Polkadot (DOT)
Layer 0 / multi-chain network
Polkadot is a proof-of-stake network, live since May 2020, that connects many specialised blockchains under shared security. Holders voted in 2025 to cap DOT at 2.1 billion, with lower issuance starting March 2026.
Profile last verified 23 September 2026. Live figures from CoinGecko. Not investment advice.
Polkadot price chart
Loading chart...
What is Polkadot?
Polkadot was founded by Ethereum co-founder Gavin Wood. A central “relay chain” secures connected chains (parachains, now also called rollups), which can pass messages to each other.
Governance is fully on-chain: DOT holders vote on upgrades and treasury spending. Referendum 1710 set a 2.1 billion supply cap, and from 14 March 2026 yearly issuance was cut roughly in half.
Key facts
| Ticker | DOT |
|---|---|
| Type | Layer 0 / multi-chain network |
| Launched | May 2020 |
| Consensus | Nominated proof of stake |
| Supply | Capped at 2.1 billion DOT (about 1.6 billion existed when the cap was approved); issuance steps down every two years. |
| Official site | polkadot.com |
What DOT is used for
- Staking and nominating validators
- On-chain governance
- Paying for blockspace on connected chains
Main risks
- Parachain and app adoption has been slower than expected
- Complex architecture that is still changing
- Staking rewards fall as issuance is cut
Related guides
Polkadot: frequently asked questions
- Does DOT have a maximum supply?
- Yes, since the 2.1 billion cap approved by Polkadot governance (Referendum 1710) took effect in 2026.
- What is a parachain?
- A blockchain that connects to Polkadot’s relay chain to share its security and exchange messages with other connected chains.
- Can I stake DOT?
- Yes, by nominating validators or joining a nomination pool from a Polkadot wallet. Unstaking takes a waiting period.