What is Qtum (QTUM)?

By CMC AI
05 December 2025 05:01AM (UTC+0)

TLDR

Qtum (QTUM) is a hybrid blockchain platform combining Bitcoin's security model with Ethereum's smart contract flexibility, designed for scalable decentralized applications (dApps) and enterprise use.

  1. Hybrid Architecture – Merges Bitcoin’s UTXO model with Ethereum’s EVM for security and programmability.

  2. Proof-of-Stake Consensus – Uses energy-efficient staking to validate transactions and secure the network.

  3. Fixed Supply & Halving – Max supply of 107.8M QTUM, with recent halvings reducing inflation to 0.25% annually.

Deep Dive

1. Technology & Architecture

Qtum integrates Bitcoin’s Unspent Transaction Output (UTXO) model—a secure ledger system—with Ethereum’s Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM), enabling smart contracts. This hybrid design aims to balance Bitcoin’s battle-tested security with Ethereum’s flexibility. Recent upgrades (Qtum) include compatibility with Bitcoin Core v29.1 and Ethereum’s Pectra update, enhancing interoperability and transaction efficiency.

2. Tokenomics & Governance

QTUM has a capped supply of 107.8M tokens, with ~105.9M in circulation as of November 2025. Its deflationary model includes periodic halvings—most recently cutting block rewards from 0.5 to 0.25 QTUM. Staking rewards incentivize network participation, while on-chain governance allows stakeholders to vote on protocol upgrades.

3. Ecosystem & Use Cases

Qtum targets real-world dApps, offering tools like Qtum MCP for AI task automation and a planned native stablecoin to boost DeFi adoption. Its 32-second block time and ~70-100 TPS throughput cater to applications requiring faster settlements than Bitcoin.

Conclusion

Qtum positions itself as a bridge between Bitcoin’s robustness and Ethereum’s versatility, focusing on sustainability and enterprise-grade scalability. With upcoming innovations like its stablecoin and cross-chain bridges, a key question remains: Can it carve a niche in a crowded Layer 1 landscape dominated by more ecosystem-rich chains?

CMC AI can make mistakes. Not financial advice.