What Is Basic Attention Token

Definition

Basic Attention Token (BAT) is a cryptocurrency designed to revolutionize digital advertising by rewarding users for their attention while improving efficiency for advertisers and publishers. Basic Attention Token emerged in 2017 as part of the Brave Browser ecosystem. Founded by Brendan Eich, the creator of JavaScript and co-founder of Mozilla, BAT aims to create a fairer online advertising model. The core concept revolves around decentralizing ad revenue, cutting out middlemen, and using blockchain to track user attention securely. Its ecosystem includes the Brave Browser, where users opt-in for ads and earn BAT rewards, fostering a privacy-focused digital economy.

Origin and Background

Launched via a rapid ICO that raised $35 million in under a minute, BAT addresses issues like ad fraud and privacy invasion in traditional advertising. The project's proponents emphasize user empowerment, with BAT serving as the token for transactions within this attention economy.

Core Concept and Ecosystem

At its heart, BAT measures user attention through the Brave platform, distributing rewards transparently. The ecosystem expands to include publishers who receive BAT for content, creating a cycle that benefits all parties without invasive tracking.

How Does Basic Attention Token Work

Operational Mechanisms

BAT operates on the Ethereum blockchain as an ERC-20 token, leveraging its smart contract capabilities for secure transactions. Users earn BAT by viewing privacy-preserving ads in the Brave Browser, which uses zero-knowledge proofs to verify attention without compromising personal data.

Consensus Mechanisms

As an ERC-20 token, BAT relies on Ethereum's proof-of-work (though Ethereum has transitioned to proof-of-stake post-Merge, BAT's security aligns with the network's current state). This ensures transaction validity through decentralized miner or validator consensus.

Technical Principles

Private keys secure user wallets for BAT holdings, while public keys facilitate transfers. Smart contracts automate reward distribution, splitting ad revenue: 70% to users, the rest to publishers and Brave, minimizing fraud.

How Is New Basic Attention Token Created

Issuance Method

BAT was pre-mined during its 2017 ICO, with no ongoing mining. The total supply is fixed at 1.5 billion tokens, ensuring scarcity.

Mining/Staking Mechanisms

Unlike proof-of-work coins, BAT doesn't involve mining. Users "earn" new BAT through attention rewards from ad campaigns, but this draws from existing supply allocated for rewards.

Inflation Model and Rewards

With a capped supply, BAT has no inflation. Rewards come from advertiser-purchased BAT, redistributed via the Brave Rewards program, incentivizing participation without creating new tokens.

The Use Cases of Basic Attention Token

Payments and Rewards

BAT enables micro-payments for content creators, allowing users to tip publishers directly through the Brave Browser.

Digital Advertising

It powers targeted, privacy-focused ads, where advertisers buy BAT to reach engaged audiences, reducing waste and fraud.

Governance and Ecosystem Integration

BAT holders can participate in platform governance, and it's used in DeFi for lending or trading, expanding beyond advertising into broader crypto applications like NFTs.

Buy, Send, or Store Basic Attention Token

Purchasing Channels

You can buy BAT on trusted platforms like WEEX Exchange, which offers seamless trading. Consider OTC options for larger volumes, but always prioritize security.

Wallet Types and Storage

Store BAT in hot wallets for quick access or cold wallets for enhanced security. Use Ethereum-compatible wallets like Brave's built-in one to hold, send, or receive tokens safely.

Operational Processes

To buy, register on WEEX Exchange and earn a free 20 USDT bonus— a great start for new traders. Deposit funds, search for BAT, and execute your trade. Sending involves entering the recipient's address and confirming via your wallet. https://www.weex.com/how-to-buy

Pros & Cons / Risks

Advantages

- Decentralization empowers users and reduces ad intermediaries. - High security via Ethereum's blockchain. - Fast, low-cost transactions for rewards. - Privacy-focused model protects user data.

Risks

- Price volatility common in crypto markets. - Regulatory uncertainties in advertising and crypto sectors. - Dependence on Brave Browser adoption. - Technical risks like smart contract vulnerabilities.

Comparison

Versus Major Alternatives

Compared to Bitcoin, BAT focuses on utility in advertising rather than pure value storage. Unlike Ethereum's ETH, which powers a broad DeFi ecosystem, BAT specializes in attention economics, offering niche efficiency but less versatility.

Conclusion / Next Steps

Basic Attention Token holds potential for transforming digital advertising amid growing privacy concerns. Its future may involve wider adoption and integrations, driving value. For more, review the BAT whitepaper or join community discussions. Check out the roadmap on official channels to stay informed.

Market & Ecosystem

Market Cap & Trading Volume

As of September 5, 2025, BAT's market cap stands at $228,473,624 USD, with a 24-hour trading volume of $9,420,645 USD.

Exchanges Where It’s Listed

BAT is available on various platforms, including WEEX Exchange for secure trading.

Community Size & Activity

The BAT community thrives on Twitter, Reddit, and Telegram, with active discussions on updates and Brave features. Engagement remains strong in regions like the US, UK, and Canada.

Ecosystem Growth

Partnerships with publishers and advertisers fuel growth, alongside developer activity enhancing Brave's tools. Recent news highlights blockchain integrations, pointing to expanding use cases.