Hello, newb here.

I've been researching altcoint trading the last couple of days and I keep wondering:

What is the relationship between an altcoin and the project it is connected to?

As I understand it, coins are not like stock. They do not represent a share in the projects assets and earnings.

Coins seem to be simply a token of optimism, like buying a bands t-shirt at the concert.

You rep the band, but you do not share in the profits of the band.

Am I right or completely wrong?

What are we buying when we buy an altcoin, other than just a token saying we like this particular project?