Learning the friendly way

For a fleeting moment, it looked like altcoin season was finally here. Google searches for “altcoins” skyrocketed to record highs, 𝕏 was buzzing, and retail excitement seemed to return in full force. But within a week, that hype fizzled out almost as quickly as it appeared, leaving traders wondering if the long-awaited alt season was just a mirage.

A Spike That Vanished Overnight

Search interest for “altcoin” on Google Trends hit its highest score ever in early August, only to fall back to baseline levels within days. Globally, the same pattern played out, with scores dropping from 100 to just 16 in a week, mimicking a “pump and dump” pattern that you would expect from a memecoin.

Market cap data told the same story. The total value of altcoins (excluding Bitcoin and Ethereum) briefly climbed by $100 billion before giving it all back, leaving investors wondering whether the hype had any real weight behind it.

Naturally, some saw the collapse as proof that the altcoin season had ended before it really began. Others, however, like analyst Cyclop, argue the spike shows something deeper: that “altcoin” has become the mainstream term retail uses today, replacing “crypto” in 2021. In his view, this isn’t the peak. Rather, it’s just the beginning of broader interest.

Why Google Trends Doesn’t Tell the Whole Story

Relying on Google searches to measure retail demand may no longer work the way it used to. With AI tools increasingly replacing traditional search, and with concepts like “altcoins” now part of everyday investor vocabulary, Trends data might not be capturing where and how money is really flowing.

Instead, analysts point to on-chain and trading activity as better indicators of where momentum is building. And in August, that momentum was fragmented.

A Season of Winners and Losers

Data from Artemis showed only a few categories outperforming last month: Ethereum, exchange tokens, and oracles.

Beyond these bright spots, however, most altcoins struggled. The result? A patchwork “mini season” rather than the explosive, across-the-board surge that retail and social media had been hoping for.

Polygon’s co-founder Sandeep put it bluntly: "Retail is searching, but institutions aren't buying the narratives yet. Old altcoin seasons were driven by speculation and promises and narratives and marketing. Institutional money is smarter money. It cares about real utility and cash flows. The next "alt season" won't look like 2017 or 2021. It’ll be fewer tokens with actual usage, not just tokens with better marketing." Sandeep said.

The Road Ahead

That doesn’t mean altcoin season is dead, it probably just means it’s evolving. Coinbase has suggested that the next true wave could arrive as early as September, but that it likely won’t be a full-scale altcoin season.

Bottom line? The altcoin season isn’t gone; it’s just different. It’s maturing. And the next leg up may not belong to every token in the market, but only to the select few proving they can deliver value beyond mere speculation.

As Solana cements its place as one of the fastest-growing blockchains, the demand for powerful, reliable node infrastructure is skyrocketing. Running your own Solana node isn’t just about plugging into the network; it’s about unlocking earning potential, owning your data, and stepping behind the curtain to see how the ecosystem really works. 

Whether you're a developer building apps or an investor looking to participate in network security, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about setting up and running a Solana node.

Understanding Solana Nodes: types and benefits

What is a Solana Node?

A Solana node is a computer that participates in the Solana blockchain network by storing data, validating transactions, and maintaining network consensus. Think of it as your personal gateway to the Solana ecosystem that gives you direct, unfiltered access to blockchain data.

Validator vs RPC Nodes

Let’s first break down the difference between these two node options. What works best for you usually comes down to your interests, technical background, and what you want to get out of it.

Validator Nodes actively participate in consensus by voting on transactions and producing blocks. They require significant hardware resources and a stake of SOL tokens. Validators earn rewards for their participation but also face potential penalties (slashing) for malicious behaviour.

RPC Nodes serve data to apps and users without participating in consensus. They're easier to run, don't require staking, and are perfect for developers who need reliable blockchain data access for their apps.

Benefits of running a Solana Node

Running your own node offers the following advantages:

• Earning potential: Validators can earn up to  5-8% APY on staked SOL, while RPC nodes can in some case generate revenue through API access fees
• Network independence: No reliance on third-party providers that might have downtime or rate limits
• Data sovereignty: Complete control over your blockchain data access and privacy
• Learning opportunity: Deep understanding of blockchain infrastructure and Solana's architecture
• Network contribution: Help decentralise and secure the Solana network

Hardware requirements and costs

Getting the hardware right is obviously incredibly important for node performance. Before we get into that, let’s first introduce you to Agave.

Essentially, Agave is a validator client for Solana, providing the backbone of validator and RPC node software in the Solana ecosystem. Initially forked from Solana Labs, it now enables independent, optimised deployment and is central to the multi-client future of Solana.

If you’re thinking about running a validator or RPC node on Solana, Agave is the client you’ll most likely use (recommended by Solana). 

In short: if you care about your node staying healthy, fast, and compliant with the Solana network as it evolves, you will likely use Agave.

Minimum vs recommended specifications

Here are the official Agave requirements:

CPU:

• Validator: 2.8GHz base clock or faster, 12 cores/24 threads minimum
• RPC Node: 16 cores/32 threads or more
• AMD Gen 3+ or Intel Ice Lake+ required
• AVX2 instruction support mandatory (AVX512f helpful)
• SHA extensions instruction support

RAM:

• Validator: 256GB minimum
• RPC Node: 512GB minimum (1TB recommended for full account indexes)
• ECC memory strongly suggested

Storage: PCIe Gen3 x4 NVMe SSD or better required for each:

• Accounts: 1TB+ with high TBW rating
• Ledger: 1TB+ with high TBW rating
• Snapshots: 500GB+ with high TBW rating
• OS: 500GB+ (SATA acceptable)
• Not recommended to store accounts and ledger on the same disk

Network: 1Gbps symmetric minimum, 10Gbps preferred for mainnet 

Operating system: Ubuntu 24.04 (20.04 support ended May 2025)

Hosting options for Solana Validators

Validators don't necessarily need to be "hosted" by third-party providers - you have several options:

1. Self-hosted (own hardware)

• Buy and run your own server at home or in a private data centre.
• Pros: Full control, no recurring hosting fees.
• Cons: Requires enterprise-grade internet (1-10 Gbps), reliable power, security, and 24/7 monitoring.

2. Colocation hosting

• Place your hardware in a professional data centre.
• They provide: Power, cooling, internet, and physical security.
• You handle: Hardware upkeep, software, and monitoring.
• Cost: $100–$500/month + hardware.

3. Dedicated server hosting

• Rent servers from providers (Hostkey, Cherry Servers etc.).
• They provide: Hardware + data center services 
• You handle: Validator setup and monitoring.
• Cost: €349–$1,800+/month (depending on service and location)

4. Cloud hosting (not recommended)

• AWS, GCP, and Azure are possible but discouraged for mainnet due to performance issues and higher operational complexity. 

Official Solana documentation warns: "Running an Agave node in the cloud requires significantly greater operational expertise" and "Do not expect to find sympathetic voices should you choose this route."

Prerequisites and preparation

Before diving into the setup, ensure you have:

SOL requirements: For validators, you'll need a minimum stake (currently around 1 SOL for vote account rent, plus your desired stake amount). RPC nodes don't require staking.

Technical skills: Basic command-line experience, understanding of Linux systems, and familiarity with SSH connections.

Security setup: Strong passwords, SSH key pairs, and a plan for securing your validator keys.

Network planning: Ensure your internet connection meets bandwidth requirements and has minimal downtime.

Your step-by-step Solana Node setup guide

Phase 1: Local machine preparation

Step 1: Install Solana CLI on your personal computer

• Open terminal on your local machine (not the server)
• Download and run the Solana CLI installer from the official release page
• Verify installation by running the version command to confirm successful setup

Step 2: Create essential keypairs

• Generate validator identity keypair and save as validator-keypair.json
• Create vote account keypair (validators only) and save as vote-account-keypair.json
• Generate authorised withdrawer keypair and save as authorised-withdrawer-keypair.json

CRITICAL SECURITY: The authorised-withdrawer keypair controls your validator's funds. Store it securely offline using a hardware wallet, multisig, etc. Never store this file on your validator server.

Step 3: Configure CLI and create Vote Account (validators only)

• Set your CLI to use the appropriate network (testnet for learning, mainnet for production)
• Set the validator keypair as your default CLI keypair
• Fund the validator keypair with sufficient SOL for vote account creation and ongoing fees
• Create the vote account on the network using the three keypairs

Step 4: Secure the withdrawer key

• Backup the authorised-withdrawer-keypair.json to multiple secure locations
• Remove the withdrawer keypair from your local machine after backup
• Verify you can access your backups before proceeding

Phase 2: Server hardware setup

Step 5: Provision your server

• Set up a server meeting the hardware requirements (dedicated public IP essential)
• Install Ubuntu 24.04 on the system
• Ensure all drives are properly connected and recognised

Step 6: Initial server configuration

• Connect to your server via SSH
• Update all system packages to latest versions
• Install essential build tools and development packages

Step 7: Create dedicated user account

• Create a new user account (typically named "sol" or "solana") for running the validator
• Add the new user to the sudo group for administrative access
• Configure passwordless sudo for convenience (optional but recommended)

Step 8: Storage configuration

• Identify and format your NVMe drives for accounts, ledger, and snapshots
• Create mount points for each drive: /mnt/accounts, /mnt/ledger, /mnt/snapshots
• Mount the drives and set proper ownership to your validator user
• Configure automatic mounting in /etc/fstab to persist after reboots

Phase 3: System optimisation

Step 9: Network and firewall setup

• Configure UFW firewall to allow SSH (port 22) and Solana ports (8000-10000)
• Enable the firewall and verify rules are active
• Ensure your server has a dedicated public IP (NAT not recommended)

Step 10: Critical system tuning

• Create sysctl configuration file to optimise UDP buffers and memory mapping
• Set maximum open file descriptors and memory lock limits
• Configure systemd service limits for file handles and memory locking
• Create security limits configuration for the validator user

Step 11: Apply system changes

• Reload sysctl settings to apply network optimisations
• Restart systemd daemon to recognise new service limits
• Log out and log back in to activate user-level limit changes

Phase 4: Software installation

Step 12: Install Agave Validator Software

• Switch to your validator user account
• Download and install the Solana CLI and Agave validator binary
• Add the Solana binary path to your user's PATH environment
• Verify installation by checking version numbers

Step 13: Transfer keypairs to server

• Securely copy validator-keypair.json and vote-account-keypair.json to the server
• Set proper file permissions (read-only for validator user)
• Never transfer the authorised-withdrawer-keypair.json to the server

Step 14: Create validator startup script

• Create a bin directory in your validator user's home folder
• Write a startup script (validator.sh) with all necessary command flags
• Include paths to keypairs, mount points, network entrypoints, and optimisation flags
• Make the script executable and test it manually first

Phase 5: Service configuration and testing

Step 15: Test manual startup

• Run the validator startup script manually to verify it works
• Monitor the initial startup process and log output
• Check for any immediate errors or configuration issues
• Stop the manual process once confirmed working

Step 16: Create system service

• Create a systemd service file for automatic startup and management
• Configure the service to run as your validator user
• Set up automatic restart policies and logging configuration
• Enable the service for automatic startup on boot

Step 17: Verification and monitoring

• Start the validator service and monitor initial synchronisation
• Verify your validator appears in the gossip network
• For validators: confirm your vote account is visible in the validator list
• Set up log monitoring and performance tracking tools

Step 18: Final checks and go-live

• Verify all system resources are performing adequately
• Confirm network connectivity and peer connections
• For validators: ensure sufficient SOL balance for ongoing vote fees
• Set up monitoring alerts for downtime, performance issues, or errors

Phase 6: Ongoing operations

Step 19: Implement monitoring

• Set up Agave Watchtower or similar monitoring tools on a separate machine
• Configure alerts for validator downtime, performance degradation, or sync issues
• Implement automated restart procedures for common failure scenarios

Step 20: Establish maintenance procedures

• Create regular update procedures for Agave software releases
• Implement log rotation to manage disk space
• Set up backup procedures for configuration and keypairs (except withdrawer)
• Document troubleshooting steps for common issues

Profitability and economics

Earning potential

Validator Rewards: Current estimates suggest 5-8% APY on staked SOL, though this varies based on network conditions and your validator's performance.

RPC Revenue: Can generate income through API access fees, though this requires building a customer base.

Running a validator isn't without risks:

• Slashing: Poor performance can result in stake penalties
• Hardware costs: Equipment failures require immediate replacement
• Market volatility: SOL price fluctuations affect reward values

Break-even analysis

According to online forums, some operators claim to have broken even after 12-18 months, depending on initial hardware investment, operational efficiency, SOL price stability, and network reward rates.

Maintenance and best practices

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance:

Updates: Keep Solana software current with network upgrades 

Monitoring: Set up alerts for downtime, performance issues, or network problems 

Backups: Regularly backup validator keys and configuration files 

Performance tuning: Monitor CPU, RAM, and network usage to optimise settings

Conclusion and next steps

Running a Solana node can be rewarding both technically and financially in some cases, but it requires significant commitment and resources. 

Be sure to consider your technical expertise, available capital, and long-term goals when deciding between self-hosting and alternative solutions.

For additional resources, consult the official Solana documentation and join the validator community on Discord for ongoing support and updates.

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The internet has made earning money easier than ever - whether you want a side hustle for some extra cash or a full online business, the opportunities keep growing fast. From quick gigs to long-term passive income streams, there’s something for everyone. 

But don’t expect to get rich overnight (and if someone promises you that, it’s more than likely a scam). With focus, patience, and smart moves, you can build real, sustainable income online.

This guide breaks down proven ways people are making money from home, some with zero upfront costs, others aimed at long-term growth. The trick? Find what fits your skills, time, and goals.

Let’s dive in!

1. Best ways to make money online quickly (low skill, high interest)

If you're new to making money online (see our beginners’ guide here) or need cash fast, these low-barrier options can help you start building income without any special skills. They won’t replace your 9-5, but they’re great for extra cash or to start building your online income game.

Paid online surveys

Surveys remain one of the easiest ways to start earning online. Companies pay for your honest opinion. No skills needed, just some spare time.

• Top platforms: Swagbucks, Branded Surveys, YouGov, Prolific
• Earnings: Typically £0.50-£3 per survey, 10-20 minutes each
• Tip: You’ll need to hit a payout threshold (usually £10-20) before withdrawing

Get paid to click, watch, or search

Earn small amounts doing simple online tasks like watching videos or using a search engine. It won’t replace a full income, but it adds up if you’re consistent.

• Try: Qmee, InboxPounds, Swagbucks
• Earnings: Pennies per task, but easy to do anytime

Micro-tasks

These quick gigs need human input, like data entry or web research.

• Platforms: Clickworker, Amazon Mechanical Turk, Lionbridge
• Pay: £2–£10 per hour, flexible hours

Test websites and apps

Give feedback on the usability and functionality of websites or apps.

• Sites: UserTesting, Userlytics, TryMyUI
• Pay: £8-£12 per 20-minute test
• Requirements: Good communication skills and reliable internet

Competitions and prize draws (comping)

Not guaranteed income, but some people win prizes worth thousands annually by entering competitions.

• Follow brands on social media for exclusive contests
• Use aggregator sites like LoquaxTM and MSE's Competition Corner

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2. Medium-effort methods with reliable returns

These options require more skill or time investment but offer better earning potential and more engaging work.

Freelance writing and editing

Content demand is booming. If you can write clearly, this is a solid way to earn.

• Get started: Upwork, Intch, Freelancer
• Rates: Beginners £10-20/article; experienced £30-100+/hour
• Tip: Build a niche and portfolio gradually

Sell stock photos or videos

Monetise your photography/videography skills on platforms like Shutterstock or Adobe Stock.

Become a Virtual Assistant (VA)

Support businesses with admin tasks, social media, customer service, and more.

• Pay: £8-25/hour
• Build: Long-term client relationships for stable income

Sell handmade products

Use Etsy, Folksy, or Amazon Handmade to turn crafts into cash.

Sell digital products

High margins, no inventory. Popular items include Notion templates, Canva designs, ChatGPT prompts, and planners.

• Platforms: Gumroad, Etsy, Creative Market

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3. Scalable and passive income streams

These take real effort up front, but once they’re set up, they can bring in steady income with little to no maintenance.

Dropshipping tips

Sell products online without inventory, using Shopify or WooCommerce.

• Profit margins: 3-7% after ads
• Requires skills in marketing and customer service

Print-on-demand

Design items like t-shirts or mugs are printed only when ordered.

• Platforms: Printful, Printify, Merch by Amazon, Redbubble

Start a blog or niche website

Earn through ads, affiliate links, sponsored content, and digital products.

• Takes roughly 6-18 months to grow, but can generate substantial passive income

Create and sell online courses

Share your expertise on platforms like Udemy, Teachable, Skillshare, or Coursera.

Write and publish ebooks

Self-publish on Kindle Direct Publishing or Smashwords. Good editing and marketing matter.

Launch a YouTube channel

Earn through ads, memberships, super chats, sponsorships, and affiliate marketing.

Side hustles that use your environment or possessions

Why not monetise what you already own? 

• Rent property through Airbnb or Booking.com for significant income. 
• Rent belongings like cars (Turo), equipment (Fat Llama), or parking spaces (JustPark). 
• Sell unused items on Facebook Marketplace, eBay, or Vinted - many earn hundreds decluttering. 
• Use cashback apps like Shoppix and TopCashback (or from your Tap card - up to 8% people) for purchases you're already making. 

These options work especially well in urban areas and thankfully require minimal upfront investment.

What to watch out for

The internet is full of legitimate opportunities, but scams are unfortunately common. Protecting yourself is crucial.

Avoid scams, watch for:

• Promises of guaranteed big money with little effort
• Upfront payment requests for “training” or “kits”
• Pyramid or multi-level marketing schemes

Know your tax obligations. In the UK, you must report online income over £1,000 to HMRC. Keep good records and consider professional advice.

Understand platform rules. Check minimum payouts, fees, payment methods, and account policies before signing up. Always read the ts and cs.

Tips for success when earning online

Unlock your online earning power with these 5 no-fluff strategies:

• Use a separate email for online earning to stay organised and secure
• Track your earnings and time with a spreadsheet for insights and taxes
• Focus on higher-paying platforms and build skills accordingly
• Start small, then scale what works best for you
• Learn digital skills (SEO, copywriting, design, social media) via free online tutorials

Final thoughts

Making money online gives you freedom, but it also takes effort and patience. There’s no magic formula - some people thrive blogging, others with surveys or micro-tasks. Start small, learn, and expand gradually. 

And lastly, watch out for scams, keep good records, and keep adding value. If you’ve made it this far, we believe you’re ready to take control of your online income journey!

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VeChain represents a unique approach to blockchain technology, positioning itself as an enterprise-focused platform that bridges the gap between traditional business operations and decentralised innovation. 

Unlike cryptocurrencies designed primarily for financial transactions, VeChain operates with a dual-token model specifically engineered to solve real-world business challenges, particularly in supply chain transparency and process improvement.

The platform's primary mission centers on bringing trust, transparency, and efficiency to complex business networks. From tracking luxury goods through global supply chains to verifying pharmaceutical authenticity, VeChain has expanded beyond its initial scope to encompass Web3 applications, Internet of Things (IoT) integration, and sustainability initiatives. 

This practical focus has attracted both enterprise adopters seeking operational improvements and investors interested in blockchain technology with demonstrated real-world utility.

What is VeChain (VET)?

VeChain's journey began in 2015 under the leadership of Sunny Lu, former Chief Information Officer of Louis Vuitton China, who founded the project through his company Bitse. This background in luxury retail operations provided crucial insights into the authentication and supply chain challenges that would later define VeChain's core value proposition.

The platform's mission extends beyond simple crypto functionality to address fundamental business needs for transparency, trust, and operational efficiency. VeChain achieves this through a comprehensive ecosystem that encompasses supply chain tracking applications, decentralised apps (dapps), IoT device integration, and sustainability-focused projects.

Central to VeChain's architecture is its innovative two-token system. VET serves as the primary value transfer token and represents the investment asset within the ecosystem, while VTHO (VeThor) functions as the operational fuel for transaction processing. 

This separation allows businesses to predict and control transaction costs while providing token holders with potential value appreciation through VET ownership.

How does VeChain work?

VeChain operates on the VeChainThor blockchain, which uses a Proof of Authority (PoA) consensus mechanism (also referred to as Proof of Authenticity within the VeChain ecosystem). This PoA model relies on 101 Authority Masternodes selected via identity verification and KYC, allowing fast, low-energy, enterprise-suitable consensus. This approach prioritises transaction speed, energy efficiency, and predictable performance over complete decentralisation. 

In 2021, PoA was upgraded to PoA 2.0 (SURFACE) to enhance scalability, security, throughput, and energy efficiency.

How does it work? Authority Masternodes validate transactions and maintain network security, while Economic Nodes and X-nodes provide additional network support and earn rewards based on their VET holdings and node status.

VeChain’s architecture offers clear benefits for businesses:

• Transactions are fast and use very little energy.
• Costs are predictable and low.
• The network performs reliably, even during heavy usage.

These features make VeChain a strong choice for companies that need efficient, dependable, and cost-effective blockchain solutions.

Key features & technology stack

VeChain combines traditional business systems with blockchain technology using several core components. Notably, smart chips, RFID tags, and IoT sensors collect real-time data from physical products and processes. This information is then recorded directly on the blockchain, creating permanent, tamper-proof records.

The platform also offers a full set of tools for developers and businesses. These include smart contracts, data integration APIs, and easy-to-use interfaces for non-technical users, creating space for everything from simple tracking apps to complex, multi-party business solutions.

Governance is then managed through a structured model that balances efficiency and stakeholder input. 

Essentially, the VeChain Foundation sets the overall strategy, while authority node operators help make key network decisions. This approach keeps transaction costs predictable, ensures strong performance, and allows the network to adapt to changing business needs.

Real-world use cases & partnerships

VeChain is used across many industries, showing its flexibility and real-world value.

In pharmaceuticals, companies track medicines from the factory to the pharmacy. This helps ensure authenticity and stops counterfeit drugs from entering the market.

In food production, VeChain gives consumers full traceability - from farm to store shelf - so they can see exactly where their food comes from.

The automotive industry uses VeChain for digital maintenance records and fraud prevention. Partners like Renault and BMW have built systems to log vehicle history, repairs, and ownership transfers on the blockchain. This creates transparent, trustworthy records that help manufacturers, buyers, and sellers while cutting down on fraud in used car sales.

Corporate partnerships have boosted VeChain’s global reach. PwC includes it in their blockchain advisory services, while Walmart China uses it to let shoppers scan products with their phones and confirm origin and safety information.

VeChain has even moved into sports and entertainment - for example, partnering with the UFC to authenticate gloves via NFT technology.

In the public and sustainability sectors, governments and organisations use VeChain to track carbon credits, verify renewable energy certificates, and manage environmental compliance data.

VeChain's tokenomics explained

As touched on earlier, VeChain uses a unique two-token system to separate value storage from transaction costs.

• VET is the main token with a fixed supply. It’s used for transferring value, running smart contracts, and as an investment asset. People who hold VET can take part in network governance and earn VTHO over time.
  
  
• VTHO is the “fuel” for transactions, like gas fees on other blockchains.

The key difference with VeChain’s model is predictability: VTHO is generated at a fixed rate from VET holdings, so businesses can budget for blockchain costs without worrying about token price swings.

This setup is designed to benefit everyone in the ecosystem:

• Developers and businesses get stable, predictable costs.
• Investors have potential for value growth through VET.
• The network stays secure and incentivised for participation.

VeChain price history & market performance

VeChain’s price history has been shaped by both the ups and downs of the wider crypto market and key moments in its own growth. 

Firstly, the native coin started out as VEN tokens, then switched to VET in 2018 with the launch of the VeChainThor mainnet, a big technical step that also set up its current token model.

During the 2021 crypto bull run, VET hit its all-time high as interest in enterprise blockchain and supply chain solutions surged. Like most cryptocurrencies, it later saw sharp drops during market pullbacks.

Also, like most cryptocurrencies, VET’s price has often reacted to news of new partnerships, enterprise adoption, and developments in the blockchain industry. Regulatory discussions around crypto and blockchain in different countries have also played a role.

Today, VeChain is seen as one of the more established blockchain platforms with real-world enterprise adoption, though its market cap is still smaller than bigger general-purpose players like Ethereum and Solana.

How to Buy VeChain (VET)

VET can be bought through platforms that support crypto trading. The process is similar to buying any other digital asset (just ensure that the platform supports VET directly).

First, create an account on a platform that offers VET, then complete the required identity verification, which usually involves providing proof of identity and address. Once verified, add funds using a bank transfer, card payment, or another supported method.

From there, find the VET trading option and place your order. If you’re making a larger purchase, you might consider buying in smaller amounts over time to reduce the impact of price swings.

For long-term storage, VeChain-compatible wallets allow you to manage both VET and VTHO, and some also track VTHO generation. Hardware wallets can provide an extra layer of security.

How to use VeChain

For businesses:
VeChain can be used for things like product verification, protecting data integrity, and connecting IoT devices. It offers APIs and tools so companies can build blockchain solutions without needing deep cryptocurrency knowledge.

For everyday users:
People can interact with VeChain through apps built on the platform, such as NFT marketplaces, supply chain trackers, and sustainability tools. Many of these apps are designed to be easy to use, even for those new to blockchain.

For developers:
VeChainThor supports familiar programming languages and frameworks, with detailed documentation, tools, and a test network for building and testing apps.

For token holders:
Owning VET lets you earn VTHO, join governance discussions, and contribute to network operations by running economic nodes.

Advantages & criticisms of VeChain

VeChain’s strengths lie in its real-world use, enterprise adoption, and operational efficiency. The platform focuses on practical business solutions, leading to partnerships with established companies and measurable results. Its low transaction costs and predictable fees make it appealing for businesses that need to handle large volumes of transactions.

VeChain also emphasises sustainability, supporting corporate goals around environmental responsibility. Its energy-efficient consensus system and applications for carbon tracking and renewable energy verification help achieve these aims.

However, there are some criticisms and risks. VeChain’s Proof of Authority system relies on pre-approved authority nodes, which some say goes against blockchain’s decentralisation principles and could create points of control or failure.

Market volatility is another concern. While the two-token system stabilises operational costs, fluctuations in VET’s price can still affect the ecosystem’s economics.

Finally, VeChain faces competition. Many other blockchain platforms are targeting enterprise use cases, and general-purpose blockchains are increasingly adding enterprise-focused features.

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When it comes to trading or investing, understanding how to read charts is essential. While some might choose to rely on intuition, it's important to have a strategy based on probabilities and risk management. That's where candlestick charts come in. In this article, we'll explore what candlestick charts are and how to interpret them.

What is a candlestick chart?

Candlestick charts, dating back to 17th-century Japan with their creation credited to a Japanese rice trader named Homma, are a crucial tool in financial analysis. They differ from traditional line and bar charts by offering a richer visual representation of price movements, as they are composed of structures that resemble a candle and represent different periods, ranging from seconds to years.

Candlesticks consist of a "body" representing the price range between opening and closing, with "wicks" or "shadows" extending above and below, illustrating high and low prices. Their unique design allows traders to quickly grasp market sentiment and potential reversals, making them indispensable in technical analysis. 

Whether identifying bullish or bearish patterns, understanding candlestick chart basics is fundamental for anyone delving into the world of investment and trading.

Understanding how candlestick charts work

To create a candlestick, four price points are needed: open, high, low, and close. The open is the first recorded trading price, while the high and low represent the asset's highest and lowest prices during the timeframe. The close refers to the last recorded trading price. 

These four points determine the shape of the candlestick, with the distance between the open and close called the body, and the distance between the body and the high/low referred to as the wick or shadow. The overall range of the candlestick is the distance between the high and low.

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How to use candlestick charts

Popular with stock market traders, candlestick charts are often considered easier to read than traditional bar or line charts. They provide a simple representation of price action at a glance, as each candlestick represents the battle between buyers (bulls) and sellers (bears) during a specific time period. A longer body indicates stronger buying or selling pressure, while if the wicks are short, it means the high or low of the period was near the closing price.

The colour of the candlestick can vary, but generally, green means the asset closed higher than it opened, while red signifies a lower closing price. Some traders prefer black and white representation, where up movements are hollow candles and down movements are black candles.

Examples of single candlestick charts

Doji: A Doji has a small body with upper and lower wicks of roughly equal length, resembling a cross or plus sign. It signifies market indecision and potential reversals.

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Hammer: The Hammer exhibits a small body at the top with a long lower wick, resembling a hammer. This candlestick advocates for a potential bullish reversal after a downtrend.

Shooting Star: The Shooting Star has a small body at the bottom with a long upper wick, resembling a falling star. It hints at a potential bearish reversal after an uptrend.

Spinning Top: A Spinning Top has a small body and short upper and lower wicks. It denotes market indecision, with neither bulls or bears in control.

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Marubozu: A Marubozu features a long body with no wicks, indicating strong buying or selling pressure. A bullish Marubozu has a long green body, while a bearish one has a long red body.

These single candlestick patterns offer traders valuable information for decision-making in various market conditions.

Bullish and bearish candlestick charts

Bullish and bearish candlestick patterns are critical indicators in financial analysis, offering insights into market sentiment. Bullish patterns signal optimism, suggesting potential price increases. Examples include the Hammer, signalling a possible price reversal upward, and the Three White Soldiers, indicating strong buying momentum.

On the other hand, bearish patterns imply pessimism and potential price declines. The Shooting Star, for instance, hints at a reversal downward, while the Three Black Crows signify a bearish trend.

These candlestick patterns provide traders with visual cues regarding market sentiment, helping them make informed decisions. Recognizing these patterns empowers investors to gauge the market direction and make strategic moves in response to prevailing sentiment.

Candlestick charting strategies

Candlestick charting strategies are powerful tools for traders, providing insights into market sentiment and potential price movements. These strategies encompass various approaches to maximise trading success:

1. Trend reversal strategies

These strategies focus on identifying shifts in market direction using candlestick patterns. Traders look for reversal patterns like the Hammer or Shooting Star to pinpoint potential trend changes. These patterns offer valuable entry and exit points for both bullish and bearish trends, enhancing the trader's ability to capitalise on market reversals.

2. Continuation strategies

Continuation strategies involve using candlestick patterns to trade in the direction of the existing trend. Traders seek patterns that confirm the ongoing trend, such as the Bullish Engulfing pattern during an uptrend or Bearish Engulfing during a downtrend. Effective use of these patterns provides confirmation signals and risk management techniques to stay aligned with the trend's momentum.

3. Combination strategies with other technical indicators

To increase trading accuracy, traders often combine candlestick patterns with other technical indicators like Relative Strength Index (RSI) or Moving Average Convergence Divergence (MACD). This approach offers a comprehensive view of market conditions, enhancing decision-making and reducing false signals. Learning to integrate candlestick patterns with these indicators is crucial for traders looking to refine their strategies.

Incorporating these candlestick charting strategies empowers traders to make informed decisions and navigate the complex world of financial markets with greater precision and confidence.

What candlestick charts can’t illustrate

Although candlesticks provide a good overview of price action, they don't provide all the details for a comprehensive analysis. For example, they don't show the details of what happened between the open and close, only the distance between these two points. Additionally, candlestick charts can contain a lot of noise, especially when analysing lower timeframes.

What are Heikin-Ashi candlesticks?

Apart from traditional candlestick charts, there are other methods to calculate and interpret candlesticks. One such method is the Heikin-Ashi technique, which stands for "average bar" in Japanese. Heikin-Ashi candles rely on a modified formula that uses average price data to smooth out price action and filter market noise. This technique makes it easier to spot trends, patterns, and possible reversals in the market.

Traders often use Heikin-Ashi candles in combination with traditional candlesticks to avoid false signals and increase the chances of identifying market trends. Green Heikin-Ashi candles with no lower wicks indicate a strong uptrend, while red candles with no upper wicks suggest a strong downtrend.

However, it's important to note that Heikin-Ashi candlesticks have their limitations. Since they use averaged price data, patterns may take longer to develop, and they may not show price gaps or obscure other price information.

In conclusion

Candlestick charts are a fundamental tool for traders and investors. They provide a visual representation of price action and allow for analysis across different timeframes. By studying candlestick charts and patterns, combined with an analytical mindset and practice, traders can gain an edge in the market. However, it's also important to consider other methods, such as fundamental

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n the world of finance and technology, benchmarks are a vital tool for measuring performance and quality. A benchmark is a standard or point of reference used to evaluate the performance or quality of something, such as investment returns or the efficiency of software and hardware systems. This article will explore what benchmarks are, why they are used, provide examples, and explain how to use benchmarks to make more informed investment decisions.

What is a Benchmark?

A benchmark is a standard of comparison used to evaluate the performance or quality of something. In finance, benchmarks are often used to compare the performance of investments to a specific market index. For example, the S&P 500 index is a commonly used benchmark for evaluating the performance of a portfolio of stocks.
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Benchmarks are also used in the technology industry to evaluate the efficiency and performance of hardware and software systems. For example, a computer's processing speed may be benchmarked against industry standards to determine how well it performs compared to other computers on the market.

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Why are Benchmarks Used?

Benchmarks are used for a variety of reasons. In finance, benchmarks are used to evaluate the performance of an investment or a portfolio of investments. By comparing the performance of an investment to a benchmark, investors can determine whether their investment strategy is successful or not.
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In the technology industry, benchmarks are used to evaluate the efficiency and performance of hardware and software systems. By benchmarking a computer or a software system against industry standards, developers can determine how well their product performs compared to other products on the market.
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Examples of Benchmarks
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There are many different benchmarks used in finance. Here are a few examples:
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1. S&P 500 Index - This is a benchmark used to evaluate the performance of a portfolio of stocks in the United States. It is widely used by investors as a measure of the overall performance of the U.S. stock market.
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2. Dow Jones Industrial Average - This is another benchmark used to evaluate the performance of the U.S. stock market. It is based on the stock prices of 30 large U.S. companies.
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How to Use Benchmarks

To use a benchmark, you first need to select the appropriate benchmark for your needs. For example, if you are evaluating the performance of a portfolio of stocks, you would select a stock market index such as the S&P 500 or the Dow Jones Industrial Average.
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Once you have selected a benchmark, you can compare the performance of your investment or product to the benchmark. If your investment or product outperforms the benchmark, then it is considered successful. If it underperforms, then you may need to adjust your investment strategy or product development.
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How Do Benchmarks Help You Make More Informed Investment Decisions?

Benchmarks help investors make more informed investment decisions by providing a standard of comparison for investment performance. By comparing the performance of an investment to a benchmark, investors can determine whether their investment strategy is successful or not.

For example, if an investor's portfolio of stocks outperforms the S&P 500 index, then the investor can be confident that their investment strategy is successful. However, if the portfolio underperforms the S&P 500, then the investor may need to reevaluate their investment strategy.

Benchmarks also help investors identify trends in the market. By tracking the performance of a benchmark over time, investors can identify trends in the market and adjust their investment strategy accordingly.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, benchmarks are a fundamental tool used in finance and technology to measure performance and quality. They provide a standard of comparison that helps investors and developers evaluate the success of their investments and products.

Using benchmarks to evaluate investment performance and product efficiency can help you make more informed investment decisions. By comparing the performance of your investments or products to industry standards, you can determine whether your investment strategy or product development is successful or not.

Overall, benchmarks are an essential tool for evaluating performance and quality, and understanding how to use them is crucial for success in finance and technology.

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