Learning the friendly way

In the wild world of cryptocurrency, where fortunes are made and lost in the blink of an eye, a peculiar phenomenon has taken centre stage: meme coins. Against all odds, these digital currencies, born from internet jokes and pop culture references, have morphed into serious market players, creating a collected market cap of $48 billion at the time of writing. This represents about 2% of the total cryptocurrency market cap, a significant slice for assets often dismissed as jokes. 

A breakdown of market dominance comparing memecoins to the five biggest coins

Dogecoin alone accounts for nearly $18.8 billion of this, while Shiba Inu follows with just under $10 billion. From Dogecoin's meteoric rise, at one point surging over 12,000% in a single year, to the proliferation of Shiba Inu-themed tokens, meme coins have disrupted traditional crypto narratives. 

With daily trading volumes sometimes exceeding $1 billion for top meme coins and hundreds of meme coins traded on various exchanges, are they just a flash in the pan or do they represent a fundamental shift in how we perceive and interact with digital assets? Let's dive into the meme coin mania shaking up the crypto landscape.

The birth of meme coins: Dogecoin 

It all began in 2013 when Jackson Palmer and Billy Markus combined two of the internet's hottest trends - cryptocurrencies and memes - to create Dogecoin.

Beginning as a lighthearted response to the overly serious cryptocurrency landscape, they chose the Shiba Inu dog from the popular "Doge" meme as their mascot, perfectly capturing the whimsical spirit of their creation and the tone of the time.

Initially dismissed as a parody, Dogecoin quickly found a following among crypto enthusiasts with a sense of humour. Early adopters, drawn by the coin's lighthearted approach and low entry barrier, formed a vibrant community that would become the coin's greatest asset. Today, the original meme coin is a stable contender in the top 10 biggest cryptocurrencies by market cap. 

The meme coin explosion 

As Dogecoin's popularity increased, a new breed of cryptocurrencies emerged, each trying to capture the same taste of their meme-driven successor. The crypto market witnessed an explosion of imitators, from Shiba Inu (SHIB) to SafeMoon (SAFEMOON). Today, there were over 250 active meme coins listed on CoinMarketCap, with new ones appearing almost weekly.

These newcomers often played on popular themes: animal mascots, pop culture references, or even celebrity names. Everything from Pepe (PEPE), riding the wave of the infamous frog meme and reaching a market cap of $1.6 billion at its peak, to Garlicoin (GRLC), for the bread enthusiasts, emerged. Arguably, the market became saturated with these "utility-less" coins, and the hype often disappears as quickly as it arrives. For instance, SafeMoon saw its value plummet by over 99% from its all-time high in just two years.

Social media platforms became the battleground for meme coin supremacy, with Reddit, Twitter, and TikTok serving as launchpads for viral campaigns. To illustrate this, r/dogecoin is in the top 1% of subreddits based on size, while #dogecoin has been viewed over 8 billion times on TikTok. 

On top of this, influencers and celebrity endorsements fueled rapid price swings, turning meme coins into a phenomenon that blurred the lines between investing and entertainment. A single tweet from Elon Musk mentioning Dogecoin could cause its price to surge by up to 50% within hours, showcasing the volatile nature of these assets.

Taking it one step further, on 28 May, the celebrity meme coin trend kicked off with Caitlyn Jenner's JENNER token. The reality star's digital currency made waves, hitting a $40 million market cap within its first 24 hours, setting a new bar for star-powered crypto launches.

Riding the wave of JENNER's success, rapper Iggy Azalea introduced her Mother Iggy (MOTHER) meme coin on Solana, which initially surged but later plummeted amid market turbulence. This prompted several other personalities to do the same, with similar patterns of initial interest and then a fade out. 

Source: Coinmarketcap.com

A look at meme coins by the numbers 

Meme coins have been on a rollercoaster that would make even the most hardened crypto traders dizzy. At its peak, in May 2021, Dogecoin's market cap surpassed $82 billion, briefly overtaking established giants like Honda and Twitter. Not to be outdone, a few months later Shiba Inu’s market cap hit a mind-boggling $39 billion. 

At the time of writing, the other top meme coins include Pepe (PEPE), with a market cap of $5 billion, Dogwifhat (WIF), with a market cap of $2.5 billion, and Bonk (BONK) with a market cap of $1.9 billion. 

Trading volumes have seen days where meme coins dominated the charts, with DOGE and SHIB frequently surpassing daily volumes of $20 billion. But here's the kicker: price volatility in the meme coin world makes Bitcoin look like a stable grandpa. We're talking swings of 500% or more in mere days, fueled by tweets, Reddit posts, and the occasional Elon Musk sneeze.

The love-hate relationship with traditional finance 

Let’s go there. Traditional finance gurus have been quick to dismiss these digital upstarts as speculative bubbles, with Warren Buffett comparing them to "rat poison squared." But while the old guard scoffs, celebrities are diving in headfirst. 

There’s no denying that Elon Musk's tweets and Snoop Dogg's Shiba Inu shoutouts send Dogecoin to the moon. This star-studded carnival has regulators breaking into a cold sweat, scrambling to figure out how to pin down these slippery, meme-fueled assets. From (justified) concerns about market manipulation to fears of a crypto Wild West, meme coins are giving lawmakers more headaches than their more “useful” counterparts.

The technology behind meme coins 

Meme coins, like their "grown-up" cousins, ride on blockchain technology, ensuring transparency and decentralisation. But while Bitcoin and Ethereum are off solving world problems, meme coins are here for the party.

Many are built on existing networks, like Ethereum or Solana, saving the hassle of reinventing the blockchain wheel. What sets them apart? Often, it's their massive supply (Dogecoin has a circulating supply of 145 billion coins compared to Bitcoin's 21 million) and low individual value, perfect for tipping creators or buying virtual tacos. 

Some meme coins are getting creative, though. We're seeing innovations like burn mechanisms to control supply, charity wallets, and even attempts at DeFi integration. For example, Shiba Inu introduced ShibaSwap, a decentralised exchange, attracting over $1.5 billion in total value locked within its first week. 

Still, the general consensus is that most of them are simply layer 2 attempts at getting their name on the map, often with little other utility than gas fees in their own ecosystem.

Meme coins and community building 

Meme coins have spawned vibrant online communities that make crypto seem less like rocket science and more like a viral TikTok challenge. Reddit threads and Discord channels buzz with meme coin enthusiasts sharing tips, jokes, and the occasional rocket emoji. But it's not all fun and games; many meme coin communities have heart. 

Dogecoin fans famously funded a Jamaican bobsled team going to the Winter Olympics as well as clean water projects and paying back victims of a hacker. These feel-good stories have turned meme coins into crypto's approachable face, luring curious newbies into the wider world of blockchain and decentralised finance. 

The future of meme coins 

While the future of crypto is unpredictable, the future of meme coins is 10x more so. Some sceptics predict these digital coins will fade faster than last year's TikTok dance, while optimists see a world where Doge might actually buy you a Tesla. 

The smart money's on meme coins evolving beyond their jokey roots, with some already dipping their paws into DeFi and NFTs. Industry experts are split: some see meme coins as the gateway drug to serious crypto adoption, others as a passing fad. One thing's for sure: in the land of memes and dreams, expect the unexpected.

Conclusion

As we wrap up our journey through the meme coin history, it's clear these digital underdogs have left an unerasable mark on the crypto landscape. From humble, joke-filled beginnings to billion-dollar market caps, meme coins have shown the power of community, humour, and viral marketing in the financial world. 

While their future remains unpredictable, one thing is certain: meme coins have forever changed how we think about cryptocurrency, blending finance with fun in a way that's uniquely suited for our internet-driven age. The crypto revolution just got a lot more entertaining.

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We’ve all been here: you land that dream job or get a nice raise, and suddenly your old budget feels unnecessarily restrictive. A few premium subscriptions here, some fancy dinners there, maybe a nicer apartment – before you know it, your higher income somehow feels tighter than before. 

Welcome to lifestyle creep, the subtle way our spending habits expand to match (or exceed) our growing income. It’s real, and it’s out there. Here’s how you can fight back. 

Why it happens

Lifestyle creep isn't just about splurging. Often, it's a series of small, seemingly reasonable upgrades. That €15 lunch delivery doesn't feel extravagant when you're having a hard day, and those €20 fitness classes are justified as a worthwhile investment in your health. 

The problem isn't any single expense, it's how these small changes compound over time, transforming from luxuries into what feel like necessities. And those small expenses can add up dramatically: an extra €50 per week on conveniences means €2,600 per year that could have gone toward retirement, a dream vacation, or your emergency fund. That’s a chunk of change in the end. 

Breaking the cycle

1. Find your motivation

Before making changes, identify why you want to control your spending. Maybe you want to switch careers, start a business, or build an emergency fund. Having a concrete “why” makes it easier to resist those immediate gratifications.

2. Audit your joy

Review your recent expenses and honestly assess which ones truly enhance your life. That streaming service you barely use? The subscription box that sits unopened? These are easy cuts. But don't stop at the obvious – examine everything, including your "necessary" expenses. Sometimes what we think we need is just habit in disguise.

Start doing this weekly, eventually moving up to monthly, until your inner accountant is completely satisfied with where your money is going. The idea here isn’t to strip all joy from your life, it’s merely to streamline it. 

3. Create friction

Make impulse spending harder:

• Remove saved payment information from shopping sites and phone settings
• Unsubscribe from marketing emails
• Establish a 48-hour waiting period for non-essential purchases

4. Address your triggers

Our spending habits are heavily influenced by our environment. Consider:

• Unfollowing social media accounts that trigger spending urges
• Finding free or low-cost alternatives to expensive social activities
• Being honest with friends about your financial situation and goals
• Planning social activities that don't revolve around spending

5. Regular check-ins

Schedule monthly "money dates" with yourself. Review your spending, celebrate wins, and adjust your strategy. Make it enjoyable – pour yourself a drink and put on your favourite record. This isn't about punishment, it's about alignment with your goals.

The mindset shift

Remember that reducing expenses isn't about deprivation, it's about choice and control. You might find that some lifestyle upgrades are worth keeping because they genuinely improve your quality of life. Others might be easy to let go once you realise they're not adding that much value.

The goal isn't to return to living like a college student. Instead, aim to be intentional about which upgrades you keep and which you can live without. This mindful approach to spending helps steer your money toward things that truly matter to you, rather than disappearing into a series of forgettable purchases.

By taking control of lifestyle creep, you're not just saving money – you're buying yourself options, flexibility, and peace of mind. And those are luxuries worth keeping.

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The cryptocurrency market can be a maze of projects, platforms, and partnerships. Among these, XCN (Onyxcoin) has emerged as a notable digital asset that often sparks discussion – and sometimes confusion – in the crypto community.

This guide cuts through the complexity to deliver a clear picture of XCN. We'll examine what makes this cryptocurrency unique, tackle common misconceptions about its ownership (particularly regarding JP Morgan), and explore its potential value to the greater blockchain ecosystem.

Whether you're researching XCN for investment purposes or simply want to understand its role in the crypto ecosystem, this article will provide you with straightforward, accurate information to guide your decisions.

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What Is Onyx Protocol (XCN)?

Onyx Protocol is a cloud-based blockchain infrastructure enabling companies to create private blockchain networks for enhanced financial services. Unlike public blockchains, Onyx provides a closed, secure environment for issuing, storing, and transferring digital assets, minimising risks like security breaches and transaction delays. 

It caters to enterprise needs through products such as the Remote Procedure Call API (RPC/API) and Sequence, a blockchain-based accounting service. These services offer both standard and premium tiers, with premium features accessible via XCN payments.

The protocol’s core design addresses key financial settlement challenges, including reducing fees, increasing transparency, and streamlining transaction settlements, and uses innovative features like "issuance programs" for asset creation and "control programs" for managing assets securely. Block signers safeguard the network, while block generators ensure efficient block creation.

The Onyx Protocol is governed by a Decentralised Autonomous Organisation (DAO), where XCN token holders participate in decision-making by staking their tokens. This means that XCN acts as both a utility and governance token, offering voting rights, discounts on premium services, and a means to pay for Onyx Cloud and Sequence fees.

Founded in 2014 by venture capitalist Adam Ludwin, Onyx was initially backed by major firms like Nasdaq and Citigroup, raising over $40 million. After being acquired by Stellar’s Lightyear Corp. in 2018, it later became a privately held corporation in 2021. 

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With a maximum supply of 48.4 billion tokens, XCN powers the ecosystem and incentivises community-driven growth through its transparent, decentralised governance model.

XCN’s infrastructure

XCN's technological foundation rests on three main pillars:

• A scalable proof-of-stake blockchain that prioritises transaction speed and energy efficiency
• Smart contract functionality that enables complex financial operations and decentralised applications
• Cross-chain compatibility for seamless interaction with other blockchain networks

Although the platform uses advanced security protocols it still manages to maintain user accessibility, making it suitable for both individual and institutional users.

How to purchase and stake XCN

XCN tokens can be bought through several major cryptocurrency exchanges, including Tap. In order to participate in the staking process, users will need to acquire the tokens and complete the following: 

1. Set up a compatible wallet that supports XCN staking
2. Participate in the staking program through the official platform
3. Earn rewards based on the amount staked and duration of participation

The minimum staking requirements and reward rates are designed to encourage long-term holder participation. For more detailed explanations please see the official project’s instructions.

Leadership and development behind XCN

The Onyx blockchain network was founded in 2014 by venture capitalist Adam Ludwin with support from major venture capital firms, aiming to modernise financial systems. The team launched Chain Core after raising over $40 million through strategic partnerships with Nasdaq, Orange, Capital One, and Citigroup. 

In 2018, the platform was sold to Lightyear Corp., part of the Stellar Development Foundation, before transitioning in 2021 to operate as a privately held corporation with a new board, shareholders, and offices. In March 2022, CHN was rebranded to XCN spurring positive price growth.

Today, the XCN project is led by a team of seasoned blockchain developers and fintech experts specialising in smart contracts, protocol optimisation, and financial infrastructure. They are known to actively engage with the community via Discord, Twitter, and governance forums, maintaining transparency through roadmaps, progress reports, and AMAs. 

Alongside the strong development team is a decentralised governance model, allowing XCN token holders to shape the platform’s future, voting on critical proposals to ensure collective growth and innovation.

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XCN price prediction

Onyxcoin (XCN) has gained attention for its role in DeFi and its governance function within the Onyx Protocol. While price predictions vary, with some analysts anticipating steady growth as adoption of the platform increases, it is worth keeping an eye on the key factors influencing its price, notably market demand, advancements within the Onyx ecosystem, broader crypto market trends, and regulatory developments. 

However, given the volatility of the cryptocurrency market, it’s best to approach these XCN price predictions carefully and conduct thorough research before making any financial decisions.

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Clearing the air: JP Morgan's Kinexys (formerly Onyx) does not own OnyxCoin (XCN)

In early November 2024, JP Morgan rebranded its blockchain unit from Onyx to Kinexys, sparking conversations about distinguishing between unrelated entities in the blockchain world. Below we break down the key differences between OnyxCoin (XCN) and JP Morgan's Kinexys to clear up any confusion for investors and industry professionals.

Let the record state: OnyxCoin (XCN) is a separate cryptocurrency project operating independently of JP Morgan and its blockchain initiatives. To avoid potential confusion:

• XCN is not affiliated with JP Morgan or any traditional banking institution
• The cryptocurrency project operates independently of JP Morgan's blockchain platforms
• Any similarity in naming to JP Morgan's former Onyx unit is coincidental

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Looking to the future

XCN is a prime example of blockchain technology's evolution and the growing maturity of digital assets. As the cryptocurrency landscape continues to expand, XCN’s innovative framework and governance structure show how decentralised systems can adapt to meet new challenges. 

With blockchain advancing rapidly, platforms like XCN highlight the potential for transformation in the digital economy. Whether you’re drawn to the technical details or the broader implications, staying informed about these developments is key to understanding this ever-changing space.

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Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies are all about decentralised, worldwide, financial independence and liberty. Cryptocurrencies are borderless, censorship-resistant digital currencies that can be used by anybody with internet access. 

As a result, crypto, at least in principle, appears to be the perfect solution for international travellers or "digital nomads." With the added advantage of having the Tap app, users can instantly and seamlessly use their cryptocurrencies as they would regular fiat currencies when travelling around.

With the growth rate of blockchain technology and crypto adoption increasing, it's only natural that we're seeing more options to spend and travel the world using cryptocurrency.

In this article, we'll look at a variety of different ways to spend your crypto while travelling with Tap and how to spend seamlessly with your Tap card. We will explore why people choose to use their crypto to travel and how the exploding $1 trillion travel market is important for the cryptocurrency industry. 
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Entirely Cashless

‍The beauty of travelling with crypto is that it is entirely cashless. You won't have to worry about dealing with foreign currency exchanges when entering or leaving a different country as all of your money is kept digitally online in your app. 

With the Tap card, users can use their crypto balances to load their card and freely swipe away worldwide. The card allows for seamless payments at millions of merchants around the world, with the merchant none the wiser. 

The option to upgrade to more premium accounts allows you to reduce or completely eliminate any FX fees. Get empowered and enjoy the best out of your money wherever you go.

Reduces Risk

Instead of being a target for muggings looking to steal cash, being entirely digital bypasses this risk.

Accessible

Should something happen at home you can easily and quickly send funds back. Operating 24/7 and only requiring an internet connection, sending money back home can be completed at a moment's notice. Send funds to your friends and family via crypto or fiat for free on their Tap account. 

Discounts

Last but not least, many companies offer discounts to users paying with cryptocurrencies. From travel to retail, and everything in between, users can enjoy added discounts just by utilising crypto. 

Should an event arise that you do need cash, users can easily withdraw cash from a regular ATM using their Tap card. Paying significantly lower fees than you would with your standard bank card, the Tap card allows you to seamlessly integrate into the foreign country with peace of mind. 

How To Travel Abroad With Tap

This is the ultimate crypto vacation guide showing you how to buy everything that you might need through the Tap app for that epic crypto vacation abroad.
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Flights

CheapAir.com was the first US online travel agency to open its doors to crypto, getting into the game as early as 2013. The company currently allows holidaymakers to make payments using Bitcoin, Litecoin, Bitcoin Cash and Dash.

In 2020, Travala and Expedia merged to give users access to millions of hotels and villas worldwide payable in over 30 popular types of cryptocurrencies. There is also Destinia.com in Spain, airBaltic in Latvia, Surf Air in the US, and Peach Aviation in Japan.

Conveniently buy everything you need with your Tap app by scanning the company’s QR code and confirming the transaction. Alternatively, you can make online purchases using your Tap card. 
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Accommodation

Travala, CheapAir.com and Destinia all allow users to book flights and accommodation in one smooth transaction. On Destinia look out for the GoCoin merchant plugin.

Booking.com has partnered with flight planner, A Bit Sky, to provide a location with both flight and accommodation options.

Savvy accommodation-seekers can look to Airbnb-style crypto startups like 99Flats in India or CryptoCribs on Reddit, or head over to XcelTrip,a decentralized travel ecosystem, which provides access to 400 airlines and 1.5 million hotels.
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Food and Drink

CoinMap is an app for anyone and everyone wanting to find crypto-friendly companies. Felix Weis, as well as numerous other cryptocurrency influencers, has credited CoinMap with being the saviour for finding the closest cafe, bar, or restaurant that accepts Bitcoin, including international chains such as Subway and local providers who use crypto merchants. Say goodbye to walking around with boatloads of cash and just take your Tap app along instead. 

Holidaymakers can also look to using crypto to buy a gift card which can be purchased online through Gyft or eGifter, with eGifter offering a 5% discount for purchases made with Bitcoin. eGifter offers gift cards to restaurants like Papa John, Taco Bell, Dunkin’ Donuts, TGI Fridays, UberEats and more.
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Getting Around

Expedia, A Bit Sky, Destinia, and CheapAir all offer access to transfers or car rentals in their services, while Gyft and eGifter offer Uber vouchers. There is also SpendBitcoin.com, which locates different crypto-accepting services in an area, simply chose the car filter option.
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Things To Do

Again, Gyft and eGifter provide access to options like Groupon where you can find local activities on offer, or head to purse.io for any last-minute Amazon purchases (snorkel, anyone?).
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Travel The Tap Way‍

Both the Tap card and the Tap app can provide a seamless and cost-effective solution to using both fiat and cryptocurrencies when travelling. Simply load your wallet with crypto and fiat currencies, and pay directly from the app or use the card to pay at millions of merchants around the world. Say hello to easy travel and plenty of discounts. 

With a range of coins on offer and an integrated smart engine that ensures the best possible prices in real time, travelling with cryptocurrencies and Tap is as smooth a ride as it gets.

With a range of coins on offer and an integrated smart router, Tap lets you store and manage your digital assets wherever, whenever. There are no border delays or inconvenient payment processes to worry about while travelling with crypto only speed and convenience. Tap is as seamless a journey as it gets. 

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En mars 2022, Onyx protocol a rebaptisé son token de CHN en XCN, rencontrant un succès considérable. Le grand livre cryptographique partagé et multi-actifs a attiré l'attention du marché et sa valeur a augmenté de près de 50% dans les premiers mois suivant son lancement.

Après avoir implémenté des améliorations incluant la Onyx Decentralised Autonomous Organisation (DAO), la sortie bêta du produit Onyx Cloud, le staking de XCN, ainsi que son inscription sur plusieurs échanges de cryptomonnaies, Onyxcoin (XCN) a atteint un nouveau sommet historique, un exploit honorable pour l'écosystème Onyx étant donné que le marché des cryptomonnaies était en baisse.

Qu'est-ce que Onyx protocol?

Onyx protocol est une infrastructure blockchain en cloud permettant aux entreprises de créer et de proposer des solutions améliorées de services financiers grâce à leur réseau blockchain fermé. Cela leur offre la possibilité de passer à la technologie blockchain sans assumer les risques liés aux grands réseaux publics. La plateforme leur permet ensuite d'émettre, de stocker et de transférer des actifs numériques sur les réseaux privés indépendants de l'entreprise via plusieurs produits de l'écosystème Onyx.

Selon le livre blanc de la plateforme, le protocole Onyx permet aux participants d'émettre et de gérer des actifs de manière programmatique grâce à l'utilisation de signatures numériques et de règles personnalisées.

Conçu pour améliorer les lacunes actuelles de l'industrie des règlements financiers, le protocole Onyx offre des solutions améliorées pour tout, des frais de transfert à la transparence, en passant par les retards de règlement, ainsi que les problèmes de sécurité et la réversibilité des transactions.

Les autres produits de l'écosystème Onyx incluent une option standard et premium de RPC/API (Remote Procedure Call API) et une option de service de grand livre en tant que service appelée Sequence.

Le RPC/API standard donne aux utilisateurs accès à divers services au sein de Onyx Cloud qui leur permettent de développer des produits sur des blockchains publiques. Les options d'accès premium offrent des solutions supplémentaires et la possibilité de construire sur des réseaux privés. Cette option est facturée à un montant fixe annuel en XCN. 

Sequence offre aux utilisateurs un accès au service de comptabilité blockchain en cloud de Onyx où ils peuvent gérer les soldes sous forme tokenisée. Là encore, il existe une option standard ou une option d'accès premium avec des avantages supplémentaires, payable en XCN.

Le protocole offre également aux utilisateurs des solutions de bout en bout couvrant la "conception, le développement, la conformité, la vente et l'utilisation" des NFTs à travers son produit Sequence NFT.

L'organisation autonome décentralisée (DAO) de Onyx gère l'ensemble du protocole Onyx, qui est gouverné par les détenteurs de tokens XCN. Pour participer à la DAO de Chain et à la gouvernance de Onyx, les détenteurs de XCN doivent staker leurs tokens.

Qui a créé Le Onyx protocol?

Le réseau blockchain Onyx a été fondé en 2014 par Adam Ludwin, offrant une solution aux systèmes financiers modernes. Les développeurs ont lancé Chain Core après avoir levé plus de 40 millions de dollars grâce à des financements et des partenariats stratégiques avec des acteurs tels que Nasdaq, Orange, Capital One et Citigroup.

En 2018, la plateforme a été vendue à Lightyear Corp., une division de la Stellar Development Foundation, mais depuis 2021, l'entreprise fonctionne désormais en tant que société privée avec de nouveaux bureaux, actionnaires et un nouveau conseil d'administration.

Comment fonctionne le protocole Onyx ?

Chain permet à plusieurs réseaux blockchain indépendants d'exister et de coopérer, même s'ils sont exploités par différentes entreprises. L'utilisation du principe de moindre autorité maintient une séparation entre le contrôle des actifs et la synchronisation du grand livre, garantissant ainsi la sécurité de tous.

Le protocole cloud de Onyx permet à tout participant du réseau de définir et d'émettre des actifs en créant leurs propres "programmes d'émission". Une fois émis, les unités d'un actif sont conservées sous la garde de "programmes de contrôle", rédigés dans un langage de programmation flexible et complet, permettant de créer des contrats intelligents sophistiqués pour les réseaux blockchain.

Un groupe de "signataires de blocs" sécurise chaque réseau. Le système est protégé contre les bifurcations tant que la majorité des signataires de blocs respecte le protocole. Pour plus d'efficacité, le protocole délègue la création de blocs à un seul "générateur de blocs". Tout nœud sur le réseau peut également valider les blocs et soumettre des transactions.

Le logiciel Onyx Core est une solution d'entreprise utilisant le protocole Onyx. Une édition développeur open-source de Onyx Core est disponible en téléchargement, et Chain gère un testnet librement accessible pour administrer le réseau blockchain Onyx.

Qu'est-ce que le token Onyxcoin XCN ?

XCN est le token natif de l'écosystème Onyx et sert à la fois de token utilitaire et de token de gouvernance. Les détenteurs peuvent voter sur les programmes communautaires et les plans d'amélioration du protocole via la DAO de Onyx. La cryptomonnaie offre également des réductions sur les plans premium, une méthode de paiement pour les frais de Onyx Cloud et Sequence, ainsi que pour le déploiement de nœuds.

Parallèlement au rebranding de CHN en XCN, Chain a également lancé son nouveau contrat intelligent Onyxcoin sur la blockchain Ethereum. Les détenteurs de CHN ont reçu des tokens XCN dans un ratio de 1 pour 1 000. Onyxcoin (XCN) a une offre maximale de 53,47 milliards.

Comment acheter du token XCN ?

Pour ceux qui souhaitent intégrer Onyxcoin à leur portefeuille de cryptomonnaies, tout est devenu beaucoup plus simple. L'application Tap a récemment intégré XCN parmi ses devises supportées, offrant ainsi à tout détenteur d'un compte Tap un accès aisé et pratique au token de Chain.

Les utilisateurs peuvent acheter ou vendre des XCN en utilisant les soldes de leurs portefeuilles, qu'ils soient en crypto ou en devises traditionnelles, ou encore acquérir la cryptomonnaie via des méthodes de paiement classiques telles que le paiement par carte ou bien par virements bancaires. Les portefeuilles intégrés à la plateforme permettent aussi de stocker et de gérer facilement les fonds détenus en XCN.

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Got Bitcoin and wondering how to turn it into spendable money? You're not alone. Whether you're looking to realize your profits, pay for goods and services, or simply diversify your investment portfolio, cashing out Bitcoin can be a straightforward process with the right guidance.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know about converting your digital currency into cold, hard cash (or cold digital cash, if you prefer).

How to cash out Bitcoin

There are a few options available to you - all with varying degrees of accessibility and complexities. We’ll run through them below, see which one most resonates with your preferences.

1. Online exchanges 

Online exchanges are probably the simplest option here, depending on the platform. When selecting a cryptocurrency exchange to cash out your Bitcoin, consider factors like security measures, user reviews, trading volume, and withdrawal fees. Look for exchanges that offer a seamless user experience and prioritise the safety of your funds.

While crypto exchanges will charge a small fee, they also allow you to: 

• Sell Bitcoin directly
• Transfer money to your bank account
• Track your transactions easily

Using Tap as an example, the process would be to download the app, create an account, complete the quick identity verification process (<5 minutes) and then transfer your BTC to your unique BTC wallet.

To sell it, simply select Sell, confirm the transaction and choose which currency you would like to receive the funds in. These funds will then be deposited into the relevant wallet in the app, which you can use to pay bills, send to your fiat bank account, spend using your Tap card or withdraw from an ATM. 

Transaction costs: usually 0.5% - 1.5%

2. Bitcoin ATMs

Bitcoin ATMs are darted around countries (see here for specifics) and allow users to withdraw the local currency for Bitcoin. Note that this route is notorious for higher fees, so take note when confirming the transaction. 

The advantages of Bitcoin ATMs:

• Instantly converts Bitcoin to cash
• Get money right on the spot
• Available in many major cities

Transaction costs: 5% - 10%

3. Direct peer-to-peer selling

Kind of like selling something on Gumtree, but for Bitcoin. These websites connect you directly with buyers who want Bitcoin and have varying degrees of security and features. 

Be sure to use verified platforms with good reviews as scams can be rife. Some of these platforms offer escrow services, meaning that they hold the BTC until the payment clears, after which they release the funds. Look at options like LocalBitcoins.

Transaction costs: Varies

Steps to ensure security

Before cashing out Bitcoin, here are a few steps to take to ensure the safety of your funds:

• Use reputable platforms that are licensed and regulated.
• Use strong passwords and enable two-factor authentication for added security.
• Regularly update your wallet/app software to protect against potential vulnerabilities.
• Avoid sharing your sensitive information or private keys with anyone to prevent unauthorised access.
• Consider diversifying your funds across multiple wallets for added protection. 

Tax implications of cashing out Bitcoin

When you sell Bitcoin for cash in the UK, it’s important to understand the potential tax implications. HMRC treats cryptocurrency transactions as taxable events, meaning you may need to report and pay Capital Gains Tax on any profits from the sale.

Consulting a tax professional or accountant can help you understand your obligations and navigate the often complex waters of cryptocurrency taxation. They can ensure you comply with current UK tax laws and provide guidance specific to your situation.

It’s also very important to keep an accurate record of all your crypto transactions. Make sure to document the date of purchase, the sale price, and any associated fees, as these records will make it easier to calculate and report your gains or losses when filing your tax return. (Side note: you can download your statements directly from the Tap app). 

For more information, explore HMRC's guidelines on cryptocurrency taxation. Staying informed and organised will help you manage your tax responsibilities smoothly and avoid potential penalties.

Verification requirements

When cashing out Bitcoin on an exchange, verifying your identity is an important step to ensure the security of your transaction and compliance with regulations. If a platform doesn’t ask for this verification: red flag. 

Overview of the verification process

Exchanges need to complete this verification step to prevent fraud and follow legal requirements. You’ll typically need to provide:

• A valid ID for identity verification
• Proof of address, such as a utility bill
• Sometimes, a selfie for facial recognition

The specific requirements can vary based on the exchange and the amount of Bitcoin you’re selling.

Tips for a smooth verification process

• Have all your documents ready before starting to avoid delays.
• Double-check the accuracy of the information you provide to prevent verification issues.
• Follow the exchange’s instructions carefully to ensure the process is quick and secure.

Security considerations

When submitting personal information, always use a trusted exchange with a strong reputation for security. Look for platforms known for protecting user data to reduce the risk of breaches.

Understanding fees when cashing out Bitcoin

Cashing out Bitcoin usually comes with some costs, so it’s good to know what to expect.

Exchange Fees

Most crypto exchanges charge a trading fee when you sell Bitcoin. The fee varies depending on the exchange and the size of your transaction.

Withdrawal Fees

If you transfer your funds to a bank account or payment method, the exchange might charge a withdrawal fee. These fees can be higher for larger transactions.

Network Fees

Bitcoin transactions also include network fees (or mining fees), which go to miners for verifying and processing your transaction on the blockchain.

To reduce fees, look for exchanges with low rates, choose slower transaction speeds to save on network fees, and compare withdrawal options to find the cheapest one.

Timing considerations traders might pay attention to

Timing can play a big role in deciding when to sell your Bitcoin. Here are some key factors traders often look out for:

Market conditions

Traders recommend staying updated on crypto news and keeping an eye on price trends and market conditions.

Withdrawal limits

Traders advise knowing the withdrawal limits of the exchange before completing their cash out so as to plan their cash-out strategy and avoid delays.

Funds transfer time

Traders plan ahead, knowing that it can take a few business days for funds to transfer after selling Bitcoin (depending on which avenue you took) allows them to manage their finances more efficiently.

Other potential roadblocks

When cashing out Bitcoin, keep an eye out for potential roadblocks, like minimum withdrawal amounts, which could affect how much you can withdraw at once. 

Be prepared for account verification requirements, as exchanges often need you to verify your identity before processing transactions. On some platforms this can take days - not ideal if you’re trying to take advantage of price surges. 

You might also have to deal with geographic restrictions that limit access to certain exchanges based on your location. Be sure to check this before signing up with a platform.

Conclusion

Here we’ve covered the essentials of cashing out Bitcoin, from selecting an exchange to understanding taxes. If you’re new to cryptocurrency, take the time to learn about the process before selling, and remember that what works for one person might not work for another. Being prepared will help you make better decisions and avoid mistakes.

Tip: Start small, learn as you go, and don't be afraid to ask for help! Our friendly Tap support staff are there to help 24/7. 

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