Wondering if it's too late to buy Bitcoin? Dive into the latest market trends and expert takes to see what’s shaping the conversation this year.
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You've heard the stories. Someone bought Bitcoin for a few dollars and is now set for life. Maybe it's a friend, a news story, or that one person who won't stop talking about crypto. And now you're wondering: "Is it too late to buy Bitcoin?"
You're not alone. People have asked this exact question at every price point – when Bitcoin hit $100, $1,000, $10,000, even $100,000. Some jumped in, others waited, convinced they'd missed their chance.
Here's the reality: timing markets is tough. What feels "too late" today might look like perfect timing in a few years. Or maybe it really is too late. Nobody knows for sure.
This guide breaks down what you need to know. We'll look at Bitcoin's wild price history, where things stand today, and the arguments on both sides. You'll get the facts you need to make your own decision – because that's exactly what this is: your decision to make.
Let’s look at Bitcoin's price history and market cycles
Understanding where Bitcoin has been helps put today's prices in perspective. Let's take a trip down memory lane.
The Early Days (2009-2013)
Bitcoin started as an experiment. In 2009, it literally had no price – people were just testing this weird new digital money. The first recorded Bitcoin transaction was someone buying two pizzas for 10,000 Bitcoin. Today, those pizzas would be worth hundreds of millions.
By 2013, Bitcoin had climbed to around $100. People who bought in were called crazy by friends and family. "Digital monopoly money," they said. Yet those "crazy" people watched their investment grow 100x over the next few years.

Source: CoinGecko
The First Big Rally (2014-2017)
This is when Bitcoin started getting serious attention. The price swung wildly, dropping to $200 in 2015, then shooting up like a rocket. By late 2017, Bitcoin hit nearly $20,000.
Suddenly, everyone was talking about it. Your dentist was giving you crypto tips. The guy at the grocery store was checking Bitcoin prices on his phone. Classic bubble behaviour.
The Crypto Winter (2018-2020)
Then reality hit. Bitcoin crashed back down to around $3,200 in 2018. All those people who bought near the top? They were underwater big time. Many sold at a loss and swore off crypto forever.
This period taught everyone an important lesson: Bitcoin goes through cycles. Big ups, big downs, and long stretches where not much happens.
The Institutional Era (2021-Present)
Something changed around 2020. Big companies started buying Bitcoin. Tesla put it on their balance sheet. PayPal let customers buy it. Suddenly, this wasn't just for tech nerds anymore.
Bitcoin hit new all-time highs, then crashed again, then recovered. The pattern repeated, but with one key difference: institutional players were now in the game.
Where Bitcoin stands in 2025
Fast forward to today. Bitcoin has been through multiple cycles, survived countless "death" predictions, and keeps bouncing back. But where exactly are we now?
Current market sentiment
The Bitcoin market today feels different from previous cycles. There's less wild speculation and more measured interest. Sure, you still have people expecting Bitcoin to hit a million dollars, but you also have pension funds quietly adding it to their portfolios.
Institutional adoption updates
Major financial institutions now offer Bitcoin services. You can buy Bitcoin ETFs through your regular brokerage account. Companies hold Bitcoin as treasury reserves. This wasn't even imaginable in Bitcoin's early days.
Regulatory landscape
Governments are still figuring out how to handle Bitcoin, but the conversation has shifted. Instead of trying to ban it outright, most are working on regulations. While sure, this creates uncertainty in the short term, but potentially provides more stability long term.
Why people think they've "missed the boat"
Let's be honest about the psychology here. There are real reasons why Bitcoin feels intimidating to newcomers.
Every Bitcoin article mentions someone who became a millionaire from a small investment. These stories are true, but they're also rare. It's like hearing about lottery winners – inspiring but not exactly a strategy.
The media loves extreme stories. "Bitcoin crashes 50%!" gets more clicks than "Bitcoin remains volatile as expected." This creates a distorted view of what normal Bitcoin behaviour looks like.
When Bitcoin costs tens of thousands of dollars, buying "one Bitcoin" feels impossible for most people. But here's what many don't realise: you can buy fractions of Bitcoin. You don't need to buy a whole one.
The case for why it's NOT too late
Let's look at the strongest arguments for Bitcoin still having room to grow.
- Limited supply meets growing demand
There will only ever be 21 million BTC. Ever. This is coded into the system and can't be changed. Meanwhile, more people and institutions want exposure to Bitcoin every year. Basic economics suggests this could push prices higher.
- Digital gold is still emerging
Many investors view Bitcoin as "digital gold" - a store of value for the internet age. Gold has a multi-trillion-dollar market cap. Bitcoin's market cap is much smaller. If Bitcoin really becomes digital gold, there could be significant room for growth.
- Global adoption is just beginning
Most of the world still doesn't own Bitcoin. If adoption continues spreading globally, especially in countries with unstable currencies, demand could increase substantially.
- Technology infrastructure is improving
Bitcoin is becoming easier to buy, store, and use. Better infrastructure typically leads to broader adoption, which could support higher prices over time.
The case for why it MIGHT be too late
Now let's examine the other side honestly.
- Volatility remains extreme
Bitcoin still swings wildly in price. A 20% drop in a day isn't unusual. This kind of volatility makes it unsuitable for many people's financial situations.
- Regulatory uncertainty
Governments could still impose harsh restrictions. While outright bans seem less likely, heavy regulations could limit Bitcoin's growth potential.
- Environmental concerns
Bitcoin mining uses significant energy. As climate concerns grow, this could become a bigger issue for institutional adoption.
- Competition from other technologies
Bitcoin was the first cryptocurrency, but it's not the only one. Newer technologies might offer better solutions for digital payments or store-of-value use cases.
Smart approaches to Bitcoin investment
If you're considering Bitcoin, here are strategies others have used.
Dollar-cost averaging
Instead of buying all at once, some people buy a small amount regularly, maybe $50 or $100 per month. This spreads out your purchase price over time, reducing the impact of Bitcoin's volatility.
Think of it like filling up your gas tank. You don't wait for the perfect price, you just buy what you need when you need it.
The "coffee money" strategy
Some people only invest money they'd otherwise spend on small luxuries. Skip the daily coffee shop visit and put that $5 into Bitcoin instead. It's money you wouldn't miss if you lost it.
Set clear time horizons
Bitcoin is volatile short-term but has trended upward over longer periods. People who view it as a long-term hold (5+ years) tend to stress less about daily price movements.
Position sizing that won't ruin your life
A common rule of thumb is never invest more than you can afford to lose completely. For most people, this means Bitcoin should be a small portion of their overall portfolio.
Expert perspectives and market analysis
What are the professionals saying about Bitcoin's future?
Financial advisor views
Traditional financial advisors are split. Some now recommend small Bitcoin allocations (1-5% of a portfolio) as a hedge against inflation and currency debasement. Others remain sceptical due to volatility concerns. DYOR.
Crypto analyst predictions
Crypto analysts range from extremely bullish (predicting six or seven-figure Bitcoin prices) to cautiously optimistic. What most agree on is that Bitcoin will likely remain volatile but could trend higher over very long time periods due to supply-demand metrics.
Historical precedent
Looking at other revolutionary technologies, adoption often happens in waves. The internet, smartphones, and even electricity followed similar patterns: periods of rapid growth followed by corrections, then more growth as the technology matured.
Alternative ways to get Bitcoin exposure
If you’re on the fence and don't have to buy Bitcoin directly, here are other options to consider.
Bitcoin ETFs
Exchange-traded funds let you buy Bitcoin exposure through your regular brokerage account. You don't need to worry about digital wallets or private keys. The downside is that you don't actually own the Bitcoin, you own shares in a fund that owns Bitcoin.
Bitcoin mining stocks
Some companies focus on Bitcoin mining. Their stock prices often correlate with Bitcoin's price but add additional business risks.
Blockchain technology investments
You could invest in companies building blockchain infrastructure rather than Bitcoin itself. This gives you exposure to the broader technology trend.
Common mistakes to avoid
Learn from others' expensive mistakes.
- Investing money you can't afford to lose
This is the big one. Bitcoin can and does lose significant value quickly. Never invest money you need for rent, groceries, or emergencies.
- Trying to time the market perfectly
Waiting for the "perfect" entry point often means never buying at all. Even professional traders struggle to time markets consistently.
- Falling for get-rich-quick schemes
If someone promises guaranteed returns or secret strategies, run the other way. Legitimate Bitcoin investment is boring: buy, hold, and wait.
- Neglecting security
If you buy Bitcoin directly, you're responsible for keeping it safe. Learn about proper storage before you buy, not after.
- Making emotional decisions
Bitcoin's price swings can trigger strong emotions. Having a plan before you invest helps you stick to it when prices get crazy.
How to buy bitcoin safely (if you decide to)
Should you choose to buy Bitcoin, here's how to buy Bitcoin safely through Tap:
- Download the app
- Create an account and complete the verification process
- Open your unique Bitcoin wallet within the app
- Enter the amount you would like to buy
- Confirm the trade, and your BTC will be added to your wallet.

(Psst: here’s a more detailed guide)
The bottom line: making your decision
So, is it too late to buy Bitcoin? Here's what we know for sure:
Bitcoin has gone through multiple cycles where people thought they'd missed out, only to see new opportunities emerge later. The technology has survived longer than most critics expected and continues attracting institutional interest.
At the same time, Bitcoin remains highly volatile and speculative. Past performance doesn't guarantee future results. What worked for early adopters might not work going forward.
Your decision should depend on your personal financial situation, risk tolerance, and investment timeline. If losing your entire Bitcoin investment would seriously impact your life, then it's probably not right for you. If you can afford to lose the money and want exposure to this technology, then the timing question becomes less important.
Remember, there's no rule saying you have to make this decision today. You can take time to learn more, watch how the market develops, and decide later. Sometimes the best investment decision is waiting until you fully understand what you're buying.
Whatever you decide, make sure it's based on your own research and financial situation, and not the fear of missing out or pressure from others. The right choice is the one that lets you sleep well at night.
NEWS AND UPDATES

What's driving the crypto market this week? Get fast, clear updates on the top coins, market trends, and regulation news.
Welcome to Tap’s weekly crypto market recap.
Here are the biggest stories from last week (9 - 16 June).
🚀Tap Global Group PLC to be listed on the AIM LSE
Tap Global Group is making the jump from the AQSE Growth Market to the AIM Market of the London Stock Exchange on 27th June. The move will open the doors to more investors and better trading liquidity, especially after a strong year with record revenue and their first full-year profit.
No new shares are being issued, just a shift to a bigger stage!
📊 Macro markets & asset convergence, first time in 10 years
Stocks, gold, and Bitcoin are all climbing nearly in tandem - a rare occurance driven by dollar weakness (~9% drop YTD), global inflation concerns, and shifting investor sentiment toward alternative assets.
Galaxy Digital’s Novogratz noted this trend highlights a maturing crypto ecosystem and increasing institutional integration
🏛 U.S. crypto regulation momentum
Congress is advancing key crypto legislation: the CLARITY market-structure bill has passed two House committees, while the GENIUS stablecoin bill moves closer to a Senate vote. A new CFTC chair may also boost regulatory engagement.
This legislative progress dovetails with Circle’s IPO, marking a turning point toward crypto-friendly policies.
🚀 Pomp launching Bitcoin SPAC
Anthony Pompliano, a well-known crypto advocate and podcast host, is expected to become CEO of ProCapBTC, a new venture aiming to raise $750 million to purchase Bitcoin.
The initiative involves a merger with Columbus Circle Capital 1, a special-purpose acquisition company (SPAC) backed by investment bank Cohen & Company. The funding goal includes $500 million in equity and $250 million in convertible debt.
This move is part of a wider trend of crypto-related entities tapping into public markets amid growing optimism fueled by pro-crypto U.S. policy shifts under President Trump’s second term. If finalized, the plan would align with strategies used by firms like Michael Saylor’s MicroStrategy and Japan’s Metaplanet.
Stay tuned for next week’s instalment, delivered on Monday mornings.

Explore why Bitcoin and the crypto market are worth $2.1 trillion and why skepticism still lingers among Americans in this deep dive.
Decoding the disconnect: America's cautious approach to crypto
Bitcoin and the broader crypto market have soared to a staggering $2.1 trillion in value, but why does skepticism still linger among so many Americans?
Despite increasing adoption, digital currencies remain shrouded in doubt, revealing a significant trust gap that continues to challenge the industry. As cryptocurrencies become more woven into everyday financial transactions, closing this trust deficit is essential for ensuring sustained growth and mainstream acceptance.
In this article, we'll dive into the key reasons behind this persistent mistrust, uncover the expanding real-world uses of digital assets, and explore how education and technological advancements can help bridge the confidence gap. Keep in mind, the data presented draws from multiple studies, so some figures and age groupings may vary slightly.
A Look at the Current State of Crypto Trust
To truly understand cryptocurrency adoption and the accompanying trust issues, it’s essential to examine the latest statistics and demographic data. This section breaks down public sentiment toward crypto and provides a snapshot of its user base.
General Public Sentiment
Percentage of Americans Who Own Cryptocurrency
Cryptocurrency adoption has seen slow but steady growth over the years. According to surveys conducted by Pew Research Center in 2021 and 2023, 17% of Americans have invested in, traded, or used cryptocurrency, up slightly from 16% in 2021.
While estimates vary, Security.org places this figure higher, estimating that roughly 40% of the U.S. population - around 93 million adults - own some form of cryptocurrency.
Both studies agree that younger generations are driving much of this growth, with 30% of Americans aged 18-29 reporting they have experience with crypto.
Trust Levels in Cryptocurrency
Despite rising adoption rates, trust in cryptocurrency remains a significant hurdle. Pew Research Center found that 75% of Americans have little or no confidence that cryptocurrency exchanges can safeguard their funds. Similarly, a recent report by Morning Consult shows that 7 in 10 consumers familiar with crypto express low or no trust in it.
This contrasts the 31% who have some or high trust, or the 24% in the Pew study who are “somewhat” to “extremely” confident in cryptocurrencies.
Demographics of Crypto Adopters
- Age Groups
Cryptocurrency adoption trends reveal a distinct generational divide. According to the 2023 Morning Consult survey, Gen Z adults (ages 18-25) lead in crypto ownership at 36%, closely followed by Millennials at 30%.
These younger groups are also more inclined toward future investments, with 39% of Gen Z and 45% of Millennials planning to invest in crypto in the coming years. Over half of both generations view cryptocurrency and blockchain as the future, while a notable percentage (27% of Gen Z and 21% of Millennials) considered opening an account with a crypto exchange in the past year.
When compared to other asset classes, data from Bankrate’s 2021 survey reveals that younger Millennials (ages 25-31) favor real estate and stock market investments, while Baby Boomers have the least interest in cryptocurrency. Older Millennials (32-40) lean toward cash investments, with cryptocurrency’s appeal steadily declining with age.
Interestingly, the report also highlights gender differences, showing that 80% of women familiar with crypto express low confidence, compared to 71% of men, indicating a broader trust gap among female users.
- Income Levels
Contrary to common assumptions, cryptocurrency adoption is not confined to high-income individuals. The same Pew Research Center survey revealed that crypto ownership is relatively evenly spread across income brackets:
- 13% of those earning less than $56,600 annually own crypto.
- 19% of those earning between $56,600 and $169,800 own crypto.
- 22% of those earning over $169,800 own crypto.
This data suggests that while higher earners may be more inclined to own cryptocurrency, the appeal of digital assets spans various income levels.
- Educational Background
Education also plays a role in crypto adoption. A 2022 report by Triple-A found that the majority of crypto owners are “highly educated”:
- 24% of crypto owners have graduated from middle or high school.
- 10% have some vocational or college education.
- 39% are college graduates.
- 27% hold postgraduate degrees.
This shows that while those with some college education or a degree are more likely to own crypto, it is not exclusively a pursuit of the highly educated.
This demographic data paints a picture of cryptocurrency adopters as predominantly younger, spread across a range of income levels, and with diverse educational backgrounds. However, the trust gap between crypto and traditional financial systems remains a significant barrier to wider acceptance of digital assets.
Key Trust Barriers
To bridge the gap between cryptocurrency adoption and trust, it’s crucial to understand the major concerns fueling skepticism. This section explores these concerns and contrasts them with similar risks in traditional financial systems.
The Primary Concerns of Skeptics
Volatility
One of the most significant barriers to cryptocurrency adoption is its notorious volatility, particularly for investors seeking stable, long-term assets. Bitcoin, the most well-known cryptocurrency, symbolizes this risk.
In 2022, Bitcoin’s volatility was stark. Its 30-day volatility reached 64.02% in June, driven by broader economic uncertainty and market downturns, compared to the S&P 500’s much lower volatility of 4.71% during the same period.
Over the course of the year, Bitcoin’s price swung from a peak of $47,835 to a low of $18,490, marking a substantial 61% decline from its highest point in 2022. Factors such as rising interest rates, geopolitical tensions, and major crypto market disruptions, like the TerraUSD collapse and Celsius’ liquidity crisis, played a pivotal role.
This extreme volatility reinforces the perception of cryptocurrencies as high-risk investments.
However, traditional stock markets, while typically more stable than crypto, can also experience sharp fluctuations, especially in times of economic stress. For instance, the CBOE Volatility Index (VIX), which measures expected near-term volatility in the U.S. stock market, dropped by 23% to 28.71 on June 30, 2022, far below the 82.69 peak recorded during the early COVID-19 market turbulence in March 2020. This shows that even stock markets, generally seen as safer, can experience moments of intense volatility, particularly during global crises.
Additionally, when compared to the "Magnificent Seven" (a group of top-performing and influential stocks) Bitcoin’s volatility doesn't stand out as unusual. In fact, over the past two years, Bitcoin has shown less volatility than Netflix (NFLX) stock.
On a 90-day timeframe, NFLX had an average realized volatility of 53%, while Bitcoin’s was slightly lower at 46%. The reality is that among all S&P 500 companies, Bitcoin has demonstrated lower annualized historical volatility than 33 of the 503 constituents.
In October 2023, Bitcoin was actually less volatile than 92 stocks in the S&P 500, based on 90-day realized historical volatility figures, including some large-cap and mega-cap companies.
Security
Security concerns are another major hurdle in building trust with cryptocurrencies. Cryptocurrency exchanges and wallets have been targeted by numerous high-profile hacks and frauds, raising doubts about the safety of digital assets. It comes as no surprise that a study from Morning Consult found that 67% of Americans believe having a secure and trustworthy platform is essential to entering the crypto market.
While security threats in the crypto space are well-documented, traditional banking systems are not immune to fraud either. Federal Trade Commission data reveals that consumer fraud losses in the traditional financial sector hit a record high of $10 billion in 2023, marking a 14% increase from the previous year.
Although traditional banks have more safeguards in place to protect consumers, they remain vulnerable to attacks, showing that security is a universal challenge across both crypto and traditional finance.
Prevention remains key, which in this case equates to using only reliable platforms or hardwallets.
Regulatory Uncertainty
Regulatory ambiguity continues to be a critical barrier for both cryptocurrency investors and businesses. The evolving landscape creates uncertainty about the future of digital assets.
Currently, cryptocurrency is legal in 119 countries and four British Overseas Territories, covering more than half of the world’s nations. Notably, 64.7% of these countries are emerging and developing economies, primarily in Asia and Africa.
However, only 62 of these 119 countries (52.1%) have comprehensive regulations in place. This represents significant growth from 2018, when only 33 jurisdictions had formal regulations, showing a 53.2% increase, but still falls short in creating a sense of “unified safety”.
In the United States, regulatory views remain fragmented. Various agencies, such as the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), have conflicting perspectives on how to classify and regulate cryptocurrencies. Since 2019, the SEC has filed over 116 crypto-related lawsuits, adding to the regulatory uncertainty faced by the industry.
The Growing Integration Of Digital Assets In Daily Life
As we progress further into the digital age, cryptocurrencies and digital assets are increasingly becoming part of our everyday financial transactions. This shift is driven by two key developments: the rise of crypto payment options and the growing adoption of Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs).
According to a MatrixPort report, global cryptocurrency adoption has now reached 7.51% of the population, underscoring the expanding influence of digital currencies worldwide. By 2025, this rate is expected to surpass 8%, signaling a potential shift from niche usage to mainstream acceptance.
The list of major retailers embracing cryptocurrency as a payment method continues to grow. Some notable companies now accepting crypto include:
- Microsoft: Accepts Bitcoin for Xbox store credits.
- AT&T: The first major U.S. mobile carrier to accept crypto payments.
- Whole Foods: Accepts Bitcoin via the Spedn app.
- Overstock: One of the first major retailers to accept Bitcoin.
- Starbucks: Allows customers to load their Starbucks cards with Bitcoin through the Bakkt app.
A 2022 Deloitte survey revealed that nearly 75% of retailers plan to accept either cryptocurrency or stablecoin payments within the next two years. This trend highlights the growing mainstream acceptance of digital assets as a legitimate payment method.
Crypto-backed debit cards are further bridging the gap between digital assets and everyday transactions. These cards enable users to spend their cryptocurrency at any merchant that accepts traditional debit cards.
According to Factual Market Research, the global crypto card market is projected to reach $9.5 billion by 2030, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of approximately 31.6% from 2021 to 2030. This growth reflects the increasing popularity of crypto-backed debit cards as a way for consumers to integrate their digital assets into daily spending.
The Rise of Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs)
Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs) represent digital versions of a country’s fiat currency, issued and regulated by the national monetary authority. In 2024, the global progress of CBDCs has seen a significant uptick, with marked advances in both research and adoption. As of this year:
- 11 countries have fully launched CBDCs, including the Bahamas, Nigeria, Jamaica, and China.
- 44 countries are conducting pilot programs, up from 36, reflecting growing interest in testing the functionality and stability of digital currencies.
- 66 nations are at advanced stages of CBDC development, contributing to a global landscape where 134 countries (accounting for 98% of the world’s economy) are engaged in CBDC projects.
In the United States, the Federal Reserve is exploring the feasibility of a CBDC through Project Hamilton, a collaborative research initiative with MIT. This exploration aligns with broader goals to reduce reliance on cash, enhance financial inclusion, and improve control over national monetary systems amid the rise of digital payments and cryptocurrencies.
The introduction of CBDCs could significantly reshape daily financial transactions in several ways:
- Increased financial inclusion: CBDCs could offer digital payment access to the 1.4 billion adults who remain unbanked, according to World Bank estimates.
- Faster and cheaper transactions: CBDCs could streamline both domestic and cross-border payments, reducing costs and settlement times.
- Enhanced monetary policy: Central banks would gain more direct control over money supply and circulation.
- Improved traceability: CBDCs could help combat financial crimes and reduce tax evasion by providing greater transaction transparency.
However, challenges persist, including concerns about privacy, cybersecurity risks, and the potential disruption of existing banking systems.
As digital assets continue to integrate into everyday life, they hold the potential to transform how we think about and use money. Despite these challenges, trends in both private cryptocurrency adoption and CBDC development point to a future where digital assets play a central role in our financial systems.
Building Trust Through Technology and Education
According to the 2023 Web3 UI/UX Report, nearly 48% of users cite security concerns and asset protection as the primary barriers to crypto adoption. Other challenges include high transaction fees and the steep learning curve needed to fully grasp both the technology and its benefits.
Despite these obstacles, the blockchain sector has made significant strides as it matures, particularly in enhancing security. Hack-related losses in the crypto market dropped from $3.7 billion in 2022 to $1.8 billion in 2023, underscoring the progress in safeguarding digital assets.
The increased adoption of offline hardware wallets and multi-signature wallets, both of which add critical layers of security, reflects this momentum. Advances in smart contract auditing tools and stronger compliance standards are also minimizing risks, creating a safer environment for both users and institutions.
These improvements highlight the industry’s commitment to establishing a more secure foundation for digital transactions and bolstering confidence in blockchain as a reliable financial technology.
In another positive development, in May 2023, the European Council approved the first comprehensive legal framework for the cryptocurrency industry. This legislation sets a new standard for regulatory transparency and oversight, further reinforcing trust.
Financial Literacy Initiatives
The rise of crypto education in the U.S. is playing a pivotal role in increasing public understanding and encouraging adoption. Programs such as Coinbase Earn aim to simplify the onboarding process for new users, directly addressing the complexity and security concerns that often deter people from engaging with crypto.
According to recent data, 43% of respondents feel that insufficient knowledge is a key reason they avoid the sector, highlighting the ongoing need for crypto-related learning.
Additionally, Chainalysis' 2024 Global Crypto Adoption Index noted a significant increase in crypto interest following the launch of spot Bitcoin ETFs in the U.S. earlier in the year. This development enabled investors to trade ETF shares tied to Bitcoin directly on stock exchanges, making it easier to enter the market without needing extensive technical expertise - thus driving a surge in adoption.
These advancements in security and education are gradually fostering greater trust in the cryptocurrency ecosystem. As the sector continues to evolve, these efforts may pave the way for broader adoption and deeper integration of digital assets into daily financial life.
The Future of Digital Asset Adoption
As digital assets continue to evolve and capture mainstream attention, their potential to transform the financial landscape is becoming increasingly evident. From late 2023 through early 2024, global crypto transaction volumes surged, surpassing the peaks of the 2021 bull market (as illustrated below).
Interestingly, much of this growth in adoption was driven by lower-middle income countries, highlighting the global reach of digital assets.
Below, we explore projections for cryptocurrency usage and its potential impact on traditional banking and finance.
Projections for Crypto Usage in the Next 5-10 Years
Several studies and reports offer insights into the expected growth of cryptocurrency over the next decade:
Global Adoption
The global cryptocurrency market revenue is projected to reach approximately $56.7 billion in 2024, with the United States leading the charge, expected to generate around $9.8 billion in revenue. Statista predicts the number of global crypto users will hit 861 million by 2025, marking a significant shift toward mainstream use.
Institutional Adoption
The 2023 Institutional Investor Digital Assets Study found that 65% of the 1,042 institutional investors surveyed plan to buy or invest in digital assets in the future.
As of 2024, digital currency usage among U.S. organisations is expanding, particularly in sectors such as finance, retail, and technology. Hundreds of financial services and fintech firms are now involved in digital assets, whether in payment processing, investments, or blockchain-based applications. This includes major companies utilising cryptocurrencies as stored value and exploring stablecoin use cases to enhance transaction efficiency.
Notably, major U.S. companies are increasingly engaging with blockchain and digital assets, as regulatory clarity improves and security concerns are addressed.
Retail Adoption
At present, about 85% of major retailers generating over $1 billion in annual online sales accept cryptocurrency payments. In contrast, 23% of mid-sized retailers, with online sales between $250 million and $1 billion, currently accept crypto payments. This growing trend points to an expanding role for digital assets in retail, especially among large-scale businesses.
Potential Impact on Traditional Banking and Finance
The rise of digital asset utilisation is poised to reshape traditional banking systems in multiple areas. For starters, the growth of blockchain technology and digitised financial services is driving the decentralised finance (DeFi) market, which is projected to reach $450 billion by 2030, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 46%.
In Q3 2024 alone, trading on decentralised exchanges surpassed $100 billion, marking the third consecutive month of growth in trading volume. This trend underscores the increasing interest and activity in the decentralised finance space.
As Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs) are likely to be adopted by 80% of central banks by 2030, the role of commercial banks in money distribution could diminish significantly. Meanwhile, blockchain technology and stablecoins are expected to revolutionise cross-border B2B payments, with 20% of these transactions powered by blockchain by 2025. Stablecoin payment volumes are projected to hit $620 billion by 2026.
Furthermore, the investment landscape is set to evolve as asset tokenisation scales, potentially reaching a value of $16 trillion, making crypto a standard component in investment portfolios.
With regulatory clarity expected to improve - more than half of financial institutions anticipate clearer rules within the next three years - crypto integration is likely to become more widespread. These developments emphasise the transformative potential of digital assets across payments, investments, and financial structures globally.
Bridging the trust gap in crypto adoption
The cryptocurrency landscape is experiencing a surge in institutional interest, which could be a pivotal moment for integrating digital assets into traditional finance. Financial giants like BlackRock are at the forefront of this movement, signaling a shift in mainstream perception and adoption of cryptocurrencies.
Historically, the introduction of new investment vehicles around Bitcoin has spurred market growth. As Markus Thielen, founder of 10x Research, highlights, the launch of spot ETFs could bring about a new wave of institutional involvement, potentially driving the next phase of market expansion.
This growing institutional momentum, combined with evolving regulatory frameworks, is reshaping the crypto ecosystem. However, a key question remains: Will these developments be enough to close the trust gap and push cryptocurrencies into mainstream adoption?
As we stand at this crossroads, the future of digital assets hangs in the balance. The coming years will be critical in determining whether cryptocurrencies can overcome persistent skepticism and fully integrate into the global financial system, or if they will remain a niche, yet impactful, financial instrument.

Millennials and Gen Z are revolutionizing the financial landscape, leveraging cryptocurrencies to challenge traditional systems and redefine money itself. Curious about how this shift affects your financial future? Let's uncover the powerful changes they’re driving!
The financial world is undergoing a significant transformation, largely driven by Millennials and Gen Z. These digital-native generations are embracing cryptocurrencies at an unprecedented rate, challenging traditional financial systems and catalysing a shift toward new forms of digital finance, redefining how we perceive and interact with money.
This movement is not just a fleeting trend but a fundamental change that is redefining how we perceive and interact with money.
Digital Natives Leading the Way
Growing up in the digital age, Millennials (born 1981-1996) and Gen Z (born 1997-2012) are inherently comfortable with technology. This familiarity extends to their financial behaviours, with a noticeable inclination toward adopting innovative solutions like cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology.
According to the Grayscale Investments and Harris Poll Report which studied Americans, 44% agree that “crypto and blockchain technology are the future of finance.” Looking more closely at the demographics, Millenials and Gen Z’s expressed the highest levels of enthusiasm, underscoring the pivotal role younger generations play in driving cryptocurrency adoption.
Desire for Financial Empowerment and Inclusion
Economic challenges such as the 2008 financial crisis and the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic have shaped these generations' perspectives on traditional finance. There's a growing scepticism toward conventional financial institutions and a desire for greater control over personal finances.
The Grayscale-Harris Poll found that 23% of those surveyed believe that cryptocurrencies are a long-term investment, up from 19% the previous year. The report also found that 41% of participants are currently paying more attention to Bitcoin and other crypto assets because of geopolitical tensions, inflation, and a weakening US dollar (up from 34%).
This sentiment fuels engagement with cryptocurrencies as viable investment assets and tools for financial empowerment.
Influence on Market Dynamics
The collective financial influence of Millennials and Gen Z is significant. Their active participation in cryptocurrency markets contributes to increased liquidity and shapes market trends. Social media platforms like Reddit, Twitter, and TikTok have become pivotal in disseminating information and investment strategies among these generations.
The rise of cryptocurrencies like Dogecoin and Shiba Inu demonstrates how younger investors leverage online communities to impact financial markets2. This phenomenon shows their ability to mobilise and drive market movements, challenging traditional investment paradigms.
Embracing Innovation and Technological Advancement
Cryptocurrencies represent more than just investment opportunities; they embody technological innovation that resonates with Millennials and Gen Z. Blockchain technology and digital assets are areas where these generations are not only users but also contributors.
A 2021 survey by Pew Research Center indicated that 31% of Americans aged 18-29 have invested in, traded, or used cryptocurrency, compared to just 8% of those aged 50-64. This significant disparity highlights the generational embrace of digital assets and the technologies underpinning them.
Impact on Traditional Financial Institutions
The shift toward cryptocurrencies is prompting traditional financial institutions to adapt. Banks, investment firms, and payment platforms are increasingly integrating crypto services to meet the evolving demands of younger clients.
Companies like PayPal and Square have expanded their cryptocurrency offerings, allowing users to buy, hold, and sell cryptocurrencies directly from their platforms. These developments signify the financial industry's recognition of the growing importance of cryptocurrencies.
Challenges and Considerations
While enthusiasm is high, challenges such as regulatory uncertainties, security concerns, and market volatility remain. However, Millennials and Gen Z appear willing to navigate these risks, drawn by the potential rewards and alignment with their values of innovation and financial autonomy.
In summary
Millennials and Gen Z are redefining the financial landscape, with their embrace of cryptocurrencies serving as a catalyst for broader change. This isn't just about alternative investments; it's a shift in how younger generations view financial systems and their place within them. Their drive for autonomy, transparency, and technological integration is pushing traditional institutions to innovate rapidly.
This generational influence extends beyond personal finance, potentially reshaping global economic structures. For industry players, from established banks to fintech startups, adapting to these changing preferences isn't just advantageous—it's essential for long-term viability.
As cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology mature, we're likely to see further transformations in how society interacts with money. Those who can navigate this evolving landscape, balancing innovation with stability, will be well-positioned for the future of finance. It's a complex shift, but one that offers exciting possibilities for a more inclusive and technologically advanced financial ecosystem. The financial world is changing, and it's the young guns who are calling the shots.

You might have heard of the "Travel Rule" before, but do you know what it actually mean? Let us dive into it for you.
What is the "Travel Rule"?
You might have heard of the "Travel Rule" before, but do you know what it actually mean? Well, let me break it down for you. The Travel Rule, also known as FATF Recommendation 16, is a set of measures aimed at combating money laundering and terrorism financing through financial transactions.
So, why is it called the Travel Rule? It's because the personal data of the transacting parties "travels" with the transfers, making it easier for authorities to monitor and regulate these transactions. See, now it all makes sense!
The Travel Rule applies to financial institutions engaged in virtual asset transfers and crypto companies, collectively referred to as virtual asset service providers (VASPs). These VASPs have to obtain and share "required and accurate originator information and required beneficiary information" with counterparty VASPs or financial institutions during or before the transaction.
To make things more practical, the FATF recommends that countries adopt a de minimis threshold of 1,000 USD/EUR for virtual asset transfers. This means that transactions below this threshold would have fewer requirements compared to those exceeding it.
For transfers of Virtual Assets falling below the de minimis threshold, Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs) are required to gather:
- The identities of the sender (originator) and receiver (beneficiary).
- Either the wallet address associated with each transaction involving Virtual Assets (VAs) or a unique reference number assigned to the transaction.
- Verification of this gathered data is not obligatory, unless any suspicious circumstances concerning money laundering or terrorism financing arise. In such instances, it becomes essential to verify customer information.
Conversely, for transfers surpassing the de minimis threshold, VASPs are obligated to collect more extensive particulars, encompassing:
- Full name of the sender (originator).
- The account number employed by the sender (originator) for processing the transaction, such as a wallet address.
- The physical (geographical) address of the sender (originator), national identity number, a customer identification number that uniquely distinguishes the sender to the ordering institution, or details like date and place of birth.
- Name of the receiver (beneficiary).
- Account number of the receiver (beneficiary) utilized for transaction processing, similar to a wallet address.
By following these guidelines, virtual asset service providers can contribute to a safer and more transparent virtual asset ecosystem while complying with international regulations on anti-money laundering and countering the financing of terrorism. It's all about ensuring the integrity of financial transactions and safeguarding against illicit activities.
Implementation of the Travel Rule in the United Kingdom
A notable shift is anticipated in the United Kingdom's oversight of the virtual asset sector, commencing September 1, 2023.
This seminal development comes in the form of the Travel Rule, which falls under Part 7A of the Money Laundering Regulations 2017. Designed to combat money laundering and terrorist financing within the virtual asset industry, this new regulation expands the information-sharing requirements for wire transfers to encompass virtual asset transfers.
The HM Treasury of the UK has meticulously customized the provisions of the revised Wire Transfer Regulations to cater to the unique demands of the virtual asset sector. This underscores the government's unwavering commitment to fostering a secure and transparent financial ecosystem. Concurrently, it signals their resolve to enable the virtual asset industry to flourish.
The Travel Rule itself originates from the updated version of the Financial Action Task Force's recommendation on information-sharing requirements for wire transfers. By extending these recommendations to cover virtual asset transfers, the UK aspires to significantly mitigate the risk of illicit activities within the sector.
Undoubtedly, the Travel Rule heralds a landmark stride forward in regulating the virtual asset industry in the UK. By extending the ambit of information-sharing requirements and fortifying oversight over virtual asset firms
Implementation of the Travel Rule in the European Union
Prepare yourself, as a new regulation called the Travel Rule is set to be introduced in the world of virtual assets within the European Union. Effective from December 30, 2024, this rule will take effect precisely 18 months after the initial enforcement of the Transfer of Funds Regulation.
Let's delve into the details of the Travel Rule. When it comes to information requirements, there will be no distinction made between cross-border transfers and transfers within the EU. The revised Transfer of Funds regulation recognizes all virtual asset transfers as cross-border, acknowledging the borderless nature and global reach of such transactions and services.
Now, let's discuss compliance obligations. To ensure adherence to these regulations, European Crypto Asset Service Providers (CASPs) must comply with certain measures. For transactions exceeding 1,000 EUR with self-hosted wallets, CASPs are obligated to collect crucial originator and beneficiary information. Additionally, CASPs are required to fulfill additional wallet verification obligations.
The implementation of these measures within the European Union aims to enhance transparency and mitigate potential risks associated with virtual asset transfers. For individuals involved in this domain, it is of utmost importance to stay informed and adhere to these new guidelines in order to ensure compliance.
What does the travel rules means to me as user?
As a user in the virtual asset industry, the implementation of the Travel Rule brings some significant changes that are designed to enhance the security and transparency of financial transactions. This means that when you engage in virtual asset transfers, certain personal information will now be shared between the involved parties. While this might sound intrusive at first, it plays a crucial role in combating fraud, money laundering, and terrorist financing.
The Travel Rule aims to create a safer environment for individuals like you by reducing the risks associated with illicit activities. This means that you can have greater confidence in the legitimacy of the virtual asset transactions you engage in. The regulation aims to weed out illicit activities and promote a level playing field for legitimate users. This fosters trust and confidence among users, attracting more participants and further driving the growth and development of the industry.
However, it's important to note that complying with this rule may require you to provide additional information to virtual asset service providers. Your privacy and the protection of your personal data remain paramount, and service providers are bound by strict regulations to ensure the security of your information.
In summary, the Travel Rule is a positive development for digital asset users like yourself, as it contributes to a more secure and trustworthy virtual asset industry.
Unlocking Compliance and Seamless Experiences: Tap's Proactive Approach to Upcoming Regulations
Tap is fully committed to upholding regulatory compliance, while also prioritizing a seamless and enjoyable customer experience. In order to achieve this delicate balance, Tap has proactively sought out partnerships with trusted solution providers and is actively engaged in industry working groups. By collaborating with experts in the field, Tap ensures it remains on the cutting edge of best practices and innovative solutions.
These efforts not only demonstrate Tap's dedication to compliance, but also contribute to creating a secure and transparent environment for its users. By staying ahead of the curve, Tap can foster trust and confidence in the cryptocurrency ecosystem, reassuring customers that their financial transactions are safe and protected.
But Tap's commitment to compliance doesn't mean sacrificing user experience. On the contrary, Tap understands the importance of providing a seamless journey for its customers. This means that while regulatory requirements may be changing, Tap is working diligently to ensure that users can continue to enjoy a smooth and hassle-free experience.
By combining a proactive approach to compliance with a determination to maintain user satisfaction, Tap is setting itself apart as a trusted leader in the financial technology industry. So rest assured, as Tap evolves in response to new regulations, your experience as a customer will remain top-notch and worry-free.
Unveiling the future of money: Explore the game-changing Central Bank Digital Currencies and their potential impact on finance.
Since the debut of Bitcoin in 2009, central banks have been living in fear of the disruptive technology that is cryptocurrency. Distributed ledger technology has revolutionized the digital world and has continued to challenge the corruption of central bank morals.
Financial institutions can’t beat or control cryptocurrency, so they are joining them in creating digital currencies. Governments have now been embracing digital currencies in the form of CBDCs, otherwise known as central bank digital currencies.
Central bank digital currencies are digital tokens, similar to cryptocurrency, issued by a central bank. They are pegged to the value of that country's fiat currency, acting as a digital currency version of the national currency. CBDCs are created and regulated by a country's central bank and monetary authorities.
A central bank digital currency is generally created for a sense of financial inclusion and to improve the application of monetary and fiscal policy. Central banks adopting currency in digital form presents great benefits for the federal reserve system as well as citizens, but there are some cons lurking behind the central bank digital currency facade.
Types of central bank digital currencies
While the concept of a central bank digital currency is quite easy to understand, there are layers to central bank money in its digital form. Before we take a deep dive into the possibilities presented by the central banks and their digital money, we will break down the different types of central bank digital currencies.
Wholesale CBDCs
Wholesale central bank digital currencies are targeted at financial institutions, whereby reserve balances are held within a central bank. This integration assists the financial system and institutions in improving payment systems and security payment efficiency.
This is much simpler than rolling out a central bank digital currency to the whole country but provides support for large businesses when they want to transfer money. These digital payments would also act as a digital ledger and aid in the avoidance of money laundering.
Retail CBDCs
A retail central bank digital currency refers to government-backed digital assets used between businesses and customers. This type of central bank digital currency is aimed at traditional currency, acting as a digital version of physical currency. These digital assets would allow retail payment systems, direct P2P CBDC transactions, as well as international settlements among businesses. It would be similar to having a bank account, where you could digitally transfer money through commercial banks, except the currency would be in the form of a digital yuan or euro, rather than the federal reserve of currency held by central banks.
Pros and cons of a central bank digital currency (CBDC)
Central banks are looking for ways to keep their money in the country, as opposed to it being spent on buying cryptocurrencies, thus losing it to a global market. As digital currencies become more popular, each central bank must decide whether they want to fight it or profit from the potential. Regardless of adoption, central banks creating their own digital currencies comes with benefits and disadvantages to users that you need to know.
Pros of central bank digital currency (CBDC)
- Cross border payments
- Track money laundering activity
- Secure international monetary fund
- Reduces risk of commercial bank collapse
- Cheaper
- More secure
- Promotes financial inclusion
Cons of central bank digital currency (CDBC)
- Central banks have complete control
- No anonymity of digital currency transfers
- Cybersecurity issues
- Price reliant on fiat currency equivalent
- Physical money may be eliminated
- Ban of distributed ledger technology and cryptocurrency
Central bank digital currency conclusion
Central bank money in an electronic form has been a big debate in the blockchain technology space, with so many countries considering the possibility. The European Central Bank, as well as other central banks, have been considering the possibility of central bank digital currencies as a means of improving the financial system. The Chinese government is in the midst of testing out their e-CNY, which some are calling the digital yuan. They have seen great success so far, but only after completely banning Bitcoin trading.
There is a lot of good that can come from CBDCs, but the benefits are mostly for the federal reserve system and central banks. Bank-account holders and citizens may have their privacy compromised and their investment options limited if the world adopts CBDCs.
It's important to remember that central bank digital currencies are not cryptocurrencies. They do not compete with cryptocurrencies and the benefits of blockchain technology. Their limited use cases can only be applied when reinforced by a financial system authority. Only time will tell if CBDCs will succeed, but right now you can appreciate the advantages brought to you by crypto.
Tap makes entering the Bitcoin world simple. Buy, sell, hold, and trade Bitcoin easily on our secure platform.
Welcome to this week's Crypto Update, your go-to destination for the latest news in the exciting world of cryptocurrencies. Let's dive right into the highlights of the past week in the dynamic crypto market.
Etherscan's AI Tool for Smart Contracts:
Etherscan has launched Code Reader, an advanced tool that utilizes AI to retrieve and interpret source code from specific Ethereum contract addresses. Code Reader leverages OpenAI's powerful language model to generate comprehensive insights into contract source code files. The tool allows users to gain a deeper understanding of contract code, access comprehensive lists of smart contract functions, and explore contract interactions with decentralized applications. To access and utilize Code Reader, users need a valid OpenAI API Key and sufficient OpenAI usage limits. However, researchers caution about the challenges posed by current AI models, including computing power limitations, data synchronization, network optimization, and privacy concerns.
SEC's increased scrutiny on cryptocurrencies sparks debate:
The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission's (SEC) increased scrutiny has led to a prominent debate concerning the future of XRP and Ethereum. Max Keiser, a well-known Bitcoin advocate, predicts the downfall of XRP and Ethereum due to regulatory overreach. In contrast, John Deaton, representing XRP holders, opposes this view, arguing for a more balanced regulatory approach. The cryptocurrency community is now anxiously awaiting regulatory clarity, as the SEC's actions remain unpredictable.
It's important to note that the regulatory environment is constantly evolving and can have significant impacts on the cryptocurrency market, including Ethereum. Therefore, it is advisable to stay informed about the latest developments.
A Call for Clarity: Federal reserve governor advocates for clearer crypto regulations:
Michelle Bowman, a Federal Reserve Governor, has urged global regulators to establish clearer regulations for emerging banking activities, particularly banking as a service and digital assets. She emphasized the need for a well-defined regulatory framework to address the supervisory void and uncertainties that financial institutions currently face. Bowman's call aligns with the growing demand for enhanced regulation of digital assets. A robust and comprehensive regulatory framework is crucial for ensuring the stability and integrity of the banking sector, mitigating risks, protecting consumers, and fostering innovation.
Turkish lira hit a record low against the US dollar
The Turkish lira hit a historic low, trading at 25.74 per US dollar, following Turkey's central bank decision to raise interest rates by 650 basis points to 15%. While the hike was expected, it fell short of the anticipated 21%, and analysts believe a larger increase was needed to show the government's resolve to fight inflation. The lira's devaluation has been part of a larger trend, prompting citizens to invest in alternative assets like digital currencies and gold. The central bank, now under new leadership, has adopted a more gradual approach to rate adjustments, seeking to stabilize the economy. However, the uncertainty surrounding Turkey's economic future persists.
Biggest Movers on Tap - Last 7 days


The lessons learned from FTX's downfall: understanding the implications of crypto regulations and why they are more important than ever.
The recent fall of FTX comes with devastating consequences to many, cooling the conditions of an already chilly crypto winter. While the loss of consumer funds and the drop in crypto prices across the board are detrimental to many in the new-age financial system and it’s anticipation of regulators’ reactions that are adding to the hysteria.
After taking a deep dive into exactly what happened at FTX, we take a look at the response from regulators and what this is likely to mean for the greater crypto industry.
The FTX death spiral and its effects on the crypto financial system
The history
To understand the full demise of FTX, one needs to understand its history. In 2019, when FTX launched, Binance was a prominent investor and partner. CEOs, Sam Bankman-Fried (FTX) and Changpeng Zhao (Binance) had a mutually beneficial strategic partnership and amicable relationship.
This soured as FTX grew in size and they became the two top centralized entities in the crypto ecosystem, and ultimately largest competitors. Just last year, both exchanges accounted for roughly 30% of trading volume on crypto exchanges, accounting for over $27.5 trillion.
The breakup
In 2021, things reached a pinnacle point in their relationship and FTX bought Binance out of the partnership, paying $2.1 billion, much of that with FTT, the platform’s native token. Fast forward to November 2022 and Changpeng Zhao (CZ) tweeted that he would be liquidating the FTT crypto assets as a result of Sam Bankman-Fried speaking ill of Binance to regulators and other “recent revelations”.
The allegations
It is believed these revelations were that FTX’s sister trading company, Alameda Research, was in financial trouble, an allegation made by Coindesk and Mike Burgersburg, the man who accurately predicted the Celsius crash. At this point, we should mention that Alameda and FTX’s combined FTT holdings account for 75% of the entire supply.
With Binance announcing that they were going to sell their crypto assets, accounting for 7.4% of the entire FTT supply, shockwaves were sent through the industry.
The consequences
In a matter of hours, the FTT price dropped 83%, trading at $18.72 before dropping to $3.14. In a desperate attempt to stabilize the market, Alameda offered to buy Binance’s FTT supply, to no avail.
At the same time, investors rushed to pull their funds from the exchange, estimated to be roughly $6 billion worth of net withdrawals. In light of the recent Terra LUNA crash and subsequent demise of Celsius and Voyager, investors were taking no risks.
The next twist in this unfortunate story is that FTX froze all withdrawals on the platform and announced that it was going into a “strategic transaction” with Binance, with Binance set to buy its biggest competitor. The acquisition was rumored to be worth $1.
This all came crashing down several hours later when CZ announced to his Twitter following that after reviewing the books they would no longer be moving forward with this plan.
Within 24 hours, the broader crypto assets market started to feel the effects. Bitcoin was down 16%, Ethereum down 24% and Solana, widely backed by Sam Bankman-Fried, down 43%.
On November 10, Sam Bankman-Fried announced that Alameda Research would be “winding down trading” and issued an apology to his Twitter following. FTX is in the process of sourcing funding for liquidity purposes, with the platform estimated to need around $10 billion in order to honor customers' crypto assets withdrawal requests.
What was really going on at FTX?
This story boils down to CZ tweeting that he would sell his FTT in light of allegations, which created mass FUD and subsequently led to the demise of its biggest competitor. How did a company, considered a heavyweight in the financial markets, worth $30 billion a few months prior and making 8 figures in revenue a day suddenly become insolvent?
Industry insiders believe that the relationship between FTX and Alameda was a bit more reprehensible than it appeared on the surface. Based on leaked insights into Alameda’s financials, it is speculated that Alameda used a significant portion of its FTT holdings as collateral to borrow funds from FTX (these funds being customer funds).
While illegal, this also poses a high risk that could see the collapse of both platforms, and consumer funds along with them. If this is proven to be true, jail time could ensue.
In an internal email circulated to the Binance team, CZ stated that this was not part of a greater plan, nor is it a win for Binance as the greater crypto economy will be affected. From investor trust to crypto prices dropping to the hawk-eyed regulators eagerly watching from the sidelines, the demise of FTX is in no one’s favor.
Ultimately, the same catalyst that saw the fall of Celsius has been observed here, FTX used its own token as collateral. Let this be a warning sign for any future trading platforms, and a prominent note for those working on crypto regulation.
What this means for the regulation of crypto exchanges
Before any regulators could even whisper a word, big platforms like Binance, KuCoin, OKX and more are believed to be in plans to implement Proof of Reserves accountability. This involves an independent audit of funds by a third party, made available to the public.
The Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Department of Justice (DOJ), three of the biggest financial regulators in the U.S. have begun (or are continuing, in some cases) investigations into FTX. It is believed that the Texas Securities Board started investigating the exchange and CEO in October.
In the wake of the aftermath, the White House is also calling for stronger crypto oversights and Californian regulators have announced that they are launching an investigation into FTX, asking customers affected by the virtual currency calamity to come forward.
Insiders are faulting U.S. regulators for not having more clear guidelines in place, saying that their “stringent-yet-unclear” frameworks have driven big exchanges overseas where there is even less of a regulatory landscape and taxes often go unpaid. With the proper legal framework in place, perhaps situations like these could be avoided, and instead of fleeing, people would trust in U.S. regulatory standards.
Regulators need to find a balance between creating and implementing legal frameworks that both support the innovation and development of the crypto space but at the same time keep avaricious CEOs in line and all centralized operations above board.
Regulations put in place to hinder money laundering have been successful, with little consequence to the trader. There is no reason why regulations implemented to stop such happenings in the crypto world could not have the same success.
The latest crisis in the cryptocurrency space is likely to push regulators to amplify their work on building legal frameworks for platforms managing digital assets to adhere to, not just in the U.S., but globally.
What this means for crypto assets and the crypto industry
While Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana and most other cryptocurrencies are recovering from lows of yesterday, there is a somber feeling in the crypto space knowing that to the week a year ago Bitcoin and Ethereum reached their current all-time highs.
Crypto trading is known to have its risks, and the responsibility to stay within the green lines falls on the individual trader. While many investors embrace the “hodl” approach (hold the investment for long periods of time), it is of the utmost importance to stay in the know about what is happening in the market and to thoroughly, very thoroughly vet the coin they are looking to invest in.
Another, perhaps most important, precaution to take is to work only with crypto platforms that are regulated by government-endorsed financial bodies. Just because you are working with decentralized digital currencies doesn’t mean that you should throw caution to the wind and leave your funds unprotected.
Taking this very seriously, Tap is licensed and regulated by the Gibraltar Financial Services Commission and insures all funds through a reputable crypto insurance service. Rest assured that we are constantly being regulated, sticking to the stringent guidelines laid out before us, and protecting our consumers’ funds at all times.

2022 was a rollercoaster for crypto investors. Explore the reasons behind the crashes of Terra and Celsius and what the future holds.
There is seldom a dull moment in the cryptosphere. In a matter of weeks, crypto winters can turn into bull runs, high-profile celebrities can send the price of a cryptocurrency to an all-time high and big networks can go from hero to bankruptcy. While we await the next bull run, let’s dissect some of the bigger moments of this year so far.
In a matter of weeks, we saw two major cryptocurrencies drop significantly in value and later declare themselves bankrupt. Not only did these companies lose millions, but millions of investors lost immense amounts of money.
As some media sources use these stories as an opportunity to spread FUD (fear, uncertainty and doubt) about the crypto industry, in this article we’ll look at what affected these particular networks. This is not the “norm” when it comes to investing in digital assets, these are cases of not doing enough thorough research.
The Downfall of Terra
Terra is a blockchain platform that offered several cryptocurrencies (mostly stablecoins), most notably the stablecoin TerraUST (UST) and Terra (LUNA). LUNA tokens played an integral role in maintaining the price of the algorithmic stablecoins, incentivizing trading between LUNA and stablecoins should they need to increase or decrease a stablecoin's supply.
In December 2021, following a token burn, LUNA entered the top 10 biggest cryptocurrencies by market cap trading at $75. LUNA’s success was tied to that of UST. In April, UST overtook Binance USD to become the third-largest stablecoin in the cryptocurrency market. The Anchor protocol of the Terra ecosystem, which offers returns as high as 20% APY, aided UST's rise.
In May of 2022, UST unpegged from its $1 position, sending LUNA into a tailspin losing 99.9% of its value in a matter of days. The coin’s market cap dipped from $41b to $6.6m. The demise of the platform led to $60 billion of investors’ money going down the drain. So, what went wrong?
After a large sell-off of UST in early May, the stablecoin began to depeg. This caused a further mass sell-off of the algorithmic cryptocurrency causing mass amounts of LUNA to be minted to maintain its price equilibrium. This sent LUNA's circulating supply sky-rocketing, in turn crashing the price of the once top ten coin. The circulating supply of LUNA went from around 345 million to 3.47 billion in a matter of days.
As investors scrambled to try to liquidate their assets, the damage was already done. The Luna Foundation Guard (LFG) had been acquiring large quantities of Bitcoin as a safeguard against the UST stablecoin unpegging, however, this did not prove to help as the network's tokens had already entered what's known as a "death spiral".
The LFG and Do Kwon reported bought $3 billion worth of Bitcoin and stored it in reserves should they need to use them for an unpegging. When the time came they claimed to have sold around 80,000 BTC, causing havoc on the rest of the market. Following these actions, the Bitcoin price dipped below $30,000, and continued to do so.
After losing nearly 100% of its value, the Terra blockchain halted services and went into overdrive to try and rectify the situation. As large exchanges started delisting both coins one by one, Terra’s founder Do Kwon released a recovery plan. While this had an effect on the coin’s price, rising to $4.46, it soon ran its course sending LUNA’s price below $1 again.
In a final attempt to rectify the situation, Do Kwon alongside co-founder Daniel Shin hard forked the Terra blockchain to create a new version, renaming the original blockchain Terra Classic. The platform then released a new coin, Luna 2.0, while the original LUNA coin was renamed LUNC.
Reviewing the situation in hindsight, a Web3 investor and venture partner at Farmer Fund, Stuti Pandey said, “What the Luna ecosystem did was they had a very aggressive and optimistic monetary policy that pretty much worked when markets were going very well, but they had a very weak monetary policy for when we encounter bear markets.”
Then Celsius Froze Over
In mid-June 2022, Celsius, a blockchain-based platform that specializes in crypto loans and borrowing, halted all withdrawals citing “extreme market conditions”. Following a month of turmoil, Celsius officially announced that it had filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in July.
Just a year earlier, in June 2021, the platform’s native token CEL had reached its all-time high of $8.02 with a market cap of $1.9 billion. Following the platform’s upheaval, at the time of writing CEL was trading at $1.18 with a market cap of $281 million.
According to court filings, when the platform filed for bankruptcy it was $1.2 billion in the red with $5.5 billion in liabilities, of which $4.7 billion is customer holdings. A far cry from its reign as one of the most successful DeFi (decentralized finance) platforms. What led to this demise?
Last year, the platform faced its first minor bump in the road when the US states of Texas, Alabama and New Jersey took legal action against the company for allegedly selling unregistered securities to users.
Then, in April 2022, following pressure from regulators, Celsius also stopped providing interest-bearing accounts to non-accredited investors. While against the nature of DeFi, the company was left with little choice.
Things then hit the fan in May of this year. The collapse of LUNA and UST caused significant damage to investor confidence across the entire cryptocurrency market. This is believed to have accelerated the start of a "crypto winter" and led to an industry-wide sell-off that produced a bank-run-style series of withdrawals by Celsius users. In bankruptcy documents, Celsius attributes its liquidity problems to the "domino effect" of LUNA's failure.
According to the company, Celsius had 1.7 million users and $11.7 billion worth of assets under management (AUM) and had made over $8 billion in loans alongside its very high APY (annual percentage yields) of 17%.
These loans, however, came to a grinding halt when the platform froze all its clients' assets and announced a company-wide freeze on withdrawals in early June.
Celsius released a statement stating: “Due to extreme market conditions, today we are announcing that Celsius is pausing all withdrawals, Swap, and transfers between accounts. We are taking this necessary action for the benefit of our entire community to stabilize liquidity and operations while we take steps to preserve and protect assets.”
Two weeks later the platform hired restructuring expert Alvarez & Marsal to assist with alleviating the damage caused by June’s uncertainty and the mounting liquidity issues.
As of mid-July, after paying off several loans, Celsius filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of New York.
Final Thoughts
The biggest takeaway from these examples above it to always do your own research when it comes to investing in cryptocurrency or cryptocurrency platforms. Never chase “get-rich-quick” schemes, instead do your due diligence and read the fine print. If a platform is offering 20% APY, be sure to get to the bottom of how they intend to provide this. If there’s no transparency, there should be no investment.
The cryptocurrency market has been faced with copious amounts of stressors in recent months, from the demise of these networks mentioned above (alongside others like Voyager and Three Anchor Capital) to a market-wide liquidity crunch, to the recent inflation rate increases around the globe. Not to mention the fearful anticipation of regulatory changes.
If there’s one thing we know about cryptocurrencies it’s that the market as a whole is incredibly resilient. In recent weeks, prices of top cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum have slowly started to increase, causing speculation that we might finally be making our way out of the crypto winter. While this won’t be an overnight endeavour, the sentiment in the market remains hopeful.
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Livepeer is a decentralised video streaming network that aims to make video content more accessible and affordable for everyone. Launched in 2017, it was the first fully decentralised live video streaming network protocol, offering an alternative to traditional centralised streaming services like YouTube and Twitch.
The platform works by connecting video creators who need their content processed with computer operators who provide the computing power. This peer-to-peer approach can reduce streaming costs by up to 50-90% compared to traditional cloud providers while maintaining high quality and reliability.
TLDR
Decentralised video infrastructure: Livepeer is a decentralised network for limitless video computing, enabling AI processing and transcoding jobs to power the future of video.
Cost-effective streaming: Designed to make streaming more reliable while reducing costs, Livepeer acts as a decentralised marketplace for developers building applications that integrate live video and transcoding providers.
Ethereum-based protocol: Built on Ethereum, it aims to provide a blockchain-based alternative to centralised streaming services, giving developers freedom to innovate and creators independence from big platforms.
Native token (LPT): The Livepeer Token (LPT) is the protocol token of the Livepeer network, used for staking and network governance rather than direct payments.
What is Livepeer (LPT)?
Livepeer creates a global network where anyone can contribute computing power to help process video content. When someone wants to stream a video, instead of using expensive centralised servers, the content gets distributed across this network of independent computers.
The magic happens through video transcoding: the process of converting video files into different formats and quality levels so they can be watched on different devices and internet speeds. Traditional streaming services handle this with massive, expensive data centres. Livepeer does it through thousands of smaller computers around the world.
This approach benefits everyone involved. Content creators get cheaper streaming costs, computer operators earn money for contributing their resources, and viewers get the same high-quality experience they expect from streaming platforms.
The network is particularly valuable for developers building video applications, as they can tap into Livepeer's infrastructure without setting up their own expensive video processing systems.
Who created Livepeer?
Livepeer was founded in 2017 by Doug Petkanics and Eric Tang, both entrepreneurial software engineers who had been long-time collaborators before starting the project.
Doug Petkanics serves as CEO and brings over 10 years of experience as an entrepreneur and software developer. Before Livepeer, he was a co-founder and VP of Engineering at Wildcard and attended the University of Pennsylvania.
Eric Tang, who serves as CTO, co-founded Livepeer to utilise blockchain technology to reduce costs and increase efficiency in video streaming. The platform has grown significantly under their leadership, now featuring more than 70,000 GPUs that encode videos for large platforms.
The founding team recognised that video streaming was becoming increasingly expensive and centralised, with a few big companies controlling most of the infrastructure. They set out to democratise video streaming by creating a decentralised alternative that could compete on both cost and performance.
How does Livepeer work?
Video transcoding network
The core of Livepeer is its video transcoding network. When someone uploads a video, it needs to be converted into multiple formats and quality levels (like 1080p, 720p, 480p) so it can be watched on different devices and internet connections.
Instead of using one large data centre, Livepeer distributes this work across thousands of computers worldwide. These computers, called "orchestrators," compete to provide the best service at the lowest cost.
Staking and network security
Computer operators who want to join the network must stake LPT tokens as a form of security deposit. This ensures they'll do good work; if they provide poor service or try to cheat, they can lose their staked tokens.
Users can also "delegate" their LPT tokens to trusted orchestrators, earning a share of the rewards while helping secure the network without running their own hardware.
Economic incentives
The network creates a marketplace where video processing jobs go to the orchestrators offering the best combination of price, quality, and reliability. This competition naturally drives down costs while maintaining high standards.
Payments for video processing are typically made in ETH or other cryptocurrencies, while LPT tokens are used for staking and governance rather than direct transactions.
What Is LPT?
LPT is a staking token in the Livepeer Network that helps reduce costs for video broadcasters. Unlike many crypto tokens, LPT isn't primarily used for payments, it also provides:
- Network security: Orchestrators must stake LPT tokens to participate in the network, ensuring they provide reliable service.
- Governance rights: LPT holders can vote on important network decisions and protocol upgrades.
- Delegation rewards: Token holders can delegate their LPT to orchestrators and earn a portion of the fees those orchestrators collect.
- Work token: LPT represents the right to perform work on the network and earn fees from video processing jobs.
The token follows an inflationary model where new LPT is created to reward network participants, but this inflation is balanced by the value created through network usage and growth.
How can I buy and sell LPT?
If you're interested in exploring LPT, you can do so easily through the Tap app. The app supports buying, selling, trading, and storing LPT tokens, allowing verified users to manage LPT alongside other digital assets.
When considering LPT investment, it's important to understand that the token's value is closely tied to the network's adoption and usage. As more developers and content creators use Livepeer's infrastructure, the demand for LPT staking and the overall network value should increase accordingly.

Polkastarter represents one of the leading decentralised launchpad platforms in the blockchain ecosystem, focused on empowering early-stage crypto projects to raise funds and launch tokens. First launched in December 2020, it has established itself as a prominent player in the Initial DEX Offering (IDO) space, providing a secure and efficient environment for project launches.
The platform has facilitated the launch of over 100 projects, demonstrating its significant impact on the crypto funding landscape. Polkastarter also features a dedicated marketing team, including video production and design, providing support beyond just the technical infrastructure.
TLDR
Multi-chain launchpad: Polkastarter is a decentralised platform that enables crypto projects to conduct token sales and fundraising campaigns across multiple blockchain networks.
Fixed-price swaps: The platform's main offering is its fixed-swap smart contract, which allows projects to easily launch liquidity pools that execute orders at a fixed price, rather than using traditional AMM models.
Cross-chain support: Polkastarter currently supports Ethereum, BNB Chain, Polygon, Celo, and Avalanche, providing flexibility for projects across different ecosystems.
Native token (POLS): POLS serves as the platform's utility token, providing access to IDO participation, governance rights, and various platform benefits.
What is Polkastarter (POLS)?
Polkastarter is a decentralised launchpad platform designed to democratise access to early-stage crypto investments through Initial DEX Offerings (IDOs). The platform serves as a bridge between innovative blockchain projects seeking funding and investors looking for early access to promising tokens.
The platform's core innovation lies in its fixed-swap mechanism, which provides predictable pricing for token sales rather than the variable pricing models used by automated market makers. This approach offers greater transparency and certainty for both projects and investors during token launch events.
Beyond the launchpad functionality, Polkastarter runs an internal incubation and advisory program, bringing together experience and lessons learned from 100+ project launches to nurture and grow Web3 projects, helping to ensure that projects launched on the platform receive proper guidance and support.
The platform takes security seriously by carefully reviewing each project before allowing it to launch. This screening process helps ensure that only legitimate, high-quality projects reach investors, protecting users from scams and poorly developed tokens.
Who created Polkastarter?
Polkastarter was founded in 2020 by Daniel Stockhaus, Tiago Martins, and Miguel Leite. The founding team brought together diverse expertise in business development, technology, and product management to address the growing need for reliable fundraising infrastructure in the decentralised finance space.
Daniel Stockhaus serves as CEO and Co-founder, leading the platform's strategic direction and business development efforts. Under his leadership, the platform has grown from a startup concept to one of the most recognised launchpad platforms in the crypto industry.
The founding team recognised the challenges faced by early-stage crypto projects in accessing capital and the difficulties investors encountered in finding legitimate investment opportunities. Their solution was to create a platform that could serve both sides of this equation while maintaining high standards for security and project quality.
How does Polkastarter work?
Launchpad mechanism
To participate in token launches, users need to hold POLS tokens, with different amounts unlocking various access levels. The more POLS you hold, the better your chances of getting into popular launches and the more you can invest.
Projects set fixed prices for their tokens rather than using changing market prices. This means investors know exactly what they're paying and how many tokens they'll get before they invest.
Multi-chain infrastructure
Polkastarter works across several different blockchains, so projects can pick the one that best fits their needs. Some chains have lower fees, others are faster, and some have different user communities.
Project curation and support
As mentioned above, before any project can launch on Polkastarter, it goes through a thorough review process. The team checks the technology, verifies who's behind the project, and evaluates whether the business makes sense.
Projects also get help with marketing, strategy advice, and technical support to give them the best chance of success both during their launch and afterwards.
What Is POLS?
POLS is the native utility token of the Polkastarter ecosystem, serving a range of functions within the ecosystem:
- Tier access: Users must hold and stake POLS tokens to access different participation tiers in IDO launches, with higher holdings providing better benefits and guaranteed allocations.
- Governance rights: POLS holders can participate in platform governance decisions, voting on proposals that affect the platform's future development and policies.
- Staking rewards: Token holders can stake their POLS to earn rewards while maintaining their tier status for IDO participation.
- Platform fees: POLS can be used to pay for various platform services and may provide discounts on transaction fees.
How can I buy and sell POLS?
POLS tokens are available on Tap, allowing verified users to easily buy, sell, and trade the token. Before investing in POLS, we encourage you to consider how useful the token is on the Polkastarter platform and how much the launchpad space is growing. The token’s value depends largely on the platform’s success and how widely IDO fundraising is adopted.

Managing payments across borders remains one of the biggest operational challenges for expanding businesses. While digital transformation has touched nearly every aspect of commerce, international banking is currently lagging behind with separate systems for crypto and traditional currency transactions, creating unnecessary complexity.
Tap solves this problem by offering each business a multi-currency account with a dedicated IBAN that functions as a bridge between these two financial worlds. For businesses handling both crypto and fiat currencies, this means one unified system rather than juggling multiple accounts and conversion processes. This isn't just convenient - it directly impacts your bottom line by reducing transaction fees, speeding up settlements, and simplifying reconciliation.
If you're handling international payments or considering crypto adoption, this could significantly streamline your financial operations. Here's what you need to know.
What is a business IBAN?
An IBAN (International Bank Account Number) serves as your business's financial passport - a standardised identifier recognised across 78+ countries. Unlike traditional account numbers, a Business IBAN follows a structured format that includes country codes, bank identifiers, and your unique account number.
What sets Tap's approach apart is the integration of this established banking standard with crypto functionality. Instead of operating in parallel financial universes, your transactions (whether in euros, dollars, or Bitcoin) flow through a single identifiable channel.
For finance teams, this means the end of reconciliation nightmares. For your customers and partners, it means one consistent payment destination regardless of their preferred currency.
How Business IBANs Work
The mechanics behind modern business transactions
A Business IBAN functions as the digital coordinates for your company's financial location in the global banking ecosystem. When properly implemented, it creates a frictionless path for money to flow into and out of your business regardless of currency type or originating country.
Sending and receiving payments
When receiving payments, your Business IBAN acts as a universal identifier that works across different payment systems. Clients simply enter your IBAN (and sometimes BIC code) into their banking platform, eliminating the confusion of different account number formats across countries.
For outgoing payments, the process works in reverse. You provide the recipient's IBAN, specify the amount, and Tap's platform handles the routing complexities behind the scenes. This standardisation prevents the common errors that lead to payment delays and rejection fees.
What separates Tap's system from conventional banking is the integration layer that works with both crypto and traditional currencies. When a client pays in Bitcoin, for example, you can choose to receive it as cryptocurrency or have it automatically converted to your preferred fiat currency before it reaches your account.
Banking networks demystified
Business IBANs interact with several key payment networks:
SEPA (Single Euro Payments Area): Covering 36 European countries, SEPA processes euro-denominated transfers typically within one business day at low fixed costs. Your Business IBAN automatically routes euro payments through this network without requiring a separate setup.
SWIFT (Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunication): The backbone of international banking, SWIFT connects over 11,000 financial institutions worldwide.
Real-world transaction example
Consider a UK-based e-commerce business receiving payment from a German customer:
- The customer initiates a €5,000 payment to the merchant's business IBAN
- The transaction enters the SEPA network and arrives in the merchant's Tap account within hours
- The merchant can either keep the funds in euros or convert to GBP at their preferred timing
- If choosing to convert, Tap executes the exchange at market rates with minimal spread
- The funds become available for business operations, supplier payments, or withdrawal
This same process that once required multiple accounts, banking relationships, and days of processing now happens automatically through a single business IBAN. For businesses managing dozens or hundreds of such transactions monthly, the efficiency gains and cost savings compound significantly.
The ability to handle these complex financial pathways through one unified system represents the core value proposition of modern business IBANs - simplicity on the surface, sophisticated routing underneath.
Cross-border advantages that impact your bottom line
The practical benefits of a business IBAN become immediately apparent in cross-border transactions:
- Reduced rejection rates: correctly formatted IBANs virtually eliminate payment failures due to incorrect account details
- Faster settlement times: direct routing through the SEPA network for European transactions
- Lower transaction costs: fewer intermediaries means fewer fees eating into your margins
- Simplified compliance: clearer transaction trails for more straightforward reporting
Bridging crypto and traditional finance
The crypto market now represents a $2 trillion opportunity that many businesses struggle to tap into due to technical and operational barriers. A business account with Tap eliminates these obstacles by providing:
- Seamless conversion between crypto and fiat currencies
- Consolidated financial reporting across all currency types
- Regulatory compliance built into the platform
- Reduced exposure to crypto volatility through instant conversion options
For businesses cautiously exploring crypto acceptance, this hybrid approach offers a low-risk entry point without requiring major infrastructure changes.
Implementation without disruption
Setting up a business account through Tap requires minimal operational changes:
- Fill in the contact form to initiate a callback
- Complete the business account set-up and verification process
- Receive your unique account with IBAN
- Update payment details with clients and suppliers
- Integrate with your existing accounting systems
The entire process typically takes less than 48 hours, with Tap's team handling the technical heavy lifting.
Is a Tap business account right for your growth strategy?
It's worth considering a business account if your company:
- Operates in multiple countries or currencies
- Needs to reduce payment processing costs
- Wants to accept crypto payments without complexity
- Are looking to streamline financial operations
As payment landscapes continue evolving, businesses that implement flexible, future-proof solutions gain a significant competitive advantage in customer experience and operational efficiency.
Explore how a business IBAN could fit into your financial infrastructure by visiting Tap's business solutions page, from where a dedicated account manager can discuss potential savings based on your specific transaction patterns.
The business world won't wait for outdated payment systems to catch up. The question isn't whether you need more efficient payment solutions - it's how quickly you can implement them.

Anyone who’s been here long enough can tell you that the crypto space has long been dominated by headlines about dramatic price swings, viral meme coins, and speculative trading frenzies. While these stories grab public attention, they overshadow a far more significant development: the steady construction of digital infrastructure that's quietly reshaping how we think about money, ownership, and global coordination.
This infrastructure (comprising protocols, networks, and platforms) represents the foundational layer upon which the future digital economy will be built. Understanding its importance requires looking beyond the noise of market speculation to examine the technological bedrock that makes decentralised applications, global finance, and new forms of digital cooperation possible.
Some will argue that the journey from surface-level crypto awareness to deep appreciation of its infrastructure parallels the early internet's evolution. Just as few people in the 1990s understood TCP/IP protocols while browsing the web, today's crypto users often interact with sophisticated infrastructure without recognising its complexity or potential. So, let’s go there.
Understanding crypto infrastructure
Crypto infrastructure encompasses the foundational systems that enable decentralised networks to function. At its core, this includes Layer 1 blockchains like Bitcoin and Ethereum, which serve as base settlement layers. Layer 2 solutions build on top of these foundations, provide faster transactions and reduced costs while still maintaining the security of the underlying chain.
Stay with me; beyond the blockchain layers themselves, crypto infrastructure encompasses decentralised storage networks, oracle systems that connect blockchains to real-world data, cross-chain bridges, and smart contract platforms that enable programmable money and automated agreements.
Here, the comparison to internet infrastructure development resurfaces. Just as the internet required foundational protocols like TCP/IP for data transmission and HTTP for web browsing, crypto requires its own stack of interoperable protocols. Ethereum's introduction of smart contracts in 2015 paralleled the web's evolution from static pages to dynamic applications, enabling what we now call Web3.
This infrastructure exhibits composability, allowing different protocols and applications to interact seamlessly, thereby creating network effects where each new component enhances the utility of existing ones.
For example, a decentralised exchange can integrate with a lending protocol, which connects to an insurance platform, all running on shared infrastructure and speaking the same digital language.
The role of infrastructure in real-world use cases
Let's take a look at perhaps the most mature application of crypto infrastructure: Decentralised finance (DeFi). Platforms like Uniswap have processed hundreds of billions in trading volume without traditional intermediaries, while lending protocols enable global credit markets operating 24/7 without geographic restrictions. Let the record state that these are not theoretical experiments: they're functioning financial systems serving millions of users.
Non-fungible tokens (NFTs), despite their heavy association with speculative art markets, demonstrate infrastructure capabilities for digital ownership and provenance. The underlying technology enables everything from supply chain tracking to digital identity verification, with applications extending far beyond collectables.
Looking at another example, Decentralised Autonomous Organisations (DAOs) showcase how crypto infrastructure can enable new forms of governance and coordination. Organisations like MakerDAO govern multi-billion-dollar protocols through token-based voting, while smaller DAOs coordinate everything from research funding to community management without traditional corporate structures.
Global remittances showcase the infrastructure's practical impact. Traditional international transfers often take days and attract significant fees, especially for users in developing nations. However, crypto infrastructure enables near-instant, low-cost transfers that bypass legacy banking systems, providing financial inclusion for underserved populations.
Looking further, storage networks like Filecoin and IPFS show us how crypto principles apply beyond finance. These systems create decentralised alternatives to centralised cloud storage, with cryptoeconomic incentives ensuring data persistence and availability without relying on corporate guarantees.
Finally (for now), oracle networks like Chainlink bridge the gap between blockchain systems and external data, enabling smart contracts to respond to real-world events. This infrastructure component is essential for applications ranging from crop insurance to prediction markets.
Why infrastructure trumps hype
Unfortunately, hype cycles are inevitable in emerging technologies. Let’s look at the internet again, which experienced multiple boom-bust cycles, from the dot-com bubble to social media speculation, yet the underlying infrastructure continued evolving throughout these times.
Crypto follows a similar pattern: speculative excess grabs headlines, but fundamental infrastructure development goes on regardless of market sentiment.
→ Layer 1 blockchain innovation continues advancing despite price volatility.
→ Ethereum's transition to proof-of-stake reduced energy consumption by over 99% while maintaining security.
→ New consensus mechanisms and scaling solutions emerge regularly, addressing earlier limitations through technological iteration rather than marketing promises.
Take Layer 2 scaling solutions for instance, these have matured significantly, with platforms like Arbitrum and Polygon processing thousands of transactions per second at fraction-of-a-penny costs without making front page news. These developments solve practical problems that enable broader adoption, creating value through utility rather than speculation.
Infrastructure ensures long-term utility by focusing on fundamental capabilities rather than short-term price appreciation. A robust smart contract platform retains value whether tokens cost $10 or $10,000, because its utility derives from enabling new applications and business models, not from speculative trading.
Public blockchains: root access for everyone
Now, for public blockchains. These provide something unprecedented in digital systems: root access for ordinary users. In traditional computing, root access gives complete control over a system, typically reserved for administrators. Public blockchains extend analogous privileges to anyone with an internet connection, enabling direct interaction with global financial infrastructure without permission from intermediaries.
This represents a fundamental shift in digital sovereignty. Users can hold assets, execute contracts, and participate in governance without relying on banks, corporations, or governments to maintain accounts or process transactions. The infrastructure operates according to transparent rules encoded in software rather than opaque policies subject to change.
Shared governance emerges naturally from this design, as protocol changes require community consensus, enabling systems to evolve through democratic participation rather than top-down corporate decision-making. Now, token holders can vote on upgrades, fee structures, and resource allocation, participating in economic governance at a scale previously impossible.
On top of this, interoperability benefits from shared standards and open protocols. This allows applications built on public infrastructure to integrate seamlessly, creating network effects that strengthen the entire ecosystem. Or a wallet application that works across multiple platforms, a lending protocol that can source liquidity from various exchanges, and identity systems that can port credentials between services.
This also means that censorship resistance can become a practical reality rather than a theoretical ideal. Transactions can now execute according to protocol rules rather than institutional policies, providing financial access to users regardless of political status, geographic location, or social standing. This infrastructure has proven particularly valuable for individuals in countries with capital controls or political instability.
Limitations and criticisms
We cannot celebrate the highs without addressing the lows. Firstly, scalability remains a significant challenge for blockchain infrastructure. Bitcoin processes roughly seven transactions per second, while Ethereum handles about fifteen, far below Visa's theoretical capacity of 65,000 transactions per second.
Of course, this comparison oversimplifies the trade-offs involved, as Layer 2 solutions and alternative consensus mechanisms continue improving throughput while maintaining decentralisation and security properties.
Another media-preferred limitation is energy consumption, particularly for proof-of-work systems like Bitcoin. What the media don’t reveal is that the narrative of excessive energy use often ignores several factors: Bitcoin mining increasingly uses renewable energy sources, proof-of-stake systems like Ethereum consume negligible energy, and the current financial system's energy footprint includes bank branches, data centers, and cash transportation networks rarely counted in comparisons.
Looking at governance, challenges can arise from the tension between decentralisation and coordination. Protocol forks like Bitcoin Cash and Ethereum Classic demonstrate how communities sometimes split over technical or philosophical disagreements. While these events can be disruptive, they also illustrate the system's ability to accommodate different visions rather than forcing consensus.
The Bank for International Settlements (BIS) has raised concerns about trust, scalability, and institutional integration in crypto systems. Their perspective highlights important considerations: public blockchains require users to trust cryptography and consensus mechanisms rather than institutional guarantees, scalability improvements often involve trade-offs in decentralisation, and integration with existing financial infrastructure remains complex.
However, many criticisms reflect misunderstandings about ongoing development. "Crypto is too slow" ignores Layer 2 innovations that achieve traditional payment system speeds while maintaining blockchain security guarantees. "Bitcoin uses too much energy" doesn't account for proof-of-stake alternatives or renewable energy adoption in mining operations.
Enter a new paradigm: the crypto economy
The crypto economy fundamentally shifts how digital systems create value. Traditional platforms extract wealth through data collection while users provide free content and attention. Crypto infrastructure flips this model: users own platform stakes, earn tokens for contributions, and participate in governance decisions.
This infrastructure operates without geographic boundaries. A Nigerian developer receives payment from a Swedish client through the same system enabling a Singapore DAO to fund global research. Smart contracts automate complex relationships: insurance pays out based on weather data, funds rebalance algorithmically, and revenue is distributed to thousands of contributors simultaneously.
The notion that "crypto will eat the digital economy" reflects the infrastructure's potential to reorganise systems around user ownership rather than platform extraction. This is proven by the fast rate at which decentralised alternatives are appearing, institutional blockchain adoption, and government exploration of digital currencies built on similar technologies.
Concluding thoughts
While speculation captures headlines, crypto infrastructure represents a quiet revolution in digital coordination and value transfer. Like the internet's lasting value came from enabling new applications rather than domain name speculation, crypto's impact will stem from infrastructure capabilities, not token prices.
This new infrastructure reshapes how we think about ownership, governance, and economic coordination in digital systems. It provides early examples of how future digital economies might grant users greater control and participation in the systems they use.
As this infrastructure matures, its influence will extend into areas we're only beginning to imagine. The quiet revolution of crypto infrastructure may ultimately prove more transformative than any speculative bubble, creating lasting change in how societies coordinate and create value in an increasingly digital world.

Welcome to Tap’s weekly crypto market recap.
Here are the biggest stories from last week (9 - 16 June).
🚀Tap Global Group PLC to be listed on the AIM LSE
Tap Global Group is making the jump from the AQSE Growth Market to the AIM Market of the London Stock Exchange on 27th June. The move will open the doors to more investors and better trading liquidity, especially after a strong year with record revenue and their first full-year profit.
No new shares are being issued, just a shift to a bigger stage!
📊 Macro markets & asset convergence, first time in 10 years
Stocks, gold, and Bitcoin are all climbing nearly in tandem - a rare occurance driven by dollar weakness (~9% drop YTD), global inflation concerns, and shifting investor sentiment toward alternative assets.
Galaxy Digital’s Novogratz noted this trend highlights a maturing crypto ecosystem and increasing institutional integration
🏛 U.S. crypto regulation momentum
Congress is advancing key crypto legislation: the CLARITY market-structure bill has passed two House committees, while the GENIUS stablecoin bill moves closer to a Senate vote. A new CFTC chair may also boost regulatory engagement.
This legislative progress dovetails with Circle’s IPO, marking a turning point toward crypto-friendly policies.
🚀 Pomp launching Bitcoin SPAC
Anthony Pompliano, a well-known crypto advocate and podcast host, is expected to become CEO of ProCapBTC, a new venture aiming to raise $750 million to purchase Bitcoin.
The initiative involves a merger with Columbus Circle Capital 1, a special-purpose acquisition company (SPAC) backed by investment bank Cohen & Company. The funding goal includes $500 million in equity and $250 million in convertible debt.
This move is part of a wider trend of crypto-related entities tapping into public markets amid growing optimism fueled by pro-crypto U.S. policy shifts under President Trump’s second term. If finalized, the plan would align with strategies used by firms like Michael Saylor’s MicroStrategy and Japan’s Metaplanet.
Stay tuned for next week’s instalment, delivered on Monday mornings.

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.
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