# NFT trading in America

By [SonnyRoa](https://paragraph.com/@sonnyroa) · 2023-04-07

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The surging trend of non-fungible tokens, or NFTs, is making waves in the American art and collectibles market, as unique digital assets authenticated using blockchain technology gain popularity as a new asset class. This blockchain technology makes these assets verifiable, and thus one-of-a-kind, increasing their allure as a way to buy and sell digital art, music, and other collectibles. The sale of digital artwork by Beeple for a record-breaking $69 million at Christie's auction house helped to legitimize NFTs as a new asset class and thrust them into the mainstream spotlight.

NFT trading has not just gained momentum in the arts and entertainment industry, but also in sports, where NBA Top Shot has become a prominent example. The platform allows basketball enthusiasts to buy and trade digital "moments" from NBA games, such as a highlight reel of a player's slam dunk. The popularity of NBA Top Shot has resulted in it becoming a preferred way for basketball enthusiasts to collect and trade digital memorabilia.

There are, however, legitimate concerns about the environmental impact of NFT trading, as the blockchain technology used to authenticate NFTs requires a significant amount of energy. In this regard, some artists and collectors are exploring more sustainable options for NFT trading, such as using carbon offsets or eco-friendly blockchains.

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*Originally published on [SonnyRoa](https://paragraph.com/@sonnyroa/nft-trading-in-america)*