TGE (Token Generation Event)
Token Generation Event — the moment a project's token is first created and distributed on the blockchain. At TGE the token is minted by a smart contract, the initial unlock happens and listing on exchanges and DEXs follows.
Aliases: token generation event, token launch
TGE (Token Generation Event) is the event when a project’s token is first created on the blockchain and reaches its first holders. Before TGE the token technically does not exist; after it, the token trades and moves between wallets.
What happens at TGE
- Smart-contract deploy. A jetton master is created with a fixed supply.
- Initial unlock. A starting share enters circulation — usually small, the rest under vesting.
- Listing. The token appears on a dex and/or centralized exchanges, forming a first market price.
- Reward distribution. Airdrops, testnet rewards and community allocations go out.
TGE vs ICO, IDO and airdrop
- ICO/IDO is a way to sell a token before or during TGE; an IDO runs through ido on a DEX or launchpad.
- Airdrop is a free distribution of part of the supply at TGE for growth and decentralisation.
- TGE itself is the technical generation moment; ICO/IDO/airdrop are the distribution channels around it.
Examples on TON
- Notcoin (NOT) — a mass TGE and airdrop to clicker players in 2024.
- DOGS — a large drop to Telegram-account holders.
- Hamster Kombat (HMSTR) — TGE after a viral tap-to-earn campaign.
What to check
- How much unlocks immediately versus under token-unlock-event.
- The full tokenomics and vesting schedule.
- Liquidity depth at listing — a thin market is easy to move.