Maneki’s NEKO token serves as the utility currency for the Maneki Marketplace. This platform originated from a 2021 grant by Conflux Network, making Maneki the first NFT project to receive such funding from Conflux. It has since developed into an integrated NFT marketplace and talent development hub, aiming to function as the ‘OpenSea’ equivalent for the China market by leveraging its connection to Conflux Network.

The marketplace also plans to introduce the first lending protocol based on coins and NFTs. These features rely on Proof of Provenance by Artificial Intelligence (PoP-AI), which automatically verifies the provenance of all NFTs traded or pledged within the ecosystem. The service charges fees in NEKO tokens, which is intended to support healthy token utilization and burn rates.

Looking ahead, the team plans to open-source PoP-AI globally through the Maneki Foundation to encourage broader adoption and ongoing evolution. The Foundation aims to identify universities and institutions to provide grants for additional PoP-AI projects worldwide.