Last updated:--
View ChartCosmos is a blockchain project designed to enable various blockchains to communicate and share data through inter-blockchain communication protocols. The ultimate goal of Cosmos is to establish a “blockchain Internet”, allowing users to seamlessly switch between blockchains, benefit from the advantages of each, and avoid weaknesses. Unlike Bitcoin networks, where computer “miners” compete to process transactions and receive rewards in a proof-of-work system, Cosmos operates on a proof-of-stake mechanism. Here, people allocate blocks for mining according to the number of tokens they hold. Atom is the native token of the Cosmos blockchain.
Cosmos was founded back in 2014, at a time when most of us weren’t even aware of the existence of blockchains or cryptocurrencies. Jae Kwon was the driving force behind this project, having spent years conducting detailed research to lay the groundwork for Cosmos. His objective was to build a blockchain that was not as energy-intensive as Bitcoin. This research eventually led to the creation of Cosmos as we know it today.
Cosmos’s central vision is to create an ‘internet of blockchains’, and this might not remain a dream for much longer. The CEO of Tendermint, the company behind Cosmos, offered an intriguing glimpse into the future, suggesting that around 200 different chains will be connected through Cosmos in the near future. But before we delve into its future plans, let’s cover the basics.
ATOM is the native coin of the Cosmos ecosystem. Firstly, it powers the Cosmos Hub, the first blockchain in its ecosystem. This means you’ll need to pay your gas fees in ATOM in order to use the network. Fortunately, gas fees in the Cosmos ecosystem are minimal compared to similar chains, making it easy to access countless blockchains from this single ecosystem.
Next, ATOM also acts as a governance token. The Cosmos Hub has a governance mechanism that allows all holders of ATOM to participate in the decision-making process. This means that simply by holding ATOM, you can help decide the future of the chain.
Finally, ATOM is also the coin used for staking on the Cosmos Hub blockchain. As a proof-of-stake network, Cosmos requires validators to lock up its native coin as collateral for validating transactions. Without this staking mechanism, the whole security of the blockchain would be at stake, so ATOM’s role here is extremely important.
The easiest way to buy ATOM is through a crypto exchange like BTCC. BTCC makes purchasing ATOM easy and accessible, whether you use fiat currency or crypto. Trusted by over 9.1 million investors across 100 countries, BTCC is dedicated to offering excellent crypto trading services for all traders. If you’re ready to dive in and make your first ATOM purchase, register with BTCC today!
Buy in just 4 steps (Register → Verify → Deposit/Purchase → Receive Coins)
Choose Cosmos products that suit your trading style
Zero slippage, ultra-fast matching, supports large spot transactions seamlessly, ideal for long-term asset allocation and spot accumulation.
TradeIndustry-low fees, supports up to 50x leverage. Go long or short flexibly to capture intraday market movements.
Trade| Feature | Cosmos (ATOM) | Polkadot (DOT) | Avalanche (AVAX) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cross-Chain Tech | IBC Protocol (Decentralised P2P) | Relay Chain & Parachain Slots | Avalanche Consensus & Subnets |
| Chain Sovereignty | 100% sovereign Appchains with custom validators | Requires leasing slots & sharing Relay Chain security | Customisable Subnets (requires AVAX staking) |
| Shared Security | Optional (via ICS Mechanism) | Mandatory (all Parachains share Relay Chain) | Flexible (Subnets design own security model) |
| Core Strength | Modular flexibility & growing IBC ecosystem | Tight security integration across all chains | Sub-second transaction speed & full EVM support |
Cryptocurrency prices are subject to high market risk and price volatility. You should only invest in products that you are familiar with and where you understand the associated risks. The content expressed on this page is not intended to be and shall not be construed as an endorsement by BTCC regarding the reliability or accuracy of such content. You should carefully consider your investment experience, financial situation, investment objectives, and risk tolerance, and consult an independent financial adviser before making any investment. This material should not be construed as financial advice. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance. The value of your investment can go down as well as up, and you may not get back the amount you invested. You are solely responsible for your investment decisions. BTCC is not responsible for any losses you may incur. For more information, please refer to our Terms of Use and Risk Warning. Please also note that data relating to the above-mentioned cryptocurrency presented here (such as its current live price) are based on third-party sources. They are presented to you on an “as is” basis and for informational purposes only, without representation or warranty of any kind. Links provided to third-party sites are also not under BTCC’s control. BTCC is not responsible for the reliability or accuracy of such third-party sites or their contents.