How did airdrops become the main strategy for attracting users in crypto?

If you have been active in the cryptocurrency space recently, you have probably heard about token drops. But what exactly does this phenomenon mean and why has it become so popular? Let’s take a closer look.

What is behind the concept of a drop?

Basically, a dropper is an entity that organizes the distribution of digital assets among users. This usually happens as part of a marketing initiative when a blockchain project or platform wants to quickly grow its audience. Tokens can be distributed completely free of charge or at special discounted rates — the main goal in any case is one: to expand the ecosystem and attract active participants.

Why do drops attract investors and traders?

Statistics show impressive results. By 2025, the number of participants in various token drops exceeded 500,000 people — a 40% increase compared to the previous period. The total value of distributed assets amounted to approximately $200 million USD. For traders, a drop is an excellent way to replenish their portfolio with new positions without significant costs. Investors, on the other hand, see the received tokens as a potential source of profit in the long term.

Real examples of drop usage

A DeFi platform launched in early 2025 distributed tokens to the first 10,000 users and achieved exponential growth in trading volumes. Another project in the NFT segment applied a more targeted approach — they issued new tokens exclusively to owners of their own NFT collections. This not only increased loyalty among the existing audience but also attracted collectors from outside.

What do ordinary users get?

For everyday market participants, a drop is primarily an opportunity to receive real assets without investments. The received tokens can be used within the platform’s ecosystem, exchanged for other currencies, or simply held, hoping for an increase in value. This is a democratic distribution method and one of the reasons why drops are so popular among the mass audience.

Why is this important for the development of the crypto ecosystem?

Droppers are not just a marketing tool. They serve as a catalyst for increasing liquidity, boosting activity on the platform, and creating a healthy competitive environment among projects. Each drop expands the user base and creates new entry points for people who are unsure whether to risk their own funds.

What to pay attention to when participating?

Despite the attractiveness, it is important not to forget about the risks. Cryptocurrency volatility can lead to a sharp decline in the value of received tokens. The market is highly sensitive to changes in sentiment, and conditions can change dramatically within a few hours. Therefore, it is recommended to approach participation consciously, carefully analyzing the project before joining a drop.

So, a drop is a phenomenon that has firmly rooted itself in cryptocurrency culture. It opens up new opportunities for all market participants: from beginners to experienced traders.