Zora launches ZORA token with major airdrop and Binance support, aiming to reshape the NFT platform landscape - IcoHolder.

Zora, the Ethereum-based NFT platform, is preparing for a major event in the cryptocurrency space. On April 23, 2025, it will launch its native token, ZORA, marking a pivotal moment in the platform’s growth. To celebrate, Zora will distribute 1 billion tokens—worth approximately $30 million—through a large-scale airdrop, representing 10% of its total supply.

The airdrop is one of the biggest giveaways of the year and is designed to reward Zora’s community of creators, collectors, and developers who have supported the platform from its inception. However, the launch is about more than just free tokens. Key developments, including pre-market trading and Binance’s surprise involvement, are expected to propel ZORA into the spotlight.

To qualify for the airdrop, users must have engaged with Zora during one of two eligible periods: between January 1, 2020, and March 3, 2025, or between March 3 and April 20, 2025. If you were active during these windows, you could be eligible to claim ZORA tokens.

Binance, one of the largest cryptocurrency exchanges in the world, is also backing the ZORA launch. Through its Binance Alpha program, the exchange will distribute an additional 4,276 ZORA tokens to users who spent at least $50 on the platform between March 22 and April 20, 2025. This partnership is expected to boost Zora’s market presence and visibility from day one.

Ahead of the official launch, ZORA tokens are already trading on pre-market platforms at approximately $0.03 each. With a total supply of 10 billion tokens, Zora’s fully diluted market cap could reach $300 million once the token goes live.

The distribution of tokens is structured as follows: 10% of the total supply will be given away through the airdrop, 20% is earmarked for community projects and grants, 5% will be allocated for liquidity, 20% will go to the platform’s treasury, 18.9% will be distributed to the Zora team, and 26.1% will go to early investors and advisors.

However, the distribution model has faced criticism. Some in the crypto community argue that a large portion of the supply—65%—is directed towards insiders, leaving a smaller share for retail users. Additionally, some critics, including on-chain investigator ZachXBT, have raised concerns about the token’s lack of governance rights and the platform’s decision to label the token as “for fun,” questioning whether this is a tactic to avoid regulatory scrutiny.

Despite the controversy, Zora is poised to make a significant impact in the NFT and cryptocurrency markets. Whether ZORA becomes a long-term player or fades into obscurity after the initial hype will depend on how the platform evolves in the coming months.