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![VestpadOfficial Avatar](https://lunarcrush.com/gi/w:24/cr:twitter::1529062024122073088.png) Vestpad Official [@VestpadOfficial](/creator/twitter/VestpadOfficial) on x 2696 followers
Created: 2025-07-21 15:59:43 UTC

One of the most overlooked metrics in early-stage crypto projects is unit economics.
It captures the actual cost and value tied to each user or transaction and reveals whether the protocol can sustain itself over time.

Start with Customer Acquisition Cost (CAC)—what it takes to bring in users who actually participate. 
In crypto, this often includes token incentives, onboarding rewards, or liquidity programs. 
Many teams overspend here, driving short-term attention but little retention.

Next, assess Lifetime Value (LTV)—the total a user contributes through staking, fees, or governance. 
A solid LTV to CAC ratio (above 3:1) suggests long-term value, not just costly growth.

Also track your burn rate, not just in fiat but in token supply. 
Poorly planned emissions and treasury spending can quietly weaken the system’s economics and trust.

Then consider token velocity. If tokens move too quickly, it often points to weak utility and extractive behavior. 
Staking, lockups, and sinks can help keep value circulating within the protocol.

Finally, ask: Can the system hold participation without constant rewards? If not, it’s likely reliant on emissions, not real usage.

Projects that get this right early aren’t just building for launch but building to last.

![](https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GwZKJBKXoAADKus.jpg)

XXX engagements

![Engagements Line Chart](https://lunarcrush.com/gi/w:600/p:tweet::1947325626857271325/c:line.svg)

**Related Topics**
[token](/topic/token)
[acquisition](/topic/acquisition)
[protocol](/topic/protocol)

[Post Link](https://x.com/VestpadOfficial/status/1947325626857271325)