We often speak of the Hive economy. This stems from the idea of a network-state where we can view Hive through the lens of a nation. Of course, it is fully digital, hence without borders.
Like any nation, an economy has to form. Obviously, the goal is to create one that is thriving, resilient, diversified, and advanced. With Hive, we are starting from scratch.
We are fortunate that we Hive is a monetary system. For that reason, everything we create is instantly part of the ecosystem, able to accept medium of exchange that is offered.
Hive-shop is another example of the expansion that is taking place. The site went live the other day, offering cryptocurrency and Hive merchandise to the community. Hopefully this will be something that expands over time.
Website: https://hive-shop.io/
A central part of the economy is to have transactions. This is the idea behind medium of exchange. Value is transferred from one wallet to another.
Here we can see that Hive-Shop is exclusive with Hive. It accepts the base layer Hive coins along with swap.hive.
There is another interesting twist.
The only currencies accepted are tied to Hive. This is a bold step but one that does put the focus exclusively upon this ecosystem.
Here we see a great use case for the Hive Backed Dollar (HBD). This is the stablecoin that encompasses the medium of exchange on the Hive blockchain. A shop is the ideal location to utilize it.
We won't go through a lot of the features since anyone can surf the website. However, here is a glimpse of what is there.
Clothing:
Accessories:
One of the more interesting features with this is the fact they offer gift cards. Here is a way to get the Hive economy going while supporting the work of a member of the community.
Think of the potential with contests and shows that are related to Hive. Here we see how a gift card could be offered as a prize in a contest that is run. The winner will receive it and be able to purchase something from the shop.
These can be used as incentive mechanisms as well as a way to reward one's following.
Why does this site have to stop with Hive based merchandise?
How about getting together with other project teams to create merchandise for them? We could see t-shirts, hoodies, and mugs for many of the different communities. It becomes a way to raise brand awareness.
Leofinance could offer these products through the site. The same is true for Ecency, 3Speak, Ragnarok, Liketu, and PsyberX. Anything related to Hive could end up having merchandise sold on here.
This is a way the communities can support their favorite games or applications while also helping to build the Hive economy.
So far, there is no personal knowledge about the site or the person behind it. However, on blockchain we can do a bit of research.
It was developed by 
Here is the screenshot from Hiveblocks regarding this account.
As we can see, this is something who was on Hive for over 5 years, with over 320 posts. We can see the voting power the person is active in curation (or using autovoters). I found the information about this project on LeoThreads so there is manual interaction taking place.
We also see ties to HiQ. That is a blockchain based magazine that was running for over 4 years.
Finally, we see references to Hivefest, including a recap of the activities.
It is obvious we are dealing with someone who has strong commitment to Hive and spent time here. This is not a Johnny (Janey) Come Lately.
Here is the Hive-Shop Announcement Post that was reblogged under the main account.
We have another situation that is adding utility to HBD. This is important for the growth of the ecosystem. At the same time, we have a way to support another member of the community while spreading the word about Hive.
If the past is any indication, we will see more innovation from the community. Give it a tool and people figure out ways of incorporating it into what they are doing. This is the fascinating aspect to the constant evolution.
Here is another opportunity for people to get creative with what they are doing. Merchandise of this nature is a great branding tool. Perhaps we will see other projects getting involved.
For now, we have another feather in the cap of the ever growing Hive economy.
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