Band Protocol is a decentralized, cross-chain data oracle platform that connects real-world data and APIs to smart contracts. It enhances smart contract functionalities by providing reliable data without central authority or points of failure. The platform uses a custom blockchain called BandChain, built on the Cosmos SDK, to facilitate data queries and aggregation. Band Protocol's native token, BAND, is used for staking and securing the decentralized oracle network.
Band Protocol (BAND) is used in several ways:
Staking Token: BAND is a staking token, which means validators stake BAND tokens to earn the right to process transactions and add new blocks to the BandChain blockchain. Validators are rewarded in BAND tokens for their services.
Data Request Fees: BAND tokens are used to pay for data provided by BandChain oracle sources. This fee is paid to validators for their role in retrieving and providing data to decentralized applications (dApps).
Delegation: BAND holders who are not validators can delegate their tokens to validators, earning a portion of the rewards collected by their chosen validators. This is part of the Delegated Proof of Stake (DPoS) mechanism used by BandChain.
- Token Economics: New BAND tokens are issued at a rate between 7% and 20% per year, with the goal of having 2/3 of the total supply staked at any given time. This inflationary tokenomics is designed to incentivize staking and validation.
Overall, the BAND token plays a central role in maintaining the security and functionality of the BandChain network, which provides decentralized data oracles to various blockchain applications.
To store Band Protocol (BAND) tokens, you can use several wallets that support the Bandchain network. Here are some options:
Atomic Wallet: Atomic Wallet supports both the ERC-20 token and the mainnet coin. You can store and stake BAND tokens in this wallet.
Cosmostation Wallet: Cosmostation Wallet is another option for storing and staking BAND tokens.
Citadel.one: Citadel.one also supports the storage and staking of BAND tokens.
Ledger with Cosmoscan.io: You can store BAND tokens on Ledger using Cosmoscan.io. There is a guide available for this process.
Coin98 Wallet: Coin98 Wallet allows you to store BAND tokens and earn rewards through staking.
MathWallet: MathWallet is a multichain wallet that supports the storage of BAND tokens along with other chains.
These wallets provide secure and convenient ways to manage your BAND tokens.
To buy Band Protocol (BAND) tokens, you can follow these steps:
Create an Account:
- Sign up on a cryptocurrency exchange that supports BAND, such as Zengo, KuCoin, or Coinbase.
- Verify your account by providing the required personal information and setting up a strong password.
Add a Payment Method:
- Connect a payment method to your account, such as a bank account, debit card, or credit card.
- Ensure that your payment method is compatible with the exchange and that you have sufficient funds.
Find BAND Trading Pairs:
- On the exchange, search for Band Protocol (BAND) and select it.
- Choose the trading pair you want to use, such as BAND/USDT or BAND/USD.
Place an Order:
- Enter the amount of BAND you want to buy in your local currency.
- Review the order details, including the price and fees.
- Confirm your purchase.
Store Your BAND:
- You can store your BAND tokens in your exchange account or transfer them to a non-custodial wallet for added security.
- Zengo: Offers a simple and intuitive interface for buying BAND with fiat currencies like USD, EUR, and GBP. You can use various payment methods, including mobile payment apps, SEPA, Mastercard, Visa, or bank transfers.
- KuCoin: Allows you to buy BAND with crypto or fiat currencies. You can use the spot market to exchange your existing crypto for BAND or purchase it directly with a credit/debit card or bank account.
- Coinbase: Supports buying BAND in the United States. You can use a bank account, debit card, or initiate a wire transfer to purchase BAND.
Remember to always follow the specific instructions and guidelines provided by the exchange you choose.