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Why Do People Buy NFTs?

November 21, 2023

Pixels are being sold for millions, digital art is gracing prestigious auction houses, and online communities are rallying behind seemingly abstract digital assets. All of this raises a valid concern: why do people buy NFTs? What is the point?

No, it’s not just hype. And it’s a whole lot more than a trend. As you’ll discover in this guide to why people buy NFTs, it also goes much deeper than just investing, too. 

Whether you're a skeptic or a curious onlooker, we’ll unravel the magnetic allure of NFTs so you can have that anxiously anticipated “aha” moment.

People buy NFTs for the sense of community, the newfound means of expression, the access it grants them to key events, and the exclusivity that comes with NFT ownership. We’ll cover all this and more in this thorough overview of the value behind NFTs. 

Stay tuned to the end, as you’ll also learn how you can get started in this exciting, lucrative world yourself. Before we do that, though, let’s set the stage a bit and get those who are new to NFTs up to speed

A Brief Overview of NFTs

NFTs, or Non-Fungible Tokens, are a revolutionary digital asset class. They’re unique, unlike cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin or Ethereum. These are considered fungible, which means they can be exchanged on a one-for-one basis. That’s not possible with NFTs.

Each token carries a distinct value and cannot be replicated or replaced, making it “non-fungible”. Think of it as a certificate of authenticity for the digital world that verifies two things:

  • The specific item’s originality & authenticity
  • Your ownership of the specific item

The beauty of NFTs lies in their vast applications. From digital art to virtual real estate and collectible sports highlights to groundbreaking music releases, NFTs encompass a spectrum of digital marvels. 

They represent a shift from the tangible to the intangible, redefining how we perceive value, ownership, and creativity. 

That’s all great…but why do people buy NFTs? What’s in it for the owner beyond the ability to say, “This is mine”? We’ll unpack all the reasons why people buy NFTs below and help you decide if you should, too.

Why Do People Buy NFTs?

So, why do people buy NFTs? Unraveling this enigma requires understanding not just the mechanics of NFTs, but also the changing dynamics of what society values. 

Let's peel back the layers and explore some of the most compelling reasons that have led to the meteoric rise of NFT purchases.

Investment and Financial Returns

The world of investments is ever-evolving. Gold, stocks, and real estate were the de facto choices in the past. That’s all changing. 

Sure, individuals are still investing in the stock market and in physical assets. But today, the digital realm offers a fresh avenue, and NFTs are leading the charge. 

It's no secret that early adopters of certain NFT projects have seen remarkable returns on their investments. Take the crypto art world for example, where artists and collectors alike have profited handsomely. Some NFTs bought for mere dollars have later sold for thousands, if not millions. 

The potential for profit is undeniable, but it's worth noting the market's volatility. While some see green, others face the risk of loss, just like any other investment. Fortunately, the risk can be offset through careful research and smart decision-making.

However, the allure extends beyond mere profit. NFTs represent a democratization of the investment world. You no longer need to be a Wall Street savant to invest. 

With some due diligence and a digital wallet, anyone can venture into NFT trading. This inclusivity has drawn a new generation of investors eager to find their place in the digital economy. 

Kids and adults alike are staking in their claim in the new gold rush - why shouldn’t you get a piece of the pie too? But, we’re just scratching the surface of why people buy NFTs.

Access and Exclusivity

NFTs tap into the sentiment of exclusivity. People want to be a part of something that’s unique and rare in our cookie-cutter world. Being able to own something no one else does is an obvious benefit of NFT ownership, but the exclusivity perspective goes so much deeper.

Purchasing an NFT often comes with perks. Owners of certain music-related NFTs, for example, might gain backstage passes to concerts or exclusive online interactions with artists. 

Owning a piece of digital real estate in a virtual world can provide access to elite virtual events or gatherings. On the other hand, owning a piece of NFT art like Pudgy Penguins gets you access to our meet-ups, events, and Discord chat.

It's not just about owning a digital item -  it's about the experiences, opportunities, and doors that item can open. 

Moreover, in a world of infinite replication, having the “original” of something carries prestige. Just as possessing a rare collectible or artwork in the physical world offers a sense of pride, owning a unique NFT gives a similar feeling of distinction in the digital realm. 

Learn more about how to verify NFT ownership in our blog.

Supporting Creators and Authenticity

NFTs serve as a beacon of hope for artists and creators. They can mint their original works through these digital tokens to ensure each piece is attached to a verifiable certificate of authenticity.

This is a revolutionary way to ensure creators receive their rightful earnings. Every time an NFT changes hands or gets resold, embedded smart contracts ensure that original creators get a fraction of that sale, paving the way for sustainable income.

Buyers and collectors, on the other hand, find value in this authentic linkage. Knowing that their acquisition directly benefits the creator fosters a deeper connection to the piece and bolsters trust in its originality.

A New Mode of Expression

Humans have an intrinsic need to express themselves and showcase their identities. This has been historically exhibited through clothing, tattoos, or even the type of car one drove. 

Today, our digital identities have become just as crucial as our physical ones, and NFTs have emerged as a new canvas for this self-expression.

Owning a particular NFT, be it art, a collectible, or even a virtual pet, makes a statement about the owner. It provides insights into their tastes, beliefs, and affiliations in the digital space. These NFTs can be proudly displayed as profile pictures on all your channels.

As more of our lives transition online, from social interactions to work, these digital tokens become extensions of our personalities, badges of our unique digital identities.

Sentimental Value and Emotional Connections

Beyond the tangible benefits and the monetary values lies a more profound reason why people buy NFTs: the emotional connection. Just as a handwritten letter from a loved one holds immeasurable sentimental value, so can a digital artifact.

Imagine owning an NFT stemming from a memorable event, like a favorite musician's concert clip or a digital memento from a historic moment. The value isn't just in the token itself but in the memories and emotions it evokes. This is the same reason people keep sports memorabilia, concert tickets, etc.

Similarly, digital art enthusiasts often form deep emotional connections with the pieces they acquire, driven by the stories the art tells or the feelings it invokes. In the case of Pudgy Penguins, it’s all about our mission to foster creativity, freedom, and positivity. 

Should You Buy an NFT?

You know why people buy NFTs in general…but should YOU buy an NFT? The truth is that not everyone is in a position to buy NFTs. Some individuals have the wrong mindset when buying NFTs. That being said, let’s look at some key considerations to determine whether you should buy an NFT or not. 

Personal Values and Digital Art Appreciation

Before diving in, ask yourself, do you genuinely appreciate digital art and creations, or are you just chasing a trend? 

Authentic passion for the medium can enrich your experience and ensure long-term satisfaction. By getting into it for the right reasons you can make sure you’re truly committed.

Financial Comfort and Affordability

Consider your financial stance. Can you afford to invest in NFTs without compromising essential needs or existing financial commitments? It's crucial to approach NFTs as you would with any other investment - with prudence and a clear budget in mind.

Your Risk Appetite

The NFT landscape can be unpredictable. Are you comfortable with the inherent risks? If the idea of sudden market fluctuations leaves you restless, this might be a sign to approach with caution or seek out lower-risk NFT categories.

Educational Commitment

Are you prepared to invest the time to learn? Understanding the intricacies of NFTs, from blockchain to smart contracts, will safeguard you from potential pitfalls. If you're not ready for this educational journey, consider waiting until you are.

Future Vision

Where do you see the role of NFTs in your life in the next 5, 10, or even 20 years? If you envision a long-term relationship with digital assets, either as a collector or an investor, it may be an indication that you're ready to take the plunge.

Tips for Buying NFTs and Diving Into the Digital Realm

So after discovering why people buy NFTs you've decided to immerse yourself in the captivating world of NFTs. Congratulations! It's essential to be well-equipped as you set out on this digital odyssey. 

Let's explore some critical steps and practices to ensure you embark on this journey with both excitement and safety in tow.

Understanding and Selecting the Right Marketplace

The NFT ecosystem is sprawling, with numerous marketplaces catering to diverse tastes and preferences. Your choice of marketplace can significantly influence your collecting experience.

Platforms like OpenSea, Rarible, and Mintable have established credibility. It's crucial to research user reviews, news articles, and community opinions before diving in.

Play around with a few different marketplaces and see which best caters to your preferences. A user-friendly interface, easy navigation, and responsive customer support can make your NFT journey much smoother. Just be aware of platform fees, including listing and transaction costs, to avoid unpleasant surprises.

Safe Practices: Digital Wallets, Security, Research, and More

Your digital assets require as much care and protection as any physical treasure - if not more so. You’ll want to store your NFTs in trusted wallets like MetaMask or Coinbase Wallet. They not only keep your assets secure but also facilitate easy transactions.

It’s also important to do your due diligence before buying an NFT, just as you’d analyze any other investment. Delve deep into its origins, past sales, and artist credibility. An informed decision minimizes potential risks.

Joining Communities and Building Connections

The NFT space isn't just about buying and selling - it's about being part of a revolutionary movement. Some NFTs grant you access to exclusive events and meet-ups. 

And, when you join the Pudgy Penguins family, for example, you gain access to our Discord chat. Speaking of which…

Become Part of the Pudgy Penguins Family Today!

The NFT universe is vast, but within it, Pudgy Penguins stands out as a revolution you want to be a part of. Our brand doesn't merely offer NFTs - we invite you into a community-based experience you won’t get anywhere else.

Our brand was born just a few short years ago with the minting of 8,888 Pudgy Penguins. We want to help you harness the power of play and imagination to unlock your inner child - and we don’t just have NFTs to help you do it

Shopping penguins on the huddle (our website) gives you access to our penguin toys, penguin figurines, and penguin stuffed animals. Each of these comes with a digital adoption certificate which you can redeem online. Take a look and see what catches your eye, as it’s time we wrap up this guide to why people buy NFTs.

Final Thoughts on Why People Buy NFTs

So, why do people buy NFTs? In summary, the allure of NFTs transcends the mere novelty of owning a digital asset. It speaks to a deeper human desire for authenticity, expression, and being part of a pioneering movement. 

It's clear that NFTs are more than just a fleeting trend. They encapsulate stories, emotions, investments, and a futuristic vision of art and commerce seamlessly merging. So, what now?

For those intrigued by the promise of NFTs and eager to experience this digital revolution firsthand, there's no better place to begin than with a brand that exemplifies passion and innovation. 

The Pudgy Penguins family awaits you, where every NFT is part of a larger, heartwarming narrative. Explore our diverse collection and make a statement in both the digital and tangible world today!

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