Inflation

Definition ∞ ‘Inflation’ refers to a general increase in the price level of goods and services in an economy over time, resulting in a decrease in the purchasing power of money. In the context of digital assets, it can describe an increase in the circulating supply of a cryptocurrency, potentially diluting the value of existing tokens if demand does not keep pace. Certain digital assets are designed with fixed or deflationary supply mechanisms to counteract inflationary pressures.
Context ∞ Current discussions regarding ‘inflation’ in crypto often contrast the supply mechanics of Bitcoin, which has a capped supply, with those of other cryptocurrencies that may have inflationary issuance schedules. The potential for fiat currency inflation also drives interest in digital assets as a hedge. Future developments will likely see continued debate on how different tokenomic models address or are affected by broader inflationary trends.