Tuna Chain is a modular Layer 2 solution that functions on Bitcoin while also integrating with Ethereum. Learn more about how it works in this article.

 is rightfully known for its security through its use of 

 offers greater versatility. Until recently, blockchain projects had to choose between the two. Now, however, a hybrid solution is available that blends the benefits of both of these leading blockchains and takes a bold leap into the future.

 that functions on Bitcoin while also integrating with Ethereum.

) is strongly rooted in elevating the user experience (UX). Bitcoin is the most trusted cryptocurrency, largely due to the recognized strength of its security protocols. However, while it excels in security, it lacks the versatility that ultimately fosters innovation. In this regard, Ethereum is viewed as a superior blockchain. 

Tuna Chain’s modular Layer 2 solution works on Bitcoin through a 

 hybrid layer while offering Ethereum functionality. It uses 

-powered modularity to minimize transaction costs. At the same time, this modularity improves both trust and efficiency. Tuna Chain currently supports Solana, Ethereum and Bitcoin transactions. It works with Bybit, Phantom, MetaMask, UniSat Wallet and OKX Wallet.

Tuna Chain is a new project that was established by three unknown individuals, known under the names of Tuna Nigiri, Tuna Sushi and Tuna Sashimi. Each team member brings their unique experiences and knowledge with blockchain, cryptography and 

 to move Tuna Chain forward. Tuna Chain is financially supported by BSC News, Normie Capital, Serafund, ArkStream Capital, Cogitent Ventures, MH Ventures and other angel investors. After its Ocean Festival and Ocean Trio, Tuna Chain now has over 1.3 million wallets connected on the Tuna Chain Testnet, with a total 

The purpose of Tuna Chain is to bridge the gap between Bitcoin and Ethereum. Although Bitcoin’s chain boasts superlative security, it lacks the versatility that Ethereum’s 

 provides. As a hybrid Layer 2 solution, Tuna Chain’s primary goal is to blend the two. By doing so, its founders want to push the envelope on the future of blockchains and provide a better UX.

Tuna Chain’s functionality is based on three core features: the Toro native 

, Celestia-powered modularity and a hybrid ZK-OP layer. With the Toro stablecoin, users can purchase new digital assets through the overcollateralization of their BTC supply. Meanwhile, Celestia-powered modularity improves data availability, and the ZK-OP hybrid layer executes smart contracts with fast, secure transactions.

Rollup Solutions and Operational Mechanism of Bitcoin Layer 2

Layer 2 solutions similar to those found on Ethereum enhance Bitcoin's scalability, using technologies such as 

 (ZK). Tuna Chain enhances Bitcoin's transaction capacity by integrating optimistic rollup technology into its Layer 2 framework.

Securing Native Assets on Bitcoin: Leveraging Taproot's Upgrade

 upgrade into the Bitcoin network marks a significant advancement in the security of its native assets. This update incorporates advanced cryptographic techniques, such as Schnorr Signatures, MAST and Tapscript. To further secure these assets, Tuna Chain has implemented a multisignature security model and is exploring the addition of external validators to its network security protocols.

Tuna Chain processes transactions through a detailed system that begins with the precise arrangement and execution of transactions. These are then reliably recorded on 

's data availability layer and conclusively verified on the Bitcoin blockchain. Verifiers are essential to the chain's integrity, quickly producing fraudproofs to address any transaction discrepancies and ensure the network remains secure and reliable.

Tuna Chain is a next-level Layer 2 solution that moves blockchain into the future. Each of its core features provides unique benefits to support a superior UX. 

Tuna Chain uses Celestia-powered modularity to optimize its Layer 2 functionality. Specifically, this modularity is supported by Layer 2 data management that enhances trust, improves efficiency and reduces transaction fees.

The ZK-OP Layer is Tuna Chain’s hybrid Layer 2. This layer utilizes a dual-phase architecture that integrates Ethereum’s benefits with those of Bitcoin. By doing so, it empowers smart contracts and accelerates secure transactions.

 is a grand opening event celebrating Tuna Chain’s launch. During this grand opening, the first round of TUN tokens will be distributed. Distribution cap for this initial release is based on 

 growth driven by the community, and could range between 2% and 21%. The token supply increases by 2% as each new milestone is achieved.

, the setup experience for new community members, consists of Calm Waters, Whimsical Tides and Majestic Depths. With Calm Waters, new users can receive 60 points for following Tuna Chain on social media and linking their wallet. Additional points are available by referring friends to Tuna Chain. Whimsical Tides, the testnet phase, is still in development along with Majestic Depths.

In the first quarter of 2024, Tuna Chain successfully completed several milestones, including the launch of the Tuna Testnet — Alpha, Ocean Trio Points campaign, Ocean Festival (which highlights the TVL) and the rollout of the TunaChain Explorer. 

Moving into Q2 2024, progress is ongoing with significant developments. Tuna Chain’s team is currently deploying an optimistic rollup (OP)-based Mainnet, establishing a native bridge from Bitcoin to the Tuna Mainnet, launching a Mainnet decentralized exchange (

), and developing a modular data availability (DA) layer.

Tuna Chain functions with three primary tokens: TORO, TUNA and WOOG. Each serves a different and integral role.

TORO, Tuna Chain’s native stablecoin, helps users transform their BTC into their choice of high-yield digital assets. This is accomplished seamlessly and with full transactional stability. The user doesn’t need to liquidate the BTC to complete the transaction.

 of Tuna Chain, is used for various purposes, such as revenue generation, funding builders and contributors, benefiting token holders, incentivizing users and community members, and promoting community engagement within the Tuna Chain ecosystem.

TUNA has a total token supply of 210,000,000.

 token that acts as the primary ticket into the Tuna Chain ecosystem. Only 200 of 1,000 available WOOG tokens were distributed at the BRC-20 Launchpad event. The remaining WOOG will be distributed only when they’re activated by external forces.

Looking to get your hands on the TUNA token? Bybit will soon offer it via our 

In the meantime, you can also purchase TUNA through 

WOOG tokens grant access to the Tuna Chain ecosystem. Of the total supply of 1,000 tokens, only 200 are currently scheduled to be released. These tokens are exclusively available through the 

. There’s a purchase limit of one WOOG token. While 800 WOOG tokens will remain, they’re sealed, and their release isn’t scheduled. You must have an active Bybit account with a funded wallet to participate in the event. 

TUNA tokens play a fundamental role in governance of the Tuna Chain’s unique hybrid Layer 2 chain, designed to deliver the benefits offered by both Bitcoin and Ethereum. Tuna Chain is presented as the future of blockchain, and is poised to change the blockchain landscape in exciting ways, which could place a premium on TUNA tokens. 

As an investment, TUNA should be purchased conscientiously because the value of the tokens will decrease when additional tokens are released, even for a short period of time. In addition, all cryptocurrencies are speculative in nature, with a risk of partial or complete loss. Therefore, 

 cryptocurrencies before making an investment.

Tuna Chain is a hybrid Layer 2 solution that provides a much-needed service in the blockchain world. By bridging the gap between Bitcoin and Ethereum, it allows users to enjoy the best of both worlds. In doing so, it has the potential to move the dial forward significantly in blockchain technology. Moving forward, Tuna Chain is a platform worthy of attention.

Intermediate

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Tuna Chain (TUNA): Reinventing Bitcoin With a ZK-OP Approach

Notable Ethereum Spot ETF applications have come from high-profile issuers that received approval for Bitcoin Spot ETFs earlier this year. Learn more here.

The cryptocurrency landscape could be on the brink of a major shake-up as several Ethereum spot exchange-traded fund (

) applications await regulatory approval. These financial instruments promise to bridge the gap between traditional investment markets and the fast-growing world of digital assets, offering investors a regulated and accessible means for gaining exposure to 

This article explores the top pending Ethereum Spot ETF applications, exploring their significance, potential impact on the market and implications for the broader adoption of cryptocurrencies.

What Is an Ethereum Spot ETF Application?

An Ethereum Spot ETF application is a filing submitted to regulatory bodies, such as the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), to list an exchange-traded fund that tracks the price of Ether (ETH), allowing investors to gain exposure to the cryptocurrency without directly holding it.

How Does an Ethereum Spot ETF Application Work?

An Ethereum Spot ETF application is a formal request by a financial institution to gain regulatory approval to offer a financial product that tracks the price of Ether (ETH), the second-largest cryptocurrency and the token of the Ethereum network, in real time. 

Investors can participate in the ETF by purchasing shares through their brokerage accounts. This way, they can gain exposure to Ether's price movements without the complexities associated with directly buying or holding the cryptocurrency. The ETF provider assumes responsibility for securely holding the Ether, managing the fund's day-to-day operations and ensuring ongoing compliance with regulatory requirements.

Current Ethereum Spot ETF Application Landscape

, Fidelity, VanEck and ARK 21Shares have all thrown their hats into the ring by submitting applications to the SEC for approval. These particular issuers have previously applied to run Bitcoin Spot ETFs that are currently approved and trading.

However, the SEC has pushed back on the recent Ethereum Spot ETF applications, prolonging the decision-making process. They've also sought public feedback in order to gauge whether the arguments supporting the approval of Bitcoin Spot ETFs are applicable to Ethereum Spot ETFs as well.

Anticipation has continued to build with the approach of the final deadlines for the SEC's decisions, set for between May 23 and Jul 5, 2024 for various applicants. The SEC's review process involves assessing factors such as the potential for market manipulation and the resemblance between Ethereum spot and futures exchange-traded products.

The outcome of these applications holds significant weight, as it could shape the future landscape of cryptocurrency investment vehicles and play an important role in driving broader adoption of Ethereum within traditional financial markets. Investors and observers alike are closely monitoring these developments, recognizing their potential to influence the trajectory of both Ethereum and the wider crypto market.

Top High-Profile Ethereum Spot ETF Applications

Several high-profile financial institutions have applied for Ethereum Spot ETFs, reflecting a growing interest in cryptocurrency investment products. Following is a list of some notable contenders.

BlackRock, a global investment giant and the world’s largest asset manager, submitted its 

 Ethereum Trust, in November 2023. However, the SEC postponed its decision to late January 2024 and again to March. The SEC is currently seeking public comment on the application, particularly concerning Ethereum’s susceptibility to fraud, and has delayed its decision until Jun 11, 2024.

Franklin Templeton, another major player in the investment world, 

 for an Ethereum Spot ETF in February 2024, making it the latest contender to join several other firms in the race. The SEC has delayed the deadline to June 2024 to rule on the firm’s application. If approved, the fund will be listed on the Chicago Board Options Exchange as Franklin Ethereum ETF.

Known for its ETFs and mutual funds, investment management firm VanEck has expressed doubts about the SEC's approval of its Ethereum Spot ETF application, 

 in July 2021. Although the SEC’s decision is expected in May 2024, VanEck’s CEO has voiced his skepticism of approval by the May 23, 2024 deadline, citing the regulators' ominous silence. Notably, VanEck holds the distinction of being the first investment management firm to file an ETH Spot ETF application in the United States.

21Shares specializes in cryptocurrency exchange-traded products (

), while ARK Invest focuses on thematic investing. The two firms 

 for the ARK 21Shares Ethereum ETF in September 2023, with the SEC expected to decide by May 24, 2024. The application has been 

 to include a cash-creation model, and has proposed plans to stake a portion of the ETF’s Ether for generating additional income.

A global asset manager focused on cryptocurrencies, Hashdex 

 with the SEC in September 2023 to list and trade shares of the 

 its decision on the application, with a verdict expected by late May 2024.

Grayscale is the world’s largest digital currency asset manager, with a range of investment products that provides exposure to cryptocurrencies and the digital currency asset class. The firm 

 its Grayscale Ethereum Trust into an Ether Spot ETF in October 2023. The SEC extended the review period, setting a new deadline for June 2024. 

Invesco, an investment management firm, has partnered with Galaxy Digital, a diversified financial services firm, to create a 

 for an Ethereum Spot ETF to be named the Invesco Galaxy Ethereum ETF. The SEC's decision, expected in December 2023, has been 

Fidelity Investments is a major financial services corporation with a global presence and millions of customers. Fidelity first filed for an Ethereum Spot ETF in November 2023. It later 

 its application in March 2024 to include ETH staking, which would allow investors to earn additional income from staking rewards. The SEC has set a deadline of May 23, 2024 to approve or deny the application.

What Could Happen If an Ethereum Spot ETF Application Is Approved?

The approval of an Ethereum Spot ETF application holds significant implications for the cryptocurrency market.

Approval of an Ethereum Spot ETF could mark a significant milestone for the crypto market. It would greatly improve Ethereum's accessibility, bolster market confidence and potentially drive up Ether’s price. In addition, such an approval would represent a new milestone in cryptocurrency adoption, providing investors with a regulated and easy avenue for investing in Ethereum. Nevertheless, regulatory hurdles and market volatility are variables that could influence the timing and magnitude of the approval of the pending applications.

ethereum spot etf applications featured image

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An Overview of the Top Pending Ethereum Spot ETF Applications

Stripe is reentering the cryptocurrency market by allowing merchants to accept payments in USD Coin (USDC) on Ethereum, Solana, and Polygon networks

The SPX index is down 0.46%, influenced by disappointing economic data indicating a slowdown and persistent inflation, along with poor earnings from companies such as Meta Platforms and IBM. The broader cryptocurrency market is up, with Bitcoin and Ether rising by 1.12% and 1.45%, respectively in the past 24 hours.

Today’s outperformer is W, which jumped 16.1% after Wormhole launches Native Token Transfers for seamless W token interoperability across blockchains.

Wormhole (W), launched in 2020, is a cross-chain protocol that facilitates communication and token transfers across over 30 blockchain networks. Originally a crypto bridge between Solana and Ethereum, it has expanded to include features like the Portal token bridge and messaging protocols, serving as a comprehensive platform for cross-chain interactions. Wormhole has launched Native Token Transfers (NTT) to enable seamless transfers of the W token across blockchains like Solana and Ethereum without needing liquidity pools. This innovation supports Wormhole's introduction of a multichain governance system and W staking, enhancing the token's functionality and security across diverse ecosystems. NTT marks a key step in Wormhole's roadmap, advancing its commitment to interoperability and decentralized, flexible token usage.

Check Out the Latest Prices, Charts, and Data of 

Stripe is reentering the cryptocurrency market by allowing merchants to accept payments in USD Coin (USDC) on Ethereum, Solana, and Polygon networks starting this summer. Originally, Stripe accepted Bitcoin in 2014 but discontinued this option in 2018 due to increasing costs. The new initiative will support USDC transactions that are automatically converted to fiat currency for merchants, aiming to enhance global payment accessibility, particularly for those without traditional banking facilities. This marks Stripe's continued interest in the evolving potential of cryptocurrencies.

Bitcoin's price showed volatility near $64,000, influenced by reduced ETF inflows and a market tug-of-war. U.S. inflows slowed, ending a streak for BlackRock’s iShares Bitcoin Trust. Meanwhile, Morgan Stanley may soon enable direct broker recommendations for Bitcoin ETFs, potentially increasing demand. In contrast to U.S. regulatory hesitations, Hong Kong is launching three spot BTC ETFs. Despite these fluctuations, Fidelity Digital Assets remains optimistic, citing an increase in smaller Bitcoin wallets as a positive indicator of broader adoption.

The Aethir Cloud Drop campaign features an airdrop that is accessible through various activities, including purchasing Aethir Checker nodes, engaging on social media, participating in quizzes, referring friends, and being part of certain NFT/token communities. Eligibility for the airdrop is determined by a badge and quest system. More details are provided on their website and Twitter page.

Beginner

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Stripe Reintroduces Crypto Payments with USDC Support on Multiple Blockchain Networks

Merlin Starter (MSTAR) is an IDO launchpad and accelerator dedicated to supporting Layer 2 projects for Bitcoin native asset applications.

Over the last couple of years, projects aiming to develop the wider Bitcoin (

) crypto ecosystem have been gaining more attention in the crypto industry, taking some focus away from 

-based initiatives. With the arrival of projects such as 

, one might even say that the Bitcoin ecosystem is experiencing a kind of innovative development that characterized Ethereum's heyday between 2015 and 2020.

Among the projects driving this phenomenon are Merlin Chain (MERL) and its integral Merlin Starter (MSTAR). Merlin Chain is a Bitcoin Layer 2 (L2) platform committed to supporting utilization and enhanced liquidity for Bitcoin native assets, while Merlin Starter, a Bitcoin-focused 

 and L2 project accelerator, is a core part of the wider Merlin ecosystem,

 (MSTAR) is an IDO launchpad and Layer 2 accelerator dedicated to supporting promising Bitcoin-focused decentralized projects.

 It's an integral part of the L2 Merlin Chain (MERL), designed to facilitate a seamless flow of Bitcoin native assets across various protocols in the Bitcoin ecosystem. Merlin Starter aims to support projects dedicated to enhancing the circulation and liquidity of Bitcoin native assets, both on Merlin Chain and across a variety of Bitcoin-focused protocols and networks.

Founded in 2023, the Merlin project launched its operations in early 2024, with Merlin Starter's native MSTAR token debuting in mid-April 2024.

Merlin Starter is made up of two main components — an 

 launchpad and a Bitcoin Layer 2 project accelerator. Additionally, the 

 NFT collection is a critical element within the project's ecosystem.

The IDO launchpad on Merlin Starter facilitates the launch of projects dedicated to native asset issuance, enhanced 

 and free asset circulation for the Bitcoin ecosystem. It's the first native launchpad of the Merlin platform. The launchpad also supports new projects that explore cross-chain functionality and focus on enabling Bitcoin native assets across different platforms.

As of late April 2024, the launchpad is still in the early stages of its operation, but already lists a couple of initial projects that it’s helped to launch. The most recent of these is Sparkle (FCFS), a gamified astrology app.

The Merlin Starter launchpad offers a number of different token launch modes, including 

, oversubscription lotteries and allocations based on preset weightings. A variety of token standards are supported, including the highly popular 

 and ERC-20 as well as the less common BRC-420, ERC-404 and Atomicals (ARC-20). Standards supporting cross-chain assets may also be available. 

Merlin Starter’s IDO launchpad also features an insurance protocol that helps protect investors from either 7-day or 14-day loss.

While the Merlin Starter IDO launchpad is dedicated to facilitating the launch of new tokens, its accelerator is an initiative aimed at providing consultancy and support to L2 apps and protocols at the pre-launch stage, as well as in the critical post-launch period.

Via the accelerator, the Merlin Starter team offers multidisciplinary consultancy services in areas such as technical support, marketing strategies and initiatives, human resources and 

Merlin's Spellbook is an NFT collection issued by Merlin Starter. Spellbook NFTs grant holders eligibility for a 20,000,000 MSTAR token airdrop, should they choose to stake the NFT. Staking a Spellbook NFT in exchange for MSTAR locks the NFT, and the NFT is subsequently burned. As an NFT staker, you may also qualify (depending upon random selection) for IDO whitelist entries.

At the center of the wider Merlin ecosystem, Merlin Chain is an L2 platform dedicated to enabling cross-chain applications utilizing Bitcoin native assets. Although it operates as a dedicated Bitcoin L2 network, Merlin Chain also offers 

 (EVM) compatibility in order to better support cross-chain use cases.

 network, which allows it to achieve significant scalability and cost efficiencies. The average block time on the chain is less than one second, while the average transaction fee is measured in tiny fractions of a cent.

Merlin Starter's native crypto, MSTAR, is a recently launched token (April 2024) that’s used for the following functions on the IDO launchpad:

The token's maximum and total supply is 1 billion. Supply allocation shares for MSTAR are shown in the chart below.

You can buy the MSTAR token on Bybit through a Spot pair with USDT (

). Additionally, you can join Bybit's MSTAR campaigns to grab a share of the 

The first campaign, MSTAR Community Airdrop Quest, runs through May 10, 2024, 8AM UTC. It’s offering a total prize pool of 8,900,000 MSTAR, featuring a 7,000,000 MSTAR community airdrop, a 1,000,000 MSTAR referral prize pool and an exclusive affiliate referral event with a 900,000 MSTAR prize pool. The second campaign, Token Splash, is being held through Apr 30, 2024, 9AM UTC, with a 2,800,000 MSTAR prize pool.

As a plethora of projects such as Merlin Starter look to extend Bitcoin's functionality, its blockchain is steadily moving away from a passive state of use that’s reserved for asset transfers and storage. Merlin Starter is contributing a great deal to putting Bitcoin native assets to use in various apps and protocols.

While Merlin Chain is doing the critical job of enabling the actual utilization of assets via its Layer 2 network, Merlin Starter is a pivotal endeavor aimed at supporting numerous new projects looking to make Bitcoin a more active crypto environment. The more of these projects we see, the more likely it is that Bitcoin will develop into a thriving ecosystem that could rival Ethereum’s. To achieve such a goal, Merlin Starter is exactly the catalyst the industry needs.

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Merlin Starter (MSTAR): Empowering Startups and Innovation

Bybit Learn

Investing

From veterans like Ethereum and Polkadot to up and coming projects like Aptos, these are the best layer 1 crypto projects to invest in during the bear market.

If you're searching for the best crypto to invest in during the bear market, you’ll first want to understand how to differentiate crypto projects from one another. Many of the best cryptos to invest in are Layer 1 cryptos, which include platforms like 

. The issue with these platforms is that they 

In recent years, developers have created 

 for consensus and security. With Layer 2 protocols in place, Layer 1 

 have become less of an issue. We’ll take a closer look at some of the best Layer 1 cryptos to invest in during the bear market.

The term “Layer 1” refers to the initial layer of a crypto ecosystem or platform. For instance, Ethereum is currently considered a Layer 1 blockchain, with Layer 2 projects that have been placed above it for added functionality.

Layer 2 projects, which can be placed on top of Layer 1 blockchains, include everything from 

 (DeFi). In most cases, Layer 1 is the base layer and primary security provider for the entire network. During a bear market, when many cryptocurrencies and projects are declining in value, it's highly recommended that you get back to the fundamentals by placing your investments into 

A smart contract platform typically consists of three components, which include security, decentralization and scalability. However, having all three of these components is very difficult (hence, the 

). Many smart contract platforms have two of these components firmly in place but are relatively weak when it comes to the third.

Platforms like Bitcoin and Ethereum are considered to be decentralized and highly secure but aren't necessarily scalable. In comparison, a platform like 

 has issues with decentralization but is considered to be scalable and secure. Ethereum — due to its popularity for creating DApps — has experienced such difficulties with scaling that they’ve needed to charge higher fees to cover the expenses. In return, many users have chosen to invest in other platforms. (Note: 

, Ethereum’s long-awaited upgrade, is ongoing at the time of this article’s writing.)

As the first system that's built in a blockchain, Layer 1 is able to perform standard functions, such as performing transactions. While the following Layer 1 list includes more than a dozen of the best smart contract platforms, Bitcoin is still the most common Layer 1 cryptocurrency. Layer 2 cryptos are protocols that are built directly on top of the Layer 1 structure for the purpose of resolving cost and speed issues. Two examples of Layer 2 blockchains include on Bitcoin are the 

. On the Ethereum side, examples of Layer 2 blockchains would include 

What Are the Best Layer 1 Crypto Projects?

If you want to know which crypto to buy now, the following list of Layer 1 cryptocurrencies takes a comprehensive look at 18 of the best Layer 1 cryptos to invest in. Every coin in this list has proven to be popular among crypto investors.

 is currently the most popular and widely used currency. It's considered to be among the best cryptos to invest in because of its high value and lengthy history, as well as its original status as the most notable form of digital cash. 

Currently, Bitcoin has the highest amount of liquidity among all cryptocurrencies, which means that no one has difficulty selling or purchasing Bitcoin. Even though Bitcoin experiences volatility as part of a volatile asset class, it's among the most stable options available to investors, which places it among the best Layer 1 cryptos. Note that although Bitcoin operates on a 

 (PoW) consensus, it’s considered to be the best crypto to invest in because of its sizable market share.

 is considered to be the very first smart contract platform, and it has the largest market capitalization among all such Layer 1 networks. As such, it's considered one of the best Layer 1 crypto projects to date.

 (EVM), a decentralized computer that developers interact with while creating smart contracts. (Other Layer 1 networks in this list, such as Avalanche and Binance Smart Chain, are EVM compatible as well.)

Because of this compatibility, many other cryptocurrencies are based on the code that Ethereum uses, which allows developers to implement their projects on numerous blockchains. Even though Bitcoin is the most widely used currency on this Layer 1 list, Ethereum has a strong ecosystem and is considered to be the most decentralized Layer 1 currency, which makes ETH one of the best cryptos to invest in.

As the most hype-filled project of 2021, 

 certainly has the potential to become one of the best Layer 1 crypto projects of all time because of its unique consensus mechanism. Transactions are timestamped when placed in a completely new block within the chain. Along with supporting smart contracts and a range of DApps, Solana is considered to be a high-performance blockchain. Its goal is to maximize efficiency, which makes Solana as one of the best smart contract platforms. 

It can process a maximum of 65,000 TPS which is considered one of the fastest in DeFi. This was one of the leading factors along with the Ethereum killer narrative that pumped its native token SOL by 17055% in 2021. Since then it has retraced to local lows which makes it attractive and affordable to investors that were interested in Solana before.

 is another EVM-compatible blockchain that aims to solve the scalability issues that have plagued Ethereum. This platform uses the C-chain as a proprietary network chain, similar to the EVM. By using the C-chain, developers are able to create smart contracts built with Ethereum in mind, which makes Avalanche among the most versatile cryptos in this Layer 1 list.

The C-chain comprises two additional blockchains: The Platform Chain and the Exchange Chain. When these chains work on specialized tasks, it's possible for the network to become more efficient and scalable, which is why Avalanche is one of the best Layer 1 cryptos. Additionally, the network has expanded to include subnetworks which work similarly to sharding Ethereum 2.0. Avalanche is well on the way to its goal of becoming a worldwide asset exchange.

 is another Ethereum-compatible platform. It offers a native token known as ATOM. This platform is application-agnostic, which means that it's fully interoperable with the Ethereum mainnet and similar 

 ecosystems. The platform's interoperability makes it among the best cryptos to invest in. Cosmos focuses on providing features that aren't available on Ethereum.

Since developers can launch Ethereum applications on the Cosmos platform without needing to rewrite code, it’s proven to be popular among developers and investors alike. Additionally, the network will be deploying interchain 

which will drive more use cases for ATOM. Cosmos aspires to be at the forefront of decentralized finance, which makes this currency unique among the other cryptos in this Layer 1 list.

, an open-source blockchain, enables separate blockchains to become fully interconnected via the creation of 

. Every chain that's created on the Polkadot platform is made with a modular framework, which is ideal for developers. Polkadot focuses on transparent governance, upgradeability and scalability, the latter of which is absent from many cryptos in this Layer 1 list.

Polkadot's native token is known as DOT, which is used to incentivize uses in the 

. One notable advantage of using this platform is that developers use a shared security system, which means that they don't need to take steps to bring in validators or miners for security. Polkadot is among the best Layer 1 cryptos because of its large market cap which positions it as a top-ten coin.

, an ERC-20 token that's positioned on the Ethereum blockchain, is the primary coin associated with the Crypto.com exchange. The purpose of this coin is to accelerate and fuel the mass adoption of cryptocurrencies, which makes it among the best Layer 1 cryptos. CRO comes with a high APY interest rate for staking via 

Members also get relatively high discounts on exchange fees. If you decide to opt into a syndicate event, you can purchase numerous cryptocurrencies at a 50% discount. Keep in mind that holding a specific amount of the CRO currency gives you access to additional features and perks, which mainly include high-interest rates when 

the coin. Some investors find CRO as one of the best cryptos to invest in because of its reward system.

 aims to be a competitor to Ethereum, with a focus on scalability as well as ease of use. The platform's scalability is centered around two distinct layers of technology, which include technologies for transferring value and tracking ledger balances.

Its native token, ADA, soared in market cap to become one of the best Layer 1 cryptos after their 

 which introduced smart contract capabilities for developers to build DApps and NFTs. The network is set to undergo another upgrade on September 22. The 

 enhances its speed and scalability which brings Cardano one step closer as an 

At the moment, Cardano has an existing supply of around 33.8 million. If you're wondering which crypto to buy now, ADA is a great investment because it can be used as a 

 (BSC) is another EVM-compatible platform. It offers low fees of around $0.15 per transaction and discounted fees on its native exchange. Even though the BSC network comprises some centralization, its native token BNB facilitates quick and affordable transactions on a secure network.

, it makes BNB among the best Layer 1 cryptos. Some investors believe that BSC offers better performance than Ethereum, even though it relies on the Ethereum developer community. Along with affordable transactions, BSC has quick adoption rates, while also accommodating bridging, which facilitates easy token migration.

 is an open-source blockchain that supports the creation of DApps. NEAR is secure, highly capable and intuitive.

This crypto platform uses sharding technology to allow for infinite scalability. Smart contracts are fully compatible, and gas fees are considerably lower when compared to those on Ethereum. NEAR also works as a storage layer which developers can pay to maintain their 

It also has a Layer 2 scaling solution that is compatible with Ethereum called Aurora. It relies on the speed and scalability of the NEAR blockchain with the reach of Ethereum. This lets developers build DApps compatible with Ethereum at a cheaper cost without changing the code base. It also makes it easier to scale without worrying about expensive gas fees and other drawbacks that come with Ethereum. 

This makes NEAR attractive to investors as the protocol implements new features such as its stablecoin USN that provides additional use cases to NEAR.

 is hyped up to be one of the best Layer 1 crypto projects thanks to its goal of becoming the "nervous system" for any smart cities developed in the future. With prolific developer Andre Cronje ponce at the project's helm, many investors were excited for Fantom's advanced distributed ledger technology that could power an array of smart services.

 technology to provide additional scalability while also facilitating instant crypto transactions. The inclusion of a high-performance virtual machine means that smart contracts are easy to create and deploy. The Fantom Foundation has plans to release their Fantom Virtual Machine  (FVM) next year, which will have Solidity compatibility and parallel processing.

Currently, you can use the FTM token for governance, staking and paying fees. FTM has a market cap of more than $675 million and has been relatively inexpensive since its decline at the start of this year.

 is a popular blockchain that was founded in 2017 but only launched its ALGO token later in 2019. Algorand is based on a PoS mechanism and is considered to be more secure than some other PoS platforms, which makes it the best among Layer 1 cryptos.

Validators on the Algorand platform are selected at random, which makes it almost impossible to predict who will be the best-performing validator. The primary benefits of investing in ALGO and using the Algorand platform include complete decentralization, less time needed for verification, 

, an experienced team and a low potential for hard forks.

 is a decentralized platform with a focus on bridging decentralization and scalability. While Harmony was among the best Layer 1 crypto platforms in 2021 due to the soaring popularity of GameFi DApp, DeFi Kingdom. Their native token ONE cannot be mined, but rather staked to earn rewards. To do so, you’ll need to have the Harmony One extension installed into your web browser, which lets you perform transactions.

Harmony One has improved some of the weaknesses that exist in blockchain technology and has already cultivated a lengthy list of partnerships across many industries. Harmony One has a market cap of more than $250 million.

 is a highly popular smart contract platform that aims to deliver extensive scalability options through the use of sharding technology. The native token of this crypto platform is EGLD, which was initially launched on the Binance DEX. It's believed that Elrond eGold is around 1,000 times more scalable than Ethereum.

If you're wondering which crypto to buy now, EGLD is a great option because of its fast transaction speeds, superior network security and strong DApp ecosystem. EGLD has a market cap of nearly $1.4 billion, with a single coin worth approximately $60 and a circulating supply of more than 22 million EGLD.

 is a carbon-negative network that acts as a distributed ledger for transaction fees and payments of all types. This includes in-app payments, micropayments and even network protection. It uses a technology called the directed acyclic graph (DAG). This technology allows the network to achieve lightning-fast transaction speeds of up to 10,000 transactions per second (TPS) with low fees of only $0.0001 per transaction.

Hedera is also 885,000 times more energy efficient than Bitcoin. Users burn just 0.001 kilowatt-hours of energy per transaction, compared to transactions in Bitcoin that consume 885 kWh of energy. Due to this carbon-negative nature, many energy-conscious individuals have speculated for Hedera to be one of the best Layer 1 crypto projects in the near future once it gets mainstream adoption.

 that provides users with complete control over their transactions. The XMR token is also considered to be completely fungible. If you decide to invest with the Monero platform, you'll discover that it's possible for transactions to be linked and that addresses cannot be tracked.

This platform doesn't come with a block limit and is considered to be dynamically scalable. In the event that the Monero supply ever runs out, a continuous supply of 0.3 XMR will be available to further incentivize miners. Users are able to make transactions visible to other users, which means that Monero can be audited by officials for any sign of foul play.

 is a unique crypto project that's outfitted with a new payment protocol meant to streamline international payments. Its XRP token acts as a cryptocurrency, as well as powering this digital payment network that accommodates financial transactions.

Best Layer 1 Crypto Projects To Invest In During the Bear Market

Grab Up to 5,000 USDT in Rewards

Grab Up to 5,000 USDT in Rewards