The merge will transition the ecosystem into Ethereum 2.0. This [new version](/news/article/ethereum-merge) is expected to be more secure, sustainable, and energy-saving. 

However, investors are still speculating how this merger will turn out. If you are also curious, here are all the details regarding the [Ethereum Merge](https://ethereum.org/en/upgrades/merge/#wen-merge) date and the predicted outcomes. 

## Ethereum Merge date

The expected [Ethereum Merge](/news/article/eth-merge-regulation) date is tomorrow- Thursday, September 15, 2022. The exact timing of the completion of the merger will depend on the network’s hash rate. It will be concluded when the network processes the Terminal Total Difficulty (TTD). 

At the time of this writing, over 20 hours are remaining for the completion. You can also check the precise Ethereum Merge date and timing via the Google countdown. 
 
![eth merge date.png](https://s3.eu-west-2.amazonaws.com/prod-monitalks-media/eth_merge_date_c3ef9f95a2.png)

## The expected outcomes

As mentioned earlier, the reason for transforming the consensus mechanism from PoW to PoS is to limit energy consumption. With this development, its ecosystem is assumed to become 99.95% energy efficient. It may reduce the overall carbon footprint by converting it into an eco-friendly blockchain. 

Energy efficiency may also help the blockchain to become more scalable. This will make it a sustainable ecosystem. Moreover, its transaction speed and security are also likely to be improved with this upgrade. 

![eth merge date 2.png](https://s3.eu-west-2.amazonaws.com/prod-monitalks-media/eth_merge_date_2_e0afc48601.png)
 
The [Nansen](https://www.nansen.ai/) and Kaiko analytic firms are closely studying the developments of this upgrade. The Kaiko report has shown that since July 2021, the funding rates for ETH have been negative. Furthermore, the traders are moving towards futures markets instead of spot markets. This is to gain more exposure before the upgrade. 

![eth merge date 3.png](https://s3.eu-west-2.amazonaws.com/prod-monitalks-media/eth_merge_date_3_febbb27879.png)
 
On the other hand, Nansen’s report studied that crypto whales consistently accumulate ETH, regardless of the market’s downward trends. The report points out that the investors are optimistic about an increase in price after the merger.  




Ethereum Merge: Date, expected outcomes & risks

The WETH vs ETH debate is one of the hottest in the crypto circle. People often think that both tokens have the same value. This brings up the question, why use [WETH](https://weth.io/) rather than ETH?

Ether is the second largest cryptocurrency on the market, built for the [Ethereum blockchain](https://ethereum.org/en/). However, the wrapped Ethereum (WETH) is only a representation of ETH and has the same value. However, it is an ERC-20 token that can be used on numerous blockchains.  

Still confused? Here you can learn how they differ and what is the use of Ethereum’s wrapped version. Let’s dive in!

## Understanding wrapped tokens

Before we move on to WETH vs ETH differences, it is crucial to understand what wrapped tokens are. These tokens are somewhat like stablecoins but backed by another digital currency instead of a fiat currency. 

The central concept behind developing wrapped coins is that they can be used in different ecosystems. They solve one of the biggest problems for crypto developers and investors. They offer them interoperability. 

If you have a native token of a blockchain that is only compatible with the particular blockchain, you would not be able to use it on others. That’s why smart contract coins are employed. As these work on a set standard like ERC20, many other blockchains can support them.

## WETH vs ETH: The difference

Now that you know the concept behind wrapped tokens, it is easier to understand the difference between WETH and ETH. 

Ether is one of the oldest crypto, developed before the token standards. [The Ethereum Request for Comments 20 (ERC20)](https://ethereum.org/en/developers/docs/standards/tokens/erc-20/) technical standard was introduced in 2015, and the digital coin itself does not follow this standard. That’s why other blockchains cannot support the token. 

For this reason, wrapped Ethereum was launched. This allows you to use Ether’s representation on other blockchains. This version helps with the decentralised apps (DApps) on other networks. Also, it helps in NFT trading on different networks. So, even though you cannot use Ether directly, you can use a version on other networks.

## WETH vs ETH: Which is better?

In essence, both these tokens are the same. Ethereum is the second-most valuable crypto with a comprehensive ecosystem. On the other hand, a wrap of Ether can be pretty handy if you have to trade fungible or non-fungible tokens on different ecosystems. That’s why the choice between them would depend on the usage purpose. 

However, if your primary goal is an investment, then going for Ethereum would be ideal. After all, Ether is one of the [altcoins to watch in 2022](/news/article/altcoins-to-watch-2022).

## Bottom line

The wrap of a coin in a smart contract provides compatibility with other blockchains. Though there is no difference between the two coins, wrap versions provided interoperability. Therefore, Ether’s wrap is easy to use on other networks. You can easily convert your ETH to WETH from any cryptocurrency exchange without losing value.



WETH vs ETH: How do they differ?

Chainalysis, the crypto analytics company, released a report concerning ether price prediction, which says that [Ether's price may decouple](https://cointelegraph.com/news/ether-price-could-decouple-from-other-crypto-post-merge-chainalysis) from other crypto assets after the Merge, with staking yields possibly driving significant institutional adoption.

According to a report released on the 7th of September by Chainalysis, the upcoming Ethereum upgrade will give institutional investors access to staking yields comparable to those of some securities, such as bonds and commodities, while also becoming much more environmentally friendly.

Since treasury bond yields offer much less in comparison, the report stated that ETH staking is expected to provide stakers with a 10-15% yield annually, making it an "appealing bond alternative for investors."

As per Chainalysis data, the number of institutional ETH stakers — those who have staked $1 million or more — has "been steadily increasing" from less than 200 in January 2021 to around 1,100 in August this year.

According to the firm, if this number grows faster following [the Merge](/news/article/ethereum-merge), it will support the hypothesis that institutional investors "do indeed see Ethereum staking as a good profitable strategy."

Staked ETH is currently locked up in a smart contract that cannot be withdrawn from until the Shanghai update happens around six to twelve months after the Merge.

As a result, the staked ETH market is currently illiquid, prompting some staking service providers to offer synthetic assets that represent the value of the staked Ether; however, "those synthetics don't always maintain a 1:1 peg," the firm claims.

The report states, "The Shanghai upgrade will allow users to withdraw staked Ether at any time, increasing liquidity for stakers and making staking a more appealing proposition overall."

According to the Ethereum Foundation, following the upgrade, the Ethereum blockchain's proof-of-stake transition will reduce energy consumption requirements by up to 99%.

## Ether price prediction: ConsenSys report

ConsenSys, the company behind the MetaMask wallet and founded by Ethereum co-founder Joseph Lubin, released a similar report this week examining the "impact of the Merge on Institutions."

The report expresses similar sentiments about ETH staking rewards and environmental sustainability attracting institutions. Still, it also emphasises the importance of the PoS Ethereum chain "producing stronger security guarantees for institutional investors" and ETH's potential to become a deflationary asset.
 



Ether price prediction: ETH price could 'decouple'

According to a recent [report published by the International Monetary Fund (IMF)](https://www.crypto-news-flash.com/imf-report-says-crypto-assets-are-no-longer-niche-products-calls-for-comprehensive-regulation/), crypto assets have shifted from being specialized products to being more widely used in recent years (IMF). Therefore, the government must adopt more specific policies to manage the industry.

The report's co-authors, Aditya Narain (director of capital markets at the IMF) and Marina Moretti, his assistant, stated that crypto assets are now valuable as payment tools, speculative investments, and hedges against weak currencies. Both of these observations were made in the report.

In addition, the authors mentioned that the recent failures of virtual asset providers (crypto exchanges, issuers, and hedge funds) constitute the impetus for regulators to adopt applicable crypto policies.

However, Narain and Moretti point out that various challenges make it difficult for regulators to design proper BTC rules. These challenges include the inability of regulators to use their talents effectively, the rapid evolution of the market, and the effort to monitor the actions of the market.

The regulatory bodies have several competing goals, and their resources are quite limited. Because of this, they are having trouble acquiring the knowledge and capabilities necessary to keep up with the rapid rate of industrial change.

The paper also issues a call to action to the various regulatory bodies, urging them to adopt a unified and coordinated strategy regarding cryptocurrency regulation. As a result, there is the potential for a global regulatory framework consistent with cryptocurrencies.

IMF's Narain and Moretti observed that crypto regulation is a "white whale" due to rapid innovation, inconsistent nomenclature, and a lack of staffing and data collecting, and this refers to the ETH merge. So, what are some of the options?

## IMF warns that BTC regulators face many challenges

The above authors also argued that standard financial regulation does not cover various issues of BTC legislation. As a result, they propose that the process of creating the policies be distributed among the many regulators.

The regulators will then be able to merge the policies into a single worldwide crypto policy that is comprehensive. Some people may concentrate on the BTC actors, such as those who build protocols, mine cryptocurrencies, and validate transactions. Others can focus on the safety of consumers, the integrity of the financial system, or both. 

There have been multiple meetings organized by global financial authorities to discuss the most effective methods for regulating the BTC industry. Within the next month and a half, Europe intends to publish the final text of the Markets in Crypto Assets (MiCA) BTC regulation that has received significant attention.

The United States' response to the most pressing concerns regarding BTC business is proposed legislation called the "responsible financial innovation act." Even MPs opposed to BTC, who had previously pushed for a complete prohibition on the use of cryptocurrencies, now embrace the idea of regulating the market rather than outright prohibiting it.

US Congressman [Brad Sherman is the latest anti-crypto congressman to change his position](/news/article/us-crypto-congress-ban), shifting from calling for a complete ban on cryptocurrency to calling for the sector to be regulated. Sherman believes that an absolute prohibition cannot be enacted since the industry has amassed so much wealth and power in recent years. If the authorities consider the recommendations made by the IMF in this study, it will be in everyone's best interest, including investors, players, ETH merge, and regulators.



ETH merge is the obstacle to crypto regulation

It is a [platform](https://changelly.com/blog/gala-price-prediction/#What_Is_GALAnbsp) that aspires to revolutionise the gaming industry by restoring power to gamers. Currently, gamers spend numerous hours playing the game and investing in its in-game purchases, which can be removed anytime. Users may use Gala to purchase things, upgrades, and other in-game assets and as the governance token.

## When was the Gala coin launched?

The project's native token is already popular among gamers and cryptocurrency fans. The play-to-earn principle is applied here: the more tickets you earn, the more you play. Officials noted that it allows them to make free-to-play games lucrative while providing gamers more control over NFT in-game assets. Aside from being a fun and easy method to earn cryptocurrency, they also offer the opportunity to participate in the gaming industry's future by allowing players to vote on critical game development choices.

The ecosystem powers all transactions inside the ecosystem. It offers a diverse selection of games to cater to all sorts of gamers, with all transaction data recorded on the blockchain. The token also powers the marketplace, where players may purchase and trade in-game things. Like an ERC-20 token, users can save [Gala](/news/article/gala-games-explained) on any ERC-20 wallet. The network will let users purchase, sell, or exchange assets using the token.

## Is the Gala coin a good investment?

Firstly, because the token is still relatively new, there is room for price growth. Secondly, the token's organisation has prior expertise in the gaming and blockchain sectors, giving them a distinct viewpoint on applying blockchain technology to produce a more efficient and user-friendly experience. 

Thirdly, they have already worked with several well-known companies in the gaming business, giving them an advantage over their competitors. Finally, factors such as the growing popularity of NFTs and crypto games indicate that this currency is in high demand.

There are only 50 billion tokens, making it an excellent investment: the token's value may increase as demand develops. The game has over 1.3 million players, and the community is growing. The token's staff is continually enhancing the games ecosystem and increasing the number of Gala games accessible, making it an ideal long-term investment with price growth potential.

## Gala coin price prediction

The circulating quantity of Gala tokens is around 7 billion tokens. On the cryptocurrency market, the token achieved an all-time high of $0.8367 on November 26, 2021. It traded in September 2020 for its minimal value of $0.00149.

 The coin's average price will most likely be $1. However, according to projections, this will take at least eight years.



An in-depth look into Gala coin token and its use

Stakemoon coin is an Ethereum-based token that aims to become the cryptocurrency of choice for online gaming. Within this space, there are many problems that need to be addressed.

Gaming platforms charge high transaction fees and offer a limited selection of games. Users have to deposit funds before playing games, which is inconvenient for some players who might only have small amounts of money.

It's also not easy to get rid of tokens once you've lost them in a game - unlike fiat currencies, where you can simply walk into a bank and exchange your money for another currency. These issues will change after the launch of the service on the Qtum blockchain.

Through the Stakemoon platform, users will be able to launch their own games and create an online store through which they can buy virtual goods and sell digital services at market prices.

To put it another way, this will allow gamers to pay real-world prices for virtual goods or services without having to use weird cryptocurrencies with high transaction fees or restricted payment methods.

Let's look at how [Stakemoon](/news/tag/stakemoon-tag) plans to solve these issues and more within this review.

## How the Stakemoon Coin Works

A significant challenge in online gaming is the lack of liquidity. There's no easy way to exchange your tokens for fiat currency and no way to sell your goods or services without using a third party.

Stakemoon plans on solving this issue by offering a wallet that can be used as a marketplace. This will allow gamers to buy, sell, and trade their virtual goods without having to use shady cryptocurrencies or third parties.

The [Stakemoon platform](https://stakecoins.com/) also includes a gamer who offers "game sponsorship plugins," which allow gamers to incorporate their own game into the Stakemoon platform. This means that Stakemoon can provide an easier way for games on other platforms, such as Steam or Xbox Live, to offer stakes through the Stakemoon platform and gain more players.

## The Future of Gaming with STM

Gamers will be able to launch their own games and earn from the transactions made within them. Players can also get a share of the revenue generated from the games launched on the platform, which is something that's not possible with other gaming platforms.

They partnered with QTUM, an up-and-coming blockchain technology company, to make these benefits possible.

Stakemoon Coin is the token of an innovative blockchain gaming platform that uses smart contracts and blockchain power to create new and innovative games that are better and more fun than ever before.

For more breaking crypto news, go to [Latest Moni](/news).


What is Stakemoon Coin?

[Ethereum Classic (ETC)](/coins/etc) is the native cryptocurrency of the Ethereum Classic blockchain, a smart contract platform that allows dApp development.  It is a split from the Ethereum blockchain, the decentralized network supporting the second most popular cryptocurrency [ETH](/coins/eth).

## The ETC Blockchain

The ETC blockchain is an open-source and decentralized platform that features smart contract functionalities to enable creation and deployment of dApps (Decentralized Applications).

It uses Proof of Work consensus mechanism to validate transactions and add new blocks. Miners have to compete to be the first to solve complex mathematical problems to win the block rewards. Proof of Work also helps with its security.

## The Blockchain’s Origin

The ETC blockchain came into existence in July 2016, when the DAO, a decentralised autonomous organisation built on the ETH network, was hacked.

The DAO raised over $150 million USD worth of ether from investors, and was intended to be used to fund projects that would be voted on by the DAO's token holders.

However, due to a flaw in its code, the DAO was hacked, and someone was able to siphon off around one third of the funds that had been raised. A consequence of the hack was a hard fork. The hard fork created two separate blockchains: ETH (the new version) and ETC (the original version). 

ETC has continued to maintain the original vision of Ethereum as a decentralized platform that can be used to build dApps, while the ETH network has become a more general purpose smart contract platform.

## The native token

ETC is the native token of the ETC blockchain Network. It has several use cases in the platform. Its holders can use it to pay for transaction gas, use smart contracts, and interact with dApps. It is also governance token.

The tokens have a max supply cap of 210,700,000 ETC coins. There are currently 136,178,157 of the digital coins in public circulation. The demand and supply of these tokens dictates the price. The current price of ETC (as of 22/08/2022 is 27.31GBP)  The tokens are available for purchase on several crypto exchanges including Binance, OKX, and Bybit.

As per [Coinmarketcap](https://coinmarketcap.com/currencies/ethereum-classic/), ETC tokens are currently the 19th largest cryptocurrency in the world with a live market cap of $5,139,474,019.

## Notable occurrences

In January 2019 the ETC Blockchain suffered a 51% attack. The hackers who orchestrated the attack later returned the stolen funds.

In July 2020, the network again fell victim to 51% attacks. After the attacks the Ethash epoch duration was increased from 30,000 to 60,000, solving a critical security issue for the platform.

## Bottom line

ETC is one of a few cryptocurrencies performing pretty well in the crypto market. Several cryptocurrency prediction platforms predict better prices are on the horizon for the coin, making it a potentially great investment option.

While the coin’s price doesn’t make it great for beginner crypto investors, it is still worth some consideration. The cryptocurrency can be bought in lots of exchanges with fiat money.

All about the Ethereum Classic and its price

An Ethereum wallet is vital before investing in the second largest cryptocurrency by market cap, Ether (ETH). The wallet not only stores Ether coins but also allows you to send, receive, and spend the crypto coins.

There are generally two types of Ethereum crypto wallets, hardware, and software crypto wallets. Some of the best options to store your Ethereum include:

## MetaMask

[MetaMask](https://metamask.io/) is one of the best, if not the best Ethereum wallet. It is one of the most widely used Ethereum wallet, and for good reasons. 

The wallet is easy to use, therefore beginner-friendly. Besides allowing you to store and spend your Ether (ETH), it also allows you to access decentralized Ethereum apps.

The MetaMask wallet is available as a browser extension and mobile app. It is a software wallet, therefore best used with a hardware wallet.

## Exodus

The [Exodus Wallet](https://www.exodus.com/) is another beginner-friendly crypto wallet ideal for ETH storage. It is free to use and non-custodial, meaning you maintain full control of your crypto. It also does not require users to register or supply personal information to use it.

The Exodus wallet supports more than 150 cryptocurrencies across seven separate blockchains. It is another software crypto wallet available on desktop and mobile.

## Atomic 

There are many reasons why many Atomic wallet users consider it the best Ethereum wallet. It is decentralized, easy to use, non-custodial, and allows users to store, exchange, and buy ETH with a bank card. Verification and KYC standards are not necessary to access funds stored in the wallet.

The Atomic Wallet supports over 500 crypto assets, including Bitcoin, Bitcoin Cash, XRP, and [Litecoin](/coins/ltc). It is also available on desktop and mobile.

## Ledger 

Ledger Nano X and Ledger Nano S are two great hardware wallets that support ETH storage. As hardware wallets, both wallets allow users to store their ETH offline.

Both wallets are physical devices in the form of USB drives. They support over 1,800 cryptocurrencies, besides ETH. They also support desktop, Android, and iOS devices.

The Ledger Nano X wallet is considered an upgrade of the Ledger Nano S. It is not only pricier but also has a few features, including a battery and Bluetooth.

## Trezor 

Trezor, like Ledger, offers two hardware crypto wallets, Trezor One and Model T that support ETH storage. Both wallets support more than a thousand cryptocurrencies, besides ETH. They are highly secure and great alternatives to the Ledger wallets.

Compared to the Ledger wallets, the Trezor wallets are lighter and more uniquely shaped. They are also cheaper. The Trezor One wallet is, however, cheaper than the Trezor Model T and all the Ledger wallets. Either of the Trezor wallets can be the best Ethereum wallet for you.

## Bottom line

There you have it, some of the best Ethereum crypto wallets to consider before investing in ETH.

While software wallets like MetaMask, Exodus, and Atomic have their advantages, which include convenience, it’s always best to consider using them with hardware wallets like the Ledger and Trezor crypto wallets for great security.



Best wallets to store your Ethereum

Ethereum merge news is having an impact on the price of digital assets linked to the blockchain.

ETH-based digital asset funds have seen positive inflows for seven straight weeks as institutional investors pile in, according to the latest CoinShares report. There were $16.3 million inflows last week, bringing total inflows to $159 million over seven weeks.

Market sentiment for Ethereum-focused products is primarily due to "greater clarity" regarding the upcoming merge. It is scheduled for September 19, according to CoinShares Head of Research James Butterfill on Monday. A shift from proof-of-work to proof-of-stake in Ethereum's algorithm is credited with the change in investor sentiment.

Finally, Ethereum 2.0 Beacon Chain will be added to the mainnet in the merge, concluding an important transition from PoW to PoS. When Ethereum switches to a PoS consensus mechanism, it should become more secure and use less energy, which will, of course, help make it less harmful to the environment.

The Goerli and Prater testnet merge is also scheduled for this week, and it will be the final dress rehearsal before the mainnet merge takes place in less than six weeks.

## Traders are getting ready for the next round of trading

[Cryptocurrency analysts Glassnode have predicted](https://cointelegraph.com/news/institutions-flocking-to-ethereum-for-7-straight-weeks-as-merge-nears-report) that the anticipated Ethereum merge news will lead to "buy the rumor and sell the news" among traders. For Ethereum, "derivatives traders are placing obvious bets on the upcoming merge."

An analytics firm's newsletter, Betting on the Merge, ETH options and futures are now in "backwardation". That is a situation in which the current price of an asset is higher than the prices trading in the futures market.

When it comes to the Ethereum merge news, futures and options markets are in a backwardation after September, which suggests that traders are anticipating an event like this and have positioned themselves accordingly, the newsletter said. Data from Ethereum options shows professional traders are ready to go long on ETH's Merge, which is relevant.

However, [the merge's impact on Ether's price](/news/article/ethereum-merge) is yet to be determined.

In a recent interview, Ethereum founder Vitalik Buterin said the "narrative" is likely to remain positive after the merge, which is "an aspect that hasn't yet been priced in."

He added, "I expect morale to soar once the merger is completed. In other words, I believe the merger will not be priced in, and by that, I mean not just in terms of market value, but also in terms of psychological impact and narrative arc. After the fact, I don't think it's going to be factored into the narrative at all."

CoinGecko reports the price of Ethereum is $1,776 at the time of writing, up 8.6% in the last seven days.



Ethereum Merge News Just Around the Corner

The co-founder of Ethereum, Vitalik Buterin, claims that [layer 2 rollups will soon cause transaction prices to drop](https://cointelegraph.com/news/vitalik-crypto-payments-will-make-sense-as-tx-costs-fall-to-mere-cents-kbw-2022) to fractions of a cent, making cryptocurrency payments "make sense" once more.

The Cointelegraph team reported on Buterin at Korea Blockchain Week (KBW) saying that blockchain data compression is the last obstacle to scaling down transactions to fractions of a cent.

KBW, Asia's largest blockchain event, started yesterday and runs until August 14 at the Grand Intercontinental, Seoul.
 
He said an example of the "solid work happening" is Optimism's layer 2 scaling solution for Ethereum. It has demonstrated results lowering the amount and cost of data in blockchain transactions by introducing zero-byte compression.

Buterin added that, although serving mainly as a speculative store of value, the primary use of [Bitcoin (BTC)](/coins) described in its white paper from 2008 was to offer a "peer-to-peer electronic cash system" that was less expensive than conventional payment methods.

He said that although this remained true until 2013, it was no longer the case by 2018 as usage grew and blockchain transactions became prohibitively costly.

According to the co-founder of Ethereum, scaling solutions, like the Lightning network in the case of BTC, will eventually lower the prices to fractions of a cent, allowing BTC and other currencies to serve this use case once again.

## Use Cases for Cryptocurrency Transactions

Buterin gave examples of where inexpensive crypto transactions will be beneficial.

He pointed to "lower income nations or regions where the present financial system is not very successful", saying it would provide residents with access to crucial payment structures via the internet, which is already being used despite the expense of international remittances.

In the context of Ethereum, he noted that inexpensive crypto transactions would aid in developing Web3 account management systems, non-financial applications such as domain name system (DNS) servers, and humanity proof of attendance protocols.



Crypto Payments to "Make Sense" with Layer 2 Growth 

The [Ethereum Merge](https://ethereum.org/en/upgrades/merge/) is a highly anticipated event of 2022 in the crypto community. The event will mark the completion of the second phase of the Ethereum 2.0 upgrade. The Ethereum Mainnet will merge with the Beacon Chain, transitioning it from a Proof-of-work to a Proof-of-stake blockchain.

## The Beacon Chain

Launched on December 1st, 2020, the Beacon Chain is a proof of stake blockchain running parallel to the Ethereum blockchain. The chain is a consensus layer that handles a network of stakers. Since its creation, the Beacon chain has been put under various tests to test its reliability and capabilities.

The Ethereum Merge will see the Beacon Chain’s proof of stake consensus replace Ethereum’s proof of stake consensus. The Beacon Chain will become the prime blockchain on the Ethereum network.

## Impact of the Ethereum Merge

There are many reasons to be excited about the Ethereum Merge. The event is not just for crypto holders as its success will see Ethereum reduce its carbon footprint significantly.

The crypto space has for the longest time been under great criticism due to its negative impact on the environment, especially blockchains that use proof of work consensus mechanism.

Some of the benefits of the Ethereum Merge include Ethereum’s transition to proof of stake, better network security, and a possible increased user base.

## Benefits of the Merge

•	Transition to Proof of Stake consensus mechanism
Ethereum like Bitcoin has been using a Proof of Work consensus mechanism to verify transactions, add new blocks, and network security. The problem with proof of work is its high energy consumption rate. Its high energy consumption rate makes it harmful to the environment.

With proof of stake, Ethereum replaces miners with validators. The network no longer requires high energy-consuming hardware for security.
According to research done in 2021 by researchers at the Ethereum Foundation, Ethereum’s transition to proof of stake consensus can cut its energy use by at least 99.95%.

•	Better network security
The proof of stake consensus mechanism eliminates the need for expensive network security hardware. The consensus mechanism introduces staking, where any crypto holder can participate in securing a blockchain network.

Proof of stake makes it easy for anyone to help secure the Ethereum network. The more people participate in security the more robust the chain becomes. More people securing a network increase its decentralization. Proof-of-stake, therefore, also reduces centralization risks.

A plus for Proof of Stake is that it can also enable a network to become more censorship-resistant. Mining hardware tends to be easy to detect and shut down. However, the same cannot be said about computers running validator nodes.

•	Increased user base
There is a high possibility of more people and developers flocking to the Ethereum network after the Merge. High gas fees and slow transaction speeds have kept many people and developers away from the network. However, after the merge, the inefficiencies can become a thing of the past.

## Ethereum Merge Risks

•	Technical challenges
Critics of Ethereum believe the network is taking a huge gamble switching from Proof of Work to Proof of Stake while in operation. There could be many unforeseen bugs with the new blockchain, which puts at risk $183 billion worth of Ether in circulation. 

Solana is a good example of a Proof-of-Stake blockchain that has suffered several complete outages this year (2022).

Proof of stake is also seen as a fairly new consensus mechanism when compared to proof of work. Proof of work has been around for a while. It has been tried and tested and proven to be highly secure.

## Will the Merge affect Ether Prices?

Different investors predict a different outcome for [Ether prices](/news/article/ethereum-news-now) after the Ethereum Merge. Some investors predict a bull run for the digital coins while others predict a bear run.

Considering the current state of the crypto market and that Ether is down by 60% since the beginning of the year (2022), some investors believe once the merge unlocks locked Ether many holders will sell their coins, resulting in their price depreciation.

However, some investors believe Ether prices might go up after the Merge due to Ethereum’s transition to proof of stake. The proof of stake consensus mechanism will enable Ethereum to attract more users and developers.

## When will the Merge happen?

The Ethereum Merge is expected to happen in September this year (2022). Tim Beiko, an Ethereum developer and prominent figure in the Ethereum Foundation, put Sept 19th as the tentative date. The Merge timeline is, however, not final.

The Ethereum Merge date announcement saw Ether prices go up considerably to $1,600, which is a good sign for those who believe the Merge will positively affect Ether prices.

## Bottom line

The Ethereum Merge is a big deal in the crypto space. If it's a success then there are plenty of benefits to look forward to from the Ethereum network and a few risks worth considering.

Considering the Ethereum Merge is happening when the crypto industry is experiencing a downturn, there is a lot of uncertainty about how the market may react. Some investors predict a positive outcome while some are not so sure. Do your research.






The Ethereum Merge: What You Should Know

Fantom (FTM) is the native token of the Fantom network, a smart contract blockchain platform that allows DApp development. The network is among a few blockchain networks giving the Ethereum blockchain a run for its money. It is one of the best alternatives to the Ethereum blockchain.

## The FTM token

The Fantom (FTM) token is the native utility token of the Fantom blockchain. It powers the entire Fantom blockchain ecosystem. Holders of the tokens can use them for staking, payments, transaction fees, and governance. 

FTM tokens are available as ERC-20 tokens and BEP-20 tokens, meaning there are versions of the tokens that conform to Ethereum and Binance Smart Chain token standards.

FTM tokens have a total max supply of 3,175,000,000 FTM coins. According to Coinmarketcap, there are currently (24th July 2022) 2,545,006,273 FTM coins in public circulation. 

Coinmarketcap ranks FTM coins as the 56th largest cryptocurrencies in the world with a live market cap of $861,038,478. Each FTM coin is currently worth $0.338325.

## Where to buy FTM tokens

FTM tokens are listed in several crypto exchanges including Binance, Kraken, Gemini, Bitfinex, Binance.US, Crypto.com, FTX, Bybit, KuCoin, OKX, and Gate.io. The coins [can be bought](/trade) directly with fiat currency where they are listed.

## Where to store FTM tokens

You’ll need a compatible crypto wallet before you can buy FTM tokens. The tokens can be stored in various crypto wallets including fWallet, which is Fantoms Official Wallet, MetaMask, Trust Wallet, Math Wallet, and Coinbase Wallet.

Besides hot wallets, FTM tokens can also be stored in cold wallets (hardware wallets). Ledger Nano is the most preferable hardware wallet for FTM token storage.

## FTM coins price predictions

As of the time of writing, Fantom GBP exchange rate is 0.285643 GBP. The price is calculated based on rates on 70 exchanges and is updated live every few seconds.

In the last 24 hours, the FTM GBP price has increased by 8.24%.

Fantom GBP has seen a lot of success in recent months, and its price has increased by over 1000% since December 2020. 

[Several crypto prediction platforms](https://coinpedia.org/price-prediction/fantom-ftm-price-prediction/) see FTM coins as good long-term investment. WalletInvestor and Gov.Capital also see a promising future for FTM coins. 

According to WalletInvestor, FTM coins may trade at $4.486 by the end of 2025. Gov.Capital predicts that the coins may reach a maximum value of $3.602 by the end of 2023 and $9.048 by the end of 2025.

Digitalcoinprice and Coinpedia aren’t as optimistic as WalletInvestor and Gov.Capital but they still predict price appreciation for FTM coins. According to Coinpedia, FTM coins may start trading above $1 by 2024. Digitalcoinprice predicts the coins may still be trading under $1 by 2025 but at $0.75 per coin.

FTM coins may not be get-rich-quick crypto coins but many investors agree they are a great option for long-term investment. Considering what the Fantom network has to offer and is working on, the coins can get the push they deserve to earn well in the future.
Note that this is not financial advice but the opinions of the author. Before investing in any cryptocurrency, always take the time to do your research.


Fantom Coin (FTM): Everything You Should Know

The [Lazy Lions NFTs](https://www.lazylionsnft.com/) were made available on August 7, 2021. NFTs are currently popular and in demand, and they are spread all over the world. NFT collections have gained enormous popularity. The Lazy Lions NFT collection, which operates on the Ethereum blockchain, is marketed on the OpenSea Marketplace. Non-fungible tokens (NFTs) are a hot topic right now, and for a good reason—the market is growing. Lazy Lions is one of the NFT projects booming in the market. Read on to discover all there is to know about the Lazy Lions NFT Collection.

## What are Lazy Lions NFTs?

10,000 different Lion NFTs, the one-of-a-kind digital treasures, make up the Lazy Lions collection. They operate on the [Ethereum](/coins/eth) Blockchain. Each Lazy Lion is unique; therefore, over 160 potential traits are produced programmatically, including attire, mane, expression, and many more. Lazy Lion NFTs are a collection of NFTs that feature a variety of drawn lions with unique qualities created by an algorithm.

Lazy Lion NFTs developed a community that started to drive up its price and make it a well-known NFT project outside traditional cryptocurrency venues on social media platforms. 


## How to purchase Lazy Lions NFT on Opensea? 


1.	You must first fund your wallet with crypto currency before you can buy your NFT. Ether, the native coin on the Ethereum blockchain, is used to buy and sell the bulk of NFTs on OpenSea. Make sure you have enough Ethereum (ETH) in your wallet to pay for the NFT in full as well as any additional costs, like gas. If your wallet needs to be refilled or you're running low on money, compare your options for buying ETH.

2.	You can use OpenSea to find your NFT. Consider browsing collections to assist in limiting your possibilities because OpenSea has thousands of NFTs listed.

3.	Transfer your ETH to a web3 wallet. One popular web3 wallet option is MetaMask.

4.	It's simple to buy the Lazy Lions NFT oversea. When you're ready to purchase, select the NFT you want to participate in by clicking the "Buy Now" button next to it. When making a purchase, OpenSea will show the complete price, including fees. After doing so, confirm the transaction in your MetaMask wallet.


A guide to Lazy Lions NFTs

The Raiden Network is Ethereum’s solution to its scaling problem. It is similar to Bitcoin’s Lightning Network, allowing users to initiate fast and low-cost transactions. It works with any ERC20 token.

While built on the Ethereum blockchain, Raiden differs from Ethereum as it does not require global consensus to transfer tokens between participants. Instead, it powers token transfers using hash-locks and digital signatures.

## Benefits of using the Raiden network

Several benefits come with using the [Raiden network](https://raiden.network/101.html). Some of them include;

•	Low transaction costs: transaction costs on the Raiden network are pretty low compared to the Ethereum blockchain. Users can cheaply transfer small quantities of ERC20-based tokens over the network. Payments can be divided into smaller portions over a period for the same fee.
•	Instantaneous transfers: users can send, receive, and confirm transfers instantaneously on the Raiden network. Transfers are as fast as sending text messages.
•	Increased privacy: Users also benefit from better privacy when sending coins over the Raiden network than over the Ethereum blockchain.

## The Raiden Network Token (RDN)

The Raiden Network Token (RDN) is the native currency of the Raiden network. Its main use case is to pay for services within the Raiden network. The token can be used for micropayments and API access.

RDN tokens have a max supply of 100,000,000. According to Coinmarketcap, they currently have a circulating supply of 66,793,931. 
Compared to other cryptocurrencies, RDN coins have had a steady price increase over the years, ever since they first appeared. The digital coins were first tradable on 7th Nov 2017. 

RDN coins are currently trading at $0.06658, with a live market cap of $4,448,620. They are ranked 973rd largest cryptocurrencies in the world.

## Raiden Network Token (RDN) price predictions

Several crypto prediction platforms, including WalletInvestor and Digitalcoinprice predict RDN coins will experience a few bull runs in the future, but it won't be enough to see them trade above $1. The digital coins will still be trading under $1 by 2024.

While they may not be a quick money maker, many investors agree RDN coins are good for long-term investment. At their price, RDN coins also offer a good entry point into the crypto market for many beginner crypto investors. 

## Where to buy RDN coins

RDN coins are listed in several crypto exchanges, including Gate.io, CoinDCX, Bancor Network, and Tokenomy.
Unlike other cryptocurrencies, RDN coins cannot be purchased directly with fiat money. The crypto coins can only be bought with other crypto coins. 

You’ll first have to buy a cryptocurrency like Bitcoin or [ETH](/coins/eth) from a fiat-to-crypto exchange, then go to any exchange that lists RDN coins and use your crypto to buy the coins.

## Where to store RDN coins

As ERC20 tokens, RDN coins can be stored in any ERC20 compatible wallet, including MetaMask and MyEtherwallet. The tokens can also be stored in hardware wallets that support Ethereum blockchain like Trezor and Ledger.

Bottom line

Is Raiden Network a good investment? The network has several benefits that make it better than the Ethereum blockchain. Its native token, while not as expensive as other cryptocurrencies, stands out with its use cases in the network. Many investors also see the crypto coin as good for long-term investment.

However, as is the case with any kind of investment, research is vital to ensure you make the right investment decision. Note that this is not financial advice but the opinion of the author.


Is Raiden Network a Good Investment?

The Bitcoin price rose by 7 percent on July 20, while Ether news now confirms its $1,500 level. The cryptocurrency market was bullish as the new day began, with Bitcoin (BTC) breaking the price zone of $23,000 while Ether (ETH) was successful in maintaining the price level of $1,500.

## Ethereum's Price Stabilization

The leading cryptocurrency, Bitcoin, increased in value by 7.6 percent, while Ethereum saw its value increase by 4 percent over the past day. According to data provided by CoinMarketCap, the prices of one bitcoin (BTC) and one ether (ETH) as of 12:12 p.m. Eastern Time were respectively $23,465 and $1,563.

The market capitalization of BTC controls increased to 42.98 percent, up from 41.31%, while the market capitalization of Ether decreased to 18.09 percent, down from 18.2 percent.

A survey conducted by CoinMarketCap projects that the price of one Ether will reach $2,765.93 by the end of July, while another survey projects that the price of the most popular cryptocurrency, BTC, will reach $33,267.03 by the same time period. In total, there were approximately 34,247 and 12,313 people who cast their votes, respectively.

On the other hand, according to the data compiled by PricePredictions, Bitcoin will be worth more than $35,213.01 in 2022, while Ether will be worth more than $2,345.58. The prices of the two tokens have significantly increased as a result of this development.

In April, Antoni Trenchev, the Chief Executive Officer of the cryptocurrency lending company Nexo, made a bullish prediction by stating that Bitcoin could reach $100,000 within the next year.

Cardano (ADA), Cosmos (ATOM), Flow (FLOW), [VeChain (VET)](/news/article/vechain-news), and Helium (HNT) were the top five cryptocurrencies by daily gain, increasing by 10.57 percent, 10 percent, 11.7 percent, and 10 percent, respectively.

Helium (HNT) was the top cryptocurrency by daily gain. As of 12:33 a.m. Eastern Time, the prices of these tokens were as follows: $0.5251, $10.28, $2.06, $0.0271, and $10.22.

As the prices of BTC and Ethereum continue to rise, more and more people are taking notice. Experts are making bullish predictions about the future of both currencies, with some saying that they could reach new heights shortly. Keep an eye on the Ethereum news now to stay up-to-date on all the latest developments in this exciting market! 

For more developments on the crypto news go to Latest Moni.


Ethereum news now confirms $1,500 price level

There has been lots of buzz about altcoins recently, making most crypto investors wonder if they are missing out on something big. But what is the altcoin buzz really about?

To fully understand the altcoin buzz, you first need to know what an altcoin is. 

## What are Altcoins?

Any digital currency that isn't [Bitcoin](/coins/btc) is an altcoin. The word "altcoin" is a portmanteau of "alternative" and "coin" to form "altcoin". It refers to a group of cryptocurrencies - all the coins other than Bitcoin. 

By market capacity, the top three altcoins are Ethereum, USD Coin, and Tether (USDT). Ethereum is the most popular. Other examples of altcoins are Shiba Inu, Solana, Litecoin, Dogecoin, XRP, Binance coin(BNB), ApeCoin(APE), and SandBox.

The first altcoins started in 2011, and now thousands of them exist. Early altcoins strived to improve Bitcoin's traits, such as transaction speeds or capacity efficiency. More recent altcoins perform a variety of tasks.
Different types include:

[Stablecoins](https://www.investopedia.com/terms/s/stablecoin.asp): Cryptocurrencies constructed to follow the price of another currency. Most of the biggest stablecoins are pegged to the US dollar and try to emulate its value. If the price fluctuates, the issuer of the coin will take actions to amend it. Examples include Tether(USDT), USD coin(USDC), and Dai(DAI).

Staking-based: These cryptocurrencies use a technique called staking to verify transactions and augment more coins to the stock. Owners of a staking-based cryptocurrency can select to stake their coins, meaning they're committing those coins to be used for transaction processing. The cryptocurrency's blockchain policy assigns a partaker to verify a block of transactions. In return, participants receive crypto prizes.

Mining-based: This cryptocurrency category uses a mining method to validate transactions and expand more coins to the supply. Miners use gadgets to solve mathematical equations. Naturally, the first miner to decipher the equation gets to validate a block of transactions. In return, miners who validate blocks obtain crypto bonuses.

Governance tokens: They are cryptocurrencies that bestow owners voting rights to help form the future of the project. In most cases, these tokens allow you to develop and vote on suggestions associated with the cryptocurrency.

## Are Altcoins Reliable and the Future of Cryptocurrency?

Future values of altcoins are hard to predict, but if the blockchain they were designed is used and developed, the altcoins are likely to continue and prosper.

With the current state of Bitcoin now, everyone is getting an education on other options they can invest in and use for transactions.

Each time Bitcoin drops in value is an opportunity for altcoins to rise and receive more investment. In recent months, there has been altcoin buzz because of the state of the market.

## Conclusion 

As we all know, Bitcoin is the biggest cryptocurrency. But the value has been hit in recent months, meaning crypto investors have looked at alternatives.

That has increased the altcoin buzz, as investors investigate the top altcoins to invest in and learn more about in times of a crypto crash.

Expanding an investment portfolio beyond Bitcoin can be sensible, especially as some altcoins could deliver significant profits.

As ever, before choosing to invest in any cryptocurrency, ensure you conduct thorough, independent research.


Altcoin Buzz: What's It All About?

While [Bitcoin](/coins/btc) is the big boy of the crypto world, many other coins, known as "altcoins," have emerged in recent years. But which are the altcoins to watch?

Finding the most outstanding altcoins can be difficult due to the many options available, but it's well worth it because these currencies can often yield triple-digit returns.

We've conducted research and put together some of the most interesting altcoins to watch closely in 2022, in no particular order. But first, we need to understand what an altcoin is.

## What are Altcoins?

The term "altcoin" is made up of two words: "alt" and "coin," where alt means "alternative" and coin means "cryptocurrency". They denote a type of cryptocurrency alternative to the digital Bitcoin currency when used together. Following Bitcoin's success, a slew of alternative peer-to-peer digital currencies sprung up to compete.

## Top Altcoins in 2022

### Litecoin: Litecoin (LTC) is a cryptocurrency that was founded in 2011 as a result of a fork in the Bitcoin blockchain. It was created in response to developer worries that Bitcoin was becoming too centralised and making it more difficult for large-scale mining companies to obtain an advantage in mining. For example, a Bitcoin block takes roughly 10 minutes to mine, but a Litecoin block only takes two and a half minutes. The supply of Litecoin is set at 84 million, and the current reward for mining a block is 12 and a half Litecoins, which will be cut in half in 2023.

### NEO: NEO is a Chinese-based blockchain platform, cryptocurrency, and network for decentralised programmes, or dApps. It was influenced by networks like Ethereum, but with a few significant technological changes.
According to its designers, NEO was created for the "Smart Economy", which combines digital assets, digital identities, and smart contracts into one seamless environment. The goal of NEO was never to destabilise China's fiat currency but rather to assist the country's economy is transitioning to the blockchain era.
Despite the Chinese government's crackdown on ICOs and cryptocurrencies, NEO has been able to raise the funding necessary to develop and launch its initiatives, fueling concerns about a possible link between the business and Chinese officials.

### [STELLAR (XLM)](https://coinmarketcap.com/currencies/stellar/): Stellar is a decentralised network that allows users to generate, send, and trade various cryptocurrencies. It was founded in 2014 and debuted in 2015 with the goal of connecting the world's financial systems into a single network.
Like other blockchain-based decentralised platforms and exchanges, Stellar is distributed across numerous servers. This means that a single entity does not supervise the behavior on Stellar. Stripe, one of the major payment gateways in the world, stated plans to replace Bitcoin with XLM in early 2018. As a result of this news, Stellar's price increased by 20% due to this announcement, cementing the coin's position as a Bitcoin alternative.

### ETHER (ETH): The cryptocurrency utilised on the Ethereum blockchain network is called Ether. Ether is known to be the second-largest cryptocurrency in the world, after bitcoin, in terms of market capitalisation. Hence it might be called the largest of the 'altcoins.'
Vitalik Buterin, a programmer, introduced Ethereum as a platform in 2013, and the network went online in 2015. It's mostly used as a decentralised finance platform, but it's also been used to assist with developing other altcoins via initial coin offerings.

### DOGECOIN ([DOGE](/coins/doge)): Dogecoin is the final altcoin we'll discuss in this article, and it's one of the most recent to get mainstream notice. This interest is partly due to celebrity endorsements like Elon Musk, Snoop Dogg, and Gene Simmons on social media.

Dogecoin began as a parody of cryptocurrencies, but it has since grown in market value and popularity. Dogecoin is a digital asset based on a fork of the Litecoin code that serves as an accessible entry point for crypto newcomers. It is based on a division of the Litecoin code. Since its inception in 2013, Dogecoin's popularity has sparked the development of a slew of copycat memecoins, which have grown into their [industry](https://prnews.io/blog/video-journalists.html) of fun digital assets that demonstrate the market worth of internet culture in the digital economy.

## Conclusion

Some people see this low-price phase as an opportunity to increase their crypto holdings before prices rise again. However, much depends on your financial situation and expectations for how crypto will perform in the long run.

Buying crypto may make sense if you only invest money you can afford to lose and have other financial goals, such as retirement savings and an emergency fund.

These altcoins may be interesting in July for various reasons, but don't buy them hoping for a quick profit. Furthermore, don't buy something just because the price appears low; it could go lower. Instead, take time, thoroughly investigate the topic, and maintain a long-term perspective.


Altcoins to Watch: The Top 5

[Ethereum's merge trial on the public test network Sepolia was a success](https://cointelegraph.com/news/sepolia-testnet-merge-mostly-successful-hiccups-will-not-delay-the-merge), clearing the path for the cryptocurrency's shift to the proof-of-stake (PoS) consensus mechanism.

The final merge testing will take place on the Goerli network in the coming weeks before the formal merge on the Ethereum mainnet may be approved.

The move to a Proof-of-Stake mechanism in [Ethereum](/coins/eth) 2.0 has been delayed in the past. The Ethereum mainnet transition is currently scheduled for the end of the year.

Terence Tsao, an Ethereum protocol developer, stated that the Merge transfer was successful, but about 25-30% of validators went offline following the Merge due to "wrong configs." He did, however, emphasise that "hiccups will not delay the Merge."

During the stream, Superphiz, a founding member of the ETHStaker Community, emphasised that the Merge's success would not be known "for several hours or even until tomorrow."

The final test will take place on the Goerli test network. Superphiz further stated that the Sepolia test results would determine the Merge's timing.

The testnet Merges serve as a "dress rehearsal," allowing Ethereum developers and independent project developers to understand what to expect when the actual Merge occurs.

During the broadcast, Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin revealed that "much more third-party infrastructure that isn't present on the testnets" will be one of the issues confronting the main network Merge.

"So there might be non-critical issues like that that will just pop up in the Merge that we're not catching with these tests […] There's a lot of peripherals that are just not getting tested, and that's unavoidable and probably fine."
The news cheered Ether (ETH) investors, as the ETH price went up by 5% in the previous 24 hours and is now trading at $1,175. Earlier this week, the world's second-largest cryptocurrency saw significant selling pressure.

For more latest crypto news, check out [Latest Moni. ](/news)



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