On September 15, OKX executed the distribution of EthereumPoW (ETHW) tokens to eligible Ethereum (ETH) holders on its platform. This move marks a significant development for users who maintained ETH balances prior to the Ethereum network's transition to Proof-of-Stake. The airdrop ensures that users are compensated for their holdings under the new Proof-of-Work fork, preserving access to both chains post-Merge.
Holders can now view their ETHW balances by navigating to Assets > My Assets > Funding Account within the OKX interface. While balances may take several hours to reflect accurately, all distributions—whether from main or sub-accounts—are consolidated into the primary account for seamless management.
What Is EthereumPoW (ETHW)?
EthereumPoW (ETHW) is a Layer 1 blockchain that emerged from a hard fork of the original Ethereum network on September 15, 2022. Unlike the main Ethereum chain, which transitioned to a Proof-of-Stake (PoS) consensus mechanism during "The Merge," ETHW continues to operate using the legacy Proof-of-Work (PoW) model.
This divergence allows miners, developers, and users who support decentralized mining and energy-based validation to continue participating in a trustless, censorship-resistant ecosystem. ETHW preserves the pre-Merge rules of Ethereum, maintaining compatibility with existing smart contracts, decentralized applications (dApps), and mining infrastructure.
Key Features of ETHW
- Consensus Mechanism: Proof-of-Work
- Blockchain Type: Layer 1
- Fork Date: September 15, 2022
- Total Supply: Unlimited (mining remains active)
By retaining PoW, ETHW appeals to communities concerned about centralization risks associated with staking pools and institutional validators on the PoS chain.
ETHW Spot Trading Launch on OKX
In addition to the airdrop, OKX has officially listed ETHW for spot trading, enhancing liquidity and accessibility for global traders. This integration reflects OKX's commitment to supporting innovative blockchain projects and providing users with early access to emerging digital assets.
ETHW Listing Schedule
- September 15, 04:00 PM UTC – ETHW deposits opened
- September 15, 04:30 PM UTC – ETHW/USDT spot trading went live
- September 16, 10:00 AM UTC – ETHW withdrawals enabled
These phased rollouts ensure system stability and allow users time to deposit funds and prepare for active trading.
The introduction of ETHW/USDT trading pairs provides a straightforward way for traders to gain exposure to the PoW ecosystem without needing to mine or bridge assets manually.
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Why ETHW Matters in the Post-Merge Era
After Ethereum’s historic Merge upgrade, much of the network’s community shifted toward staking-based participation. However, a segment of miners, node operators, and ideologically driven supporters chose to preserve the original vision of decentralized mining through ETHW.
This fork represents more than just a technical split—it symbolizes an ongoing debate about decentralization, accessibility, and the future of blockchain governance. For investors, ETHW offers:
- Diversification across consensus models
- Exposure to active mining economies
- Hedging against potential vulnerabilities in PoS systems
Moreover, ETHW maintains strong developer activity and compatibility with Ethereum tooling such as MetaMask, Hardhat, and Etherscan (via independent explorers), making it accessible for both retail and professional users.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: When will I receive my ETHW airdrop?
A: The airdrop was distributed on September 15. However, it may take several hours for tokens to appear in your Funding Account due to processing times. Ensure you held ETH on OKX before the snapshot date.
Q: Are sub-account holdings included in the airdrop?
A: Yes. ETH balances held in sub-accounts were included in the airdrop calculation. All received ETHW tokens are credited to your parent account for unified management.
Q: Can I withdraw ETHW now?
A: Yes. Withdrawals opened on September 16 at 10:00 AM UTC. You can transfer your ETHW to external wallets or other platforms that support the token.
Q: Is ETHW the same as Ethereum (ETH)?
A: No. While ETHW originated from Ethereum, it operates as a separate blockchain with Proof-of-Work consensus. It does not benefit from Ethereum’s protocol upgrades post-Merge.
Q: Why did OKX list ETHW?
A: OKX supports user choice and innovation in the blockchain space. By listing ETHW, we empower users to engage with alternative consensus models and participate in evolving ecosystems.
Q: What are the risks of holding or trading ETHW?
A: Like all cryptocurrencies, ETHW is subject to market volatility, regulatory uncertainty, and technological risks. Always conduct thorough research and consider your risk tolerance before investing.
How to Get Started with ETHW on OKX
- Log in to your OKX account.
- Go to Assets > My Assets > Funding Account to check your ETHW balance.
- Navigate to the Spot Trading section and search for “ETHW/USDT.”
- Place buy or sell orders based on current market conditions.
- Once withdrawals are enabled, transfer funds to your preferred wallet if desired.
Security tip: Always verify wallet addresses and use two-factor authentication (2FA) when managing digital assets.
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Final Thoughts
The launch of ETHW trading and airdrop distribution underscores OKX’s role as a forward-thinking digital asset platform committed to user empowerment and blockchain diversity. Whether you're a long-term holder, active trader, or mining enthusiast, ETHW presents a unique opportunity to engage with a resilient Proof-of-Work network rooted in Ethereum’s original architecture.
As the crypto landscape evolves, platforms like OKX help bridge innovation with accessibility—ensuring users stay informed, protected, and ahead of market trends.
Risk warning: Trading digital assets involves significant risk and may result in the loss of your invested capital. You should ensure that you fully understand the risks involved and take into consideration your level of experience, investment objectives, and seek independent financial advice if necessary.