Qubic (QUBIC) tokenomics

Qubic is a decentralized Layer 1 network that integrates Distributed Ledger Technology with smart contracts to provide decentralized computing and financial services. Its tokenomics are designed to support a "Useful Proof of Work" (uPoW) model, where computational power is directed toward training Artificial Intelligence (AI) to achieve Artificial General Intelligence (AGI).

Issuance Mechanism

Qubic utilizes an emission model centered on its native unit, Qubic Units (QUs). The network's infrastructure relies on 67 nodes known as Computors, which are responsible for executing smart contracts and maintaining system integrity.

• Emission Schedule: The network generates approximately 1 trillion QUs weekly. These units are primarily distributed to the 67 Computors as a reward for their operational contributions and for providing computational power for AI training.
• Supply Cap: The maximum supply of QUBIC was strategically reduced by 80%, moving from an initial 1,000 trillion to a 200 trillion cap. This reduction is intended to align the network with long-term goals of scarcity and value preservation.
• Halving Mechanism: Qubic incorporates scheduled halvings to manage the rate of new supply entering the ecosystem, similar to traditional Proof of Work systems but adapted for its unique uPoW model.

Allocation Mechanism

The distribution of QUs is heavily weighted toward active network participants rather than passive holders or traditional initial allocations.

• Computors: The vast majority of weekly emissions are allocated to the 67 Computors. If a Computor's performance is sub-optimal, their portion of the reward may be reduced.
• Circulating Supply: As of late 2024, the circulating supply is approximately 120 trillion QUBIC, meaning more than half of the total 200 trillion cap is already in circulation.
• Smart Contract IPOs: Qubic uses a unique "Initial Public Offering" (IPO) mechanism for smart contracts. Participants can bid on smart contract shares through Dutch Auctions, ensuring a fair market-driven valuation.

Usage and Incentive Mechanism

The Qubic ecosystem uses QUs for both functional utility and as an incentive for network growth.

• Energy-Based Microtransactions: QUs function as "energy" for the network. While the network aims for feeless transactions for standard users, QUs are consumed by smart contracts and complex operations.
• Useful Proof of Work (uPoW): Unlike traditional mining that performs arbitrary calculations, Qubic miners (Candidates) and Computors use their energy to train AI (specifically the Aigarth project). This creates a dual incentive: securing the network and contributing to AI development.
• Governance: The network utilizes a quorum-based decision-making process, where the 67 Computors reach a consensus to validate transactions and approve protocol changes.

Locking Mechanism and Unlocking Time

Qubic has introduced specific mechanisms to encourage long-term holding and reduce the circulating supply through staking and burning.

QEarn Staking

The QEarn program allows users to lock their coins to earn yields while contributing to the network's deflationary goals.

Burning and Deflation

Qubic employs an aggressive burning strategy to manage its supply:

• Smart Contract Execution: A portion of the QUs used to execute smart contracts is permanently burned.
• Supply Watcher: This feature adjusts burn rates based on real-time data to maintain network stability and supply balance.
• IPO Burns: In some instances, the QUs used to purchase shares in smart contract IPOs are burned, further reducing the total supply.

Unlocking and Vesting

Unlike many contemporary crypto projects that have complex vesting schedules for teams and investors, Qubic's primary supply enters the market through the weekly rewards to Computors. There are no traditional "unlock dates" for a central team or venture capital backers in the same way as standard ERC-20 tokens, as the project emphasizes a fair-launch, community-driven distribution model.