What is Request (REQ)?

By CMC AI
05 May 2026 12:17AM (UTC+0)
TLDR

Request (REQ) is the utility token powering the Request Network, an open-source, Ethereum-based protocol designed to facilitate decentralized payments and invoicing without intermediaries.

  1. Decentralized Payment Protocol – It enables secure, direct payment requests and invoicing on the blockchain, removing the need for third-party processors.

  2. Multi-Utility ERC-20 Token – The REQ token is used for anti-spam fees, governance voting, staking, and providing discounts within the network.

  3. Business-Focused Ecosystem – Its API supports various payment types like subscriptions and batch transfers, aiming to streamline crypto payments for businesses and fintech.

Deep Dive

1. Purpose & Value Proposition

The Request Network is a decentralized payment system where anyone can request and receive payments directly. It aims to replace traditional intermediaries like banks or payment processors, aiming to provide a cheaper, more secure, and globally compatible solution for transactions and invoicing. Every payment request and its terms are documented on an immutable ledger, simplifying accounting and audit trails for businesses (CoinMarketCap).

2. Technology & Architecture

The protocol is built on Ethereum, making it an ERC-20 token. This architecture leverages Ethereum's security and immutability, storing all payment requests on its blockchain. The network is also integrated with global trade legislation to maintain compliance. Its core functionality is exposed via an API that developers and businesses can integrate to add crypto checkout features, supporting payments across more than 25 blockchains.

3. Tokenomics & Utility

The REQ token has a fixed initial supply of 1 billion. It powers the network through several mechanisms: it acts as an anti-spam measure by requiring small fees to create payment requests, enables holders to participate in governance decisions, and can be staked for rewards. The protocol also implements a deflationary burn mechanism, where a portion of tokens are periodically removed from circulation, as evidenced by monthly burn announcements from the team.

Conclusion

Fundamentally, Request is a blockchain infrastructure project that tokenizes the invoicing and B2B payment process to create a more efficient financial layer. Will its focus on developer-friendly APIs and real-world compliance drive mainstream adoption for crypto payments?

CMC AI can make mistakes. Not financial advice.