GRT is the official token that powers The Graph, an open-source protocol for indexing and retrieving data from various blockchains. This particular token is hosted on the Ethereum blockchain. It has a current market value of $1.3 billion and a circulating supply of 8.8 billion tokens, according to CoinMarketCap. You can buy GRT on a crypto exchange or stake your existing GRT tokens to earn more as a reward.
How Does the Graph Work?
The Graph is a decentralized protocol for collecting and processing blockchain data. Think of it as the Google of the blockchain world. It analyzes and curates blockchain data and stores it in various indices dubbed subgraphs. Decentralized app (dapp) developers can then use APIs to query the subgraphs and pay for the service with GRT crypto tokens.
The Graph makes it easy for dapp developers to collect data from various blockchains. Otherwise, they will have to build distinct tools for each blockchain they want to retrieve data from, which takes a lot of effort.
Three important roles power this protocol:
- Indexers: People operating computers (nodes) that power the network.
- Curators: Individuals that signal the indexes in subgraphs.
- Delegators: People who stake GRT for indexers and allow them to focus on running their nodes.
The GRT token is used to reward participants who take any of these roles.