Asset Classes

Non-Fungible Token

Acronym
NFT
Parent Asset Class

Non-fungible tokens are a special type of crypto asset that allows holders to prove their ownership of real or digital items. NFTs are digital objects that are verified on the blockchain and hold features such as uniqueness and non-interchangeability. NFTs are also generally one of a kind, or at least one of a very limited run, and have unique identifying codes. These digital assets can be traded and exchanged for money, cryptocurrencies, or other NFTs, depending on the value the market and owners have placed on them. NFTs are digital assets that represent things like art, virtual avatars, GIFs, videos, trading cards and even memes. One particular area that NFTs have taken by storm is the art world, where digital tokens are selling for tens of millions of dollars at major auction houses and beyond. These intangible items can include things like plots of virtual real estate in games like The Sandbox and Decentraland, to digital artwork like Beeple’s Everydays - The 2020 collection, and even images of cartoon apes.

THE RISE OF NFTS

  • There are a number of factors driving the rise of NFTs. One is the increasing popularity of digital art and collectibles.

  • In 2020, the NFT market was worth just over $250 million. By 2021, that number had exploded to over $40 billion.

  • In 2022, the market is expected to grow even further, with some experts predicting that it could reach $100 billion or more.

  • Another factor driving the rise of NFTs is the increasing popularity of blockchain technology.

  • NFTs are changing the way we think about digital ownership and creating new opportunities for artists, collectors, and investors.


Why are NFTs so important today?



Here are some of the unique properties of NFTs:


  • Each token has a distinct identification tied to a single Ethereum address

  • NFTs are not replaceable 1:1 with other tokens.

  • At any given time, an NFT can only have one owner. The uniqueID and metadata that no other token can replicate are used to manage ownership.

  • They are based on Ethereum and may be purchased and traded on any Ethereum-based NFT exchange.


Various applications of NFTs include:


  • Art. The most frequent NFT crypto application is programmable art, combining creativity and technology uniquely. Various limited edition artwork pieces are now in circulation.

  • Fashion. Consumers may simply check the ownership information of their purchases and accessories online, eliminating the danger of counterfeiting.

  • Licenses and certifications. NFT-based certificates and licenses relieve the load of record checking and verification. 

  • Sports. Blockchain technology's immutability aids in the prevention of counterfeit collectibles and tickets.

  • Gaming. NFTs have also left their mark on the cryptocurrency gaming industry, already making an impact on the overall gaming scene.