POL (ex-MATIC)

POL (ex-MATIC) is the native token of Polygon, one of the most widely adopted scaling ecosystems for Ethereum. POL is the successor to MATIC, adopted as Polygon evolved from a single proof-of-stake sidechain into a broader network of zero-knowledge and Layer 2 solutions. It secures the network through staking, pays for transactions and is designed to coordinate value across multiple Polygon chains.

What is POL (ex-MATIC)?

Polygon exists to make Ethereum cheaper and faster to use without abandoning its security. POL is the economic engine of that mission: validators stake it to help secure Polygon's chains, users spend it on fees, and the token is intended to underpin a multi-chain future where many Polygon-based networks share a common staking asset. The rebrand from MATIC to POL reflects this shift from a single chain to an interconnected scaling ecosystem.

How does POL work?

Polygon uses proof-of-stake consensus, where validators lock POL to propose and verify blocks in exchange for rewards, and delegators can stake to those validators. The wider Polygon roadmap leans heavily on zero-knowledge (ZK) technology, which bundles many transactions into succinct cryptographic proofs settled on Ethereum. POL is built to secure and coordinate these components, letting a single staked token support multiple chains rather than being confined to one.

POL tokenomics and supply

POL does not use a hard maximum cap. Its circulating supply currently sits above 10.6 billion tokens, and the design allows for a modest ongoing emission to fund staking rewards and ecosystem growth. Highlights:

• Circulating supply: roughly 10.7 billion POL
• No fixed maximum cap; emissions support staking and ecosystem incentives
• All-time high around $1.29; all-time low near $0.068
• Migrated from the former MATIC token as Polygon's native asset

Because there is no fixed ceiling, long-term value depends more on network usage and staking demand than on outright scarcity.

What is POL used for?

As a smart-contract platform token, POL powers a broad ecosystem of DeFi apps, NFTs, gaming and enterprise deployments running on Polygon. Its main functions are staking to secure the network, paying transaction fees, and participating in governance and ecosystem incentives across Polygon's Layer 2 and ZK chains.

Where to buy POL

POL is one of the most liquid altcoins and is available across virtually every major platform. Use our best crypto exchanges ranking to weigh fees and security, and see our best crypto wallets guide for self-custody options that support Polygon and let you stake POL directly.

Is POL a good investment?

POL benefits from Polygon's large developer base and real-world integrations, but it competes in a crowded Layer 2 field and carries the usual crypto volatility. The absence of a supply cap means investors should watch emission and staking dynamics closely. This is not financial advice; POL should be evaluated within a diversified, risk-aware framework.