Definition ∞ On-Chain Data Metrics are quantifiable measurements derived directly from transactions and activities recorded on a blockchain’s public ledger. These metrics provide transparent, immutable data points about network usage, asset movements, and participant behavior. Examples include transaction volume, active addresses, mining difficulty, and token distribution. They offer objective insights into the underlying economics and health of a digital asset network.
Context ∞ Analysts frequently use on-chain data metrics to assess market sentiment, predict price movements, and understand the fundamental utility of a cryptocurrency. Unlike traditional market data, these metrics offer a direct view of network activity, free from the biases of centralized exchanges. Significant changes in metrics such as transfer volume growth or crypto user growth often precede or coincide with important market events. Interpreting these data points requires specialized knowledge of blockchain operations.