Worldcoin, a foundational identity protocol comprising a privacy-preserving digital identity (World ID) and a digital currency (WLD), has officially launched its WLD token. The announcement was made public through a letter from co-founders Sam Altman and Alex Blania. Over two million individuals globally, primarily from countries in the Global South, who have undergone verification via the Orb (an iris-scanning device), will receive their allocated WLD tokens through the World App wallet.
The founders stated in the letter:
"We founded Worldcoin over three years ago with the aim of creating a new identity and financial network owned by everyone. Its launch begins today. If successful, we believe Worldcoin could significantly expand economic opportunity, offer a reliable solution for distinguishing humans from AI online while preserving privacy, enable global democratic processes, and eventually pave a potential path to AI-funded UBI (Universal Basic Income)."
Token Distribution and Airdrop Details
According to reports, individuals verified via the Orb will initially receive 25 WLD tokens, along with future periodic grants. Tiago Sada, Head of Product and Engineering at Tools For Humanity (the developer behind Worldcoin), also mentioned that starting today, users can reserve their token allocation in the World App until they complete iris verification with an Orb.
On-chain data suggests that WLD tokens have begun circulating on the Ethereum blockchain, with 205 transactions processed so far. However, there is no clear indication of airdrop claims being active yet; most transactions appear to be transfers related to institutional investor allocations or market-making funds. 👉 Track real-time token distribution data
Exchange Listings and Initial Pricing
Major exchanges including Binance, OKX, Bybit, Huobi, and Gate.io have announced support for WLD trading. Among them, Bybit, Huobi, and Gate.io have already opened trading, with the current price hovering around $1.80. This puts the fully diluted valuation of WLD at approximately $18 billion.
Initial Token Allocation
According to the latest official whitepaper, the WLD governance token has an initial maximum supply of 10 billion tokens. The allocation is as follows:
- 75% to the Worldcoin community (users, ecosystem fund, and network operations)
- 9.8% to the initial development team
- 13.5% to Tools for Humanity investors
- The remaining 1.7% is reserved for Tools for Humanity
At launch, the initial circulating supply is 143 million WLD tokens. This includes:
- 43 million WLD allocated to users verified during the pre-launch phase via Orb
- 100 million WLD loaned to market makers outside the United States
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Worldcoin?
Worldcoin is a protocol designed to create a global digital identity and financial network. It uses privacy-focused technology to distinguish humans from artificial intelligence online while providing a foundation for universal economic inclusion.
How can I claim WLD tokens?
To claim WLD tokens, you need to verify your identity using an Orb iris-scanning device. Once verified, you can receive and manage your tokens through the official World App wallet. Reservations for token claims can also be made via the app.
Which exchanges support WLD trading?
Several major exchanges, including Binance, OKX, Bybit, Huobi, and Gate.io, have listed WLD for trading. Note that trading availability may vary based on your geographic location due to regulatory considerations.
What is the total supply of WLD?
The maximum supply of WLD is capped at 10 billion tokens. The initial circulating supply at launch is 143 million tokens, with the remainder allocated for community, team, investors, and ecosystem development.
Is Worldcoin available in the United States?
Currently, certain services—including token claims and market maker loans—are not available to users based in the United States. Always check local regulations before participating.
How does Worldcoin protect user privacy?
Worldcoin uses zero-knowledge proofs and other cryptographic methods to ensure that personal biometric data remains private and secure. The system is designed to verify uniqueness without storing sensitive user information.