Learning the friendly way

In market terminology, a bull market is a period of generally rising prices and investor optimism. The term "bull market" comes from the market that rises steadily and consistently like a healthy bull. A bear market is the opposite: It refers to a condition when prices are falling and investors are pessimistic about future market value. Historical market cycles are well defined and provide a good understanding of market trends.

It's all about cycles

The market cycle helps investors to know whether they should invest or hold back their crypto coins. To avoid making wrong market choices, investors should know market cycles so they can decide whether the crypto market is on the rise or not.

The market cycle helps people to know when the market is already booming and ready to take a plunge. This helps traders to decide which crypto coin to buy at its lowest value, hold it until market bull cycle and then sell it to make a very good profit.

The Bull Market:

A Bull market is a long run of increasing prices and investor optimism where buyers outnumber sellers. As the market bull cycle goes on, more investors will see the market as their opportunity to buy low and sell high. The result is a market cycle that is not as steep as it had previously been.

The Bear Market:

A Bear market is the opposite of a Bull market where prices are falling and investors have low expectations for future market values. The market cycles are frequently broken up into bull markets and bear markets. This market cycle happens when market prices fall and investors sell their coins, this causes market prices to drop even more until the trend reverses.

The case of the Dead/flat market

A Dead market is a term used to describe a period of time where there is not much movement in either direction but it is not a market downturn by any means. This market cycle can occur after prolonged market cycles such as bull (rising trend market) and bear (falling trend market).

The market is not a straight line, it goes up and down so even though the market has gone on for a considerable time without any market fluctuation, market volatility will eventually return.

The market can be dead for a long time but it could cause worry within investors so they should know where market cycles stand.

Since market cycles are consistent it is better to be ready for market volatility, this will help you make informed market decisions when market cycles return.

In conclusion: the market cycle is a repeating market trend that describes market fluctuations over time. When market prices increase, it is called a bull market; when prices fall, it's called a bear market. Knowledge of market cycles is an important asset for investors in the crypto market as the knowledge of swings, downturns and upturns can help make better-informed decisions with investing in cryptocurrencies.

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Tap experienced a significant growth in our user base during Q1 2023. While this was a cause for celebration, it also attracted the unwanted attention of fraudsters. Lured by our platform's quick onboarding and seamless fiat and crypto transactions, these fraudsters exploited remote access tools like Teamviewer and Anydesk to abuse vulnerable individuals . In response, we felt compelled to implement a robust and necessary Anti-Scam Protection Feature.

This feature, while stringent and non-negotiable, is not designed to control our users' app preferences. Instead, it is a forceful, yet crucial measure to ensure their safety and protect the integrity of our platform.

Regulatory Responsibility: As a regulated financial entity, we're duty-bound to shield our users from potential threats and foster safe digital practices. Our Anti-Scam Protection Feature stands as testament to this commitment. It doesn't merely warn users about potentially risky apps; it mandates their removal to ensure the secure use of our services.

Proactive Measures: Scams utilizing remote access tools can be highly sophisticated and often slip past even the most vigilant defenses. Our feature is a stringent proactive measure, akin to a car's seatbelt, designed to preemptively avert such situations.

User Autonomy: At Tap, we deeply value our users' autonomy and their ability to manage their digital safety. However, we also acknowledge that scammers' tactics can be complex and deceptive. The Anti-Scam Protection Feature is our firm stand against such threats, ensuring all users can safely navigate the digital banking landscape.

At Tap, we go beyond secure transactions. Our vision is to create a 'super app' that caters to everyone's needs. We prioritize the protection and well-being of all our customers, including our beloved pops and nans. Understanding the older generation's vulnerability to scams, we are committed to making digital banking accessible and safe for people of all ages. This feature is a significant step towards that vision.

Now, it's crucial to understand an often-overlooked concept outside the payments industry – the "fraud threshold." This measure ensures that financial platforms don't profit from fraudulent transactions. While a high fraud rate may inflate revenues temporarily, it risks losing critical payment services like GBP - Faster Payments and Euro SEPA transfers over time.

Weighing the pros and cons of our Anti-Scam Protection Feature provides a clearer perspective:

CONS:

• Potential displeasure amongst users of apps like Teamviewer, Anydesk, and others.
• Possible loss of a few users.
  

PROS:

• Protection of user life savings.
• Deterrence of scammers.
• Preservation of crucial payment relationships.
• Ensuring availability of payment rails for all our users.
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The Anti-Scam Protection Feature is an assertive measure, and we understand it may cause some inconvenience. But it's an essential step in our commitment to providing a safe, secure, and accessible digital banking environment for everyone.

Om du är ny i finansvärlden – ingen fara. Det är lätt att känna sig vilse bland alla begrepp och förkortningar som slängs runt. I den här guiden går vi igenom några av de vanligaste uttrycken, förklarade på ett enkelt och begripligt sätt. Låt oss hjälpa dig att förstå finansjargongen, steg för steg.

APR (Årlig räntesats)

APR står för Annual Percentage Rate – den årliga effektiva räntan. Det är den totala kostnaden för att låna pengar, inklusive både räntan och eventuella avgifter. Genom att jämföra APR mellan olika lån får du en rättvis bild av vad lånet faktiskt kostar dig.

ATM (Bankomat)

ATM står för Automated Teller Machine, alltså bankomat. Enheten gör det möjligt att ta ut kontanter direkt från ditt konto. Även om vi använder kontanter allt mindre, kan bankomater vara ovärderliga när du reser. Med ett kort kopplat till både fiat och krypto kan du ta ut lokal valuta direkt – smidigt och tryggt.

BACS (Banköverföring i Storbritannien)

Bankers Automated Clearing Services, eller BACS, är ett brittiskt system för elektroniska betalningar mellan bankkonton. Det gör överföringar smidigare och säkrare – oavsett om du betalar räkningar, gör löneutbetalningar eller skickar pengar till ett företagskonto.

BIC (Bankidentifieringskod)

Business Identifier Code, eller BIC, är en internationell bankkod som används för att identifiera banker i globala transaktioner. Tillsammans med IBAN ser BIC till att dina pengar når rätt bank på ett säkert sätt, oavsett var i världen mottagaren befinner sig.

Utdelning

En utdelning är en del av vinsten som ett företag betalar ut till sina aktieägare. Om du äger aktier i ett bolag som går med vinst, kan du få utdelning – ett sätt att få extra avkastning på dina investeringar.

FCA (Finansiella tillsynsmyndigheten i Storbritannien)

Financial Conduct Authority är Storbritanniens tillsynsmyndighet för finansbranschen. FCA säkerställer att banker, försäkringsbolag och andra aktörer följer reglerna, skyddar konsumenter och främjar sund konkurrens.

Eget kapital (Equity)

Eget kapital representerar din ägarandel i något – till exempel ett företag eller en fastighet. I ett bolag betyder det de aktier du äger. Inom fastigheter är det skillnaden mellan bostadens värde och eventuella lån på den.

Växelkurs (Exchange rate)

En växelkurs visar hur mycket en valuta är värd i förhållande till en annan. Den påverkar både priser på utlandsresor och internationella transaktioner – och är något alla som hanterar olika valutor behöver ha koll på.

IBAN (Internationellt bankkontonummer)

International Bank Account Number, eller IBAN, är ett unikt kontonummer för internationella betalningar. IBAN består av ett landskod, kontrollsiffror och uppgifter om mottagarens bank och konto – allt för att pengarna ska hamna rätt.

ISA (Individuellt sparkonto)

Ett Individual Savings Account, eller ISA, är ett brittiskt spar- och investeringskonto där avkastningen är skattefri. Det kan liknas vid en svensk ISK eller kapitalförsäkring, och är populärt för långsiktigt sparande.

Inflation

Inflation innebär att priserna stiger över tid. Det gör att pengarna minskar i värde – du får alltså mindre för samma summa. Att förstå inflation är viktigt för att planera sin ekonomi och skydda köpkraften.

Fonder (Mutual Fund)

En fond är som ett investeringspaket. Den samlar pengar från många investerare och placerar dem i aktier, obligationer eller andra tillgångar. På så vis får du tillgång till en bred portfölj utan att behöva välja enskilda värdepapper själv.

Nettoresultat (Net Income)

Nettoresultat, även kallat vinst eller resultat, visar hur mycket pengar som är kvar efter att alla utgifter dragits från intäkterna. Det är ett viktigt nyckeltal som visar hur lönsamt ett företag är.

Remittering (Remittance)

Remittering handlar om att skicka pengar mellan länder – till exempel när någon i Sverige skickar pengar till familj i ett annat land. Remittering är särskilt vanligt från utvecklade länder till utvecklingsländer.

Roth IRA (Pensionssparande i USA)

En Roth IRA är ett amerikanskt pensionskonto där man sparar med redan beskattade pengar. Fördelen? När du går i pension är både insättningarna och vinsten skattefria. Ett populärt sparalternativ i USA.

SEC (Finanstillsyn i USA)

Securities and Exchange Commission, eller SEC, är USA:s myndighet för tillsyn över finansmarknaderna. Den bevakar börser, investeringsbolag och ser till att regler följs – ungefär som FCA i Storbritannien.

SEPA (Europeiska betalsystemet)

Single Euro Payments Area, eller SEPA, gör det enklare att skicka och ta emot euro inom EU och EES. Det fungerar nästan som inhemska överföringar – snabbare, billigare och smidigare.

SWIFT-kod

Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunication, eller SWIFT, är det globala kommunikationsnätverket som banker använder för att skicka betalningsinstruktioner till varandra. SWIFT-koder ser till att dina pengar når rätt bank – snabbt och säkert.

Sammanfattning

Att förstå finansjargong ger dig verktygen att fatta smarta beslut om dina pengar. Oavsett om du sparar, investerar eller bara vill ha bättre koll på dina bankärenden, är det ovärderligt att kunna tolka termer som SWIFT, BIC eller APR. Med rätt kunskap i bagaget blir ekonomin mindre krånglig – och mycket mer hanterbar.

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I kryptovärldens historia finns få ögonblick som är lika ikoniska – eller lika aptitretande – som Bitcoin Pizza Day. Den 22 maj varje år firas detta speciella datum, en påminnelse om när Bitcoin för första gången användes för att köpa något i den riktiga världen. Vad som började som ett pizzabegär blev i efterhand ett symboliskt startskott för en global finansrevolution.

Hur allt började

Den 18 maj 2010 skrev Laszlo Hanyecz, en programmerare från Florida, ett inlägg på forumet BitcoinTalk. Han ville köpa två stora pizzor – i utbyte mot 10 000 Bitcoin. Ja, du läste rätt. Han specificerade sina topping-önskemål och bad om hemleverans, så enkelt som möjligt.

Fyra dagar senare svarade en annan Bitcoin-entusiast, Jeremy Sturdivant (även känd som “jercos”), på förfrågan. Han köpte pizzorna för cirka 25 dollar och skickade dem hem till Laszlo. I gengäld fick han 10 000 BTC

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En historisk transaktion

Detta blev den första dokumenterade verkliga köpet med Bitcoin – och det satte standarden för framtida användningsområden. Idag skulle de där 10 000 BTC vara värda miljontals kronor, beroende på marknadspriset.

Det är därför Bitcoin-communityn varje år hedrar denna dag med entusiasm – både för den historiska betydelsen och för den nästan absurda prislappen i efterhand. Bitcoin Pizza Day handlar om mer än bara en måltid – det handlar om Bitcoin som tog sitt första steg mot verklig användning.

Bitcoin Pizza Day är inte bara en nostalgitripp – det är också en chans att blicka framåt. Sedan Laszlos pizzaköp har kryptovärlden exploderat: tusentals nya projekt, innovativa tillämpningar och bredare adoption inom allt från finans och logistik till sjukvård.

Bitcoin själv har blivit en globalt erkänd tillgång. Och berättelsen om två pizzor är numera ett klassiskt exempel som ofta delas med nybörjare inom kryptovalutor – som en lektion i innovation, mod och hur snabbt saker kan förändras.

En påminnelse om vad som är möjligt

Laszlos pizzaköp är inte bara en kul historia – det är en symbol för hur långt Bitcoin har kommit. Från en digital valuta i sin linda till ett globalt fenomen. Det visar vad som händer när en idé får stöd från en engagerad community.

Så nästa gång du tar en tugga på en slice den 22 maj – kom ihåg att du är en del av en historia som fortfarande skrivs. 🍕

Vill du lära dig mer om Bitcoin? Utforska gärna det ursprungliga whitepaper-dokumentet från Satoshi Nakamoto, eller kolla in vår guide till blockchainteknik för en lättförståelig introduktion till grunderna.

Glad Bitcoin Pizza Day! 🧡🍕 Må firandet vara fyllt av skratt, lärdomar – och riktigt god pizza.

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Step into the realm of bear markets, a world where uncertainty reigns, prices take a plunge, and investor confidence and market sentiment tremble.

Whether you're a seasoned investor or just dipping your toes into the financial waters, understanding bear markets is crucial to safeguard your investments and making sound decisions during challenging times. Picture a bear market as a phase in the market cycle where prices stubbornly decline across different asset classes like stocks, bonds, or commodities. It's like sailing through stormy seas, with pessimism in the air and economic challenges ahead.

In this article, we're here to shed light on the defining characteristics of bear markets, unravel the factors that drive their descent, and equip you with practical strategies to weather the storm. We aim to empower you with the knowledge and tools needed to navigate bear markets successfully, whether you're trading the stock markets or cryptocurrencies.

What is a bear market?

A bear market refers to a phase in the market cycle characterized by prolonged price declines across various asset classes, such as stocks, bonds, cryptocurrencies, or commodities. It is the opposite of a bull market, where optimism prevails and prices soar.

During a bear market, investor sentiment is dominated by pessimism and uncertainty. Prices experience a prolonged downward trend, typically resulting in a decline of 20% or more from previous market highs. The average bear market lasts from a few months to several years.

A bear market occurs during times of a weak or slowing economy, with several factors contributing to its onset. Economic slowdowns, recessionary conditions, or negative events can trigger a shift in investor sentiment. Factors such as poor corporate earnings, geopolitical tensions, financial crises, or adverse macroeconomic indicators can erode confidence and spark a sustained period of downward spiral in prices.

Bear vs bull market

Unlike bull markets, where rising prices create opportunities for capital gains, a bear market poses significant challenges. Investors often face declining portfolio values and may experience financial losses. Investors tend to exhibit caution, with a focus on capital preservation and defensive strategies.

How to navigate bear market territory

Investing in a bear market requires a different approach than in a bull market. Defensive strategies, such as reducing exposure to high-risk assets, reallocating to safer investments like bonds or cash equivalents, and adopting hedging techniques, are commonly used. Investors may also use this time to seek out undervalued opportunities, look to selective stock picking, or explore assets that tend to perform well in downturns, such as defensive stocks or precious metals.

While bear markets can be challenging, they also present unique opportunities. Savvy investors with a long-term perspective may find attractive entry points to accumulate quality assets at discounted prices. It is important, however, to exercise caution, conduct thorough research, and maintain a disciplined approach to risk management.

What does the term “bear” refer to?

In the context of a bear market, the term "bear" is used to symbolize the behavior of a bear when attacking its prey. The word "bear" signifies downward movement, as a bear swipes its paws downward. It represents a market condition where prices are falling, investor sentiment is negative, and there is an overall sense of pessimism. The term "bear" serves as a metaphor for a market that is in decline, highlighting the aggressive downward movement of prices during this phase.

The characteristics of bear markets

Bear markets possess distinct traits that differentiate them from bull markets. Understanding these characteristics is crucial for investors to navigate market downturns safely. Let's explore the defining traits of a bear market:

Negative investor sentiment

Bear markets occur when fear and uncertainty dominate investor sentiment, leading to increased caution and risk aversion.

Prolonged price declines

A bear market is marked by sustained periods of price decline across different asset classes, reflecting the prevailing negative sentiment.

Volatility and increased selling pressure

Bear markets tend to exhibit heightened volatility, with larger sell-offs and increased trading volumes as selling pressure outweighs buying interest.

Economic challenges and recessionary conditions

Economic challenges such as slowdowns or recessions often accompany bear markets, further contributing to the negative sentiment.

Declining investor confidence and reduced market participation

Investor confidence erodes, leading to reduced market participation as investors prioritize capital preservation and minimize losses.

Defensive sector performance

Certain defensive sectors like utilities, consumer staples, healthcare, and precious metals tend to show resilience during bear markets.

Opportunities for value investing

Bear markets offer opportunities for investors to capitalize on undervalued assets and benefit from the eventual market recovery.

Recognizing these bear market characteristics and knowing when it shifts from a bull market empowers investors to adjust their strategies and protect their portfolios. Defensive positioning, risk management, and a long-term perspective are crucial during market downturns. By understanding these traits, investors can potentially capitalize on opportunities and navigate the challenges of a bear market effectively.

A simple but practical tool investors use to navigate the ups and downs of market cycles is implementing dollar cost averaging where traders buy the asset or stocks at regular intervals despite what the price might be. This tool has proven useful when trading on stock markets such as the Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA) or S&P 500.

The benefits of a bear market

While bear markets present unique challenges, they also offer valuable benefits for strategic investors. Here are the advantages of a bear market:

Buying opportunities at discounted prices

In the stock market, stock prices decline, providing attractive entry points for long-term investors to acquire undervalued assets. This remains true for most other markets, including cryptocurrencies and precious metals.

Dividend yields and income generation

Dividend yields increase as stock prices decline, offering income-focused investors regular cash flow from dividend-paying stocks.

Defensive sector performance

Defensive sectors like utilities, consumer staples, and healthcare demonstrate relative resilience during a bear market, providing stability in the stock market amidst economic volatility.

Long-term value investing

Value investors can identify undervalued assets and potentially achieve substantial returns over the long run by capitalizing on the market's pessimism.

Behavioral lessons and investor growth

Unlike a bull market, navigating a bear market fosters personal and emotional growth, allowing investors to refine their strategies and become more knowledgeable for future investments.

While a bear market requires a long-term perspective and prudent strategies, similar to a bull market they too provide opportunities to take advantage of. By embracing discounted prices in the stock market and other financial markets, focusing on defensive sectors, engaging in value investing, and growing both personally and professionally, investors can emerge stronger and more resilient on their financial journey.

The risks of a bear market

In light of the above, it is also important to acknowledge and navigate the risks associated with downturned market conditions. Below, we explore the potential risks associated with investing during a bear market.

Portfolio declines and losses

Decreasing stock prices can lead to losses, hindering long-term wealth accumulation. Maintaining a long-term perspective and focusing on quality investments is crucial.

Volatility and emotional stress

Increased market volatility creates emotional stress for investors. Staying disciplined and avoiding emotional decisions are important aspects to hold onto during both bear and bull markets.

Economic uncertainty and job insecurity

Economic challenges in bear market territory can result in job insecurity and reduced consumer spending. Reassessing personal finances and enhancing financial resilience is key.

Deteriorating corporate profits

Weakened economic conditions can lead to declining revenues, reduced dividends, and potential bankruptcies. Thorough research and the monitoring of a company's financial health are essential.

Psychological biases and herd mentality

Fear and herd mentality can impair decision-making, leading to irrational choices. Recognizing biases and making rational decisions based on long-term goals is vital.

Market timing challenges

Timing the market is difficult and can lead to missed opportunities or further losses. Focusing on long-term fundamentals and disciplined strategies is advisable.

Navigating the risks of a bear market requires discipline, risk management, and a long-term perspective. Maintaining a well-diversified portfolio and staying informed is crucial. Recognizing and planning for risks can help investors mitigate challenges and emerge stronger.

Previous bear runs

Previous bear runs in financial markets provide valuable lessons about the risks and challenges of market downturns. The global financial crisis of 2008 and the dot-com bubble crash of the early 2000s serve as reminders of the importance of managing risk and maintaining a diversified portfolio. These historical bear markets highlight the unpredictability of the market and the potential for widespread losses.

Lessons learned include the need to be prepared by diversifying investments, taking a long-term perspective, and staying informed. Studying the history of bear markets empowers investors to make informed decisions, adapt strategies, and navigate downturns with resilience and confidence.

In conclusion: what is a bear market?

A bear market is a time of market downturn with declining prices and investor sentiment. Understanding how a bear market works is crucial for investors. While they present opportunities like discounted prices and income generation, risks such as portfolio declines, volatility, and economic uncertainty must be navigated. Lessons from previous bear runs highlight the importance of risk management and diversification. 

By studying history, investors can make informed decisions and adapt strategies. With a long-term perspective and disciplined approach, they can harness the benefits and manage the risks of bear markets, emerging stronger and more resilient.

As we approach the 2024 U.S. presidential election, a new force is emerging in the political landscape: the crypto generation. Young voters, particularly Gen Zs and Millennials, are not only becoming a significant voting force but are also bringing with them a strong interest in cryptocurrency and blockchain technology. This intersection of youth, technology, and politics could potentially reshape the outcome of the upcoming election.

The rising power of young voters

The political influence of young Americans has been growing steadily over the past few election cycles. In the 2020 election, voter turnout among those under 30 reached 55%, a significant increase from 44% in 2016. 

What's more, the sheer size of this voting bloc is impossible to ignore. Gen Z and Millennial voters now make up 40% of all eligible voters and are projected to become the majority of the electorate by 2028. This demographic shift is introducing new priorities and viewpoints into political discussions.

The crypto connection

One of the most interesting parts of this surge in young voters is their strong interest in cryptocurrency and blockchain technology. Recent data shows that 34% of people who own crypto are between 18 and 34 years old. This isn't just about investment trends - it reflects a broader dissatisfaction with the current financial system and a desire for change.

Consider these statistics:

• Only 7% of young Americans report that the current financial system works well for them.
• 38% of young voters believe crypto and blockchain can increase economic opportunities in ways traditional finance can't.
• 51% of young voters are likely to support crypto-friendly candidates in 2024.

These numbers suggest that crypto policy could become a key issue in the upcoming election, especially in battleground states where the margins are often very close.

A look at battleground states: where crypto could tip the scales

In key swing states, the combination of high youth turnout and growing crypto enthusiasm could be a game-changer. 

Take Georgia as an example, where supporters of the Stand with Crypto movement now outnumber the vote difference that decided the 2020 election there, by three times. And in Arizona, nearly 90% of crypto owners under 44 believe the financial system needs change, with over a quarter wanting a complete overhaul. 

Meanwhile, in Michigan, youth voter turnout jumped from 42% in 2016 to 54% in 2020, indicating that the crypto vote could be crucial.

Beyond party lines: crypto as a bipartisan issue

Interestingly, crypto enthusiasm crosses traditional party lines. Among previous or current crypto owners under 35 in swing states, 41% identify as Democrats, 39% as Republicans, and 20% as independent or other. 

This suggests that crypto policy could be a unique issue capable of attracting voters from across the political spectrum.

A call for financial innovation

The rise of the crypto generation in politics reflects more than just an interest in digital assets. It signifies a broader desire for financial innovation and economic opportunity. 

Young voters, facing challenges such as rising living costs and student debt, are looking to blockchain technology as a potential solution to systemic economic issues. 

This aligns perfectly with the original vision behind Bitcoin's creation: a decentralised financial system designed to address the shortcomings of traditional banking and monetary policy.

Conclusion

The 2024 election is quickly approaching, and it's clear that candidates at all levels will need to address the concerns of the "crypto generation." Whether it’s clarifying regulations for digital assets or exploring blockchain for government services, politicians who can connect with these topics could have a significant edge. 

It’s not just crypto investments that this generation is after; they’re investing in a vision for a more accessible, efficient, and innovative financial future. As more of them head to the polls, this vision could become a defining aspect of American politics for years to come.‍

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_{Note: This article is based on data and trends as of August 2024. As with all political and technological trends, the landscape may shift rapidly. Readers are encouraged to stay informed about the latest developments in both the political and crypto spheres.}

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