Ethereum dApps generate $1 billion in Q1 fees

Ethereum (CRYPTO:ETH) decentralised applications (dApps) retained their dominance in the blockchain ecosystem during the first quarter of 2025, generating $1.014 billion in fees, according to Token Terminal.

This figure significantly surpassed the revenue of competing platforms such as Base, BNB Chain, and Arbitrum (CRYPTO:ARB).

Base, Coinbase’s Layer 2 solution, ranked second with $193 million in fees, reflecting steady growth but still lagging far behind Ethereum.

BNB Chain dApps recorded $170 million in fees, while Arbitrum’s ecosystem contributed $73.8 million.

Avalanche’s C-Chain rounded out the top five with $27.68 million in fees.

The data highlights Ethereum’s continued leadership in decentralised finance (DeFi) and Web3 applications, driven by its robust infrastructure and active developer community.

Layer 2 chains and alternative platforms have shown progress, yet Ethereum remains a key player due to its established user base and extensive network activity.

“Ethereum’s fee generation underscores its utility as the go-to platform for high-value transactions and complex applications,” noted a spokesperson from Token Terminal.

Fee generation is increasingly viewed as a critical metric for assessing blockchain network utility and adoption.

The report also emphasised that Ethereum’s dominance reflects its ability to attract developers and users for innovative projects within the DeFi ecosystem.

Despite competition from emerging platforms like Base and Arbitrum, Ethereum continues to set benchmarks for transactional activity and user engagement.

Its transition to Proof of Stake (PoS) through Ethereum 2.0 further strengthens its scalability and energy efficiency.

As blockchain technology evolves, Ethereum’s role as a foundational layer for decentralised applications remains pivotal.

According to analysts, while newer platforms are gaining traction, Ethereum’s longstanding reputation and infrastructure give it an edge in sustaining market leadership.

The Q1 results reaffirm Ethereum’s position as a central force in the blockchain space amid growing competition from Layer 2 solutions and other networks.

At the time of reporting, the Ethereum (ETH) price was $1,637.30.