WalletConnect Token ( $WCT )
is the native utility token of the WalletConnect Network, a decentralized protocol that facilitates secure connections between cryptocurrency wallets and decentralized applications (dApps). Launched in late 2024 on Optimism's OP Mainnet, WCT plays a pivotal role in enhancing the onchain user experience (UX) by enabling governance, staking, rewards, and potential fee structures within the ecosystem.
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🔍 What Is WalletConnect?
WalletConnect is an open-source protocol established in 2018 to bridge the gap between wallets and dApps. It allows users to connect their wallets to dApps using QR codes or deep links, ensuring end-to-end encrypted communication. The protocol is chain-agnostic, supporting various blockchains like Ethereum, Solana, Cosmos, and more, thereby promoting interoperability across the decentralized ecosystem.
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💡 Key Utilities of WCT
1. Governance: WCT holders can participate in the decision-making process of the WalletConnect Network. Through staking, they can propose and vote on changes, influencing the network's development and policies.
2. Staking: Participants can stake their WCT tokens for periods ranging from one week to two years. Longer staking durations yield higher rewards, incentivizing long-term commitment to the network.
3. Rewards: To encourage active participation, 17.5% of the total WCT supply is allocated for rewards. These are distributed to node operators and wallet providers based on performance metrics like uptime and successful connections.
4. Fees: While the network currently doesn't charge fees, a governance-approved fee model may be introduced in the future. If implemented, applications and SDKs would pay fees using WCT, not the end-users.
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📊 Tokenomics
Total Supply: 1,000,000,000 WCT
Circulating Supply: 186,200,000 WCT
Current Price: Approximately $0.4269 USD
Market Capitalization: Around $79.5 million USD
Allocation:
WalletConnect Foundation: 27%
Airdrops: 18.5%
Team: 18.5%
Rewards: 17.5%
Previous Backers: 11.5%
Core Development: 7%
At launch, WCT tokens are non-transferable to maintain network stability and ensure tokens serve their intended purpose within the ecosystem. Transferability may be enabled later through community governance decisions.
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🌐 Ecosystem and Adoption
Since its inception, the WalletConnect Network has facilitated over 150 million connections for more than 23 million users, supporting over 600 wallets and 40,000 dApp projects. The network's growth underscores its critical role in the web3 landscape, promoting interoperability and seamless user experiences across various blockchain platforms.
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WalletConnect Token ( $WCT ) stands as a cornerstone in the evolution of decentralized connectivity, offering a robust framework for governance,
incentivization, and future scalability within the web3 ecosystem.