Learning the friendly way

Euro Tether (EURT) is a euro-pegged stablecoin created by Tether Operations Limited, designed to maintain a 1:1 value with the euro. Think of it as the European cousin of the more famous USDT (Tether USD) - it's a digital token that aims to hold steady at one euro per token, making it useful for businesses, or just people who want to use crypto without worrying about wild price swings.

Built primarily on the Ethereum blockchain, EURT was developed to give European users and businesses a stable digital asset that mirrors the euro's value. However, there's an important twist to this story: Tether announced in November 2024 that EURT would be discontinued, with a redemption deadline of 27 November 2025, due to regulatory challenges in Europe and the implementation of the EU's MiCA regulations.

Who created EURT and why?

EURT comes from Tether Operations Limited, the same company behind USDT, which is currently the world's largest stablecoin by market cap, and a major player in the stablecoin space since 2014.

The reasoning behind creating EURT was straightforward: while USDT served dollar-based users well, there was a clear need for a euro-denominated stablecoin. European businesses, traders, and crypto users wanted a way to:

• Hold digital assets without exposure to crypto volatility
• Make fast, borderless payments in euros
• Access decentralised finance (DeFi) applications with euro-based assets
• Trade cryptocurrencies while maintaining euro exposure

Think of it like having a digital euro that could move as quickly as an email, without needing traditional banking infrastructure for every transaction.

How does EURT work?

EURT operates on a relatively simple principle that's common among centralised stablecoins. Here's how the process works:

Minting new EURT: When someone wants to create new EURT tokens, they deposit euros with Tether. In return, Tether mints (creates) an equivalent amount of EURT tokens. It's like exchanging physical euros for digital IOUs that can be used in the crypto world.

Burning EURT: When users want to redeem their EURT for actual euros, they send their tokens back to Tether. The company then "burns" (destroys) those tokens and returns the equivalent euros to the user's bank account.

Maintaining the Peg: Tether claims to hold euro reserves equal to the number of EURT tokens in circulation. This 1:1 backing is what's supposed to keep each EURT worth exactly one euro. If demand increases, more tokens are minted. If demand decreases, tokens are burned.

EURT primarily operates on Ethereum, but it has also been available on other blockchains like Solana and Binance Smart Chain, depending on user demand and technical considerations.

What was EURT used for?

Before its discontinuation announcement, EURT served several practical purposes in the crypto ecosystem:

Trading and avoiding volatility

Traders used EURT as a stable store of value when they wanted to exit volatile crypto positions without converting back to traditional banking systems. It’s like having a safe harbour during crypto storms.

Cross-border payments

EURT enabled fast, relatively cheap international transfers in euros. Instead of using traditional wire transfers, which can take days and incur significant fees, users can send EURT tokens across borders in minutes.

DeFi applications

EURT found a familiar home on DeFi platforms, used for lending, borrowing, and yield farming activities. Users could earn interest on their euro holdings or use EURT as collateral for loans.

Business operations

Some European businesses accepted EURT for payments or used it for treasury management, especially those already comfortable with crypto operations.

Why is EURT being discontinued?

This is where the story takes an interesting turn. On 27 November 2024, Tether announced that EURT would be phased out, with all tokens needing to be redeemed by 27 November 2025.

The primary reason? Europe's Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) regulation, which came into effect in 2024. MiCA requires stablecoin issuers operating in the EU to meet strict compliance standards, including:

• Detailed regulatory reporting
• Specific reserve requirements
• Ongoing supervision by EU authorities
• Substantial compliance infrastructure

For Tether, the cost-benefit analysis didn't add up. EURT had a relatively small market capitalisation of around $27 million at the time of discontinuation, tiny compared to USDT's market cap of over $100 billion. The regulatory compliance costs and operational complexity of meeting MiCA requirements weren't justified by EURT's limited adoption.

It's essentially a business decision: the juice wasn't worth the squeeze for a product that hadn't gained significant market traction.

What's replacing EURT?

Tether isn't completely abandoning the European market. The company has partnered with Quantoz Payments to develop EURQ, a new euro-pegged stablecoin designed from the ground up to comply with MiCA regulations.

EURQ is being built with regulatory compliance as a core feature rather than an afterthought. This means it should be able to operate legally within the European Union's new regulatory framework without the compliance headaches that led to EURT's discontinuation.

However, EURQ is still in development, and there's no confirmed launch date yet. European users looking for euro-denominated stablecoins will need to explore other options in the meantime.

How does EURT compare to other stablecoins?

Understanding EURT's place in the stablecoin landscape helps explain both its purpose and its limitations:

EURT vs USDT (Tether USD)

USDT is EURT's dollar-denominated sibling and is massively more popular. While they work similarly, USDT benefits from the dollar's dominance in global trade and crypto markets. EURT never achieved anywhere near USDT's adoption levels.

EURT vs USDC (USD Coin)

USDC, issued by Circle, is generally considered more transparent and regulated than Tether's offerings. Circle regularly publishes detailed attestations of its reserves. EURT lacked this level of transparency and regulatory clarity.

EURT vs DAI

DAI is a decentralised stablecoin that's not controlled by a single company. While EURT required trusting Tether's reserves and management, DAI is backed by crypto collateral and governed by a decentralised community. However, DAI is primarily dollar-pegged.

EURT vs VNX VEUR

VNX VEUR is another euro-pegged stablecoin that's designed to be MiCA-compliant from the start. Unlike EURT, it was built with European regulations in mind and continues to operate in the EU market.

How to sell or convert EURT (if you still hold it)

If you currently hold EURT tokens, you have until 27 November 2025 to redeem them. A word of warning: try not to wait until the last minute as liquidity for EURT may decrease as the deadline approaches, potentially making it harder to convert at favourable rates.

You can sell or convert EURT on most major platforms. 

The bottom line on EURT

Euro Tether represented an interesting experiment in euro-denominated stablecoins, but it ultimately couldn't overcome the challenges of regulatory compliance and limited adoption. However, not all is lost: its discontinuation highlights the growing importance of regulatory clarity in the crypto space, especially in Europe.

For users who relied on EURT, the transition period provides time to move to alternative solutions. The development of EURQ and other MiCA-compliant euro stablecoins suggests that demand for euro-denominated digital assets remains strong - it's just a matter of building products that can thrive in the new regulatory environment.

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From Bitcoin’s meteoric rise to the nonstop influx of new blockchain projects, digital currencies have captured the imagination (and wallets) of millions of people around the world. Crypto isn't just disrupting finance - it's rewriting the rules of money.

Unlike stocks or bonds that sleep when markets close, crypto never does. It’s borderless, always on, and untethered to any one country or institution, making it a magnet for those chasing new ways to diversify and bet on the future.

But it’s not all moonshots and memes. Volatility is real. Prices can rocket, or crash, within hours. And with rules still catching up, the landscape remains wild and unpredictable.

Here’s a guide to entering the market in 2025 - everything you need to know (and why it’s important). It’s not all high risk, high reward, so if you’re jumping in, make sure you know what’s going on.

What is cryptocurrency and how does it work?

Think of cryptocurrency as digital money that exists only online. Unlike the dollars in your bank account, which are controlled by banks and governments, cryptocurrencies run on networks of computers around the world.

The blockchain foundation

At its core, digital currency relies on something called blockchain technology. Imagine a ledger book that's copied across thousands of computers worldwide. Every time someone makes a transaction, it gets recorded in this ledger, and all the computers have to agree it's valid.

This system creates trust without needing a central authority like a bank: it's essentially having thousands of witnesses verify every transaction.

Types of cryptocurrency

There are plenty of different types of crypto on the market, each serving different purposes - from payment-focused currencies to utility tokens to memecoins.

Bitcoin (BTC) is the original and most well-known crypto, designed primarily as a decentralised digital alternative to traditional money. It's often referred to as "digital gold" due to its limited supply and store-of-value appeal.

Ethereum (ETH) introduced smart contracts (self-executing agreements), which opened the door to decentralised applications (dapps). This innovation gave rise to other development-focused platforms, like Solana (SOL) or Avalanche (AVAX), which power other smart contract ecosystems.

Then there are stablecoins, such as Tether (USDT) and USD Coin (USDC), which are pegged to fiat currencies like the U.S. dollar. These aim to reduce volatility and are often used for trading, lending, or cross-border transfers.

Utility tokens, like Chainlink (LINK) or Uniswap (UNI), serve specific functions within a platform, such as paying for services or governance participation. 

Meanwhile, security tokens represent ownership in real-world assets, like shares in a company or real estate. Examples include tZERO (TZROP), which offers tokenised equity in the tZERO platform, or INX (INX), a regulated token representing equity in the INX digital trading platform. These tokens are typically issued under securities regulations and grant holders rights like dividends or profit-sharing.

Lastly, memecoins (e.g., Dogecoin (DOGE) or Pepe (PEPE)) often start as jokes or community experiments but can gain traction through viral attention.

This is by no means a complete list, but it offers a sizable overview and a great place to start. 

Crypto vs stocks

When you buy a stock, you’re purchasing a share of ownership in a company. That ownership may entitle you to dividends (a portion of the company’s profits), voting rights, and access to company reports. These stocks are regulated by financial authorities, like the SEC in the U.S., and the value of a stock typically reflects the company’s performance, market conditions, and investor sentiment.

By contrast, when you buy crypto, you’re acquiring a digital asset - not a stake in a company. Most cryptocurrencies don’t grant ownership rights, dividends, or governance over a legal entity (unless structured as security tokens). Their value is driven by a combination of factors, including:

• Supply and demand: Many coins have a limited supply (like Bitcoin), which can affect price.
  
• Utility: Tokens may serve a specific function within a blockchain ecosystem, such as paying for network fees, accessing services, or participating in governance.
  
• Market sentiment and adoption: Speculation, media attention, and global events often play a large role in price fluctuations.
  

Crypto markets are also 24/7 and borderless, unlike stock markets, which operate during fixed hours and are tied to specific jurisdictions.

Is cryptocurrency a good investment?

This question doesn't have a simple answer: the answer depends on your individual financial situation and risk tolerance. Let’s take a look at some of the potential benefits and risks. 

Potential benefits

• Growth potential: Some cryptocurrencies have delivered extraordinary returns over the years
• Decentralisation: Not controlled by any single government or institution
• Accessibility: Markets operate 24/7, and you can start with small amounts
• Portfolio diversification: May behave differently from traditional assets

Significant risks

• Extreme volatility: Prices can dramatically drop in hours/days
• Regulatory uncertainty: Government actions can dramatically impact prices
• Security risks: Hacking, scams, and lost passwords can result in total loss
• Complexity: The technology can be difficult to understand
• Limited track record: Most cryptocurrencies haven't been around long enough to establish long-term patterns

If you're considering crypto as part of your broader financial strategy, it's worth consulting with a qualified advisor who understands digital assets.

Different ways to invest in cryptocurrency

The good news is that you don't have to buy a full Bitcoin to get exposure to the crypto market. Here are several approaches, each with different risk levels and complexity.

Buy crypto directly

This is the most straightforward approach - purchasing actual crypto through a regulated platform. Note that you can buy a fraction of a cryptocurrency, spending what you want instead of committing to buying a whole coin at market value (i.e. you can buy $100 worth of BTC as opposed to $100,000 for a full one).

What you need to buy crypto through Tap:

• Download the app
• Create and verify your account
• Load funds (bank transfer, debit cards accepted)
• Buy your chosen cryptocurrency

You can safely store your crypto in unique wallets created for you within the app. Utilising top security measures and fully regulated, Tap offers peace of mind alongside crypto endeavours. 

Crypto ETFs and ETPs

Exchange-traded funds (ETFs) let you invest in crypto through your regular brokerage account, just like buying stocks.

Examples include:

• Bitcoin ETFs (like IBIT, FBTC)
• Ethereum ETFs
• Broad crypto market ETFs

Benefits:

• No need to manage wallets or private keys
• Familiar investment process
• Potential tax advantages
• Professional management

Drawbacks:

• Management fees
• No direct ownership of crypto
• May not perfectly track crypto prices

Crypto-related stocks

You can gain indirect exposure through companies heavily involved in the crypto space.

Examples include:

• Strategy (MSTR): Company that holds significant Bitcoin reserves
• Riot Platforms (RIOT): Bitcoin mining company

These stocks often move with crypto prices but aren't direct replacements for owning crypto.

Blockchain investment funds

Some mutual funds and ETFs focus on companies developing blockchain technology, providing broader exposure to the ecosystem beyond just cryptocurrencies.

Advanced options (futures and options)

Experienced investors might consider crypto futures or options, but these are complex instruments with significant risks and aren't suitable for beginners.

How to choose the right investment strategy

Your approach to crypto should align with your overall financial goals and risk tolerance.

Consider your goals

• Growth seeking: Looking for potentially high returns over time
• Speculation: Short-term trading (highest risk)
• Diversification: Adding a small crypto allocation to a traditional portfolio
• Learning: Starting small to understand the technology

Time horizon matters

Crypto markets can be extremely volatile in the short term. If you might need the money within a few years, the high volatility could be problematic. As with any investment, never risk more than you’re willing to lose. 

Risk tolerance check

Some financial commentators say that because crypto can be so volatile, it's often kept as a small part of a larger investment portfolio, usually less than 10%. The right amount for you depends on your goals and how much risk you're comfortable taking.

Diversification within crypto

If you decide to invest in crypto, consider spreading your investment across different types rather than putting everything into one coin.

How to start investing in cryptocurrency: step-by-step

If you've decided to explore crypto investing, here's a systematic approach:

Step 1: Choose your platform

Research different exchanges and brokers. Look for:

• Strong security track record
• Good customer support
• Reasonable fees
• User-friendly interface
• Proper regulatory compliance

For the sake of this guide, we will continue by using Tap as an example. 

Step 2: Set up security

• Create and verify your account
• Enable two-factor authentication (2FA)
• Use a strong, unique password
• Consider using a dedicated email for crypto accounts

Step 3: Do your research

Before buying any crypto, understand:

• What problem it aims to solve
• How it works
• Who's behind the project
• Its track record and community

Step 4: Make your first purchase

Some people start by purchasing small amounts as a way to learn about the ecosystem without overcommitting financially. On the note of beginners, well-established cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin or Ethereum tend to receive more attention because of their track record and broader adoption.

Step 5: Monitor and learn

Track your investment's performance, but avoid making decisions based on daily price movements. Use this time to continue learning about the technology and market.

Top mistakes to avoid when investing in crypto

FOMO investing

Fear of missing out can lead to buying at peak prices. Avoid making investment decisions based on hype or social media buzz.

Skipping research

Each crypto is different. Don't assume they're all the same or that past performance predicts future results.

Ignoring security

Using weak passwords, falling for phishing scams, or keeping large amounts on unsecured exchanges can lead to total loss. Be vigilant, check that the platform is regulated. 

Misunderstanding costs

Crypto transactions often involve multiple fees - trading fees, network fees, and spread costs. These can add up quickly. Be sure to check the final transaction costs before confirming the trade so that you never get blindsided by hidden fees.

Tax neglect

Cryptocurrency is taxable in most jurisdictions. Be sure to know what the current rules are in your area, or consult a tax advisor who is clued up on cryptocurrencies. Keeping good records from the start is much easier than trying to reconstruct them later.

Is it safe to invest in cryptocurrency?

Safety in cryptocurrency investing involves multiple layers of consideration.

Platform security

Choose exchanges and brokers with strong security track records. Look for:

• Insurance on customer deposits
• Cold storage of customer funds
• Regular security audits
• Transparent communication about security practices

Personal security practices

• Never share your private keys or seed phrases
• Be wary of phishing attempts
• Use reputable wallets and software
• Keep software updated

Regulatory environment

The crypto regulatory landscape is still developing. Changes in government policy can significantly impact prices and accessibility. Stay informed and be aware.

Scam awareness

Be wary of anything that sounds too good to be true. Common cryptocurrency scams include:

• Fake exchanges or wallets
• Ponzi schemes promising guaranteed returns
• Social media manipulation
• Fake celebrity endorsements

Should I invest in crypto for retirement?

Some retirement account providers now offer crypto options, but this comes with additional considerations.

• Higher fees are common for crypto retirement accounts
• Limited cryptocurrency options compared to direct investing
• The extreme volatility may be inappropriate for retirement funds
• Regulatory changes could affect availability

So, should I invest in crypto?

Crypto markets can be volatile and unpredictable. While some early adopters have seen significant gains, many others have faced substantial losses. This isn’t a guaranteed path to wealth - it’s a volatile, evolving market that demands clarity and caution.

Before you dive in, make sure you:

• Understand the tech and the risks behind it
  
• Know your own limits (financially and emotionally)
  
• Start small - only with what you can afford to lose
  
• Diversify, don’t go all-in on any one asset
  
• Stay current: regulations shift fast, and ignorance isn’t bliss
  
  

This isn’t for everyone. Crypto’s wild swings and legal grey zones mean it’s best approached like any high-risk bet: informed, cautious, and never with more than you’re willing to lose.

You may have heard of bear and bull markets; both referring to economic conditions within a market. Think about how a bull attacks, lifting you up with its horns. 

A bull  market or bullish market describes a condition within a financial market where the prices are rising or are expected to rise. The term "bull market" is most often used to refer to a financial market but refers as well to any asset that is tradable such as bonds, real estate, commodities, and currencies. Bull markets indicate investor confidence, optimism, and expectations that strong results will continue for an extended period of time.

There are two ways to What is a Bull Market?

A bull market refers to a financial market condition in which the prices of securities or assets are rising or expected to rise over an extended period. In a bull market, investors are optimistic about the future prospects of the market and are willing to buy securities, pushing prices higher.
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Bull markets are often associated with economic growth, strong corporate earnings, and low unemployment rates. In these conditions, investors are confident that businesses will continue to perform well and that the overall economy will continue to expand, leading to higher stock prices.
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Recognizing a Bull Market

To recognize a bull market, investors need to look for a sustained period of rising prices across the market or a specific asset class. This period can last anywhere from a few months to several years.
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Another way to recognize a bull market is through technical analysis. Technical analysts look at charts and other market indicators to identify patterns that signal a market trend. In a bull market, technical analysts may look for higher highs and higher lows in price movements over time.
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Impact of a Bull Market

A bull market can have a significant impact on the economy, businesses, and investors. When the stock market is performing well, businesses may have easier access to capital and credit, which can lead to increased investment and growth.
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A bull market can also lead to increased consumer confidence, as investors feel more optimistic about the economy and their financial futures. This can lead to higher consumer spending, which can, in turn, fuel economic growth.
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On the other hand, a prolonged bull market can lead to a market bubble, where prices become overinflated and unsustainable. This can lead to a market correction, where prices drop significantly, and investors may suffer losses.
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In conclusion

Bull markets can have a significant impact on the economy, businesses, and investors. Recognizing a bull market and understanding its impact can help investors make more informed investment decisions. However, it's essential to remain vigilant and avoid investing solely based on market trends, as market bubbles can lead to significant losses.

approach a bull market: selling stock for high profits or holding in hopes of rising prices in the future. Alternatively, you can also buy more assets, but most would not recommend buying on a high.

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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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It's 2025 and you've decided to get involved in the crypto industry and find out what the fuss is all about. You've made a smart choice, and we're pleased to welcome you. In this step-by-step guide, we'll be showing you a simple overview of how to complete the following:

• Create an account
• Deposit funds
• Buy Bitcoin, Ethereum or any other cryptocurrency
• Sell a cryptocurrency
• Withdrawal funds

Investing in digital currencies can feel daunting at first, but once you've made your first purchase, transaction, or sale, you'll see that using cryptocurrencies is simpler than expected. Be sure to keep an eye on market prices, as volatility in the crypto industry can go through waves, and educate yourself on the coins that you wish to purchase. Whether you're a trader/investor in the UK, EU, EEA, or USA, everyone can gain access to the crypto markets through the Tap mobile app.

In this article, we're going to show you the ropes, guide you through the process and explain step-by-step how to gain the skills to successfully operate in the crypto space and increase your investment portfolio. No previous trading experience is necessary (stocks or crypto).

Step 1: create an account

The first and most important decision to make before buying cryptocurrencies is determining where to buy them from. With plenty of options available on the market and plenty more news stories about them, it's imperative that you select a trustworthy and reliable source.

The Tap mobile app ticks these boxes and proves so by being licensed and regulated by the Gibraltar Financial Services Commission. The platform has over 300,000 registered users, at the time of writing, operates in 28 countries across the globe, and has been nominated multiple times for PAY360 Awards (previously the Emerging Payments Awards). 

To create an account on Tap, simply follow these steps:

• Download the Tap mobile app from either the Apple or Google Play store.
• Create an account by filling in the relevant information. If you make a mistake, simply go back and alter it before moving to the next step.
• Once the account is set up you will be asked to complete the KYC / identity verification process. Simply follow the onscreen prompts and submit the required information. 
• You will receive an email confirmation once your account is all set up. 

Step 2: deposit funds

In order to buy cryptocurrency through the Tap app, you will need to deposit funds. This can be done in both crypto and fiat currencies, however, we will focus on the fiat deposits today. 

• Select the Cash option in the top horizontal menu.
• Select the fiat currency you would like to deposit, your options are US dollars, Pound Sterling, or Euros. 
• We're selecting GBP, then select one of the options: deposit or debit card top-up. 
• Fill in the relevant information and perform the transaction. 
• Once the funds have cleared they will appear in the relevant Cash wallet. 

Step 3: Buy Bitcoin, Ethereum, or any other cryptocurrency

Now for the exciting part! It's time to buy digital currency. For the sake of this tutorial, we're going to show you how to buy Bitcoin, however, the process is consistent across all cryptocurrencies. 

• In the top horizontal menu, select Cryptocurrencies.
• Choose the cryptocurrency you would like to purchase. 
• Once in the crypto wallet, select the blue Buy button. 
• You'll be given the option to decide how to pay, simply scroll to the bottom and select Pound Sterling (or the crypto or fiat currency that you deposited).
• Enter the amount that you would like to purchase.
• Select the Execute Trade button.
• Once the transaction is completed, the funds will appear in your Bitcoin wallet. 

Step 4: Sell A Cryptocurrency

Now that you're familiar with how to buy crypto, it's high time you learned how to sell. 

• To sell Bitcoin (or any other cryptocurrency), go to the relevant wallet in the Crypto section.
• Select the blue Sell button. 
• From here you can decide whether you'd like to sell the cryptocurrency for another cryptocurrency or for a fiat currency. In this example, we'll sell BTC for GBP. 
• Select the Pound Sterling option and enter the amount of BTC you'd like to sell.
• Proceed with the Execute Trade button.
• The funds will then be available in your Cash GBP wallet.

Step 5: Withdrawal Funds

Completing the final process in this step-by-step guide, we're going to explain how to withdraw funds. You have several options here as the Tap app allows users to withdraw funds directly into their bank account, instantly send funds to other Tap users, or withdraw cryptocurrencies.

• In the top horizontal menu, select Cash.
• Choose the Withdraw button, located underneath your balance. 
• Select the option most preferable to you: Instant, to a Tap user; bank transfer; Crypto withdrawal. 
• Follow the relevant instructions and select Execute Trade once complete. 

Tap into a brighter future with crypto

On top of the simple and easy-to-use app, Tap also offers highly secure wallet solutions that are integrated into your account from the get-go. With Tap, you can securely store and manage a wide range of cryptocurrencies from one convenient location, and even more easily spend them using the Tap card.

Bitcoin 101

Here are several frequently asked questions regarding Bitcoin, the first cryptocurrency to come into existence.

Vous vous demandez s’il est trop tard pour acheter du Bitcoin ? Découvrez les tendances du marché et les points de vue d’experts qui alimentent le débat cette année.

Vous avez sûrement déjà entendu ces histoires. Quelqu’un a acheté du Bitcoin pour quelques euros et vit maintenant sans se soucier du lendemain. Peut-être que c’est un ami, un article de presse, ou cette personne qui parle tout le temps de crypto. Et maintenant, vous vous demandez : “Est-ce que j’ai raté le coche ?”

Vous n’êtes pas seul. Cette question revient à chaque nouveau palier — à 100€, 1 000€, 10 000€, voire 100 000€. Certains ont sauté le pas, d’autres ont attendu, persuadés que c’était déjà trop tard.

La réalité ? Prédire les marchés est toujours difficile. Ce qui semble “trop tard” aujourd’hui pourrait être vu comme un bon timing dans quelques années. Ou pas. Impossible de le savoir à l’avance.

Ce guide vous aide à y voir plus clair. On passe en revue l’historique du Bitcoin, l’état du marché actuel et les arguments dans les deux sens. L’objectif : vous donner les infos nécessaires pour décider par vous-même.

Retour sur l’historique du Bitcoin et ses cycles de marché

Connaître le passé du Bitcoin permet de mieux comprendre son évolution actuelle. Petite remontée dans le temps.

Les débuts (2009–2013)

À ses débuts, le Bitcoin était un simple projet expérimental. En 2009, il n’avait même pas de prix officiel. Les premiers utilisateurs testaient cette drôle de monnaie numérique. La première transaction connue ? Deux pizzas achetées pour 10 000 BTC. Aujourd’hui, ces pizzas valent plusieurs centaines de millions d’euros.

En 2013, le Bitcoin atteint environ 100 $. Ceux qui en ont acheté à ce moment-là étaient souvent pris pour des fous. “Une monnaie de Monopoly digitale”, disait-on. Pourtant, leur mise a été multipliée par 100 au fil des années.

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Source: CoinGecko

Le premier grand boom (2014–2017)

C’est à cette période que Bitcoin commence à faire parler de lui. Le prix a beaucoup fluctué — jusqu’à redescendre à 200 $ en 2015 — avant de s’envoler. Fin 2017, il frôle les 20 000 $.

Soudain, tout le monde en parlait. Même le dentiste donnait des conseils crypto. Les applications pour suivre le cours du Bitcoin devenaient mainstream. Bref, une vraie frénésie.

L’hiver crypto (2018–2020)

Puis, retour sur Terre. En 2018, le Bitcoin chute à environ 3 200 $. Beaucoup de nouveaux venus, entrés au plus haut, ont vendu à perte. Certains ont même tourné définitivement la page crypto.

Cette période a rappelé une chose essentielle : le Bitcoin évolue par cycles. Montées spectaculaires, chutes brutales, puis longues périodes calmes.

L’ère institutionnelle (2021 à aujourd’hui)

Autour de 2020, le vent tourne. Des entreprises commencent à acheter du Bitcoin. Tesla en ajoute à son bilan. PayPal permet aux clients d’en acheter directement. Le Bitcoin n’est plus réservé aux geeks de la tech.

Nouveaux sommets, nouvelles baisses, et ainsi de suite. Sauf que cette fois, des acteurs institutionnels sont dans la partie.

Où en est le Bitcoin en 2025 ?

Après plusieurs cycles, de nombreuses annonces de “mort”, et des rebonds spectaculaires, où en est le marché aujourd’hui ?

Le sentiment actuel

Le climat semble plus posé qu’à d’autres époques. Moins de spéculation débridée, plus d’intérêt réfléchi. Certains rêvent encore d’un Bitcoin à un million, mais on voit aussi des fonds de pension s’y exposer discrètement.

Adoption institutionnelle

De grandes institutions financières proposent désormais des services autour du Bitcoin. Les ETF Bitcoin sont disponibles via des courtiers traditionnels. Des entreprises conservent du BTC comme réserve de trésorerie. Impensable il y a encore dix ans.

Régulation en évolution

Les gouvernements tentent toujours de cerner ce nouveau terrain. Plutôt que de l’interdire, la tendance est à la régulation. Cela crée de l’incertitude à court terme, mais pourrait offrir plus de stabilité à long terme.

Pourquoi certains pensent avoir raté le train

Soyons honnêtes : il est facile de se sentir en retard.

Les récits de fortunes faites avec quelques centaines d’euros existent, mais ils sont l’exception. Un peu comme les gagnants du loto : inspirants, mais peu représentatifs.

Les médias adorent les titres chocs : “Le Bitcoin perd 50 % !” attire plus de clics que “Le Bitcoin reste volatil, comme prévu.” Cela déforme notre perception.

Et quand le prix dépasse plusieurs dizaines de milliers d’euros, beaucoup pensent qu’il faut en acheter un entier. Ce n’est pas le cas. Le Bitcoin est divisible. On peut en acheter une fraction, à partir de quelques euros.

Les arguments pour dire qu’il n’est pas trop tard

Voici les raisons avancées par ceux qui pensent que le potentiel reste important.

Offre limitée, demande croissante

Il n’y aura jamais plus de 21 millions de bitcoins. C’est inscrit dans le code. Pendant ce temps, l’intérêt pour le Bitcoin continue de grandir.

Une forme d’or numérique

Certains voient le Bitcoin comme une version numérique de l’or. L’or pèse plusieurs milliers de milliards en capitalisation. Le Bitcoin est encore loin derrière.

Adoption mondiale en cours

Une grande partie du monde n’a pas encore touché au Bitcoin. Si l’adoption s’élargit, surtout dans les pays où les monnaies sont instables, la demande pourrait fortement augmenter.

Infrastructures en progrès

Acheter, stocker et utiliser du Bitcoin devient de plus en plus simple. Une meilleure infrastructure facilite l’adoption.

Les arguments pour dire que c’est peut-être trop tard

Mais tout le monde n’est pas d’accord. Voici les raisons qui alimentent la prudence.

Une volatilité toujours marquée

Les fluctuations restent impressionnantes. Une baisse de 20 % en une journée n’a rien d’exceptionnel. Cela peut décourager.

Une régulation encore incertaine

Même si les interdictions totales semblent moins probables, des régulations strictes pourraient limiter le développement du Bitcoin.

Des préoccupations environnementales

Le minage de Bitcoin consomme beaucoup d’énergie. Cela pourrait freiner l’adoption à grande échelle, surtout auprès des grandes entreprises.

La concurrence

Bitcoin a été le premier, mais ce n’est plus le seul. D’autres technologies pourraient émerger avec des solutions plus adaptées à certains usages.

Approches courantes pour investir dans le Bitcoin

Voici quelques stratégies adoptées par ceux qui choisissent de se lancer.

Le “dollar-cost averaging”

Acheter une petite somme régulièrement (par exemple 50 ou 100€ par mois), plutôt que tout d’un coup. Cela permet de lisser les variations de prix.

La stratégie “argent de café”

Investir seulement des petites sommes qu’on serait prêt à dépenser pour des plaisirs du quotidien. Par exemple, 5€ qu’on aurait mis dans un café ou un snack.

Se fixer un horizon de temps clair

À court terme, le Bitcoin bouge beaucoup. Ceux qui voient cela sur le long terme (5 ans ou plus) vivent les fluctuations de manière plus détendue.

Gérer les montants

L’idée est de n’investir qu’un montant qu’on peut se permettre de perdre. Pour beaucoup, cela signifie que le Bitcoin reste une petite partie de leur patrimoine.

Ce que disent les experts

Qu’en pensent les professionnels ?

Conseillers financiers

Certains conseillent d’intégrer une petite part de Bitcoin (1 à 5 %) dans un portefeuille diversifié. D’autres restent réservés, principalement à cause de la volatilité. L’important est de faire ses propres recherches.

Analystes crypto

Les prévisions vont du très optimiste (six à sept chiffres) au plus modéré. La plupart s’accordent à dire que le Bitcoin restera probablement volatil, mais que la rareté et la demande pourraient influencer sa trajectoire sur le long terme.

Leçons du passé

Beaucoup de grandes technologies (internet, smartphones, électricité) ont connu des phases de croissance, de corrections, puis de maturité. Le Bitcoin pourrait suivre un parcours similaire.

Autres façons d’avoir une exposition au Bitcoin

Si acheter du BTC directement ne vous convient pas, il existe des alternatives.

Les ETF Bitcoin

Ils permettent d’avoir une exposition au cours du Bitcoin via un compte de courtage classique. Vous ne détenez pas les bitcoins directement, mais des parts d’un fonds qui en détient.

Les actions de sociétés de minage

Certaines entreprises sont spécialisées dans le minage de Bitcoin. Leur valeur peut suivre celle du BTC, avec en plus les risques liés à leur activité.

Investir dans les technologies blockchain

On peut aussi s’intéresser aux entreprises qui développent des solutions basées sur la blockchain, au-delà du Bitcoin lui-même.

Pièges à éviter

Quelques erreurs fréquentes à ne pas commettre.

• Investir de l’argent dont on a besoin pour vivre
• Tenter de deviner le meilleur moment pour acheter
• Croire aux promesses de gains rapides
• Négliger la sécurité de ses fonds
• Réagir de manière impulsive aux fluctuations

Comment acheter du Bitcoin en toute sécurité (si vous décidez de le faire)

Voici comment acheter du Bitcoin via l’appli Tap, en toute simplicité :

1. Téléchargez l’application Tap
2. Créez un compte et vérifiez votre identité
3. Ouvrez votre portefeuille Bitcoin dans l’app
4. Indiquez le montant souhaité
5. Confirmez l’achat – votre BTC sera visible dans votre portefeuille

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En résumé : à vous de décider

Alors, est-il trop tard pour acheter du Bitcoin ? Ce que l’on sait, c’est que :

• Le Bitcoin a traversé plusieurs cycles où beaucoup pensaient avoir raté l’occasion, avant de repartir.
• Il continue d’évoluer malgré les critiques et attire encore l’intérêt d’acteurs majeurs.
• Il reste un actif très volatil et imprévisible. Ce qui a fonctionné dans le passé ne garantit rien pour l’avenir.

Votre décision doit dépendre de votre situation personnelle, de votre tolérance au risque, et de votre vision à long terme.

Et n’oubliez pas : rien ne vous oblige à décider aujourd’hui. Prenez le temps d’apprendre, d’observer le marché, et de comprendre ce que vous faites avant d’agir.