Why this crypto is different from all the others
Cryptocurrencies are the talk of the town these days, but let’s face it: Most of them are pretty similar. They are digital assets, stored on a blockchain ledger, with transactions that can be verified and validated by anyone. Bitcoin set the basic pattern 15 years ago, and most crypto names have not come far from it. But there is one cryptocurrency that is radically different from all the others. I’m talking about Polka dot (DOT 1.08%)the official cryptocurrency of the Web3 system.
What is Polkadot?
Web3 is the future of the internet, where decentralized networks and blockchain technology will replace the centralized web we know today. While today’s version of the internet (Web2) is dominated by a handful of large companies, Web3 is built on decentralized blockchain technology, meaning it is not controlled by any single entity.
And Polkadot is a platform that connects these different blockchain networks, so they can communicate with each other and share data in a secure and efficient way. The token, its blockchain network, and the entire Polkadot ecosystem were designed by the Web3 Foundation for the specific purpose of powering the inner workings of a Web3 world.
What sets Polkadot apart from other crypto platforms is its massive scalability and effortless interoperability. Developers can create their own blockchains, or “parachains,” that can interact with each other and with other blockchain networks. This creates a truly decentralized internet, where users can move freely between different networks and use the best features from each one. And with Polkadot’s wide range of Web3 app building tools, it’s easy to take advantage of many specialized blockchains or cryptocurrencies in a single, tightly integrated application.
Polkadot’s unique data validation system
Polkadot also uses a unique consensus mechanism called “Nominated Proof of Stake” (NPoS), which allows token holders to nominate validators to secure the network and process transactions. Polkadot holders can choose other people as validators. These validators are like the police officers of the blockchain, making sure that everything runs smoothly and no one tries to break the rules.
This separation of responsibilities makes Polkadot’s validation system fast and easy without sacrificing data security. This innovative approach ensures that the network is decentralized and secure, while allowing efficient and fast transaction processing.
A transparent and community-driven cryptocurrency
Another key feature of Polkadot is the governance model, where token holders can vote on proposals and changes to the network. This gives the community a say in the direction of the platform, making it more democratic and transparent than most crypto platforms.
And we haven’t even talked about Polkadot’s project funding efforts yet, with crowdloans and parachain auctions. This is a sophisticated system for next-generation app development with built-in options to find and boost the best Polkadot projects.
Why the deep Polkadot dip looks like a buying opportunity
Despite Polkadot’s many valuable and often unique features, investors have been skeptical of the token over the past 15 months. Polkadot’s price is down 79% since the start of 2022. Bitcoin and Ethereum is also dramatically reduced in the same time period, but Polkadot’s fall is much deeper:
The falling price hasn’t stopped me from picking up more Polkadot tokens in recent months. In fact, this is the only cryptocurrency I’m actively buying right now. The others can wait until Polkadot’s discounted prices disappear.
So Polkadot is not like the other cryptocurrencies. With its unique sharding technology, multi-chain platform and democratic governance model, it has the potential to revolutionize the world of blockchain development. Other cryptocurrencies may come and go, but Polkadot looks like it’s here to stay.
Anders Bylund has positions in Bitcoin, Ethereum and Polkadot. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Bitcoin and Ethereum. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.