ERC-20 Total Supply

Definition ∞ ERC-20 Total Supply refers to the maximum quantity of tokens that can exist for a specific ERC-20 compliant cryptocurrency on the Ethereum blockchain. This value is a fixed parameter set within the token’s smart contract during its creation. It represents the absolute upper limit of tokens that will ever be in circulation, regardless of distribution or burning events. This supply constraint is a fundamental characteristic defining the token’s economic properties.
Context ∞ ERC-20 Total Supply is a key data point in cryptocurrency news, especially when evaluating the economics and potential value of Ethereum-based tokens. Discussions often focus on whether a token has a fixed supply or a dynamic one, which can influence its long-term scarcity and price stability. Understanding this metric is crucial for assessing a token’s inflationary or deflationary nature and its overall market dynamics.