Definition ∞ Network utility exposure refers to an investment or financial position that benefits from the increasing usage and functionality of a blockchain network. This type of exposure is gained by holding the native token of a protocol, where the token’s value is directly tied to the network’s adoption, transaction volume, and application growth. As more users or developers utilize the network for various functions, the demand for its native token typically rises. It represents a stake in the operational success and expansion of a decentralized ecosystem.
Context ∞ Investors often seek network utility exposure in projects like Ethereum, where Ether’s value is connected to the gas fees paid for transactions and the security provided by staking. Debates surround the valuation models for such tokens, considering factors like transaction throughput, developer activity, and competitive landscapes. Understanding this exposure is crucial for assessing the fundamental value proposition of many digital assets beyond speculative trading.