About Optimism (OP)
Optimism (OP) is a layer-two blockchain solution built on Ethereum, known for leveraging optimistic rollups to enhance the scalability of the Ethereum network. This method allows for transactions to be processed on Optimism and then securely anchored on the Ethereum blockchain. Optimism has garnered attention with over $500 million in Total Value Locked (TVL) and supports 97 protocols, including prominent ones like Synthetix (SNX), Uniswap (UNI), and Velodrome (VELO).
The project is overseen by the Optimism Foundation, a non-profit entity focused on the development and decentralization of the Optimism ecosystem. Unlike profit-driven initiatives, Optimism's funding is primarily sourced from donations and grants, reflecting its commitment to creating infrastructure that benefits public goods and services.
Optimism aims to maintain a straightforward approach by utilizing existing Ethereum code and infrastructure wherever possible. The ecosystem is developed with practical needs in mind, evolving iteratively to meet real-world demands. It also places a strong emphasis on sustainable growth, avoiding shortcuts in favor of long-term viability.
From a technical standpoint, Optimism uses optimistic rollups to scale network capacity. Transactions are processed on its layer-two platform (L2) and then grouped and submitted to Ethereum's layer-one (L1). This process eliminates the need for a mempool on L2, ensuring a seamless user experience. However, transactions can be challenged within a seven-day window, after which they are deemed final. This feature impacts the withdrawal timeline from Optimism to Ethereum, typically taking a week.
Regarding its tokenomics, Optimism has a unique distribution model catering to various stakeholders: token holders, contributors, builders, and the community. The initial supply of OP tokens is set at 4,294,967,296, with an annual inflation rate of 2%. The first-year token supply allocation is 30%, with subsequent years' allocations decided through token holder voting.
Optimism's security framework relies on the optimistic rollups mechanism. This approach allows the second-layer blockchain to process transactions and periodically send merkle roots to the Ethereum blockchain for validation. This verification process introduces a delay in withdrawing funds from layer-two platforms based on optimistic rollups.
The OP token is the governance token of the Optimism network, granting holders voting rights on key decisions. It enables community participation in the ecosystem's development, influencing software upgrades, funding for public goods, and other critical areas. This token ensures that the Optimism community has a significant voice in directing the platform's future.
The live price of OP is available and updated in real-time on Binance.