HBAR is the native cryptocurrency of Hedera Hashgraph, a next-generation blockchain network that uses Hashgraph technology, considered an upgrade to traditional blockchain. HBAR stands out with several key features:

1. High Speed: Hashgraph enables thousands of transactions per second with low latency, making it ideal for enterprise applications.
2. Low Costs: Transaction fees on Hedera are significantly lower compared to many other blockchain networks.
3. Security and Sustainability: Hedera’s consensus mechanism consumes far less energy than Proof-of-Work (PoW) systems, making it environmentally friendly.
   

Uses of HBAR:

• Transaction Fees: HBAR is used to pay for transactions on the Hedera network.
• DApps: It supports decentralized applications (dApps) built on Hedera.
• Governance: HBAR holders can participate in voting on key decisions affecting the network.

Hedera is governed by a decentralized council comprising major corporations such as Google, IBM, Boeing, LG, and Deutsche Telekom. This governance model adds credibility and enhances the network’s potential for real-world adoption.

Matters to consider:

• Not Open Source: Hedera Hashgraph is patented and not open source.
• Concerns About Decentralization: With only 19 council members, there are concerns about its level of decentralization.
• Relatively Small Platform: Hedera remains smaller compared to some of its competitors.

Who Founded Hedera?

Hedera was founded in 2017 by American technologists Leemon Baird and Mance Harmon, who also co-founded Swirlds Labs, the company behind Hedera’s core technology. Both founders have extensive experience in software development and technology, with expertise spanning AI, security, defense, identity, and other fields.

The development of Hedera is funded by the HBAR Foundation and governed by the Hedera Governing Council, which can include up to 39 enterprises, such as Google, Dell, and IBM. Approximately 11% of HBAR’s initial total supply was distributed to accredited investors through a SAFT (Simple Agreement for Future Tokens) sale.

Key Metrics of HBAR Coin

• Token Name: HBAR
• Ticker: HBAR
• Blockchain: Hedera Hashgraph
• Token Standard: To be updated
• Contract Address: To be updated
• Token Type: Utility, Governance
• Total Supply: 50,000,000,000 HBAR
• Circulating Supply: 38,198,864,521.03 HBAR (As at 4th December 2024)

HBAR Token Allocation

• Hedera Pre-minted Treasury: 32.4%
• Ecosystem Development: 24%
• Purchase Agreements: 17.4%
• Founders & Early Executives: 13.8%
• Swirlds: 8%
• Employees & Service Providers: 4.4%

Discussion in Bitforum: https://bitforum.net/t/hbar-gains-strong-momentum-as-canary-capital-proposes-first-etf/537/2