ERC-20 Token Standard Overview
When working with ERC-20, the most widely used token standard on the Ethereum blockchain that defines how tokens can be transferred and accessed. Also known as Ethereum token standard, it enables developers to create interoperable tokens that work across wallets, exchanges and dApps. Smart contracts, self‑executing code that runs on the blockchain are the backbone of ERC-20, enforcing the rules for balance tracking and approvals. Because of this, tokenomics, the economic design behind a token’s supply, distribution and incentives becomes a crucial factor when evaluating any ERC-20 project.
ERC-20 encompasses a set of six mandatory functions like transfer
and balanceOf
, plus three optional ones for extra flexibility. This uniformity means any wallet that supports ERC-20 can hold thousands of different tokens without custom code. The standard also requires that token contracts publish events, making on‑chain activity transparent for analytics platforms. As a result, developers can focus on the token's unique value proposition while relying on the proven infrastructure of the Ethereum network.
Why Tokenomics Matters for ERC-20 Projects
Good tokenomics influences an ERC-20 token’s market behavior. A well‑designed supply schedule, fair distribution method and clear utility can attract users and investors. Many projects tie tokenomics to airdrop campaigns, where free tokens are distributed to early adopters. These airdrops serve dual purposes: they create initial liquidity and they act as marketing tools that expand the community. When an airdrop follows a solid tokenomic plan, participants are more likely to hold and engage with the ecosystem rather than immediately sell.
From a practical standpoint, every ERC-20 token you encounter in our article collection follows the same basic rules, but the surrounding tokenomics differ. Some tokens, like those linked to play‑to‑earn games, embed in‑game rewards into the contract. Others, such as governance tokens, grant voting rights that affect protocol decisions. Understanding these nuances helps you assess risk and potential upside before you buy, claim an airdrop, or stake the token.
Below you’ll find a curated list of articles that dive deeper into real‑world ERC-20 examples. Whether you’re looking for a step‑by‑step airdrop claim guide, a breakdown of a token’s economic model, or a review of how smart contracts power DeFi platforms, the posts are organized to give you actionable insights quickly. Explore the collection to see how the ERC-20 standard shapes today’s crypto landscape.