Curious whether Bitcoin or gold is the better bet? We break down the pros, cons, and what really sets them apart so you can decide what suits you best.
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Bitcoin versus gold: it's like asking whether you prefer chocolate or vanilla ice cream, except the stakes feel a bit higher when we're talking about assets that people use to preserve wealth.
This comparison has become one of the most fascinating conversations in modern finance. You'll find everyone from your tech-savvy nephew to seasoned Wall Street veterans weighing in on this debate. The reason it captures so much attention? Both assets serve similar purposes for many people in that they're often viewed as alternatives to traditional currencies and ways to maintain value over time.
Media outlets regularly feature this matchup, and it's not hard to see why. We're essentially watching a clash between the old guard and the new kid on the block, between something you can hold in your hands and something that exists purely in the digital realm.
Similarities between Bitcoin and gold
Before we dive into their differences, let's talk about what these two have in common, and honestly, it's more than you might think.
Both Bitcoin and gold operate like that friend who marches to the beat of their own drum. They don't need permission from central banks or governments to exist. Gold has been doing its own thing for thousands of years, while Bitcoin has been independently chugging along since 2009, free from the control of any single authority.
Here's where it gets interesting: both are naturally scarce. There's only so much gold buried in the earth, and Bitcoin has a built-in limit of 21 million coins. It's like having a limited-edition collectible - the scarcity is part of what makes people pay attention.
This is where the "digital gold" nickname comes from. People started calling Bitcoin this because, like gold, it's rare, it's not controlled by governments, and many view it as a way to store value. It could be gold's tech-savvy cousin who traded in the physical form for a digital existence.
Both assets have also been described as stores of value, meaning people turn to them when they want to preserve their purchasing power over time. The idea is that what you put in today will still hold meaningful value tomorrow.
Differences in utility and form
Gold has been humanity's companion for millennia. You can touch it, wear it, and even use it in your smartphone (yes, there's actually gold in there!). Industries rely on gold for everything from electronics to medical equipment. Central banks stack it in their vaults like a financial security blanket, and jewellers craft it into pieces that mark life's special moments.
Bitcoin, on the other hand, exists purely in the digital world. You can't hold it, but you can send it across the globe faster than you can say "blockchain." It's supported by a network of computers that work together to verify transactions, creating a system that operates 24/7 without taking coffee breaks.
Think of gold as the sturdy oak tree: deeply rooted, physically present, and serving multiple purposes. Bitcoin is more like the wind: you can't see it, but you can feel its effects, and it moves with incredible speed and efficiency.
Historical trends and market behaviour
Let’s take a look at how these assets have behaved over time.
Gold has earned a reputation as the steady friend who shows up when times get tough. During economic uncertainty, gold often sees increased interest as people seek stability.
Bitcoin, meanwhile, is known for its dramatic personality. It can swing from exhilarating highs to stomach-dropping lows, sometimes within the same week. This volatility means Bitcoin can experience significant price movements: some days it feels like it's reaching for the stars, other days it seems to be taking a scenic route through the valleys.
These different personalities mean they each attract different types of attention and serve different roles in people's financial lives.
Reactions to global events
Nothing reveals character quite like a crisis, and both Bitcoin and gold have had their share of testing moments.
During the 2008 financial crisis, gold saw increased demand as people sought alternatives to traditional investments. When the COVID-19 pandemic hit in 2020, gold initially attracted attention as uncertainty gripped global markets.
Bitcoin has had its own unique responses to global events. During certain periods of economic uncertainty, some have turned to Bitcoin as an alternative. However, during market stress, Bitcoin has sometimes moved in unexpected directions, reminding everyone that this digital asset often writes its own rules.
Inflationary periods have also provided interesting case studies. Gold has historically been viewed as a hedge against inflation, while Bitcoin's response has been more varied and unpredictable. The Bitcoin vs gold debate is essentially watching two different strategies play out in real-time.
Adoption and access
The way people access these assets tells its own story about our changing world.
Bitcoin has recently been making headlines with the introduction of exchange-traded funds (ETFs), making it easier for traditional investors to gain exposure without having to figure out digital wallets and private keys.
The digital nature of Bitcoin means you can access it from anywhere with an internet connection. No need to worry about storage space or security guards - just remember your password (and any other safeguards you have in place).
Gold, meanwhile, has the advantage of thousands of years of infrastructure. Banks have vaults, dealers have established networks, and there's a whole industry built around buying, selling, and storing the precious metal.
Risks and transparency
Every asset comes with its own set of considerations, and both Bitcoin and gold have their unique profiles.
Bitcoin operates in a world where regulations are still being written. There are also cybersecurity considerations, as digital assets exist in a realm where hackers and technical glitches can pose risks.
Gold has more traditional concerns. Storage and insurance can be costly, and there's always the physical risk of theft or damage. You need to think about where to keep it safe and how to protect it.
Both assets have their own transparency characteristics. Bitcoin transactions are recorded on a public ledger that anyone can view, while gold transactions often happen through traditional channels with varying levels of public visibility.
Perspectives from experts
The financial world is full of smart people with different opinions, and this topic certainly brings out diverse viewpoints.
Institutions like BlackRock have entered the Bitcoin space with ETF offerings, suggesting growing institutional interest. While the CME Group, which offers futures contracts for both assets, has observed how institutional trading has evolved for each.
These expert perspectives form part of a broader ongoing conversation about how these assets might fit into the modern financial landscape.
What's fascinating is how these viewpoints continue to evolve as both assets mature and as global economic conditions change.
Framing the question: what role might each play?
Rather than asking which is "better," perhaps the more interesting question is: what role might each play in different contexts?
Consider what qualities matter most to you in a store of value. Are you drawn to the tangible nature of physical assets, or does the digital convenience appeal to you? How do you feel about volatility: is it something you can live with, or do you prefer steadier movements?
The answer often depends on individual circumstances, goals, and comfort levels. Some people find comfort in gold's long history, while others are excited by Bitcoin's technological innovation. Some appreciate gold's physical nature, while others value Bitcoin's portability and accessibility.
These aren't questions with universal answers, they're personal considerations that vary from person to person.
Final thoughts
The Bitcoin versus gold discussion continues to evolve as both assets mature and as our understanding of their roles in modern finance deepens. Rather than viewing this as a winner-take-all scenario, perhaps the most interesting approach is to understand how each asset's unique characteristics might serve different purposes in our increasingly complex financial world.
What matters most is understanding your own needs, risk tolerance, and goals before making any financial decisions. After all, the best asset is the one that aligns with your personal circumstances and financial objectives.
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If you’re in the process of applying for a passport chances are strong that you already know the importance of needing one. Whether you’re in a terrible hurry because you forgot to check the expiry date before booking your trip or maybe lost your passport ahead of an urgent cross-border meeting, we’ve got you covered. The UK offers a service that allows applicants to fast-track their application.
Find everything you need to know about the process below, including the fees involved. And why might we, a fintech platform, be informing you about fast-tracking passports? Because we’re in the business of travel. With our world-friendly app that allows users to seamlessly switch between currencies as they swipe their cards around the world, we understand not every process is this simple. Now that we’ve covered that, let’s get into why you’re really here.
How to fast-track your passport application
Getting a passport in the UK can sometimes be a lengthy process, but luckily there are options available to speed things up. Normally, it can take up to 10 weeks to receive a new passport through the standard application process. While it may be quicker in some cases, it's always best to be prepared for a wait.
The one-week fast-track option
The first option is the 1 week Fast Track service. This service allows you to renew an adult or child passport, replace a lost or stolen passport, or update your details. You can book an appointment for this service up to 3 weeks in advance and will need a debit or credit card.
How to apply
To apply for the 1 week Fast Track service, follow these steps:
1. Visit your local Post Office branch to obtain an application form (these are not available online).
2. Book your fast-track passport appointment online.
3. Pay the fee.
4. Take your completed application form and the required supporting documents to your appointment. There is a booklet accompanying the application form that provides a list of the necessary documents.
5. Once you have completed these steps, your new passport will be delivered to your home address within a week of your appointment. It's important to note that someone needs to be present to sign for the passport upon delivery.
The costs*
The cost for the 1 week Fast Track service is £155 for an adult passport and £126 for a child passport.
The same-day fast-track option
If you need your passport even faster, there is also the Online Premium service. With this service, you can collect your new passport on the same day as your appointment. However, please note that this service is only available for adult passport renewals issued after 31 December 2001.
If you have an adult passport issued before this date, you will need to use the one-week fast-track service or the standard application process.
How to apply
To use the Online Premium service, you can simply apply and book an appointment online. The earliest appointment you can get is 2 days after applying.
The cost*
The cost of this service is £193.50 for an adult passport.
Who can use these services?
It's important to know if you are eligible for these fast-track passport services. If you are applying for your very first UK passport, unfortunately, you won't be able to use either of the fast-track services (unless applying for a child's first-time passport in which case you can use the one-week fast-track option). For everything else, you will have to go through the standard application process instead.
In conclusion
Remember, it's always best to plan ahead and apply for your passport in advance to avoid any last-minute stress and government regulation curveballs. However, if you do find yourself in need of a passport urgently, these fast-track services can be a lifesaver.
If you have any further questions or need additional assistance, don't hesitate to reach out to the appropriate passport office or visit their website for more information (listed below). They will be able to provide you with the most up-to-date details and guidance regarding the fast-track process.
*Please note that the fees were correct at the time of writing and are subject to change. Check the website page listed below to find the relevant information.
References:
- GOV.UK - Passport application service
- GOV.UK - 1 week Fast Track service
- GOV.UK - Online Premium service
Private label cards are branded payment solutions that enable businesses to offer customized rewards, incentives, and financing options to their customers and employees. These cards serve as powerful tools for driving customer loyalty, improving cash flow management, and gaining valuable spending insights. In this article, we'll guide you through the concept of private label cards, their key benefits for businesses, and delve into how they work.
What are private label cards?
Private label cards are branded payment cards issued by businesses to their customers or employees, allowing them to make purchases or access funds within a specific ecosystem or network. Unlike traditional debit or credit cards issued by a bank, private label cards are a product tailored to the branding and specific needs of the issuing company.
These cards differ from traditional cards in several ways. Firstly, they are not tied to a specific financial institution but rather to the company's brand and loyalty program. Secondly, they often offer unique rewards and incentives tailored to the business's products or services. Additionally, private label cards provide businesses with valuable customer data and insights, enabling targeted marketing efforts and personalized experiences.
Private label cards and fintechs
In recent years, fintech platforms have revolutionized the issuance and management of private label cards. These technology-driven companies act as program managers, handling the end-to-end process of card issuance, transaction processing, and compliance adherence.
By partnering with fintech platforms like Tap, businesses can efficiently launch and manage their private label card programs, leveraging advanced technologies, scalability, and industry expertise without the need for extensive in-house resources.
How private label cards benefit businesses
Private label cards empower businesses to strengthen customer relationships, optimize financial operations, and gain a competitive edge through tailored rewards, data-driven insights, and robust security measures. Let’s explore some of these concepts below:
Drive business
Private label cards offer businesses a range of benefits that can drive customer loyalty, enhance brand recognition, and streamline operations. By offering customizable rewards and loyalty programs tailored to their products or services, businesses can incentivize customers to make repeat purchases while simultaneously collecting data on customer preferences, fostering long-term relationships and brand advocacy.
Cash flow management
Private label cards provide businesses with a valuable tool for cash flow management. By encouraging customers to use their branded cards, companies can receive payments more quickly, improving their working capital and financial flexibility.
Collect data and analytics
One of the key advantages of private label cards is the wealth of data and analytics they provide. Businesses can gain insights into customer spending patterns, preferences, and behaviours, enabling data-driven decision-making and targeted marketing strategies.
Security benefits
Additionally, private label card programs prioritize security and fraud prevention measures. Fintech platforms offering these solutions employ advanced technologies and protocols to safeguard customer information and transactions, providing businesses and their customers with peace of mind.
The differences between private label and co-branded cards
Private label cards are issued by a single retailer or business, bearing their branding and tailored rewards program. Co-branded cards, however, involve a partnership between a merchant and a major card network (Visa, Mastercard), carrying dual branding.
In general, private label cards offer more customization and control for the merchant but may have limited acceptance outside their network. They can also drive stronger loyalty but require more resources to manage.
Co-branded cards, on the other hand, have wider acceptance but less flexibility in terms of rewards/benefits. As they leverage an existing card network's infrastructure, they offer less differentiation.
The choice depends on the merchant's goals; private label are beneficial for deeper customization and loyalty while co-branded cards off wider acceptance and shared resources with a card network partner.
How private label cards work
Private label cards are issued through a collaborative process involving businesses and fintech platforms. Businesses define the card program's features, branding, and reward structure, while fintech platforms handle the technical and operational aspects. As program managers, fintech companies then oversee card issuance, transaction processing, and data management, leveraging their expertise and scalable technologies.
The importance of compliance and adherence to regulatory requirements cannot be underestimated or overlooked when looking at the issuance of private label cards. Fintech platforms need to ensure that card programs comply with industry standards, data privacy laws, and anti-fraud measures, providing businesses with a secure and reliable payment solution.
Regular audits and risk assessments are conducted to maintain compliance and mitigate potential risks. Businesses must always do their research before engaging in private label card issuance with a fintech platform.
Examples of use cases
Private label cards can offer a range of use cases across various industries. See several examples below:
Retail and e-commerce
In the retail and e-commerce sectors, they serve as powerful loyalty tools, incentivizing customers with tailored rewards and exclusive offers. Businesses can leverage these cards to drive repeat purchases and foster brand loyalty. An example would be the Amazon Store Card.
Corporate expense management
Corporate organizations utilize private label cards for streamlined expense management, enabling employees to make authorized purchases while providing detailed spending data for analysis and budgeting purposes.
These cards also facilitate employee incentive and recognition programs, rewarding high-performers with customized benefits and privileges. An example of this would be a company card issued to employees to use for company expenses.
Specific purposes
Additionally, private label cards can be issued as prepaid cards for specific purposes, such as payroll disbursements, gift cards, or restricted-use cards for controlled spending. This versatility allows businesses to tailor card programs to their unique needs, ensuring efficient fund management and targeted usage.
An example of this could be a corporate-branded preloaded gift card for promotional purposes allowing holders to buy something in-store using the card.
How to create a private label card for your business
With Tap, you can seamlessly integrate private label card programs into your operations. Tap streamlines the entire card issuance and management process, allowing companies to leverage off their advanced technologies and industry expertise.
By partnering with Tap, you gain access to a scalable and flexible solution, enabling you to launch and adapt card programs efficiently, tailored to your company’s specific needs. Tap's platform offers robust features, real-time analytics, and end-to-end support, empowering every businesses to deliver tailored payment experiences while ensuring compliance and security.
With Tap, you have the power to not only launch and adapt your card programs efficiently but also to customise the fees charged to your users. Our approach is entirely flexible, allowing you to set charges that align with your clientele's needs. Our platform offers unparalleled freedom, allowing you to tailor your card programs precisely to your company's needs and goals.
Conclusion
In summary, private label cards empower businesses with a versatile payment solution that promotes customer loyalty, optimizes operations, and delivers valuable data insights. Whether for retail, corporate, or specific use cases, private label cards offer a competitive edge through tailored rewards, data-driven strategies, and enhanced customer experiences - paving the way for business growth.
Please contact xxx for further information on setting up your private label card.
Did you know that there are five different ways we express our love through money? Below we break down the original five love languages and then explain how these can be integrated into a financial setting. Knowledge is power, after all.
The original five love languages
The original five love languages were first introduced by Dr. Gary Chapman in his book "The 5 Love Languages: The Secret to Love that Lasts" offering insight into how we convey our love and how we hope to receive it. The five love languages are:
Words of affirmation
Expressing love and appreciation through verbal or written compliments, praise, and kind words.
Quality time
Showing love by giving undivided attention and spending meaningful quality time together.
Receiving gifts
Demonstrating love through thoughtful and meaningful gifts, usually involves around both giving and receiving gifts.
Acts of service
Expressing love by performing acts of kindness and service for the other person.
Physical touch
Showing affection and love through physical touch, such as hugs, kisses, and holding hands.
These love languages help individuals understand how they prefer to give and receive love. The book also states that recognizing and speaking each other's love languages can strengthen relationships.
What are the financial love languages?
Taking the original pillars, we’ve created five money love languages to give you an idea of how you financially show up in relationships (family, love or otherwise). Whether you share a flat with your brother, a business with a friend, or a joint account with a partner, everyone will be able to relate to these financial love languages. Afterall, managing money in a positive light is the cornerstone of any healthy relationship.
The five financial love languages
There’s value in being attuned to your own patterns, and to those of the ones you love. By recognising your partner's money love language you might get a better objective of how to create more harmony in the relationship by understanding what drives them to spend money. Without further adieu, let’s get into the five money love languages.
Open communication
While there are few topics less pleasant to talk about than money, having open and honest communication when it comes to the benjamins is not only valuable but essential. Having the skill, or having honed the skill should we say, to speak about financial matters with a loved one is an accolade, and for some, the most natural money love language. These chats will likely make you feel empowered and more connected to those around you, making it easier to be on the same page.
Acts of service: money edition
While the original acts of service encompass doing things that make the lives of those you love a little easier, in this context acts of service relate to money-related tasks such as taxes or budgeting. Having someone do your taxes as an act of love might be a bit ambitious, so let’s look at alternatives. It could be organising the holiday budget or creating an action plan to get your friend out of debt, or simply fixing something for you in order to save you money.
Love in savings
While it doesn’t sound like the sexiest option, planning for the future and having financial security is an invaluable act of love. Whether through investments, retirement plans, or even an emergency fund, what doesn’t say “I love you” if not “let’s make a financial decision to grow old together.” Some people's love language is expressing affection through providing, so why not let them put their planning skills and diligence to the test and shower you with their love? It might even help you reach your financial goals that much faster.
Experiencing something together
This person’s money love language is expressing their fondness through experiences and quality time, spending money on taking a trip, going on an exciting date night, or simply a new adventure. Through investing in time and experiences, you are quite simply saying I value spending time with you more than I value monetary gains.
The art of gifting
The last money love language we have for you today centers around gift-giving. Are you someone who likes to shower friends with presents, or love to spoil your significant other with something wonderful? Then this one’s for you. While this shouldn’t ever involve draining your bank account, pouring your love (and money) into an appropriate gift is a great way to show affection. Remember, it’s often the thought that counts rather than the price tag.
Which is your money love language?
Which of these do you most resonate with? Sometimes by identifying these intrinsic needs, we are able to better understand not only ourselves but our expectations of others. Whatever your financial love language might be, be sure to pour the greatest amount of love into your own finances and steadily work toward reaching your financial goals.
In the ever-evolving world of finance, delivering seamless payment experiences is paramount for businesses aiming to stand out. Here enters the game-changer: white-label payment solutions. These innovative services empower businesses to present their unique branded payment methods, all backed by the cutting-edge technology and infrastructure of established third-party providers.
These customisable payment solutions are becoming increasingly relevant, as the global digital payment market continues to soar. According to data collected by Markets and Markets, the global digital payments market size was valued at $111.2 billion in 2023 and is anticipated to reach $193.7 billion by 2028.
What's driving this remarkable growth? Businesses are recognising the immense value that white-label payment solutions can bring to the table.
What are white-label payment solutions?
Anyone in business will confirm that prioritising strong customer connections is essential. White-label payment solutions provide a special chance to not just boost brand identity but also to nurture customer loyalty.
The centrepiece of these problem-solving solutions is the branded payment card. By incorporating a company's logo, colours, and design, these cards become a constant visual reminder of the brand, reinforcing recognition and familiarity with every use.
Beyond aesthetics, these branded cards also serve as powerful engagement tools. By coupling payment capabilities with customer-centric perks like discounts, rewards, and personalised offers, businesses can incentivise frequent usage and higher spending. The cards transform into valuable marketing platforms, enabling direct communication and tailored promotions that boost customer satisfaction and loyalty.
Ultimately, customised payment solutions empower businesses to strengthen their brand presence, differentiate themselves in the market, and forge deeper, more meaningful relationships with their customers.
The power of white-label payment solutions
By leveraging these tailored services, companies can tap into several benefits as outlined below:
Enhance brand identity
White-label payments enable businesses to seamlessly integrate their brand's unique visual elements, messaging, and personality into the payment process - a crucial touchpoint that shapes customer perception. Additionally, it can further establish the brand’s credibility and expertise within its industry.
Improve customer loyalty
A cohesive, branded payment experience fosters a stronger connection between the business and its customers, enhancing loyalty and retention.
Leverage advanced functionality
White-label solutions offer a wide array of cutting-edge payment features and capabilities, allowing businesses to cater to evolving customer preferences and stay ahead of the competition.
Streamline payment processes
By outsourcing the technical complexities of payment processing, businesses can focus on their core operations while delivering a streamlined, hassle-free payment experience.
Industries that leverage white-label payment solutions
While white-label products can be applied across a multitude of industries, certain business categories have particularly excelled at leveraging this strategic approach:
Retail giants
Large retailers like Whole Foods and Walmart have effectively developed their own branded products, manufactured by third-party providers. This allows them to cater to the unique needs and preferences of their customer base in real-time.
Electronics manufacturers
The appeal of white-labelling extends beyond retail. Top-tier mobile and computer manufacturers often utilise white-label products to expand their portfolios, positioning more affordable, branded offerings alongside premium lines.
Transnational corporations
The white-label trend has gained significant traction among major corporations. Pioneered by Tesco in 1998, the strategy of segmenting customers and cultivating tailored brands has been widely emulated. Target, for instance, seamlessly integrates over 10 distinct white-label brands, each catering to specific demographics and generating over $1 billion in annual revenue.
Across diverse industries, from grocery to electronics, businesses have capitalised on the versatility and commercial benefits of white-label solutions. This empowers them to better align their offerings with evolving customer demands and solidify their competitive edge in the marketplace.
Tap’s white-label card offering
As part of Tap’s business solutions, the fintech platform offers an easy card-issuing service for businesses of any size. As we’re fully accredited, we can give partner companies Mastercard-powered private cards quickly and inexpensively compared to integrating directly with financial services.
In 2023, Tap teamed up with Bitfinex, a major crypto exchange, to make a customisable prepaid card for the company to offer to their customers. Bitfinex used Tap's financial system to offer their clients a special payment choice and make extra money.
Tap's big advantage is its ability to issue cards and its own processing system, allowing businesses to make their own branded cards efficiently and effectively. With Tap's programs, companies can smoothly add custom payment options that fit their needs, whether they deal in regular money or cryptocurrencies.
If you’re interested in accessing these services, please get in touch here or through the website.
Athens, 09 April 2024
TAP'S ODYSSEY IN GLOBAL EXPANSION: ATHENS, GREECE OFFICES BEGIN OPERATIONS
Taking a significant step that embodies its global expansion goals and steadfast dedication to transforming the financial services industry, Tap is delighted to reveal the launch of its new offices in the historic city of Athens, Greece.
This move serves as a testament to the company's commitment to integrating the wisdom of ancient financial principles with the ingenuity of modern technology. Nestled in the city that birthed democracy, the new office is not just a physical space but a symbol of Tap's resolve to harmonise ancient financial wisdom with the innovations of today's fintech landscape.
This strategic expansion underscores Tap's commitment to democratise and innovate financial solutions across the globe, intertwining with the cultural and economic tapestry of Athens while still remaining true to the core principles that define Tap.
This expansion seamlessly aligns with Tap's global strategy, dedicated to reaching new markets and offering modern financial services to a diverse array of communities. This venture not only propels Tap's international presence but also actively contributes to Athens' economic progression, nurturing local talent, and enriching the city’s financial landscape.
This initiative represents far more than mere expansion; it marks the start of an exciting new chapter for Tap. As Tap embarks on this exciting new chapter, the company remains committed to its core values of innovation, transparency, and customer-centricity. With its presence in Athens, Tap is poised to make a lasting impact on the financial services landscape, empowering individuals and businesses with the tools they need to thrive in an increasingly digital world.
About Tap Global
Tap is a leading fintech company dedicated to making money management and cryptocurrency more accessible and user-friendly across the globe. With a focus on security, compliance, and user-friendliness, Tap offers a wide range of digital assets and innovative features to empower cryptocurrency enthusiasts. For more information, visit www.withtap.com.
Before Bitcoin was launched in 2009, Satoshi Nakamoto designed the cryptocurrency to have a maximum supply of 21 million coins. As part of the greater plan, the number of new Bitcoin that enter circulation decreases at regular intervals, thus maintaining the total supply. These intervals are known as halvings, and affect everything from market value to investing strategies to potential profitability. Let's get into it.
What is the Bitcoin halving?
Roughly every 4 years, or every 210,000 blocks that are mined, the network undergoes a halving where the block reward for miners is reduced by 50%. This reward is earned by verifying transactions and adding a new block to the blockchain.
The halvings process decreases the rate at which new Bitcoins enter circulation, gradually depleting the remaining supply until the final satoshi is mined, expected to be around 2140. After that, miners will solely rely on transaction fees as an incentive to validate blocks.
The most recent Bitcoin network halving took place in April 2024, when the mining reward was reduced from 6.25 BTC to 3.125 BTC.
Why does the halving occur?
The Bitcoin halving is pre-programmed into Bitcoin's core code and is not something that can be changed - it's set in stone. Designed to control and slow down the release of new Bitcoins over time results in fewer and fewer Bitcoin being minted after each halving event.
This limited supply is a key part of what gives the digital currency its deflationary nature and potential for increasing value. As the supply is capped at 21 million, the dwindling new supply hitting the market reinforces Bitcoin's artificial scarcity.
Previous Bitcoin halvings
Below we look at previous halvings and how these affected the price of Bitcoin. Historically, 12 - 18 months after halvings, Bitcoin has reached a record high. While this is not the rule of thumb, it has certainly been witnessed.
2009 - Bitcoin launches
Date: 3 January 2009
Block reward: 50 BTC
2012 - Bitcoin’s first halving
Date: 28 November 2012
Block: 210,000
Block reward: 25 BTC
Price before halving (November 2012): Around $12
Next all-time high after halving: $1,156 (November 2013)
2016 - Bitcoin’s second halving
Date: 9 July 2016
Block: 420,000
Block reward: 12.5 BTC
Price before halving (July 2016): Around $650
Next all-time high after halving: $19,891 (December 2017)
2020 - Bitcoin’s third halving
Date: 11 May 2020
Block: 630,000
Block reward: 6.25 BTC
Price before halving (May 2020): Around $8,800
Next all-time high after halving: $69,000 (November 2021)
2024 - Bitcoin’s fourth halving
Date: 19 April 2024
Block: 840,000
Block reward: 3.125 BTC
Price before halving (April 2024): Around $65,000
At the time of writing, next all-time high after halving: $99,655.50 (November 2024)
Taking a look at the future dates, the next halving is expected to take place in 2028, when the block reward will be reduced to 1.5625 BTC. Thereafter, in 2032 and 2036. This will continue until all Bitcoins have been mined, which is expected to be in 2140.
Potential impacts of the recent halving
The next Bitcoin halving event is expected to have several potential impacts on the cryptocurrency. First and foremost, it will reduce the supply of new Bitcoins entering circulation by 50%, substantially decreasing its inflation rate. This scheduled supply rate reduction enhances Bitcoin's hardcoded scarcity which could lead to increased demand if investors view reduced supply as more desirable. Higher demand coupled with tightened supply could potentially drive up Bitcoin's price.
However, the halving will also cut block rewards for miners by 50%, which could force some smaller mining operations to shut down if their expenses outweigh newly reduced revenues. This may result in mining becoming less decentralised as larger entities with greater economies of scale are able to continue operating profitably. This could lead to further consolidation of the mining hashrate among a smaller number of big players.
Regardless of price movement, the most recent halving holds significance for Bitcoin's disinflationary issuance schedule, which will continue until the final Bitcoin is mined around 2140. This systematically shrinking supply reinforces Bitcoin's key value proposition as a deflationary asset, with absolute scarcity built into its design. Understanding this info highlights why some investors see Bitcoin's scarcity as a central role in its potential long-term value.
How will the rest of the crypto market be impacted?
We can confirm that Bitcoin's halving creates a ripple effect across the entire cryptocurrency market. While it directly impacts Bitcoin, it can also cause broader market shifts affecting many altcoins as investors start adjusting their portfolios during this time, which can lead to increased volatility and capital moving between digital assets.
Established cryptocurrencies like Ethereum often respond to Bitcoin's market changes, though their reactions aren’t always predictable. Smaller, less-known coins may face even greater uncertainty. Because crypto markets are so interconnected, even indirect effects from the halving can create big waves, making it a key event that influences the entire ecosystem.
Should I invest during a Bitcoin halving?
Sure, navigating Bitcoin halving speculation can feel like walking through a maze. Investors often debate the best timing - before, during, or after the event - but there's really no universal playbook.
The cryptocurrency market moves in mysterious ways, influenced by countless global factors, and past halvings have shown dramatically different market behaviors, making predictions challenging. While some see these events as potential opportunities, others view them with caution.
The key is understanding that no single strategy guarantees success. Individual research, a clear view of personal risk tolerance, and a broad understanding of market dynamics are essential for anyone considering involvement in this volatile landscape.
The bottom line
The Bitcoin halving is a highly significant event worth learning about as it enforces the cryptocurrency's hardcoded disinflationary monetary policy. While past halvings have led to powerful bull markets and substantial price appreciation, as illustrated above, it's important to understand that future price movements remain unpredictable and cannot be relied on.
Bitcoin's value is influenced by a complex array of factors beyond just supply dynamics, including adoption rates, regulatory developments, and overall market sentiment. Though artificially constrained supply can increase scarcity, demand is ultimately the driving force behind long-term valuations.