How to Buy Fantom (FTM)10-min read

The cryptocurrency landscape has been significantly shaped by Fantom, a high-performance, scalable, and secure smart contract platform. By December 2024, Fantom boasts a market capitalisation exceeding $20 billion, placing it among the top-tier cryptocurrencies. Its integration with major financial institutions and adoption by leading DeFi platforms underscore its growing influence. As with any digital asset, understanding Fantom’s fundamentals is crucial before making investment decisions.

On 15th November 2023, Fantom made headlines when Coinbase, a prominent cryptocurrency exchange, listed FTM for trading, resulting in an immediate 7% surge in its price. This milestone highlighted Fantom’s increasing acceptance and the trust it has garnered within the crypto community.

Since its launch in June 2018, Fantom has demonstrated remarkable growth. Early adopters who invested during its ICO phase saw substantial returns as FTM climbed steadily, driven by technological advancements and strategic partnerships. Investors who recognised Fantom’s potential early on have reaped significant rewards, solidifying its reputation as a promising digital asset.

In This Guide:

1. What is Fantom?
2. How to Buy Fantom in India
3. Best Crypto Exchanges for Buying FTM in India
4. Additional Routes to Procuring Fantom and Understanding Cryptocurrency Exchanges
5. Prerequisites for Opening a Cryptocurrency Exchange Account
6. Classifying Cryptocurrency Exchanges
7. Factors to Bear in Mind When Registering on a Cryptocurrency Exchange
8. Is Investing in Fantom Coin Prudent?
9. Fantom Coin Price Overview
10. Forecasting the Fantom Coin’s Price
11. Exploring Fantom Opera: What Is Opera and What Does It Mean for FTM?
12. Fantom’s Tokenomics
13. Fantom’s Staking Mechanism
14. Optimal Fantom Wallets
15. Conclusion – Is FTM a Good Investment?

What is Fantom?

Fantom is a next-generation smart contract platform designed to provide decentralized finance (DeFi) solutions with high speed and low transaction costs. Launched in 2018 by the co-founders Dr Ahn Byung Ik and Dr Jinsoo Park, Fantom utilises a unique consensus mechanism called Lachesis, an asynchronous Byzantine Fault Tolerant (aBFT) protocol, ensuring fast and secure transactions.

Fantom’s architecture allows it to process thousands of transactions per second, making it one of the most scalable blockchain platforms. Its native cryptocurrency, FTM, plays a vital role within the ecosystem, facilitating transactions, staking, and governance.

Fantom has gained significant traction due to its compatibility with the Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM), enabling seamless integration with existing Ethereum-based applications. This interoperability has attracted numerous developers and projects to build on the Fantom network, enhancing its utility and adoption.

The Fantom ecosystem continues to expand with initiatives like DeFi platforms, NFT marketplaces, and enterprise solutions, positioning it as a versatile and robust blockchain platform for various use cases.

How to Buy Fantom in India in January 2025

To purchase Fantom, you’ll need a cryptocurrency wallet or an exchange account. Exchanges provide comprehensive features, including trading, staking, and earning through various DeFi protocols.

1. Register on a Trusted Exchange: Choose platforms such as AvaTrade, WazirX, or CoinDCX.
2. Complete the KYC Process: Verify your identity by submitting necessary documents as per global Anti-Money Laundering (AML) regulations.
3. Select the Desired Fantom Pair: Fantom typically pairs with major cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), or fiat currencies like INR.
4. Fund Your Account: Deposit funds using supported payment methods such as bank transfers, UPI, or credit/debit cards.
5. Purchase Fantom: Place an order for FTM through the trading interface and confirm your purchase.
6. Check Your Wallet: Once the transaction is complete, FTM will appear in your exchange wallet. For enhanced security, consider transferring it to a personal wallet.

Best Crypto Exchanges for Buying FTM in India in January 2025

The following exchanges are highly recommended for purchasing Fantom, offering reliability, security, and user-friendly interfaces. Many also provide welcome bonuses and incentives for new users.

AvaTrade 

Pros:

• Swift Account Setup: Activate your account in approximately 5 minutes with an efficient digital process.
• Robust Support & Education: 24-hour multilingual support and comprehensive educational resources through AvaTrade Academy.
• Diverse Investment Products: Over 1,260 tradable symbols, including Forex and cryptocurrency CFDs.

Cons:

• Withdrawal Timeframe: Withdrawals can take up to two business days.
• Mobile App Features: While innovative, some advanced features are missing compared to industry leaders.

Overview: AvaTrade is a well-established name in financial trading, offering a variety of cryptocurrencies, including Fantom (FTM). Suitable for both new and experienced investors, AvaTrade provides a seamless trading experience with features designed to support users at all levels.

Key Features:

• Regulated Platform: Operates under multiple financial authorities worldwide, ensuring a secure trading environment.
• Platform Options: Compatible with MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, and AvaTradeGO.
• 24/7 Support: Multilingual customer support available around the clock.
• Zero Commission on Crypto Trades: 0% commission on cryptocurrency trades, allowing users to retain more profits.
• Educational Tools: Webinars, tutorials, and market analysis to help traders understand the market.
• Payment Methods: Supports bank transfers, credit/debit cards, and e-wallets. Traditional payment methods can be used to purchase FTM.

WazirX 

Overview: WazirX is one of India’s largest cryptocurrency exchanges, offering a wide selection of tokens, including Fantom. With local support for native payment options, WazirX provides a convenient experience for Indian investors.

Key Features:

• Paytm and UPI Integration: Supports popular Indian payment methods like Paytm, UPI, and IMPS for easy deposits and withdrawals.
• User-Friendly Experience: Designed to be accessible for users of all levels, making it ideal for beginners.
• WazirX Token (WRX): Holding WRX tokens can reduce trading fees, offering cost-effective trading.
• Secure Platform: Implements robust security measures, including two-factor authentication (2FA).

CoinDCX 

Overview: CoinDCX is another prominent Indian exchange that allows users to buy, sell, and trade Fantom. It focuses on providing a secure and efficient trading experience with a user-friendly interface.

Key Features:

• Instant Buy Feature: Allows instant purchases of Fantom using INR, making the acquisition process straightforward and fast.
• Secure Platform: Employs advanced security measures like two-factor authentication (2FA) and insurance to protect user assets.
• Local Payment Methods: Supports a wide range of local deposit options, including UPI, IMPS, and bank transfers.

Binance 

Overview: Binance is a globally recognised exchange that supports a vast array of cryptocurrencies, including Fantom. Although not based in India, Binance offers various payment options accessible to Indian traders.

Key Features:

• Wide Asset Range: One of the largest selections of cryptocurrencies, allowing users to diversify beyond just Fantom.
• Binance P2P: Through the peer-to-peer (P2P) platform, users in India can purchase Fantom using INR via Paytm, UPI, or other local payment methods.
• Advanced Trading Features: Offers advanced charting tools, derivatives, and staking options for experienced traders.

ZebPay 

Overview: ZebPay is an India-centric cryptocurrency exchange operating since 2014. It offers an easy way to purchase Fantom using INR and provides a mobile-friendly experience.

Key Features:

• Mobile-First Approach: Ideal for users who prefer trading on the go, with a streamlined mobile app that simplifies buying Fantom.
• Secure Trading Environment: Provides cold wallet storage and advanced security protocols to protect user funds.
• Simplified Fees: Charges a simple, flat fee structure for transactions, making it easier to understand and predict costs.

Additional Routes to Procuring Fantom and Understanding Cryptocurrency Exchanges

While cryptocurrency exchanges are the primary platforms for obtaining Fantom, other methods can also be considered:

Direct Purchases:

Engaging directly with Fantom holders, either in person or online, allows you to buy FTM by agreeing on the quantity and price. The seller transfers Fantom to your designated wallet in exchange for conventional currency.

Crypto Swaps:

If you hold other cryptocurrencies, you can trade them for Fantom. Identify a suitable trading pair on a decentralised exchange (DEX) and execute the swap. This method is swift and often incurs lower fees.

Prerequisites for Opening a Cryptocurrency Exchange Account

To start trading cryptocurrencies, including Fantom, certain criteria must be met:

Personal Details:

Most exchanges require submission of personal details for the KYC process. Typically, this includes:

• Full name (as on official documents)
• Date of birth
• Residential address
• Email ID
• Telephone number

Ensure all information is accurate to avoid delays or issues with account activation.

Minimum Fund Deposit:

The minimum deposit varies by exchange and payment method. Credit or debit card transactions might require deposits between ₹500 and ₹5,000, while UPI or bank transfers could allow smaller amounts. Generally, there’s no requirement to maintain a specific balance, but the tradable amount usually ranges from ₹100 to ₹10,000.

Classifying Cryptocurrency Exchanges

Understanding the types of cryptocurrency exchanges is vital for informed trading:

1. Centralised Exchanges:
   • Operated by specific corporations or entities.
   • Function as intermediaries, levying fees to facilitate trades.
   • Strengths:
     • Enhanced liquidity, reducing order wait times.
     • Opportunities to preserve and accumulate crypto.
2. Decentralised Exchanges (DEXs):
   • Enable direct interactions between buyers and sellers.
   • Link cryptocurrency wallets without a central authority.
   • Merits:
     • Superior security by bypassing centralised storage.
     • Insulation from scenarios like exchange collapses.
3. Hybrid Exchanges:
   • Combine features of both centralised and decentralised platforms.
   • Benefits:
     • Superior liquidity compared to typical DEXs.
     • Use of smart contracts to ensure secure transactions and safeguard funds.

Factors to Bear in Mind When Registering on a Cryptocurrency Exchange

Security:

• Opt for exchanges that implement two-factor authentication (2FA) and have a strong track record in cybersecurity.
• Prioritise platforms with insurance policies to protect against potential breaches.

Fees:

• Consider deposit, withdrawal, and trading fees.
• High transaction fees can accumulate, especially for frequent traders.
• Look for exchanges with transparent and reasonable fee structures.

Diversity and Quality of Supported Cryptocurrencies:

• Ensure the exchange supports a wide range of vetted cryptocurrencies.
• Quality over quantity ensures reliability and security of listed tokens.

Wallet Standards and Protection:

• Choose exchanges that offer multi-tiered security wallets.
• Assess whether the exchange provides custodial or non-custodial wallets based on your security preference.

Storage and Custody:

• Decide between custodial wallets (managed by the exchange) for convenience or non-custodial wallets (managed by you) for enhanced security.
• Consider using a decentralised exchange for exclusive crypto access and protection against misappropriations.

Is Investing in Fantom Coin Prudent?

After demonstrating consistent growth and technological advancements, potential investors are evaluating Fantom’s viability. Here are five compelling reasons to consider investing in Fantom:

1. Robust Community Support: Fantom boasts a vibrant community, with active participation on platforms like Reddit and Twitter. The strong community backing fosters continuous development and adoption.
2. Advanced Technology: Fantom’s unique Lachesis consensus mechanism ensures high scalability and security, making it a preferred choice for developers and enterprises.
3. Diverse Use Cases: Beyond being a digital currency, Fantom supports various applications, including DeFi platforms, NFT marketplaces, and enterprise solutions, broadening its utility and demand.
4. Strategic Partnerships: Collaborations with major financial institutions and tech companies enhance Fantom’s credibility and expand its ecosystem, driving long-term growth potential.
5. Staking and Rewards: Fantom offers staking opportunities, allowing investors to earn rewards by participating in network validation, thereby incentivising holding and reducing circulating supply.

Fantom Coin Price Overview

In this section, we’ll examine Fantom’s price trajectory and anticipate its potential in the upcoming months and years. Referencing historical data, FTM surged to an all-time high of ₹250 in December 2021, reflecting a remarkable increase of over 1500% within a short period.

However, following the peak, Fantom experienced a significant correction due to broader market downturns and regulatory concerns. By the end of 2022, FTM’s price adjusted to ₹15, though it remained substantially higher than its initial launch price.

As of January 2025, Fantom is trading around ₹35, fluctuating between ₹34 and ₹36 within a 24-hour span. The coin has shown resilience, recovering from previous downturns and demonstrating a year-to-date (YTD) return of approximately 40%.

Early investors who purchased FTM during its ICO or early trading phases have seen substantial returns, highlighting Fantom’s potential as a lucrative investment.

Forecasting the Fantom Coin’s Price

The question on many investors’ minds is whether Fantom is poised for another surge or if its growth will stabilise. Market experts present varied outlooks based on Fantom’s technological advancements and market dynamics.

Optimistic Outlook:

• Technological Upgrades: Continuous improvements to the Fantom Opera network could drive increased adoption and usage, positively impacting FTM’s price.
• DeFi Expansion: As DeFi continues to grow, Fantom’s robust infrastructure makes it a preferred platform, potentially boosting demand for FTM.
• Strategic Partnerships: New partnerships with financial institutions and tech companies could enhance Fantom’s credibility and market reach.

Pessimistic Outlook:

• Market Volatility: The inherent volatility of the cryptocurrency market poses risks of price fluctuations.
• Regulatory Challenges: Stricter regulations could impact Fantom’s operations and adoption, affecting its price negatively.

Price Prediction Insights:

• Wallet Investor: Projects a moderate growth trajectory, expecting FTM to reach ₹50 by the end of 2025, based on current market trends and adoption rates.
• Price Prediction: Suggests a bullish trend, anticipating FTM to average ₹45 with potential peaks at ₹60, driven by increased DeFi integration and technological advancements.
• Digital Coin Price: Forecasts an average rate of ₹40 for 2025, with possible fluctuations up to ₹55, considering Fantom’s expanding ecosystem and community support.

Exploring Fantom Opera: What Is Opera and What Does It Mean for FTM?

Fantom Opera is Fantom’s high-performance smart contract platform, designed to provide fast, scalable, and secure decentralised applications (dApps). Built on the Lachesis consensus mechanism, Opera enables near-instant transactions with minimal fees, making it an attractive choice for developers and users alike.

Fantom Opera’s Significance for FTM:

• Scalability: Capable of handling thousands of transactions per second, Opera ensures smooth and efficient dApp operations.
• Interoperability: Compatibility with Ethereum’s EVM allows seamless migration and integration of existing Ethereum-based projects onto Fantom.
• Developer-Friendly: Offers robust tools and resources for developers, fostering innovation and the creation of diverse dApps within the Fantom ecosystem.

Impact on FTM:

• Increased Demand: As more dApps are built on Opera, the demand for FTM as a utility token is likely to rise.
• Enhanced Utility: FTM’s role in transaction fees, staking, and governance within the Opera network increases its utility and value proposition.

Fantom’s Tokenomics

Fantom’s tokenomics are designed to support its ecosystem’s growth and ensure the long-term sustainability of the FTM token.

Total Supply: Fantom has a maximum supply of 3.175 billion FTM tokens, with a significant portion allocated for staking rewards, development funds, and community incentives.

Circulating Supply: As of January 2025, approximately 2.5 billion FTM tokens are in circulation, with the remaining tokens reserved for future distribution and ecosystem development.

Token Allocation:

• Staking Rewards: 40% allocated to incentivise network participation and staking.
• Development Fund: 25% dedicated to ongoing development and ecosystem expansion.
• Community and Marketing: 20% reserved for community initiatives, partnerships, and marketing efforts.
• Founders and Team: 10% allocated to the founding team and advisors.
• Reserve: 5% held in reserve for future needs and strategic initiatives.

Utility of FTM:

• Transaction Fees: Used to pay for transactions and smart contract operations on the Fantom Opera network.
• Staking: Allows holders to stake FTM and earn rewards, contributing to network security and governance.
• Governance: Enables holders to participate in the decision-making processes regarding network upgrades and proposals.

Fantom’s Staking Mechanism

Staking FTM is a pivotal aspect of Fantom’s ecosystem, offering investors the opportunity to earn rewards while contributing to network security and decentralisation.

How Staking Works:

1. Choose a Wallet: Select a compatible wallet that supports Fantom staking, such as the official Fantom wallet or third-party options like MetaMask.
2. Delegate FTM: Delegate your FTM tokens to a validator node of your choice. This process involves locking your tokens for a specified period.
3. Earn Rewards: In return for staking, you receive rewards in the form of additional FTM tokens. The reward rate varies based on the amount staked and network conditions.

Benefits of Staking:

• Passive Income: Earn regular rewards without actively trading.
• Network Security: Help secure the Fantom network by participating in consensus.
• Governance Participation: Influence network decisions by holding and staking FTM.

Risks of Staking:

• Price Volatility: The value of staked FTM can fluctuate, impacting the overall return on investment.
• Lock-Up Periods: Some staking options require locking up tokens for a certain period, limiting liquidity.

Optimal Fantom Wallets

Securing your Fantom tokens is crucial for protecting your investment. Here are some of the best wallets for storing FTM:

1. MetaMask

• Type: Hot Wallet
• Features: Browser extension, supports multiple networks, user-friendly interface.
• Pros: Easy to use, widely supported, integrates with numerous dApps.
• Cons: Connected to the internet, susceptible to phishing attacks.

2. Ledger Nano X

• Type: Cold Wallet
• Features: Hardware wallet, supports multiple cryptocurrencies, Bluetooth connectivity.
• Pros: High security, offline storage, tamper-proof.
• Cons: Requires physical device, higher cost compared to software wallets.

3. Trust Wallet

• Type: Mobile Hot Wallet
• Features: Mobile app, supports multiple cryptocurrencies, built-in staking.
• Pros: User-friendly, secure, convenient for on-the-go access.
• Cons: Connected to the internet, dependent on mobile device security.

4. Fantom Opera Wallet

• Type: Native Wallet
• Features: Official Fantom wallet, supports staking, direct integration with Opera network.
• Pros: Optimised for Fantom, easy staking setup, secure.
• Cons: Limited to Fantom ecosystem, less versatile compared to multi-currency wallets.

Conclusion – Is FTM a Good Investment?

Fantom (FTM), with its advanced technology, strong community support, and expanding ecosystem, presents a compelling investment opportunity within the cryptocurrency market. Its high scalability, low transaction fees, and compatibility with the Ethereum ecosystem make it an attractive choice for both developers and investors.

Key Takeaways:

• Advanced Technology: Fantom’s Lachesis consensus mechanism ensures high performance and security.
• Strong Community: A vibrant and active community drives continuous development and adoption.
• Diverse Use Cases: From DeFi to NFTs and enterprise solutions, Fantom’s versatility enhances its utility.
• Staking Opportunities: Earning rewards through staking adds value for long-term holders.
• Growing Ecosystem: Strategic partnerships and technological advancements position Fantom for sustained growth.

However, as with all investments, it’s essential to conduct thorough research and consider market volatility and regulatory factors. Diversifying your portfolio and investing only what you can afford to lose are prudent strategies in the dynamic world of cryptocurrencies.

Crypto products and NFTs are unregulated and can be highly risky. There may be no regulatory recourse for any loss from such transactions.