Definition ∞ Digital assets issued by projects in their initial phases of development, often before the full product or network is publicly launched or widely adopted. These tokens are typically offered to early investors or community members through private sales, seed rounds, or initial coin offerings (ICOs). Investing in early-stage tokens carries higher risk due to the nascent nature of the project, but also offers potential for substantial returns if the project succeeds. Their value is often speculative, tied to future utility and project execution.
Context ∞ The market for early-stage tokens is a recurring subject in crypto news, with reports often covering fundraising rounds, project roadmaps, and regulatory scrutiny. Debates persist about the classification of these tokens as securities, particularly in jurisdictions like the United States, influencing how they are offered and traded. Investors watch for indicators of project viability and team credibility, as many early-stage ventures face significant hurdles in achieving their stated goals and gaining market acceptance.