How To Create And Mint Your Own NFTs On The Ethereum Network

The allure of creating your own NFTs and BRC-20 tokens is undeniable. For artists, owning and monetizing their digital creations through NFTs offers a new level of control and potential financial reward. Beyond the realm of art, NFTs can foster passionate communities, grant exclusive access to events, and even act as fundraising tools. 

However, stepping into the world of token creation isn’t without its challenges. It demands both a technical understanding of blockchain technology and smart contracts, along with a careful consideration of financial risks and potential regulatory implications. Before diving in, it’s crucial to assess your goals, resources, and risk tolerance. While the possibilities are vast and exciting, responsible and informed action is key to navigating this rapidly evolving landscape.

NFTs, or Non-Fungible Tokens, are digital assets that represent ownership or proof of authenticity for specific items or content. Unlike fungible cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin or Ethereum, NFTs cannot be exchanged on a one-to-one basis due to their unique nature.

NFTs are typically created and traded on blockchain platforms such as Ethereum, Binance Smart Chain, and decentralized marketplaces like OpenSea. These platforms utilize smart contracts to establish ownership and enable transparent and immutable transactions for NFTs.

NFTs can represent a wide range of digital items, including artwork, music, videos, virtual real estate, and collectibles. Each NFT has metadata describing the item it represents and a unique identifier that sets it apart from other NFTs

Creating NFTs On The Ethereum Network

The primary stage in the creation of NFTs involves identifying the content you wish to associate with your NFT. Consider the specific representation you desire for your NFT, whether it be digital artwork, collectibles, virtual real estate, or any other distinct digital item.

In this article, we will use illustrations from OpenSea to guide you on the steps you need to create your own NFTs. OpenSea stands as a leading decentralized marketplace built on the Ethereum blockchain, dedicated to NFTs. It creates a space where users can engage in buying, selling, and discovering an extensive array of digital assets, encompassing artwork, virtual real estate, collectibles, and more.

OpenSea delivers a user-friendly interface, showcasing a vast selection of NFT listings curated from diverse creators and projects. Through OpenSea, users gain the ability to explore the NFT community, partake in auctions, and securely manage their digital assets. With a commitment to fostering the expansion and accessibility of the NFT market, OpenSea ensures a seamless experience for enthusiasts and collectors alike.

This step-by-step guide covers how to create an NFT collection and mint directly to your wallet. 

First, visit the original OpenSea website, and click on the “Login” button at the top to connect your preffered wallet.

To figure out the best wallet to use on the Ethereum network, check here.

NFTs

Next,  click on your “Profile Icon” at the top right of your OpenSea interface in order to deploy a smart contract and select “Studio” through the pop-up options.

NFT OpenSea

To initiate the creation of a fresh NFT, simply click the “Create” button located at the top right corner.

OpenSea

When you explore the options, you will find the choice to either Drop a collection or Create/Mint an NFT. Selecting “Create an NFT”. This will enable you to mint an NFT directly into your wallet.

NFTs

Once you proceed, a fresh “Create an NFT” screen will be presented. If you are using OpenSea Studio tools for the first time to create an NFT, select “Create a new collection.” You will be able to add one NFT to this collection initially, with the option to include more NFTs at a later stage.

NFT

After selecting “Create a new collection,” you will be guided through the steps on your screen to deploy a smart contract. This process will enable you to create NFTs for your newly created collection.

To customize your contract, you need to add a logo image, choose a contract name, and designate a token symbol. Additionally, you will need to choose an EVM blockchain. It’s important to note that deploying a smart contract incurs gas fees, and the estimated fees for each blockchain will be displayed. If the fees are higher than anticipated, you can revisit the process at a later time, as they are subject to change based on network activity.

NFTs 

When you are prepared, proceed by clicking on “Continue”. This action will prompt a transaction signature request in your wallet, which will necessitate gas.

NFTs

Once the process is finalized, you will receive a confirmation message. Proceed to the next step by selecting “Create an NFT” as shown below.                                  :

NFT OpenSea

Having successfully created a smart contract, you are now prepared to generate an NFT. It is important to note that once your item is minted, further editing becomes impossible as it permanently resides on the blockchain. In this case, you will be creating an ERC-1155 NFT, which allows for the creation of multiple copies of the same item.

To begin this phase, upload the media for your NFT, which represents the artwork associated with it. Next, choose the collection in which you wish to mint your NFT.

Subsequently, provide a name for your item and set the desired item supply. The item supply determines the number of copies you wish to mint for the NFT. If you choose 1, then the item will be a one-of-one. 

NFT name

Next, click on the “Create” button at the bottom right, as shown in the above image.  A loading message will appear as the item is being minted. To proceed with the minting process, you will need to approve the transaction using your wallet.   

NFTs

Congratulations! You have successfully minted your very first NFT!

NFT OpenSea

Conclusion

Although NFTs and BRC-20 tokens have distinct functions and operate on separate blockchains, they both contribute to the growing realm of blockchain-based digital assets. NFTs have captured widespread interest for their exceptional nature and capacity to represent ownership of digital assets

How to Buy, Sell, and Trade ERC-20 Tokens on the Ethereum Network

[toc]

The Ethereum network stands as a revolutionary innovation in the realm of blockchain technology. It serves as a robust platform for building and deploying decentralized applications (dApps), fueling the growth of decentralized finance (DeFi) and transforming the way we interact with financial services. However, with its widespread adoption and increasing popularity, Ethereum has faced challenges of scalability and high transaction fees, leading to the development of Layer 2 scaling solutions to enhance its capabilities.

The Ethereum blockchain hums with innovation, birthing a new breed of digital assets known as ERC-20 tokens. These versatile gems unlock a treasure trove of possibilities, from voting rights in decentralized communities to fueling innovative applications and even representing virtual currencies. 

ERC-20 tokens are standardized building blocks on the Ethereum network. They adhere to a specific set of rules, ensuring seamless interaction and divisibility, making them perfect for trading and diverse applications. Think of them as digital coins, each with its unique identity and purpose, ready to be exchanged, used, and explored.

Whether you’re a seasoned crypto trader or a curious newcomer, navigating the thrilling world of ERC-20 trading can be challenging. This comprehensive guide will equip you with the knowledge and tools to confidently buy, sell, and trade these digital assets on the Ethereum network. 

Some of the major and popular ERC-20 Tokens are Tether (USDT), Polygon (MATIC), Chainlink (LINK), Uniswap (UNI), Lido DAO (LIDO), Maker DAO (MKR), amongst many others. 

Features of Ethereum Network

Ethereum’s innovative design sets it apart from other networks, paving the way for a decentralized future of finance, applications, and beyond. Distinguished by its unique features and capabilities, it stands as one of the pioneers of Blockchain Technologies with standout features like: 

The Power of Smart Contracts

The Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM) serves as the core engine that drives the execution of smart contracts on the Ethereum network. These smart contracts are self-executing code that automates various actions and agreements, forming the foundation of dApps and DeFi protocols. EVM compatibility is crucial for deploying and interacting with ERC-20 tokens, the most common token standard on Ethereum.

Unlike static databases, Ethereum boasts the groundbreaking ability to execute self-enforcing agreements through smart contracts. These programmable pieces of code automate a wide range of tasks, enabling trustless interactions and the creation of innovative applications in diverse sectors.

Layer 1 and Layer 2: Addressing Scalability

The Ethereum mainnet functions as a Layer 1 blockchain, the base layer where all transactions are ultimately settled. To address the scalability bottlenecks on this primary layer, Layer 2 solutions have emerged as a promising approach. These solutions aim to offload a significant portion of transaction processing off-chain, resulting in increased throughput, faster confirmation times, and significantly reduced transaction costs.

A Platform For Innovation

Ethereum isn’t just a cryptocurrency platform; it’s a fertile ground for developers to build revolutionary decentralized applications (dApps). From DeFi protocols automating financial transactions to NFTs unlocking new ownership models, the possibilities are endless.

Gas and Gas Fees: Fueling Transactions

Within the Ethereum network, gas refers to the computational power required to execute transactions and smart contracts. Users pay gas fees to compensate miners for processing their transactions. Gas fees are denominated in ETH, Ethereum’s native cryptocurrency.

Fueling Decentralized Finance (DeFi)

As a breeding ground for DeFi protocols, Ethereum empowers users to take control of their finances. Borrow, lend, invest, and trade without dependence on intermediaries, fostering a more open and inclusive financial system.

Ecosystem And Adoption

Unlike centralized projects, Ethereum thrives on a vibrant and passionate community. Developers, miners, and users participate in its governance and evolution, ensuring its development remains transparent and aligned with the community’s needs. This growing ecosystem includes decentralized exchanges (DEXs), gaming applications, and more. 

Exploring Layer 2 Scaling Solutions

Layer 2 scaling solutions offer a promising pathway to address the scalability challenges faced by the Ethereum mainnet. They operate as secondary layers built on top of the main blockchain, providing alternative mechanisms for transaction processing and data storage.

Here are some common types of Layer 2 solutions:

  • Sidechains: Independent blockchains that run in parallel with Ethereum, enabling faster and cheaper transactions.
  • Plasma Chains: Blockchains that leverage Ethereum for security and finality, offering scalability benefits through data offloading.
  • Optimistic Rollups: The technology employed by the Ethereum network for token transactions, which bundles multiple transactions off-chain and submits a summary to the mainnet for verification.

Beyond Features: What Truly Sets Ethereum Apart?

Ethereum’s uniqueness extends beyond its specific features, encompassing its fundamental characteristics and impact on the blockchain landscape.

Network Effect and Ecosystem: Through its early adoption and widespread implementation, Ethereum has established a robust network effect. Developers, projects, and users gravitate towards it, creating a flourishing ecosystem that strengthens its overall value and resilience.

Security and Trust: Built on a Proof-of-Work (PoW) consensus mechanism, Ethereum offers a high level of security and protection against malicious attacks. Its distributed nature further bolsters trust and transparency, minimizing the risk of centralized control.

Flexibility and Adaptability: Ethereum’s design prioritizes flexibility and adaptability. Upgradeability mechanisms allow it to evolve and adopt new features to remain relevant and address emerging challenges in the blockchain space.

Global Impact and Pioneering Spirit: Ethereum has gone beyond being a mere technological advancement; it has ignited a global conversation about decentralization, ownership, and financial autonomy. Its pioneering spirit continues to inspire innovation and shape the future of our digital world.

How To Get Started  on the Ethereum Network for ERC-20 Tokens.

To buy/sell ERC-20 Tokens, you’ll need a crypto wallet. There are several crypto wallets to choose from within the Ethereum network and, popular options include software wallets like MetaMask, Trust Wallet, Coinbase Wallet, Binance WAllet, etc. 

If you are using a desktop computer, you can download Google Chrome and install the MetaMask Wallet Chrome extension. If you prefer using your mobile phone, you can download MetaMask wallet via Google Play or the iOS App Store. 

Just make sure that you are downloading the official Chrome extension and mobile app by visiting MetaMask Wallet’s website.

Metamask

Once you’ve registered and set up your wallet via the Google Chrome Extension or via the mobile app you downloaded, MetaMask wallet allows users to manage their cryptocurrency wallets and interact with decentralized applications (DApps) to execute transactions on supported blockchain networks directly from their browsers. (Write down your seed phrase on a piece of paper and keep it in a safe place!). 

Now, you’ll need to connect and add Ethereum to your MetaMask wallet. You may refer to MetaMask support page for reference on their website. 

Trading ERC-20 Tokens on the Ethereum Network.

In order to ERC-20 token trades on the Ethereum network, you will need to buy ETH as your base currency. You can buy ETH on centralized exchanges such as Binance, copy your wallet address from Metamask, and then send the ETH from Binance to your Metamask wallet. 

You can also purchase ETH directly within the Metamask wallet using traditional payment methods such as credit or debit cards, etc.

Ethereum network

Just click on the “Buy/Sell” button within Metamask to open the interface. Here, you can put how much ETH (or any other token) you want to buy in terms of dollar terms, pick your payment method, and then click “Buy”.

Note that to buy crypto directly within Metamask, you will need to provide info such as your country and state. However, it is a straightforward process that only takes a minute.

It’ll only take a couple of minutes at most for your ETH to arrive in your wallet. Once the ETH arrives, you are all set to begin trading ERC-20 tokens on the Ethereum network. So, head over to UniSwap to get started on your trading journey.

How To Trade ERC-20 Tokens On The Ethereum Network Using UniSwap

Uniswap is a decentralized exchange (DEX) protocol built on the Ethereum blockchain. It allows users to trade Ethereum-based tokens directly from their wallets without the need for intermediaries or traditional order books. 

Uniswap offers users a simple and straightforward way to buy and sell a wide variety of tokens. Be sure you’re on the  Uniswap website to protect your wallet.

The first step is clicking on the “Launch App” button at the top right corner, as shown in the image below:

Uniswap

The next step is clicking on the connect wallet option on Uniswap at the top right corner, as shown in the image below:

Uniswap Ethereum

Connect to your preferred wallet as shown below. (In this case, it’s Metamask):

Swap

Once connected, switch Metamask to the Ethereum network. (If you’re already on the Ethereum network, you do not need to switch):

Ethereum swap

After connecting MetaMask to the Ethereum network, go to Uniswap, and then you can start your ERC-20 Tokens on the Ethereum network using UniSwap.

Trading Ethereum Tokens On Uniswap

The next step is to select your preferred tokens on the UnsSwap interface and since Uniswap operates on a token to token trading model, click on the “select token” button to select the trading pair you want to trade against. 

For example, if you want to buy USDT using ETH,  select ETH – USDT, enter the amount, then click on “swap” or “trade now” and confirm the transaction in your Metamask wallet. You can view the tokens in your wallet’s asset list.

Uniswap

Buying and Selling ERC-20 Tokens with the Metamask Wallet

Ethereum Network users can also buy and sell tokens using the Metamask extension wallet already connected to the Ethereum network. To do this, make sure you’re connected to the Ethereum network and have ETH to swap and pay for gas fees. Then, navigate to the “Swap” button as shown below. This will take you to the Swap interface inside Metamask.

metamask swap

Using the image above as a guide, you can also search for tokens using the name or the contract address, just like on UniSwap. Input the amount of ETH you want to swap, confirm that you have the correct token, and then click “Swap.” Once the transaction is confirmed, the tokens you just bought will be sent to your wallet.

Tracking ERC-20 Token Prices on The Ethereum Network

ERC-20 token holders and traders can take advantage of on-chain tools like DeFiLama to gain access to comprehensive market insights for specific tokens. These insights include price data and contract information, empowering users to make well-informed trading decisions based on reliable and up-to-date information.

Dextools is a comprehensive analytic resource for managing digital assets traded on ERC-20 Decentralized Exchanges. It’s a vibrant analytical cryptocurrency resource that provides statistical information on all leading blockchains and crypto projects. 

Dextools

Among these features, an exceptional one is the charting functionality, which delivers both real-time and historical price data for a wide range of tokens. 

By utilizing these charts, users gain valuable insights into price trends, trading volumes, and other pertinent metrics. This enables them to pinpoint potential entry or exit points for their trades with precision and confidence. For example, let’s assume you’re $ETH for $LIDO, your trading pair is ETH/LIDO.

Note, Trading pairs serve as bridges between currencies. For example, the ETH/LIDOpair allows you to acquire $LIDO tokens using Ethereum (ETH).

Choose the pair that fits your funding situation and trading strategy. Consider using ETH if you already hold it, or fiat currencies if you’re venturing in fresh. 

Let’s track the $LIDO token on Dextools, here’s what we have:

Charts

Conclusion

Buying, selling, and trading ERC-20 tokens on the Ethereum network can be a thrilling adventure, opening doors to exciting investment opportunities and unlocking the potential of decentralized finance. However,  it demands knowledge, caution, and a well-defined strategy. 

This guide serves as your map and compass, but the ultimate treasure lies in your own learning and exploration. Navigate with confidence, trade responsibly, and remember that the most valuable asset in this journey is your knowledge.

How to Buy, Sell, and Trade ERC-20 Tokens on the Ethereum Network

[toc]

The Ethereum network stands as a revolutionary innovation in the realm of blockchain technology. It serves as a robust platform for building and deploying decentralized applications (dApps), fueling the growth of decentralized finance (DeFi) and transforming the way we interact with financial services. However, with its widespread adoption and increasing popularity, Ethereum has faced challenges of scalability and high transaction fees, leading to the development of Layer 2 scaling solutions to enhance its capabilities.

The Ethereum blockchain hums with innovation, birthing a new breed of digital assets known as ERC-20 tokens. These versatile gems unlock a treasure trove of possibilities, from voting rights in decentralized communities to fueling innovative applications and even representing virtual currencies. 

ERC-20 tokens are standardized building blocks on the Ethereum network. They adhere to a specific set of rules, ensuring seamless interaction and divisibility, making them perfect for trading and diverse applications. Think of them as digital coins, each with its unique identity and purpose, ready to be exchanged, used, and explored.

Whether you’re a seasoned crypto trader or a curious newcomer, navigating the thrilling world of ERC-20 trading can be challenging. This comprehensive guide will equip you with the knowledge and tools to confidently buy, sell, and trade these digital assets on the Ethereum network. 

Some of the major and popular ERC-20 Tokens are Tether (USDT), Polygon (MATIC), Chainlink (LINK), Uniswap (UNI), Lido DAO (LIDO), Maker DAO (MKR), amongst many others. 

Features of Ethereum Network

Ethereum’s innovative design sets it apart from other networks, paving the way for a decentralized future of finance, applications, and beyond. Distinguished by its unique features and capabilities, it stands as one of the pioneers of Blockchain Technologies with standout features like: 

The Power of Smart Contracts

The Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM) serves as the core engine that drives the execution of smart contracts on the Ethereum network. These smart contracts are self-executing code that automates various actions and agreements, forming the foundation of dApps and DeFi protocols. EVM compatibility is crucial for deploying and interacting with ERC-20 tokens, the most common token standard on Ethereum.

Unlike static databases, Ethereum boasts the groundbreaking ability to execute self-enforcing agreements through smart contracts. These programmable pieces of code automate a wide range of tasks, enabling trustless interactions and the creation of innovative applications in diverse sectors.

Layer 1 and Layer 2: Addressing Scalability

The Ethereum mainnet functions as a Layer 1 blockchain, the base layer where all transactions are ultimately settled. To address the scalability bottlenecks on this primary layer, Layer 2 solutions have emerged as a promising approach. These solutions aim to offload a significant portion of transaction processing off-chain, resulting in increased throughput, faster confirmation times, and significantly reduced transaction costs.

A Platform For Innovation

Ethereum isn’t just a cryptocurrency platform; it’s a fertile ground for developers to build revolutionary decentralized applications (dApps). From DeFi protocols automating financial transactions to NFTs unlocking new ownership models, the possibilities are endless.

Gas and Gas Fees: Fueling Transactions

Within the Ethereum network, gas refers to the computational power required to execute transactions and smart contracts. Users pay gas fees to compensate miners for processing their transactions. Gas fees are denominated in ETH, Ethereum’s native cryptocurrency.

Fueling Decentralized Finance (DeFi)

As a breeding ground for DeFi protocols, Ethereum empowers users to take control of their finances. Borrow, lend, invest, and trade without dependence on intermediaries, fostering a more open and inclusive financial system.

Ecosystem And Adoption

Unlike centralized projects, Ethereum thrives on a vibrant and passionate community. Developers, miners, and users participate in its governance and evolution, ensuring its development remains transparent and aligned with the community’s needs. This growing ecosystem includes decentralized exchanges (DEXs), gaming applications, and more. 

Exploring Layer 2 Scaling Solutions

Layer 2 scaling solutions offer a promising pathway to address the scalability challenges faced by the Ethereum mainnet. They operate as secondary layers built on top of the main blockchain, providing alternative mechanisms for transaction processing and data storage.

Here are some common types of Layer 2 solutions:

  • Sidechains: Independent blockchains that run in parallel with Ethereum, enabling faster and cheaper transactions.
  • Plasma Chains: Blockchains that leverage Ethereum for security and finality, offering scalability benefits through data offloading.
  • Optimistic Rollups: The technology employed by the Ethereum network for token transactions, which bundles multiple transactions off-chain and submits a summary to the mainnet for verification.

Beyond Features: What Truly Sets Ethereum Apart?

Ethereum’s uniqueness extends beyond its specific features, encompassing its fundamental characteristics and impact on the blockchain landscape.

Network Effect and Ecosystem: Through its early adoption and widespread implementation, Ethereum has established a robust network effect. Developers, projects, and users gravitate towards it, creating a flourishing ecosystem that strengthens its overall value and resilience.

Security and Trust: Built on a Proof-of-Work (PoW) consensus mechanism, Ethereum offers a high level of security and protection against malicious attacks. Its distributed nature further bolsters trust and transparency, minimizing the risk of centralized control.

Flexibility and Adaptability: Ethereum’s design prioritizes flexibility and adaptability. Upgradeability mechanisms allow it to evolve and adopt new features to remain relevant and address emerging challenges in the blockchain space.

Global Impact and Pioneering Spirit: Ethereum has gone beyond being a mere technological advancement; it has ignited a global conversation about decentralization, ownership, and financial autonomy. Its pioneering spirit continues to inspire innovation and shape the future of our digital world.

How To Get Started  on the Ethereum Network for ERC-20 Tokens.

To buy/sell ERC-20 Tokens, you’ll need a crypto wallet. There are several crypto wallets to choose from within the Ethereum network and, popular options include software wallets like MetaMask, Trust Wallet, Coinbase Wallet, Binance WAllet, etc. 

If you are using a desktop computer, you can download Google Chrome and install the MetaMask Wallet Chrome extension. If you prefer using your mobile phone, you can download MetaMask wallet via Google Play or the iOS App Store. 

Just make sure that you are downloading the official Chrome extension and mobile app by visiting MetaMask Wallet’s website.

Metamask

Once you’ve registered and set up your wallet via the Google Chrome Extension or via the mobile app you downloaded, MetaMask wallet allows users to manage their cryptocurrency wallets and interact with decentralized applications (DApps) to execute transactions on supported blockchain networks directly from their browsers. (Write down your seed phrase on a piece of paper and keep it in a safe place!). 

Now, you’ll need to connect and add Ethereum to your MetaMask wallet. You may refer to MetaMask support page for reference on their website. 

Trading ERC-20 Tokens on the Ethereum Network.

In order to ERC-20 token trades on the Ethereum network, you will need to buy ETH as your base currency. You can buy ETH on centralized exchanges such as Binance, copy your wallet address from Metamask, and then send the ETH from Binance to your Metamask wallet. 

You can also purchase ETH directly within the Metamask wallet using traditional payment methods such as credit or debit cards, etc.

Ethereum network

Just click on the “Buy/Sell” button within Metamask to open the interface. Here, you can put how much ETH (or any other token) you want to buy in terms of dollar terms, pick your payment method, and then click “Buy”.

Note that to buy crypto directly within Metamask, you will need to provide info such as your country and state. However, it is a straightforward process that only takes a minute.

It’ll only take a couple of minutes at most for your ETH to arrive in your wallet. Once the ETH arrives, you are all set to begin trading ERC-20 tokens on the Ethereum network. So, head over to UniSwap to get started on your trading journey.

How To Trade ERC-20 Tokens On The Ethereum Network Using UniSwap

Uniswap is a decentralized exchange (DEX) protocol built on the Ethereum blockchain. It allows users to trade Ethereum-based tokens directly from their wallets without the need for intermediaries or traditional order books. 

Uniswap offers users a simple and straightforward way to buy and sell a wide variety of tokens. Be sure you’re on the  Uniswap website to protect your wallet.

The first step is clicking on the “Launch App” button at the top right corner, as shown in the image below:

Uniswap

The next step is clicking on the connect wallet option on Uniswap at the top right corner, as shown in the image below:

Uniswap Ethereum

Connect to your preferred wallet as shown below. (In this case, it’s Metamask):

Swap

Once connected, switch Metamask to the Ethereum network. (If you’re already on the Ethereum network, you do not need to switch):

Ethereum swap

After connecting MetaMask to the Ethereum network, go to Uniswap, and then you can start your ERC-20 Tokens on the Ethereum network using UniSwap.

Trading Ethereum Tokens On Uniswap

The next step is to select your preferred tokens on the UnsSwap interface and since Uniswap operates on a token to token trading model, click on the “select token” button to select the trading pair you want to trade against. 

For example, if you want to buy USDT using ETH,  select ETH – USDT, enter the amount, then click on “swap” or “trade now” and confirm the transaction in your Metamask wallet. You can view the tokens in your wallet’s asset list.

Uniswap

Buying and Selling ERC-20 Tokens with the Metamask Wallet

Ethereum Network users can also buy and sell tokens using the Metamask extension wallet already connected to the Ethereum network. To do this, make sure you’re connected to the Ethereum network and have ETH to swap and pay for gas fees. Then, navigate to the “Swap” button as shown below. This will take you to the Swap interface inside Metamask.

metamask swap

Using the image above as a guide, you can also search for tokens using the name or the contract address, just like on UniSwap. Input the amount of ETH you want to swap, confirm that you have the correct token, and then click “Swap.” Once the transaction is confirmed, the tokens you just bought will be sent to your wallet.

Tracking ERC-20 Token Prices on The Ethereum Network

ERC-20 token holders and traders can take advantage of on-chain tools like DeFiLama to gain access to comprehensive market insights for specific tokens. These insights include price data and contract information, empowering users to make well-informed trading decisions based on reliable and up-to-date information.

Dextools is a comprehensive analytic resource for managing digital assets traded on ERC-20 Decentralized Exchanges. It’s a vibrant analytical cryptocurrency resource that provides statistical information on all leading blockchains and crypto projects. 

Dextools

Among these features, an exceptional one is the charting functionality, which delivers both real-time and historical price data for a wide range of tokens. 

By utilizing these charts, users gain valuable insights into price trends, trading volumes, and other pertinent metrics. This enables them to pinpoint potential entry or exit points for their trades with precision and confidence. For example, let’s assume you’re $ETH for $LIDO, your trading pair is ETH/LIDO.

Note, Trading pairs serve as bridges between currencies. For example, the ETH/LIDOpair allows you to acquire $LIDO tokens using Ethereum (ETH).

Choose the pair that fits your funding situation and trading strategy. Consider using ETH if you already hold it, or fiat currencies if you’re venturing in fresh. 

Let’s track the $LIDO token on Dextools, here’s what we have:

Charts

Conclusion

Buying, selling, and trading ERC-20 tokens on the Ethereum network can be a thrilling adventure, opening doors to exciting investment opportunities and unlocking the potential of decentralized finance. However,  it demands knowledge, caution, and a well-defined strategy. 

This guide serves as your map and compass, but the ultimate treasure lies in your own learning and exploration. Navigate with confidence, trade responsibly, and remember that the most valuable asset in this journey is your knowledge.

Ethereum Price Surges 30% Over Last Week Lows, Addresses Holding Over 0.1 ETH Reach New ATH

Ethereum price has rallied to $2,800, which is the next significant important resistance level. Ethereum’s price has risen by 30 percent from hitting a low of $2,160 barely a week ago.

Ethereum Price Targets $3k

In the last five days, ETH has closed in the green, reaching the important resistance level of $2,805. (20-day moving average line). Price is currently stabilizing slightly below this critical level, in preparation for a new effort to break above if the bullish sentiment persists.

If successful, ETH would be well on its way to reaching $3,000 in no time. On the other hand, the $2,550 support level has held up well after yesterday’s retest (confirmed as support).

ETH/USD to retest $3k. Source: TradingView

Given that the indicators have turned bullish, ETH is well-positioned to break through the important resistance level of $2,800. ETH has a bullish bias at the moment. The critical resistance levels of $2800 and $3,000 will define the price movement for the rest of the week, so investors should keep an eye on them.

@Tradinghubb, a cryptocurrency trader, tweeted an ETH chart, suggesting that another downward move is likely to complete the correction.

Source: Twitter

Since the high in May 2021, the trend appears to be in the form of an A-B-C corrective structure. It has a perfect 1:1 ratio between waves A and C, which is usual in such corrections. In addition, the entire movement has been contained within an ascending parallel channel, implying that the bottom has been reached.

Buyers should, however, be patient until the breakout is verified by a successful retest of the resistance as support.

Related article | TA: Ethereum Rallies 10%: Why More Gains Seem Possible

Wallets Holding Over 0.1 ETH Rise

The number of addresses on the Ethereum blockchain with a balance of more than 0.1 ETH just reached an all-time high, according to the Glassnode analytics. This number has now risen to almost 6.823 million.

ETH addresses with 0.1+ coins balance. Source: Glassnode

In the past few years, the Ethereum network has grown at a breakneck pace. The growth of decentralized finance segments was largely responsible for this. Originally based on the Ethereum blockchain, DeFi and non-fungible NFT coins.

Ethereum’s mining hash rate recently surpassed 1.1 PH/s, setting a new all-time high. This comes as the network moves closer to adopting a proof-of-stake method.

In the last two years, though, it hasn’t all been good news for Ethereum. For many users, gas fees have become a big issue because they cannot afford to conduct transactions that would result in hundreds of dollars in penalties.

With the ETH 2.0 version, Ethereum is transitioning to PoS, though developers are considering changing the name. This is to avoid confusion among new users, with the ‘consensus layer’ being the replacement name under consideration. It’s expected that with a new update underway, more users will hop on the blockchain.

Related article | TA: Ethereum Holds Strong At $2.5K: Indicators Show Fresh Increase

Featured image from Pixabay, chart from TradingView.com and Glassnode

Vitalik Buterin Urges Ethereum To Grow Beyond DApps

The developer and co-founder of Ethereum recently urged the community to innovate beyond decentralized finance. He made these statements during a conference that took place in Paris.

According to Buterin, non-financial utilities are part of the vision general-purpose blockchains such as Ethereum aims to offer. But he is somewhat disappointed that the ETH blockchain is now seeing more financial application only.

Related Reading | Ethereum Founder Vitalik Buterin Spotted With Hollywood Celebrities

Buterin stated that it is better to know Ethereum by decentralized finance instead of for nothing. But, the blockchain has to be known for more.

The lead developer mentioned that other applications outside the financial sector can still be developed on the ecosystem to support this.

For instance, developers can also build applications such as retroactive public goods funding, identity verification & attestation, and decentralized social media on Ethereum.

Buterin also stated clearly that innovating beyond decentralized finance doesn’t mean being against it. He even mentioned that Ethereum applications that combine both finance & non-finance elements would really be interesting.

After a sudden drop in price, ETH is now slightly recovering from previous losses | Source: ETHUSD on TradingView.com

He believes that exciting things might offer different values for people on the network and beyond it in a few years to come.

Currently, the ETH co-founder is working on “public goods funding.” From a blog post that Buterin co-authored, there was information that Optimism has promised to fund open-source development via retroactive rewards protocols.

Why Is The Ethereum Community Headed Towards DeFi?

According to Buterin, two factors are responsible for the preoccupation with decentralized finance. The first one is that centralized technology hasn’t been handling finance very well. Unfortunately, finance is essential and offers a wider domain decentralization.

Secondly, he mentioned that high fees are contributing to the growing interest in dApps. But he mentioned that the high fee issues on Ethereum are gradually fizzling out due to the growing lay-two networks.

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Since the team is already working on lower transaction fees, the Ethereum CEO believes that the tie has come for the community to explore other opportunities. This is why he stated that Ethereum should innovate towards other possibilities, not just in creating tokens.

Buterin believes that if the community focuses on DeFi only, such actions will push the blockchain to infinity. But, on the other hand, if nothing changes, the community will only get tokens that profit through yield farming.

He also noted that financial derivatives bring good value to the crypto sector. However, he warned that derivatives are too risky.

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