Qtum (QTUM): Prices, Charts, Markets & News

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Qtum (QTUM) is a unique blockchain platform designed to bridge the gap between Bitcoin’s stability and Ethereum’s smart contract functionality. By combining core elements from both networks, Qtum offers developers a flexible, scalable, and enterprise-ready environment for building decentralized applications (dApps). With its innovative architecture and focus on real-world usability, QTUM has emerged as a compelling alternative in the evolving blockchain landscape.

What Is Qtum?

Qtum is a general-purpose blockchain that merges Bitcoin’s Unspent Transaction Output (UTXO) model with Ethereum’s smart contract capabilities. This hybrid design enables developers to build and deploy dApps while benefiting from Bitcoin’s proven security and transaction efficiency.

The native cryptocurrency, QTUM, serves multiple functions within the ecosystem. It is used to pay transaction fees, participate in staking, and engage in on-chain governance. Holders can vote on protocol upgrades and development directions—each vote weighted by the amount of QTUM staked. This governance mechanism encourages long-term holding and active community participation.

One of Qtum’s standout features is its Account Abstraction Layer (AAL), which acts as a bridge between Bitcoin’s UTXO system and Ethereum-like smart contracts. The AAL allows developers to write smart contracts in familiar languages such as Solidity while running them on a virtual machine compatible with the UTXO model. This integration eliminates the need for hard forks when updating network parameters like block size or gas fees.

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Consensus Mechanism: Mutualized Proof-of-Stake (MPoS)

Qtum uses a customized consensus algorithm called Mutualized Proof-of-Stake (MPoS), a variation of traditional Proof-of-Stake (PoS). Unlike energy-intensive Proof-of-Work systems, MPoS is efficient and eco-friendly.

In MPoS, validators must stake QTUM tokens to participate in block production. When a node validates and records transactions, it earns newly minted QTUM and transaction fees. Notably, block rewards are shared not only with the current block producer but also with the nine preceding ones. This cooperative incentive model promotes network stability and discourages centralization.

The total initial supply was capped at 100 million QTUM, all minted before launch. Of these, 51 million were sold during an ICO in March 2017, raising $15 million. While the supply isn’t fixed forever, new token issuance follows a halving schedule every four years—similar to Bitcoin—ensuring predictable inflation control over time.

Qtum Founders and Development History

Qtum was founded in 2016 by Patrick Dai, who currently serves as Chairman of the Qtum Foundation. A computer science graduate and former project manager at Alibaba, Dai brought extensive tech and blockchain experience to the project. He previously contributed to notable blockchain initiatives including VeChain, Factom, and Meilink.

He was joined by co-founders Neil Mahi and Jordan Earls, forming a team with deep expertise in distributed systems and open-source development. Their collective vision was to create a blockchain that addressed key limitations in existing platforms—particularly around interoperability, governance rigidity, and smart contract complexity.

The 2017 ICO marked a pivotal moment for Qtum, successfully raising $15 million by selling 51% of the initial coin supply. Since then, the project has continued to evolve through community-driven upgrades and strategic partnerships aimed at expanding enterprise adoption.

How Does QTUM Work?

At its core, Qtum enables developers to build decentralized applications using smart contracts while leveraging Bitcoin’s secure transaction framework. Here’s how it works:

Developers can write, test, and deploy dApps just as they would on Ethereum—but with faster confirmations and lower costs. Additionally, Qtum supports delegated staking, making it accessible even for users without technical infrastructure.

On-chain governance allows token holders to vote on proposals affecting protocol changes, funding allocations, or upgrade timelines. This democratic approach ensures the network evolves according to community consensus rather than centralized control.

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Where Can You Buy QTUM?

QTUM is widely available across major cryptocurrency exchanges, offering high liquidity and trading volume. As of now, the circulating supply stands at approximately 103.6 million QTUM, with a total supply of around 107.8 million.

You can buy, sell, or trade QTUM on platforms such as:

These exchanges support various trading pairs including USDT, BTC, and ETH, making it easy for both retail and institutional investors to access the asset.

Before purchasing, ensure you store QTUM in a secure wallet—preferably hardware or non-custodial options—to maintain full control over your private keys.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What makes Qtum different from Ethereum?
A: Qtum combines Bitcoin’s UTXO model with Ethereum’s smart contract capabilities. It offers faster transaction finality, lower fees, and on-chain governance—features that enhance scalability and decentralization compared to Ethereum's base layer.

Q: Can I stake QTUM tokens?
A: Yes. Qtum uses Mutualized Proof-of-Stake (MPoS), allowing users to stake their QTUM and earn rewards. Staking also grants voting rights in network governance decisions.

Q: Is Qtum suitable for enterprise use?
A: Absolutely. Its modular design, interoperability features, and support for regulated environments make Qtum a strong candidate for business applications in finance, supply chain, and identity management.

Q: Does Qtum have a fixed maximum supply?
A: No. While 100 million QTUM were pre-mined, new tokens are issued through staking rewards with halvings every four years—similar to Bitcoin’s emission schedule.

Q: How does on-chain governance work on Qtum?
A: Token holders can vote on proposals related to upgrades or funding. Voting power is proportional to the amount of QTUM staked, ensuring alignment between economic stakeholders and network direction.

Q: Is Qtum eco-friendly?
A: Yes. Thanks to its MPoS consensus mechanism, Qtum consumes significantly less energy than proof-of-work blockchains like Bitcoin or early versions of Ethereum.

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Whether you're a developer exploring new platforms for dApp deployment or an investor seeking undervalued blockchain projects with strong fundamentals, Qtum presents a balanced blend of innovation and practicality. Its hybrid architecture positions it uniquely in the crypto ecosystem—offering enterprise-grade reliability without sacrificing developer flexibility.

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