Onchain Utility

Definition ∞ Onchain utility refers to the practical applications and functionalities that a cryptocurrency token or blockchain protocol provides directly on the blockchain itself. This includes features like governance participation, staking for network security, transaction fee payments, or use within decentralized applications. Tokens with strong onchain utility often possess greater intrinsic value and demand. This utility distinguishes speculative assets from those with fundamental use cases.
Context ∞ Onchain utility is a critical metric frequently discussed in crypto news and analysis when evaluating the long-term viability and value proposition of digital assets. The current discussion often highlights tokens that provide tangible benefits within their respective ecosystems, such as gas fees or voting rights. Future trends emphasize the development of protocols that offer diverse and compelling onchain functionalities, driving real-world adoption and network growth.