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

FEB24_R43_Tuna_Chain_(WOOG)_Reinventing_Bitcoin_with_a_ZK-OP_Approach_(1).png

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

APR24_R29_An_Overview_of_Top_Pending_Ethereum_Spot_ETF_Applications.png

An Overview of the Top Pending Ethereum Spot ETF Applications

Bybit Position Builder is an easy-to-use tool that helps you manage portfolio with various derivative products such as perpetuals, futures, and options. Learn how it works. 

Managing a diverse investment portfolio across various accounts can be a daunting and complex task for novice and experienced investors alike. Some common challenges users face include keeping track of their positions, maintaining a balanced risk profile and staying informed about market changes. Users may incur opportunity costs or make suboptimal investment decisions without a clear overview of 

 (P&L) or the flexibility to customize a trading template.

This guide introduces Bybit Position Builder, an innovative tool designed to help you manage your portfolio efficiently. Here, you’ll learn its key features and benefits and how to harness them to create a tailored and well-rounded investment strategy. 

Bybit Position Builder is an easy-to-use tool that helps you quickly create and manage portfolios with various 

With a built-in chart to show your custom portfolio's profit and loss (P&L), Position Builder lets you keep an eye on your contracts and control them all in one place. You can add positions on different contracts and use ready-made strategies to improve your trades. Additionally, you can place many orders simultaneously, saving you time and energy.

Position Builder simplifies the process of establishing, adjusting and overseeing portfolios, allowing traders to concentrate on executing their strategies and adapting to ever-changing market conditions.

To begin using Position Builder, first access its page on the Bybit trading platform, typically located within the Perpetuals or Options trading interfaces. From there, you can customize your portfolio by adding various contract types, selecting the desired coin, choosing contracts, determining the type and direction and specifying the position size and price.

Bybit Position Builder enables you to apply tailored strategies and 

 levels to your positions, ensuring your portfolio aligns with specific trading goals and risk tolerance. One of the tool's most notable features is its ability to place multiple orders simultaneously, providing a competitive edge in fast-paced markets.

With Position Builder, you can effortlessly adjust and monitor your positions, which enables you to set leverage, edit prices and position sizes and view order book status. It also enables easier 

 options exposure to changes in an underlying asset’s price. Maintaining a delta-neutral position requires regularly adjusting positions. 

Position Builder offers a comprehensive overview of P&L, margin occupied and 

 values, equipping you with the information you need to effectively track and analyze your portfolio's performance. You can also customize your P&L chart by selecting a strike price range, dragging the implied volatility (IV) range and modifying the expiration date. This helps you visualize your portfolio's performance under varying market conditions, leading to better trading decisions.

5 Reasons Why You Should Use Bybit Position Builder

Bybit Position Builder offers a wide range of features tailored to enhance your trading experience and optimize your results. Here are five reasons to try it out.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to quickly build your trading portfolio with Position Builder on Bybit. Before we dive in, ensure you upgrade your account to a 

 which can handle multiple orders. Also, note that only market and limit orders are currently supported.

Step 1: Access the Position Builder Page in One of Two Ways 

Step 2: Use Position Builder to Place Your Order

Position Builder supports up to 200 orders with various contract types and strategies. 

For additional customization, use Delta Hedging to maintain a delta-neutral position.

: Traders can customize their orders with no position limitations. However, only 20 legs of options are supported at one time. 

Personalize your P&L chart by selecting a strike price range, dragging the implied volatility (IV) range and modifying the expiration date.

Step 4: View Total P&L, Margin and Greeks

On the right side of the page, see important information such as overall P&L, margin occupied and Greek values. Click on 

For orders involving multiple legs with a long-short hedging relationship, it's recommended you use 

1. Is Position Builder free for all Bybit users? 

Bybit’s Position Builder is free for all users.

2. Can I use Position Builder for Bybit Spot trading? 

No, the Position Builder function is currently available only for Bybit Derivatives. However, we’re constantly innovating and more features will be added gradually. 

3. Are the estimated profits indicated by Position Builder guaranteed? 

No, the estimated profits indicated by Bybit Position Builder are not guaranteed.

Beginner

2303-T2554_Bybit_Learn_-_Position_Builder_1600x900.png

Position Builder: What Is It & How to Efficiently Manage Your Portfolio

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.

Merlin_Starter_mstar.png

Merlin Starter (MSTAR): Empowering Startups and Innovation

Bybit Learn

Metaverse

web3

Love anime art? Then you'll definitely adore Azuki NFTs and how they're changing the metaverse game.

Blockchain authentication of popular anime-style illustrations has infused the decades-old Japanese art genre with new commercial viability. 

) have taken the NFT world by storm. An anonymous team has combined the NFT phenomenon, anime’s cult-like following, and stunning visuals of ”counter-culture” skateboarders to create the explosive Azuki NFT collections. 

 is a brand created for the metaverse. Its NFT collection consists of 10,000 anime avatars that grant community members access to '”The Garden,” an exclusive virtual world or metaverse where Web3 enthusiasts, artists and builders gather to forge a decentralized future. 

Chiru Labs earns a royalty of 5% of any Azuki NFT resold. 

The project has a few key elements that drive a successful NFT project. The Azuki team has created and nurtured an expressive brand for the metaverse. Here are some of the reasons why Azuki NFTs are ruling the markets right now: 

Anime and manga are well-known cultural exports from Japan. Anime, a Japanese adaptation of the word “animation,” refers to animated content from Japan. They are typically inspired by Japanese comics or ”manga.”

Interest in anime-related content has spread worldwide, as it has become popular with children and adults alike. Characters like Pokémon, Dragon Ball Z and Digimon have been household names since the ’90s. 

With deep pockets and an obsessive interest in anime collectibles, anime fans have readily jumped on the Azuki bandwagon, sending its prices and popularity soaring.

Anime art is instantly recognizable due to its distinctive style. Azuki NFT characters embody the art form with an incredible level of detail in the artwork. Furthermore, the Azuki avatars come in many variations — females and males with different hair types, skin types, etc. Fans can find an avatar among the 10,000 Azuki characters to love. The exquisitely expressed unique traits and the rarity distribution (the presence of specific, unique attributes or traits in each character) make these collections exceptional in the NFT space. The Azuki artists haven’t disappointed.

In addition, the characters’ skateboarder art style screams anti-establishment, which is one reason the project is in huge demand, finding an affinity with like-minded individuals. After all, what could be more anti-establishment than crypto? 

According to the Azuki website, Azuki is “a brand for the metaverse, built by the community.” This repeated emphasis on community isn’t just for sound bites: Azuki recognizes the importance of a vibrant community, and emphasizes community ownership of the project. Community is the lifeblood of any NFT project. The community are the shareholders, the brand evangelists, the users and the soul of the project. Without them, the Azuki project or any NFT project would fizzle out.

Since the launch, the community has grown and currently boasts over 200,000 Twitter followers and 80,000 Discord members. These online social channels are well-moderated and provide a safe space for members to chill out and get to know each other. They also encourage conversation and updates on the project's various activities.

Upcoming Exclusive Streetwear Collaborations

In line with their objective to become the brand for the metaverse, the Azuki team has announced a streetwear collaboration that will feature Azuki clothing, merchandise and accessories. These will be available in "The Garden's" VIP store, only accessible to Azuki NFT owners.

The Garden is Azuki's version of the metaverse, that virtual world where community, art and culture intersect to create magic. According to their website, ”the lines between the physical and digital worlds are blurring, and the rules are being rewritten.”

The Garden will host exclusive streetwear collabs, NFT drops, live events, and more upcoming activities yet to be revealed.

A project is only as good as the team behind it. Any experienced investor — especially one aware of rug pulls that can doom an investment — always scrutinizes a project’s developers, engineers and backers before shelling out money. A high-quality team leads and supports a community. A lackluster team invariably loses support from the community, and the NFT project goes nowhere.

While most of the Azuki team members are anonymous, at least one, steamboy, is well-known in the gaming sector. He was the Character Art Director at Overwatch, a team-based first-shooter game. He worked on the Azuki project as an artist part-time, as well as a co-creator, but has become a full team member. As the lead artist for the high-profile video game, his profile adds credibility to the project.

The other anonymous members of the team are reputed to have extensive experience spanning crypto, gaming and technology. Most of what is known about them are snippets of information gleaned from their social media profiles:

Despite being anonymous, which is a negative for building trust, the team's level of commitment and professionalism seem to stand in for them.

One of the most expensive Azuki NFTs is #9605 and it recently sold for 420.7 ETH (approximately $1.4 million) on March 30, 2022.

For example, Azuki #7749, one of the most expensive in the collection, is a ‘“spirit” type Azuki. It features both the “spirit long” hair and the ‘“golden monk staff,” rare traits which can only be found in 15 of the 10,000 Azukis.

Blue and red types, with a rarity of 4.44% and 4.41%, respectively, have lower average sales prices. Human types, at 90.18%, are the most common, and have an average sale price of 7.86 ETH. 

After the type, the set of attributes of an Azuki NFT is the most significant determinant of its price. These attributes include clothing, neck, golden items and offhand features of 313 Azukis. 

Each Azuki NFT with a golden attribute traded at 28.1 ETH, while NFTs without golden items were sold at 8 ETH. 

Particular traits — Fire, Fireflies, Fox Fire and Sakura — also influence the price of each Azuki NFT. Fireflies (0.88%) and Fire (0.58%) are especially valuable traits that have sold for about 30 ETH each.

The average sale price of each Sakura (0.8%), Smoke (0.81%) and Fox Fire (0.86%) NFT is 15 ETH, or around $40,000. Notably, their average sale price is still higher than ordinary Azuki NFTs with no unique trait (93.71%), which have sold for 7.92 ETH on average.

Both the offhand features (such as Golden Sheathed Katana, Water Orb and Lightning Orb, etc.) and clothing features influence the price of each Azuki NFT. 

The golden Kigurumis are one of the rarest types of attributes, with the Cat (0.05%) being the rarest. Another expensive piece in the Azuki NFT collection is Azukis without clothing (0.05%), selling at an average price of 78.66 ETH.

As a trait, hair has a similar impact as other traits. Azukis with no hair (0.08%), or hair designs specific to a spirit type, have outperformed the rest. Azukis without hair have sold for an average of 30.69 ETH, while Spirit hairs have sold within the range of 42.7–76.5 ETH. 

Fire (0.22%) and Water (0.21%) hairs trade at an average sale price of 29 ETH each. The other hair attributes have sold for between 3.2 ETH and 15.2 ETH.

Red Bean (0.4%) is an ear trait associated with the origin of this brand that's pegged at 27.2 ETH. 

The golden earphone (0.35%) surpasses the neck attributes, with an average sale price of almost 40 ETH.

Compared to the average trading price of the remaining neck attributes, Azuki NFTs with these have netted between 7.65 ETH and 16 ETH.

Fire (0.57%), Glowing (0.78%) and Lightning (0.46%) eyes are outstanding from other eye attributes. Azukis with these three types of eyes have sold for more than 18.4 ETH, while those with other eye traits have netted prices between 6.9 ETH and 12.4 ETH.

The hype surrounding the NFT movement has attracted creators, artists and collectors in large numbers, hoping to cash in on the skyrocketing prices of these digital collectibles.

The Azuki NFT collection joined the trend with a bang, setting an unprecedented sales record in a flash. Starting at an initial price of $3,400 for each token, Azukis now sell for an average of $37,700, with some rarer ones going for more than $500,000. This is by no means cheap! So is this the right time to invest in Azukis? You're probably also wondering if the price has peaked and if there's future potential for further price appreciation. Read on as we discuss the valuation of Azuki NFTs and how you can price them.

NFTs represent volatile assets in the volatile cryptocurrency space. But unlike other digital assets, NFTs are difficult to valuate because they typically have no intrinsic value. Like most artworks, the value of an Azuki NFT is subjective — and only worth as much as people are willing to pay for it. Clearly, hype plays a significant role in determining the value of NFT collections, which makes them a risky investment.

However, an Azuki NFT offers something more than hype — namely utility. As mentioned above, it gives holders membership to The Garden, with plans for a line of streetwear collabs, Azuki merch, NFT drops, live events, and more.

Azuki NFTs: How This Anime Art Brand Is Becoming A Metaverse Hit

Grab Up to 5,000 USDT in Rewards

Grab Up to 5,000 USDT in Rewards