Learning the friendly way

Dubai is a city of dazzling skyscrapers, luxury shopping, and vibrant culture, blending modernity with tradition in a unique desert setting. Whether you're drawn by its booming job market, captivating architecture, or tax-friendly environment, moving to Dubai offers an exciting adventure. 

This ultimate guide is designed to provide you with everything you need to know to make your relocation smooth and successful. From navigating the real estate market to understanding local customs, we’ve got you covered every step of the way.

‍

Your Ultimate Guide to Moving to Dubai 1

Fun facts about Dubai 1

Understanding Dubai 2

Legal Requirements - visas, residency permits 2

- Green Visa 3

- Standard Work Visa 3

- Golden Visa 3

- Student Visa 4

Finding a job 4

Finding a place to stay 4

Cost of Living 5

Setting up a bank account 5

Getting around Dubai 6

Accessing the healthcare system 6

Learn the language 7

Conclusion 7

Fun facts about Dubai

• Dubai population: 3.638 million 
• Total foreigners: 2.72 million (75%)
• Currency: United Arab Emirates Dirham (AED), also called Dirhams (symbolised as Dhs)
• Capital: Dubai, the city, is the largest city within the Emirate of Dubai
• Official languages: Arabic, although English very common

Understanding Dubai

Location and Climate
Dubai sits on the southeastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula, right along the sparkling Arabian Gulf. The city's modern skyscrapers and luxurious lifestyle stand in sharp contrast to the traditional desert backdrop, offering a fascinating mix of old-world charm and contemporary flair.

Expect extreme temperatures, with scorching heat - temperatures can soar up to 54°C (129°F) during the summer (May - September) - and much cooler nights, winter nights typically drop to between 10°C and 16°C (50°F to 61°F).

Cultural Considerations
Dubai is a melting pot of cultures, with people from all over the world calling it home. This diversity makes it a vibrant city, but it also means understanding and respecting local customs is important. 

The laws and cultural norms in Dubai and the UAE are deeply rooted in Islamic tradition, with customs and etiquette that might differ from what you’re accustomed to. To stay respectful and avoid any issues, dress modestly in public, avoid being intoxicated or disruptive, and keep displays of affection like hugging or kissing to a minimum. 

It wouldn’t hurt to dive deeper into the traditional Arabian values to get a better understanding of the local way of life before you touch down.

Language
Arabic is the official language, but you'll find that English is widely spoken and understood, especially in business and social settings. This makes settling in easier for newcomers and helps you navigate daily life without too much hassle. See more on this later.

Legal Requirements - visas, residency permits

Before relocating to Dubai, ensure your paperwork is in order. Your passport should be valid for at least six months from your entry date and make sure to have any necessary documents, like marriage licenses or diplomas, certified before you go. 

If you’re from the US, UK, Canada, or most European countries, you can get a 30-day visa on arrival, and reapply for a work visa once you’ve found a job. Alternatively, you can sort out your residency permit beforehand by finding a job and getting the employer to apply on your behalf.

Getting a visa allows you to open a bank account, secure loans (personal or car), access visa-free travel to several countries, enroll your children in private or government schools, get a driver’s license, and access government health services and insurance.

For long-term stays, there are three main visa options: the Green Visa, Standard Visa and Golden Visa. There is also the option to study there, which you’ll need a student visa for. 

• Green Visa 

The UAE’s Green Visa is a five-year residence visa that allows holders to self-sponsor, removing the need for a UAE national or employer to provide sponsorship.

Requirements:

• Freelancers and Self-Employedsome text
  • Freelance/self-employment permit from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation
  • Bachelor’s degree or specialized diploma
  • Proof of annual income of at least AED 360,000 for the past two years, or financial solvency for your duration of stay.
• Skilled Employeessome text
  • Valid employment contract
  • Classification in the first, second, or third occupational level
  • Minimum of a bachelor’s degree or equivalent
  • Salary of at least AED 15,000 per month

‍

• Standard Work Visa

Your employer is responsible for this application, and will need to apply for a residency visa through the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFAD) Dubai. Available for employees in the private and government sectors and free zone. 

• Golden Visa 

The UAE’s Golden visa is a long-term residence visa designed for foreign talents, offering the following benefits:

• Entry visa: A six-month entry visa with multiple entries to proceed with residence issuance.
• Long-term residence: Renewable visa valid for 5 or 10 years.
• No sponsor needed: Allows holders to live without needing a local sponsor.
• Extended stay: Permits holders to stay outside the UAE beyond the usual six-month period.
• Family sponsorship: Enables sponsorship of family members, including spouses and children of any age, and unlimited domestic helpers.
• Continuity: Family members can remain in the UAE until their permit expires if the primary visa holder passes away.

• Student Visa

Students need a student visa, which are typically valid for one year and renewable annually. To apply, provide a passport, recent photos, an acceptance letter from a UAE educational institution, and a tenancy agreement if applicable. A security check and medical tests for tuberculosis, HIV, and hepatitis may also be required.

As all this information is subject to change, be sure to check the finer details before taking the leap. Find more info here. 

‍

Finding a job

Finding a job in Dubai can be an exciting opportunity due to its tax-free income and diverse job market. To get started, you can explore popular online job boards such as Bayt, Buzzon, Dubizzle, Naukrigulf, and Gulf Talent. 

Alternatively, consider partnering with a reputable recruitment agency known for connecting job seekers with Dubai employers (be sure to check the reviews!). If possible, it’s advisable to secure a position before arriving. 

Job seekers can also use English-speaking sites like UAE Recruitment Agency, Caterer Global, GoToGulf, and Gulflancer. 

Be aware that the work week typically runs from Sunday to Thursday, with Friday and Saturday as the weekend, and working hours are reduced during Ramadan.

‍

Finding a place to stay

Finding a place to live in Dubai can be a bit of a task, but it’s manageable with some prep. Many jobs come with housing perks or allowances, but if you’re renting, don’t be surprised if you’re asked to fork over six months to a year’s rent upfront. You’ll find both furnished and unfurnished options, so pick what suits you best.

If you’re eyeing swanky areas like Jumeirah or Dubai Marina, be prepared for higher rents and fierce competition. For something a bit easier on the wallet, try The Lakes, The Meadows, or The Springs. And if you don’t mind a longer drive, the suburbs along Sheikh Zayed Road have plenty of choices too.

In Dubai, renting a one-bedroom apartment in the city center averages around €2,000 per month, while outside the city center it’s more affordable at approximately €1,250. For a three-bedroom apartment, expect to pay about €3,750 in the city center and €2,600 outside of it.

Here’s a quick rundown of what renting an apartment will entail:

1. Make an offer: Agree on the rent and terms.
2. Pay a deposit: Usually one month’s rent, plus a copy of your passport and visa.
3. Sign the lease: Review and sign the tenancy contract.
4. Register your lease: Use Ejari to register your lease online or via an agent.

You’ll need:

• Original lease contract
• Landlord’s title deed
• Passport copies (yours and the landlord’s)
• Emirates ID

Also, remember to apply for utilities with DEWA and get a move-in permit if needed. If you’re using an agent, make sure they’re registered with Dubai’s Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA).

‍

Cost of Living

The good news is that living in Dubai is considerably more affordable than living in cities like New York. Here’s a quick look at some common costs:

• Basic utilities (electricity, heating, cooling, water, garbage) for a 915 sq ft apartment: 732.78 AED (€180)
• Mobile phone monthly plan (calls and 10gb+ data): 197.80 AED (€50)
• Internet (60 mbps or more, unlimited data): 365.99 AED (€90)
• Fitness club monthly fee: 316.49 AED (€78)

Estimated monthly costs without rent:

• Single Person: 4,020.9 AED (€990)
• Family of Four: 14,036.8 AED (€3,500)

Overall, Dubai is about 40.8% cheaper than New York without considering rent, and rent in Dubai is approximately 49.9% lower.

‍

Setting up a bank account

After receiving your visa, you’ll need to get your Emirates ID through the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security website. It’s not just for the bank; it's a legal requirement for everyone in the UAE to carry it.

Once you’ve got this, opening a bank account is relatively straightforward. For this you'll need to provide:

• A copy of your passport with the residence visa
• A copy of your Emirates ID card
• A salary certificate or a letter from your employer or sponsor confirming this

Setting up a bank account might take some time, so you will need other ways to handle your money initially. That’s where services like Tap can come in handy.

With the Tap app, you can manage all your currencies in one place (fiat and crypto), load funds as you need onto your Tap card, and pay for goods and services with a single Tap. The app also allows you to pay bills back home effortlessly, using your preferred currency. Learn more here. 

Please note that once you have received your residency permit you are no longer allowed to use the Tap app in the UAE as we do not cover that jurisdiction.

‍

Getting around Dubai

Dubai's transport system is just as sleek and efficient as the city itself. The Dubai Metro, with its state-of-the-art setup, is a budget-friendly way to get around. A single ticket costs around 7 AED (about €1.7), and a monthly pass for unlimited rides is around 300 AED (about €74).

If you prefer a more personalised touch, taxis are readily available, starting at 12 AED (€3) with a rate of around 4.83 AED (€1.2) per mile. 

Thinking of driving? Dubai’s roads are well-kept, though traffic can get intense. Gas is reasonably priced at 11.35 AED (€2.8) per gallon, making car ownership appealing. A new Volkswagen Golf or something similar will set you back about 124,000 AED (€30,500). Renting a car is also an option, offering a taste for driving without the long-term commitment. 

‍

Accessing the healthcare system

The UAE’s healthcare system is pretty extensive, with both government-funded and private options available. 

In Dubai, you can get free or affordable care at public hospitals if you have a health card from the Department of Health and Medical Services. Employers are required to provide health insurance for their staff, and if you’re sponsoring family members, you’ll need to cover them too. 

If you’re handling your own sponsorship, you’ll need to sort out your own insurance coverage.

Learn the language

If you want to really get involved, you can learn some basics. Arabic is the official language in Dubai and the UAE, but you'll hear English spoken by many residents. Due to the influx of international visitors, languages like Hindi, Chinese, and Urdu are also common. 

If you’re keen to pick up some Arabic, there are plenty of free online resources like Duolingo and Madinah Arabic. Local universities and schools in Dubai also offer language classes if you prefer a more hands-on approach.

‍

Conclusion

So there you have it. From navigating the visa maze to mastering the art of Metro-hopping, you're now equipped with the essentials for your desert adventure. 

Remember, Dubai is a city where ancient traditions dance with futuristic dreams, so whether you're chasing career heights in a skyscraper or perfecting your Arabic in a local café, embrace the journey. Pack your sunscreen, your sense of wonder, and maybe a phrase book – your Dubai story awaits.

‍

You might have come across the term crypto rug pull in the news over the years, but what does it mean? Different to a pump and dump scheme, we explore the rug pull crypto meaning to help you gain a greater understanding of the industry.

What is a Rug Pull Crypto?

A rug pull is a malicious cryptocurrency industry technique where developers abandon a crypto project and flee with investors' funds.

In the decentralized finance (DeFi) ecosystem, particularly on decentralized exchanges (DEXs), bad actors create a token and list it on a DEX, then link it to a major digital currency like Ethereum.

Developers will often also create hype around the token on Telegram, Twitter, and other social media platforms by abruptly pumping loads of money into their liquidity pool in an attempt to reassure investors. Once a large number of unsuspicious investors swap their ETH for the offered token, the creators drain everything from the liquidity pool, bringing the coin's price to zero.

This is typically seen in a new project, and not in established projects such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.

Rugs Pools and DEXs

Rug pulls thrive on decentralized exchange platforms like DEXs since they allow users to list tokens without undergoing an audit, unlike centralized cryptocurrency exchanges. Furthermore, creating ERC-20 tokens on open-source blockchain technologies such as Ethereum is simple and free. These two features create the ideal climate for a rug pull, and are being used against the unsuspecting public.

What To Look Out For

While this is unlikely to happen to established cryptocurrency projects, there are many crypto projects out there, especially new ones, that might signal a red flag.

It's important to note that the prices of tokens in a pool are determined by the current balances of each. To prevent being caught off guard, ensure there is liquidity in a pool. However, this is only the beginning; you must also look for any lock-in requirements on the pooling system. Most reputable firms lock pooled liquidity for a certain length of time.

A coin that has risen in price within hours is another common feature of a rug pull. A rug pull coin, for example, might jump from 0 to 50X in just 24 hours. This scheme is intended to generate FOMO among investors and encourage them to add even more money into the project.

An "unruggable" project is one that doesn't have a significant number of tokens held by the development team. A project may be classed as "unruggable" if it does not include the signature big number of team-held tokens that could be stolen through a rug pull or exit scam.

An unruggable project is one in which the team gives up any ownership of tokens, such as those they would have received during a presale.

Are Crypto Rug Pulls Illegal?

While crypto rug pulls should be illegal, unfortunately, due to the youth of the crypto industry the laws surrounding rug pulls are not in the legal system. Unfortunately, many criminals have and continue to get away with rug pulls and related financial crimes.

Biggest Rug Pulls

One of the biggest rug pulls to take place in the crypto industry is the Squid game crypto rug pull, which took place in late 2021.

The token, which was named after the popular Netflix series of the same name was created by an unknown group, and grew dramatically in value with each coin rising from next-to-nothing to an astounding $2,861.

At the peak of its performance, the website was taken down and the promoters were unable to be reached. The liquidity suddenly vanished, sending the value of the token plummeting to near zero while the developers took home more than $3.3 million. Over 43,000 investors had the rug pulled out from under their feet as they suddenly become holders of a worthless token.

It was subsequently discovered that the project's creators had included an anti-dumping mechanism preventing individuals from selling their tokens, indicating that it was designed to be a rug pull from the beginning. By using the name of a well-known TV program and gaining a lot of media exposure, the creators were able to boost public awareness and lend the fraudulent coin a sense of legitimacy.

In Conclusion

While not terribly common, rug pulls happen from time to time and it's in investors' best interests to know about them. Consider these tips mentioned above when navigating the crypto space, and be sure to fully vet a project's quality before parting ways with any money. Choosing established cryptocurrency projects is always advisable, particularly over a new project that has garnered a lot of hype. Unfortunately, crypto rug pulls are here to stay, but that doesn't mean that you need to be involved.

Building a solid investment portfolio isn't just about chasing hot stocks - it's about playing smart. In today's hasty financial world, knowing how to structure your investments and plan your strategies accordingly can make or break your financial goals. So let's dive into the essentials to help you level up your portfolio game.

What is an investment portfolio?

An investment portfolio is essentially your collection of financial assets - think stocks, bonds, ETFs, real estate, and other investments all working together toward your financial goals. It's not just a random assortment of investments you've picked up along the way; it's a carefully crafted strategy designed to balance risk and reward.

The magic happens through diversification. By spreading your money across different assets that react differently to market ups and downs, you're giving yourself a better shot at riding out the lows and capitalising on the highs. Think of it as crafting a playlist: you want a mix that works together, not one song on repeat.

Experts suggest that your portfolio should align with three key elements: your tolerance for risk, your expected returns, and your personal financial objectives. When these pieces fit together properly, your portfolio becomes a powerful tool for building wealth over time rather than just a collection of random investments hoping for the best.

Why building the right portfolio matters

The difference between a well-structured portfolio and a haphazard collection of investments can literally make or break your financial future. Poor portfolio construction often leads to unnecessary losses during market downturns, missed opportunities during growth periods, and sleepless nights worrying about your financial security.

On the flip side, a thoughtfully built portfolio acts as your financial foundation - steady enough to weather storms while positioned to capture growth when markets are favourable. It's about creating a strategy that matches your personal goals and risk tolerance, not following the latest investment trend or copying what worked for someone else.

Success in investing starts with a framework tailored to you - your goals, risk tolerance, income needs, and even your personal values. It's not about the fanciest strategy; it's about one you understand and can stick to through market ups and downs.

How to build an investment portfolio

Step 1: Define your investment goals and time horizon

Before you buy your first stock or bond, you need to get crystal clear on what you're investing for. Are you building toward retirement in 30 years? Saving for a house down payment in five years? Planning for your kids' education? Each goal requires a different investment approach.

Your time horizon is crucial here. Long-term goals (10+ years) can handle more volatility because you have time to ride out market cycles. Short-term goals (under 5 years) need more conservative approaches since you can't afford to lose money right when you need it.

Here's how time influences your strategy: if you're 25 and investing for retirement, you can afford to be more aggressive with growth-focused investments. But if you're 55 and need that money in 10 years, you'll want a more balanced approach with some stability mixed in.

Connect your goal-setting to your risk profile. Aggressive growth goals require accepting higher volatility, while conservative income goals call for steadier, lower-risk investments. Many investors aim to align their goals, timeline, and risk tolerance to create a more coherent strategy.

Step 2: Understand your risk tolerance

Risk tolerance isn't just about how much money you can afford to lose - it's about how much volatility you can stomach without making emotional decisions that hurt your long-term success. Some investors sleep soundly while their portfolio swings 20% up or down; others lose sleep over 5% movements.

Ask yourself: How would you feel if your portfolio dropped 25% in a year? Would you panic and sell everything, or would you see it as a buying opportunity? Your honest answer reveals more about your risk tolerance than any questionnaire.

Conservative investors typically prefer stability over growth potential. They're comfortable with lower returns in exchange for predictable outcomes and fewer sleepless nights. Aggressive investors, on the other hand, are willing to accept significant ups and downs for the potential of higher long-term returns.

Consider using this simple scale: if market volatility makes you constantly check your account and lose sleep, you're probably a conservative investor. If you can ignore short-term swings and focus on long-term trends, you might be more aggressive. Most people fall somewhere in between - and that's perfectly fine.

Step 3: Choose your asset allocation

According to several studies, asset allocation has been shown to explain the majority of return variability in a portfolio.. This is where you decide how to split your money between different asset classes based on your goals and risk tolerance.

The main asset classes include:

• Equities: Stocks and ETFs offer growth potential but come with higher volatility
• Fixed income: Government and corporate bonds provide stability and steady income
• Real assets: Real estate and commodities help hedge against inflation
• Cash & equivalents: Keep this for liquidity and as a safety net
• Alternative investments: Private equity, hedge funds, and digital assets add diversification

Strategic allocation sets your long-term targets (like 70% stocks, 30% bonds), while tactical allocation allows for short-term adjustments based on market conditions. Most successful investors stick primarily to their strategic allocation.

Here are three examples of diversification in portfolios:

• Cautious: 40% stocks, 50% bonds, 10% cash - prioritises stability
• Balanced: 60% stocks, 30% bonds, 10% alternatives - moderate growth with some protection
• Adventurous: 80% stocks, 15% alternatives, 5% cash - maximum growth potential

Remember, there's no universally "right" allocation - only what's right for your specific situation and goals. Please contact a financial advisor for portfolio recommendations specific to you.

Step 4: Diversify within asset classes

Once you've set your overall asset allocation, it's time to diversify within each category. This means spreading your risk across different sectors, regions, company sizes, and investment styles rather than putting all your money into similar investments.

For your stock allocation, consider diversifying across:

• Sectors: Don't overload on tech or any single industry
• Geography: Mix domestic and international markets
• Market cap: Blend large, mid, and small-cap companies
• Investment styles: Combine growth and value approaches

Bond diversification works similarly. Mix different types of bonds like corporate bonds for yield, government bonds for safety, and varying maturities from short-term to long-term. Municipal bonds can add tax advantages for higher-income investors.

Geographic diversification helps reduce the impact of local economic problems. If the U.S. market struggles, international investments might still perform well. Sector allocation prevents you from getting crushed if one industry hits hard times - remember how concentrated tech portfolios suffered in 2022.

The goal isn't to own everything, but to avoid having your entire portfolio's success dependent on any single factor. This approach helps smooth out returns over time and reduces the chance of catastrophic losses.

Step 5: Pick your investments (stocks, funds, ETFs, etc.)

Now comes the tactical phase: choosing specific investments within your allocation framework. You've got several options, each with distinct advantages and drawbacks.

Individual stocks give you complete control and the potential for outsized returns, but they require significant research and carry higher risk. Unless you're prepared to thoroughly analyse companies and monitor your holdings regularly, individual stocks probably shouldn't dominate your portfolio.

Mutual funds offer professional management and instant diversification. Active funds try to beat the market through stock picking and timing, while passive funds simply track market indexes. The trade-off? Active funds charge higher fees and rarely beat their benchmarks long-term.

ETFs combine the best of both worlds: broad diversification like mutual funds with the flexibility to trade like stocks. They typically have lower fees than mutual funds and offer exposure to virtually any market segment you can imagine.

Pay attention to fees - they compound over time and can significantly impact your returns. A fund charging 1.5% annually will cost you much more over decades than one charging 0.1%. Low-cost index funds and ETFs are often favoured by long-term investors for their diversification and lower fees.

Step 6: Consider tax implications and account types

Taxes can seriously eat into your investment returns if you're not strategic about account types and asset location. The key is understanding which investments to hold in which accounts.

Tax-deferred accounts let your investments grow without annual tax consequences, but you'll pay taxes when you withdraw. On the other hand, for some accounts you pay tax upfront and enjoy tax-free growth down the line. Be sure to fully understand the tax implications before investing. 

Taxable accounts offer flexibility since you can access your money anytime, but you'll owe taxes on dividends and capital gains each year. The trick is putting the right investments in the right accounts.

Some investors choose to place tax-inefficient assets in tax-deferred accounts to potentially reduce tax drag. 

Asset location strategy can add significant value over time. 

Step 7: Monitor and rebalance your portfolio regularly

Your portfolio isn't a 'set-it-and-forget-it' deal - it needs regular check-ins to stay aligned with your goals. Market movements will naturally shift your allocation over time, and your personal situation will evolve too.

Rebalancing means adjusting your holdings back to your target allocation. If stocks have performed well and now represent 80% of your portfolio instead of your target 70%, you'd sell some stocks and buy more bonds to get back on track.

You can rebalance on a schedule (annually or quarterly) or when your allocation drifts beyond certain thresholds (like 5% away from targets). Both approaches work - consistency matters more than the exact method.

Some investors use tax-loss harvesting to offset gains and manage capital gains taxes, though results depend on individual tax situations.

Remember, the goal isn't perfect timing or constant tweaking. It's maintaining discipline and keeping your portfolio working toward your long-term objectives rather than getting caught up in short-term market noise.

Common mistakes to avoid when building a portfolio

Even experienced investors fall into these traps, but knowing what to watch for can keep you on track.

Emotional decision-making tops the list. Market swings can spark impulsive choices, but sticking to your strategy is what separates successful investors from the crowd. Discipline beats panic every time. When markets crash, successful investors either stay the course or see buying opportunities.

Insufficient diversification is another classic mistake. Putting all your money into familiar assets or one sector might feel safe, but it leaves you exposed to unnecessary risks. Spread it out across different asset classes, sectors, and geographies to protect yourself.

Overconfidence bias catches many investors who've had recent success. Just because you've had wins in the past doesn't mean you've cracked the market code. Markets change constantly - stay humble, adaptable, and stick to proven principles rather than assuming you can consistently beat the market.

Don't forget about fees and taxes either. High-cost investments and tax-inefficient strategies can quietly drain your returns over time, making a huge difference in your long-term wealth building.

‍

The bottom line

Portfolio management is a journey, not a one-time task. By focusing on the essentials, staying disciplined, and avoiding common pitfalls, you can build a portfolio that works toward your goals and lets you sleep easily at night. Remember, the best portfolio is one you understand and can stick with through all market conditions - that consistency will serve you far better than any complex strategy you can't maintain.

‍

We’re excited to share that XTP trading is officially back online in the Tap app!

Following the successful integration of ProBit, a trusted exchange that continues to support XTP, users can now trade seamlessly within the app once again. This marks an important step in restoring access and strengthening the trading experience for our community

We know that waiting isn’t always easy, and we want to sincerely thank you for your patience and continued support throughout this transition. Your trust drives everything we do.

As always, we’re working behind the scenes to bring you more ways to access and use XTP, stay tuned for what’s next.

The Tap team.

Hey Tap community
‍
If you’ve been wondering why things have seemed a little quiet lately, it’s because we’ve been hard at work behind the scenes, and today, We are excited to finally share the full story and what’s coming next.

Laying the groundwork for the next wave of features

Over the past five years, Tap’s fast-paced, lean approach helped us grow quickly. But growth brought challenges.
Our infrastructure, built for a much smaller platform, was starting to hold us back, especially during big launches or promotions. It wasn’t scaling the way you, our community, deserved.

Rather than continue patching and stretching it, we made the bold decision to rebuild Tap’s core systems from the ground up, upgrading to a modern, flexible architecture built for real growth.

 It wasn’t easy. It meant months of intense work, rewriting large parts of our platform. That’s why new features slowed down, because we were laying a much stronger foundation for the future.

Now, we're Ready to start the rollout

After months of development and testing, we’re kicking off Phase 1 of the migration to our new infrastructure.

📅 Maintenance Window

• Starts: Wednesday, May 7, 2025 at 21:30 UTC
• Ends: Thursday, May 8, 2025 at 07:30 UTC
• Impact: Tap services will be temporarily unavailable for about 10 hours

This maintenance allows us to move our internal Tap team to the new system, a critical step before we start migrating you, our users.
We've scheduled it overnight to minimise disruption, and our team will be working around the clock to ensure everything runs smoothly.

What happens after this?

Once internal testing is complete, we'll begin carefully moving users over in phases:

• Phase 2: Migrate select groups of users, monitor closely, fine-tune.
• Phase 3: Roll out to all users, officially retiring the old system.

Each phase brings us closer to a faster, more reliable Tap, one that’s ready to scale with our growing community and deliver new features faster than ever.

The future starts now

This upgrade unlocks a future where downtime, failed sign-ups, and app slowdowns are things of the past. Thank you for sticking with us through this transition.

Your patience means everything. We can't wait to show you what’s coming next. The quiet period is ending, and Tap’s next chapter is just beginning.

Stay tuned,
The Tap Team.

‍

Picture this: Bitcoin soaring past previous all-time highs, altcoins experiencing triple-digit gains, and institutional money flooding into digital assets at unprecedented rates. Sound familiar? These are the hallmarks of crypto bull runs that have minted fortunes and reshaped entire industries.

But here's the trillion-dollar question: Is 2025 going to be the year of the next great crypto bull run?

Looking at the facts: Wall Street titans are accumulating Bitcoin through newly approved ETFs. Central banks worldwide are pivoting their monetary policies. Blockchain technology is finally delivering on its promises with real-world applications that extend far beyond simple speculation. 

Meanwhile, a new generation of crypto projects is solving actual problems (from decentralising physical infrastructure to tokenising trillion-dollar asset classes).

While we’re witnessing a natural part of any market cycle; we're also observing the meeting of technological maturity, institutional acceptance, and macroeconomic conditions that historically precede the most explosive growth phases in cryptocurrency history. 

Let’s explore whether the stage is being set for another “explosive” crypto bull run.

What defines a bull run in crypto?

A crypto bull run represents a sustained period of rising prices across digital assets, typically accompanied by increased trading volumes, heightened retail interest, and positive market sentiment. 

Unlike traditional markets, crypto bull runs are often characterised by their intensity and duration, with assets sometimes experiencing gains of several hundred percent over relatively short periods.

Let’s use historical examples for reference: the 2017 bull run saw Bitcoin rise from under $1,000 to nearly $20,000, while the 2021 cycle pushed Bitcoin to over $69,000 and sparked unprecedented growth in alternative cryptocurrencies. 

These periods were marked by mainstream media attention, institutional adoption milestones, and significant increases in new wallet creation and transaction volumes.

Key indicators of a bull market include sustained price appreciation across major cryptocurrencies, increased trading volumes, growing total value locked (TVL) in decentralised finance protocols, and heightened retail participation evidenced by exchange sign-ups and social media engagement metrics.

Is 2025 the next bull run year? Current market snapshot

The numbers tell a compelling story. Bitcoin has not only demonstrated remarkable resilience throughout 2025 but has done so while institutional demand reaches new heights. The spot Bitcoin ETFs launched in early 2024 continue to attract substantial capital inflows, creating a direct bridge between Wall Street and digital assets that simply didn't exist in previous cycles.

And this institutional momentum is rippling across the broader cryptocurrency ecosystem. Major altcoins have posted impressive year-to-date gains, while the regulatory pipeline remains packed with additional ETF applications, including potential products for XRP, Dogecoin, and other established digital assets. Each approval expands the on-ramp for traditional capital seeking cryptocurrency exposure.

Meanwhile, the underlying infrastructure is showing clear signs of renewed vitality. DeFi protocols have witnessed a resurgence in total value locked, signalling that users are actively deploying capital into decentralised financial services rather than merely holding tokens. 

Exchange volumes have also consistently remained elevated compared to the bear market lows, indicating sustained engagement from both retail traders and institutional participants.

Perhaps most tellingly, this activity is occurring without the speculative frenzy that characterised previous market peaks, suggesting a more mature, sustainable foundation for potential growth ahead.

Top signals indicating a bull market in 2025

Several key indicators suggest the cryptocurrency market may be entering or approaching a bull phase in 2025. As mentioned above, institutional adoption continues to accelerate, with traditional financial institutions expanding their cryptocurrency offerings. The ongoing discussion around national Bitcoin reserves and sovereign wealth fund allocations also represents a significant shift in how institutions are thinking about digital assets.

Macroeconomic factors also appear supportive, with central bank policies potentially creating favourable conditions for alternative assets. And the expansion of global liquidity and discussions around interest rate trajectories could have an effect on investor appetite for higher-risk, higher-reward assets like cryptocurrencies.

Stablecoin market capitalisation has also grown substantially, serving as a proxy for capital ready to be deployed into crypto markets. 

Looking at technical indicators, these suggest a potential shift from Bitcoin dominance toward increased altcoin activity, historically a characteristic of bull market phases. This rotation often signals broader market participation and the beginning of what market participants call "altcoin season."

People also asked: key questions around 2025's bull run

What is driving the 2025 crypto market recovery?

It’s not just hype, it’s momentum backed by major shifts. Spot Bitcoin ETFs have cracked open the door to institutional money, and regulatory clarity has turned question marks into green lights. 

On top of that, governments are exploring Bitcoin as a treasury asset, and legacy industries are weaving blockchain into their tech stacks - and the result appears to be a market increasingly shaped by adoption, real-world applications, and broader institutional engagement.

Is it too late to invest in crypto in 2025?

Not necessarily. If historical patterns hold, there could still be opportunities within the current cycle, though past performance is not a guarantee of future results. Bear in mind that crypto markets tend to move in waves, and each wave brings fresh opportunities across different sectors and tokens. 

With the market now more mature and diversified, investors are no longer limited to chasing just Bitcoin. Timing the top is nearly impossible, but missing the entire ride? That’s a choice.

What are the top altcoins to watch in 2025?

We’re not here to give financial advice. What we can encourage you to look out for are platforms demonstrating real-world usage, developer activity, and institutional partnerships, particularly ones that have garnered increased attention. 

Let’s take a look at the developmental space as an example: Ethereum's continued evolution through its layer-2 scaling solutions, Solana's growing application ecosystem, and Cardano's academic approach to blockchain development represent different approaches to solving scalability and adoption challenges. 

It's safe to say that investors in 2025 are paying close attention to utility, partnerships, and ecosystem depth, not just price charts.

Will regulation help or hurt the bull run?

Regulatory developments present both opportunities and risks for the cryptocurrency market. Clear frameworks can provide institutional investors with the confidence needed to allocate capital, while overly restrictive measures could dampen innovation and adoption. 

The ongoing development of stablecoin regulations and international coordination on cryptocurrency policies will likely continue to influence market dynamics throughout 2025. Keep reading, keep staying informed. 

Top narratives fueling the 2025 bull run

A range of powerful tech trends and adoption themes are currently driving renewed momentum in the cryptocurrency space. Here’s a closer look at what’s gaining traction:

The intersection of AI and blockchain
The integration of artificial intelligence and blockchain is opening up new frontiers with AI-driven applications built on blockchain networks, enabling more secure, transparent, and decentralised data processing. 

This fusion is attracting significant venture capital and top-tier development talent, particularly in areas like decentralised machine learning, predictive analytics, and trustless automation.

Decentralised infrastructure: the rise of DePIN
Decentralised Physical Infrastructure Networks (DePIN) are creating new economic models for real-world infrastructure. By using blockchain incentives, these projects decentralise everything from wireless connectivity to energy grids.

Instead of relying on centralised providers, DePIN networks reward individuals and communities for building and maintaining critical infrastructure, laying the groundwork for more resilient systems.

Web3 gaming and the evolving metaverse
Web3 gaming continues to mature, shifting away from early speculation toward sustainable economic models and improved user experiences. Games are integrating NFTs and tokenised assets in ways that enhance gameplay, rather than distract from it. This evolution is drawing interest from both mainstream users and institutional investors, as gaming platforms begin to offer real value ownership and more immersive digital economies.

Tokenisation of Real-World Assets (RWAs)
Real-world asset tokenisation is becoming a key area of focus for both crypto-native projects and traditional financial institutions. 

By bringing assets like real estate, bonds, and equities onto the blockchain, these initiatives are unlocking liquidity and improving access to previously siloed markets. This has the potential to bridge traditional finance (TradFi) and decentralised finance (DeFi), while creating more transparent, efficient systems for asset management and trading.

Scalability and utility: Layer-2s and liquid staking
Scalability and network efficiency remain essential to long-term adoption. Layer-2 scaling solutions (for example, rollups) are dramatically improving transaction speeds and lowering costs on networks like Ethereum, without compromising security. 

At the same time, liquid staking protocols are enabling users to earn staking rewards while retaining access to their assets, making it easier to participate in network security without locking up funds. These solutions are pushing blockchain closer to mainstream usability.

Historical patterns: what past bull runs teach us

Cryptocurrency markets have historically followed cyclical patterns, often aligned with Bitcoin's four-year halving schedule. These cycles typically feature a period of accumulation following major price corrections, followed by gradual recovery and eventual explosive growth phases.

Analysis of past bull runs shows a thread of common characteristics, usually including progressive institutional adoption, mainstream media coverage, and the emergence of new use cases and applications. Technical indicators such as relative strength index (RSI) and exponential moving averages (EMA) have also been known to provide useful insights into market momentum and potential turning points.

The maturation of cryptocurrency markets has led to some evolution in these patterns, with increased institutional participation potentially leading to less volatile but more sustained growth phases compared to earlier cycles.

Risks and contrarian views

Despite positive indicators, there are, of course, several factors that could derail or delay a potential bull market. Regulatory uncertainty remains a significant risk, particularly regarding potential restrictions on cryptocurrency trading, staking, or mining activities. Changes in monetary policy or unexpected macroeconomic shocks could also redirect capital flows away from risk assets, as we’ve seen happen in recent months.

While the outlook for crypto in 2025 is promising, it’s important to stay grounded. History shows that periods of rapid growth can also attract speculative excess, which often leads to sharp corrections. Given crypto’s relatively small market size compared to traditional asset classes, it remains particularly sensitive to shifts in sentiment and large capital flows.

On the technology front, challenges still exist. Security vulnerabilities, scaling bottlenecks, or network failures can quickly erode trust, not just in individual projects, but across the ecosystem. 

Meanwhile, the growing development of central bank digital currencies (CBDCs) presents a new kind of competition. Their potential to reshape how people interact with digital money could influence how (and where) cryptocurrencies find their place in the global financial system.

‍

Final thoughts: How to prepare for a potential bull market in 2025

For those looking to enter or expand their position in crypto, education and risk management should take priority over chasing short-term gains. A clear understanding of how the technology works, how regulations are evolving, and what drives market cycles is essential to navigating this space with confidence.

Diversifying across different sectors, from infrastructure and DeFi to gaming and real-world asset tokenisation, can help balance risk while keeping exposure to growth potential. Just as important is keeping your assets secure in a market where transactions can’t be reversed.

Crypto is steadily moving toward institutional maturity, with greater regulatory clarity and more traditional players entering the market. That said, it remains a space defined by both innovation and volatility, factors that continue to attract interest from participants willing to engage with long-term uncertainty.

Whether 2025 becomes a landmark year for digital assets or simply another phase in a longer journey, the building blocks for long-term value are clearly taking shape.

Ultimately, success in this market often comes down to staying informed, staying patient, and having a strategy rooted in long-term thinking rather than short-term speculation. Crypto continues to reward those who approach it with diligence and discipline,  especially when others are distracted by the noise.

‍