Even if you do not own any digital coins, you’ve probably heard of cryptocurrencies. Bitcoin, the largest token by market capitalization, was the first cryptocurrency launched back in 2009, and it is also one of the most popular. However, there are many other available coins. They’re not all equal, but some of them are worth your attention. Some of these altcoins – that’s how coins other than Bitcoin are called – are disruptive in one way or another and can provide great returns on investment (even more than Bitcoin). So, let’s have a look at the 3 most popular and promising altcoins.
Ethereum (ETH)
The second-largest token after Bitcoin, Ethereum is considered the pioneer of second-generation blockchains. While the Bitcoin network was only used as a peer-to-peer decentralized payment network, Ethereum introduced smart contracts and decentralized applications (dApp). Therefore, Ethereum took blockchain technology to another level, creating a whole new ecosystem for Decentralized Finance (DeFi) to develop itself. The Ethereum network is implementing many upgrades and changes in the way its blockchain works to be able to become a more scalable, cheaper, and faster network. That’s why the related token – the Ether (ETH) – is a trendy asset for retail traders, who are mostly trading ETH via mobile apps, and institutional investors, who are mostly investing in the token through ETF and other related funds.
Cardano (ADA)
ADA, the third-largest token, is a unique token created by one of Ethereum’s co-founders, Charles Hoskinson. Considered as the first proof-of-stake blockchain created through peer-reviewed research and science, Cardano is a blockchain stratified into different layers, allowing smart contracts and dApp to be created and run into its network. Cardano is known as a third generation blockchain, as it aims at solving issues raised by second-generation blockchains like Ethereum, especially when it comes to the scalability and functionality of the network with the arising needs of users. Interoperability is also a core concept of the Cardano blockchain, which works on ensuring that the offered secured, sustainable, and scalable environment is also multi-functional for financial and commercial businesses. With all the potential relevant use cases of this blockchain, the ADA token has kept moving higher this year.
Chainlink (LINK)
With the rise of so many blockchain projects, the gap between information and data inside and outside blockchain networks is widening. How is it possible for blockchains to use data from outside in smart contracts and ensure the security, integrity, and reliability of this information? Chainlink has found an answer with oracles that help information and data to be communicated to and from the blockchain. With Chainlink, off-chain data and services can securely be connected to smart contracts to be able to provide more advanced smart contracts and accelerate the adoption of its reliable network.
Final word
Now you know that there is more than Bitcoin in the cryptocurrency industry. Ethereum (ETH), Cardano (ADA), and Chainlink (LINK) are currently among the most popular and traded tokens, but you probably also have heard of Dogecoin (DOGE), Solana (SOL), Polkadot (DOT), and Uniswap (UNI), as they are other trendy altcoins you might want to keep an eye on.
