Learning the friendly way

The financial revolution isn't happening in Wall Street's landmark buildings, it's exploding through smartphone screens in rural villages, urban apartments, and immigrant communities worldwide. And while traditional banks still ask for three forms of ID and a pristine credit score, fintech is rewriting the rules of who gets to participate in the global economy.

Here's the reality: 1.4 billion adults globally remain unbanked, locked out of basic financial services that most of us take for granted. In the U.S. alone, roughly 5.4% of households (about 5.6 million families) have no relationship with a bank or credit union. These aren't just statistics; they're people paying check-cashing fees, carrying cash everywhere, and building zero credit history despite working multiple jobs.

But here's where it gets interesting: fintech isn't just offering band-aid solutions. It's fundamentally disrupting how financial services work, creating pathways to economic participation that bypass traditional gatekeepers entirely. 

From mobile banking apps that require no minimum balance to blockchain-based lending that ignores credit scores, technology is democratising finance in ways that seemed impossible just a decade ago.

The question isn't whether fintech can help the unbanked, it's already happening. The real question is how fast this transformation can scale and whether it can reach the communities that need it most. 

Why so many people remain unbanked

Let's dive into the barriers that keep millions locked out of traditional banking. It's not just about money, though, of course, that’s a part of it.

The most obvious culprit? Banks themselves. Traditional institutions have built their entire business model around risk assessment, which typically means credit scores, employment verification, and documentation requirements that exclude huge swaths of the population. 

If you're an immigrant without an established credit history, a gig worker with irregular income, or someone who's been burned by predatory lending in the past, good luck getting a simple checking account with credit facilities.

Geographic accessibility plays a massive role, too. Rural communities have watched bank branches disappear at an alarming rate: since 2009, over 10,000 bank branches have closed across the UK. When the nearest bank is 50 miles away and you're working two jobs just to stay afloat, maintaining a traditional banking relationship becomes practically impossible.

Then there's the trust factor. Many unbanked individuals come from communities where banks have historically been extractive rather than supportive. Why would you trust an institution that charges overdraft fees designed to trap you in cycles of debt? For many, cash-only transactions feel safer and more transparent than navigating hidden fees and complex terms of service.

Digital literacy creates another layer of exclusion. While fintech promises mobile-first solutions, those solutions still require smartphone access, internet connectivity, and the technical knowledge to navigate increasingly complex apps. For older adults or those without consistent internet access, digital banking can feel more like a barrier than a bridge.

The demographic impact tells the whole story: immigrants, young adults building their first financial identity, gig workers whose income doesn't fit traditional employment models, and rural populations where infrastructure lags behind urban centres. These aren't fringe communities, they represent the fastest-growing segments of the workforce.

Traditional banking's limitations

Here's the uncomfortable truth about traditional banking: it was designed for a different era, when employment was stable, credit histories were linear, and financial relationships lasted decades. Today's economy doesn't work that way, but banks haven't caught up.

The FICO credit scoring system perfectly exemplifies this disconnect. Created in 1989, it treats credit like a single number that defines your financial worth, ignoring factors like consistent rent payments, utility bill history, or mobile phone payment patterns. If you've never had a credit card or traditional loan, you're effectively invisible to the system that determines whether you can access basic financial services. 

Fee structures reveal even deeper problems. The average overdraft fee has climbed to $35, while monthly maintenance fees can easily cost $200+ annually for basic checking accounts. 

For someone living paycheck to paycheck, these fees aren't just inconvenient, they can be financially devastating. Banks profit billions annually from overdraft fees alone, creating perverse incentives to trap rather than support their most vulnerable customers.

Bureaucracy adds another layer of exclusion. Opening a bank account requires documentation that many people simply don't have readily available: proof of address, employment verification, Social Security numbers, and often a minimum deposit. For undocumented immigrants, frequent movers, or those between jobs, these requirements create insurmountable barriers.

Traditional banks also struggle with personalisation at scale. They're built to serve middle-class customers with predictable income patterns, not gig workers whose earnings fluctuate wildly or small business owners who need flexible lending options. The result? Financial products that don't match real-world financial lives.

How fintech is changing the game

Sure, fintech isn’t a cure-all, but it is revolutionising finance by flipping the model: instead of forcing people to fit outdated systems, it builds systems that fit how people actually live and work.

Mobile banking & digital wallets

Mobile banking apps like Chime, Venmo, and Cash App have obliterated traditional barriers to entry. Chime offers fee-free banking with no minimum balance requirements and early direct deposit features that get workers paid up to two days faster than traditional banks. 

That might not sound revolutionary until you realise that for someone living paycheck to paycheck, getting paid two days early can mean the difference between making rent on time or facing late fees.

Venmo transformed peer-to-peer payments from a complicated wire transfer process into something as simple as sending a text message. Cash App went further, adding investing features, Bitcoin purchases, and small business payment processing to a single app that anyone can download for free.

Increasingly, platforms like Tap are also stepping in - not just as digital wallets, but as integrated ecosystems that combine spending, saving, and cross-border access for underserved users. These aren't just simplified versions of traditional banking, they're entirely different approaches that prioritise accessibility and user experience over profit maximisation through fees and complexity.

Peer-to-peer lending & credit building

The lending revolution is even more dramatic. Platforms like Avant, Earnest, and newer crypto-lending protocols are using alternative data sources and AI-driven risk assessment to make lending decisions that traditional banks couldn't even consider.

Instead of relying solely on FICO scores, these platforms analyse everything from social media activity to mobile phone payment patterns to assess creditworthiness. They're building credit profiles for people who were previously invisible to the traditional system, creating pathways to financial growth that didn't exist before.

Peer-to-peer lending removes banks from the equation entirely, connecting borrowers directly with individual lenders or pools of capital. This creates more competitive interest rates and more flexible terms, especially for borrowers who don't fit traditional risk profiles.

Micro-investment & wealth-building tools

Investment platforms like Robinhood, Acorns, and international players like Nutmeg have democratised wealth building by eliminating minimum investment requirements and complex fee structures. Acorns rounds up everyday purchases and invests the spare change, allowing people to build investment portfolios with literally pennies.

These platforms reimagine what investing looks like for people who aren't already wealthy. Educational resources, simplified interfaces, and fractional share ownership mean that someone making minimum wage can start building long-term wealth with the same tools previously only reserved for high-net-worth individuals.

DeFi & blockchain for financial access

Decentralised finance represents the most radical reimagining of financial services yet. Ethereum-based platforms allow people to lend, borrow, and earn interest without any traditional financial institution involvement. Smart contracts automatically execute financial agreements, eliminating the need for banks, credit checks, or geographical restrictions.

Crypto wallets provide financial services to anyone with a smartphone and internet connection, regardless of their documentation status, credit history, or location. While still nascent and volatile, DeFi protocols are processing billions in transactions and proving that alternative financial systems can operate at scale.

Benefits fintech brings to the unbanked

The advantages aren't just theoretical, they're transforming lives in measurable ways.

Accessibility leads the list. 

Fintech services operate 24/7 from any smartphone, eliminating the geographical and temporal constraints that keep people away from traditional banks. Someone working night shifts or multiple jobs can manage their finances during a break, not during banking hours that conflict with their work schedule.

Affordability follows closely. 

Most fintech platforms operate with dramatically lower overhead costs than traditional banks, allowing them to offer services with minimal or no fees. When you're not paying for physical branches, armies of tellers, and legacy IT systems, you can pass those savings to customers who need them most.

Speed transforms financial emergency management. 

Traditional loan applications can take weeks while fintech platforms often provide decisions in minutes. When your car breaks down and you need to get to work tomorrow, that speed difference isn't convenience - it's survival.

Transparency.  Transparency. Transparency. 

Fintech apps typically show real-time transaction data, clear fee structures, and straightforward terms of service. No more surprise fees or hidden charges that drain accounts without warning.

Using data instead of old patterns.

Data-driven personalisation means financial products that actually match individual circumstances. Instead of one-size-fits-all banking products, AI-powered platforms can offer customised solutions based on spending patterns, income volatility, and financial goals.

Safety from the loan sharks. 

Perhaps most importantly, fintech reduces exposure to predatory lending practices. Transparent algorithms and competitive marketplaces make it harder for bad actors to exploit vulnerable populations with payday loans and other extractive financial products.

Case studies & real-world applications

The real proof lies in how these technologies are working in practice across different communities and regions.

U.S. gig workers have embraced fintech payroll advances and flexible banking solutions. Uber and Lyft drivers use apps like Earnin to access their earnings before payday, eliminating the need for expensive payday loans. 

DoorDash partnered with DasherDirect to offer delivery workers immediate access to their earnings plus cashback rewards on gas purchases = financial services designed specifically for the gig economy.

Africa's mobile money revolution provides the most compelling example of fintech leapfrogging traditional banking infrastructure. M-Pesa in Kenya processes more transactions annually than Western Union globally, allowing people to send money, pay bills, and access microloans through basic mobile phones. 

Over 80% of Kenyan adults now use mobile money services, creating a more financially inclusive society than many developed nations.

Latin America's neobank adoption is exploding as traditional banks struggle to serve growing populations. Brazil's Nubank has over 70 million customers, offering fee-free banking and credit building to people previously excluded from traditional financial services. 

Mexico's Clip provides small business payment processing to street vendors and micro-entrepreneurs who couldn't access traditional merchant services.

These aren't isolated success stories: they're proof of concept for global financial inclusion through technology.

Barriers fintech still faces

Despite the revolutionary potential, significant obstacles remain.

Digital literacy and smartphone access create fundamental barriers. While smartphone penetration continues growing globally, reliable internet connectivity and the technical skills needed to navigate financial apps remain unevenly distributed. Older adults and rural populations often struggle with interfaces designed by young urban developers.

Regulatory hurdles complicate expansion and innovation. Know Your Customer (KYC) compliance requirements, anti-money laundering regulations, and licensing requirements vary dramatically across jurisdictions, making it difficult for fintech companies to scale globally. Regulatory uncertainty around crypto and DeFi creates additional complications for even the most innovative solutions.

Infrastructure gaps in developing regions limit fintech's reach. While mobile money works well in areas with basic cellular coverage, more sophisticated fintech services require robust internet infrastructure that many rural and low-income areas still lack.

Crypto and DeFi adoption scepticism remains high, particularly among the very populations these technologies could most benefit. Volatility concerns, complexity, and association with scams and fraud make many potential users hesitant to embrace blockchain-based financial services.

Cultural barriers also persist. In communities where cash has been king for generations, shifting to digital-first financial services requires not just technological adoption but cultural change. Trust must be earned through consistent, reliable service over time.

What the future holds: innovations & inclusion

The next wave of fintech innovation promises even more dramatic transformation.

Artificial intelligence will enable hyper-personalised financial services that adapt in real-time to individual circumstances. AI-powered financial advisors will provide wealth management services previously available only to millionaires, while machine learning algorithms will create more accurate and inclusive credit assessment models.

Open banking regulations will force traditional financial institutions to share customer data with fintech competitors, accelerating innovation and competition. This means better services, lower costs, and more options for consumers who have been underserved by traditional banks.

Regulatory evolution will create clearer frameworks for fintech innovation while protecting consumers. Central bank digital currencies (CBDCs) may provide government-backed alternatives to both traditional banking and cryptocurrencies, potentially reaching populations that current solutions miss.

Blockchain-based financial identity systems could eliminate documentation barriers that currently exclude millions from financial services. Decentralised identity solutions would allow people to build financial reputations independent of traditional credit systems or government documentation.

The convergence of fintech with other technologies (Internet of Things sensors for supply chain financing, augmented reality for financial education, 5G networks for real-time global payments) will likely create financial services we can barely imagine today.

Conclusion

Fintech isn't just disrupting traditional banking: it's democratising economic participation on a global scale. 

From mobile money transforming African economies to gig worker payment solutions in American cities, technology is proving that financial inclusion isn't just morally right, it's economically inevitable.

However, the transformation isn't complete, and significant barriers still remain. But the trajectory is clear: financial services are becoming more accessible, affordable, and aligned with how people actually live and work in the 21st century.

The most exciting developments will emerge from collaboration between fintech innovators, government regulators, and community organisations that understand local needs.

This isn't a zero-sum game between technology and tradition—it's an opportunity to build financial systems that serve everyone, not just those who were lucky enough to be born into existing networks of economic privilege.

The unbanked aren't waiting for permission to participate in the global economy. They're already using whatever tools they can access to build financial stability and opportunity. Fintech's job is to make sure those tools are powerful, accessible, and designed with their real needs in mind.

The financial revolution is happening whether traditional institutions join it or not. The question is whether we'll build a system that includes everyone or leaves millions behind. The technology exists. The demand is obvious. Now it's up to us to make financial inclusion a reality, not just a promise.

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

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

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

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

What is cryptocurrency and how does it work?

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

The blockchain foundation

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

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

Types of cryptocurrency

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Crypto vs stocks

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

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

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

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

Is cryptocurrency a good investment?

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

Potential benefits

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

Significant risks

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

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

Different ways to invest in cryptocurrency

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

Buy crypto directly

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

What you need to buy crypto through Tap:

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

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

Crypto ETFs and ETPs

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

Examples include:

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

Benefits:

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

Drawbacks:

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

Crypto-related stocks

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

Examples include:

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

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

Blockchain investment funds

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

Advanced options (futures and options)

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

How to choose the right investment strategy

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

Consider your goals

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

Time horizon matters

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

Risk tolerance check

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

Diversification within crypto

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

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

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

Step 1: Choose your platform

Research different exchanges and brokers. Look for:

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

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

Step 2: Set up security

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

Step 3: Do your research

Before buying any crypto, understand:

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

Step 4: Make your first purchase

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

Step 5: Monitor and learn

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

Top mistakes to avoid when investing in crypto

FOMO investing

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

Skipping research

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

Ignoring security

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

Misunderstanding costs

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

Tax neglect

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

Is it safe to invest in cryptocurrency?

Safety in cryptocurrency investing involves multiple layers of consideration.

Platform security

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

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

Personal security practices

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

Regulatory environment

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

Scam awareness

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

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

Should I invest in crypto for retirement?

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

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

So, should I invest in crypto?

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

Before you dive in, make sure you:

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

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

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

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

There are two ways to What is a Bull Market?

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

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

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

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

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

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In market terminology, a bull market is a period of generally rising prices and investor optimism. The term "bull market" comes from the market that rises steadily and consistently like a healthy bull. A bear market is the opposite: It refers to a condition when prices are falling and investors are pessimistic about future market value. Historical market cycles are well defined and provide a good understanding of market trends.

It's all about cycles

The market cycle helps investors to know whether they should invest or hold back their crypto coins. To avoid making wrong market choices, investors should know market cycles so they can decide whether the crypto market is on the rise or not.

The market cycle helps people to know when the market is already booming and ready to take a plunge. This helps traders to decide which crypto coin to buy at its lowest value, hold it until market bull cycle and then sell it to make a very good profit.

The Bull Market:

A Bull market is a long run of increasing prices and investor optimism where buyers outnumber sellers. As the market bull cycle goes on, more investors will see the market as their opportunity to buy low and sell high. The result is a market cycle that is not as steep as it had previously been.

The Bear Market:

A Bear market is the opposite of a Bull market where prices are falling and investors have low expectations for future market values. The market cycles are frequently broken up into bull markets and bear markets. This market cycle happens when market prices fall and investors sell their coins, this causes market prices to drop even more until the trend reverses.

The case of the Dead/flat market

A Dead market is a term used to describe a period of time where there is not much movement in either direction but it is not a market downturn by any means. This market cycle can occur after prolonged market cycles such as bull (rising trend market) and bear (falling trend market).

The market is not a straight line, it goes up and down so even though the market has gone on for a considerable time without any market fluctuation, market volatility will eventually return.

The market can be dead for a long time but it could cause worry within investors so they should know where market cycles stand.

Since market cycles are consistent it is better to be ready for market volatility, this will help you make informed market decisions when market cycles return.

In conclusion: the market cycle is a repeating market trend that describes market fluctuations over time. When market prices increase, it is called a bull market; when prices fall, it's called a bear market. Knowledge of market cycles is an important asset for investors in the crypto market as the knowledge of swings, downturns and upturns can help make better-informed decisions with investing in cryptocurrencies.

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

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

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

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

Step 1: create an account

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

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

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

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

Step 2: deposit funds

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

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

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

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

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

Step 4: Sell A Cryptocurrency

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

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

Step 5: Withdrawal Funds

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

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

Tap into a brighter future with crypto

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

Bitcoin 101

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

Du har hört historierna.
Någon köpte Bitcoin för några dollar och är nu ekonomiskt oberoende. Kanske var det en vän, ett nyhetsinslag eller den där personen som aldrig slutar prata om krypto. Och nu undrar du: Är det för sent att köpa Bitcoin?

Du är långt ifrån ensam. Folk har ställt exakt samma fråga vid varje ny prisnivå – när Bitcoin kostade 100 dollar, 1 000, 10 000 och till och med 100 000. Vissa hoppade på tåget, andra väntade och trodde att chansen redan hade gått dem förbi.

Men sanningen är: det är svårt att tajma marknaden. Det som känns "för sent" idag kan visa sig vara helt rätt om några år. Eller så är det verkligen för sent. Ingen vet säkert.

Den här guiden går igenom det du behöver känna till. Vi tittar på Bitcoins prisresa, nuläget och argumenten från båda sidor. Målet? Att ge dig en grund att fatta ett eget, informerat beslut.

En titt på Bitcoins prishistoria och marknadscykler

Att förstå var Bitcoin har varit hjälper till att sätta dagens pris i perspektiv. Så, häng med på en tillbakablick.

De tidiga åren (2009–2013)

Bitcoin började som ett experiment. År 2009 hade det inget egentligt pris – folk testade bara en ny digital valuta. Den första dokumenterade transaktionen? Någon köpte två pizzor för 10 000 BTC. Idag skulle de pizzorna vara värda hundratals miljoner kronor.

Vid 2013 hade priset nått omkring 100 dollar. De som köpte då kallades för galna. “Digitalt monopolpengar”, sa många. Men de "galna" såg sin investering öka hundrafalt.

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Source: CoinGecko

Den första stora rusningen (2014–2017)

Nu började Bitcoin verkligen väcka uppmärksamhet. Priset fluktuerade vilt – ner till 200 dollar 2015, för att sedan skjuta i höjden. I slutet av 2017 nådde det nästan 20 000 dollar.

Plötsligt pratade alla om det. Din tandläkare gav kryptotips. Kassören på ICA kollade Bitcoin-priser på mobilen. Klassisk bubbelkänsla.

Kryptovintern (2018–2020)

Sen kom kraschen. Bitcoin föll tillbaka till cirka 3 200 dollar 2018. Många som köpt nära toppen låg rejält back. En del sålde med förlust och lämnade marknaden för gott.

Men perioden lärde många en viktig sak: Bitcoin rör sig i cykler. Stora uppgångar, rejäla nedgångar – och ibland långa perioder av stillhet.

Den institutionella eran (2021–idag)

Runt 2020 hände något. Stora företag började köpa Bitcoin. Tesla lade till det i sin balansräkning. PayPal öppnade för köp. Plötsligt var det inte bara teknikentusiaster som var intresserade.

Bitcoin nådde nya toppar, föll igen, återhämtade sig. Samma mönster – men med en viktig skillnad: stora institutioner var nu med i leken.

Vad händer med Bitcoin 2025?

Bitcoin har klarat flera marknadscykler, överlevt otaliga "dödsdomar" och fortsätter att studsa tillbaka. Men var står vi just nu?

Aktuella marknadskänslor

Marknaden känns annorlunda jämfört med tidigare. Mindre hype, mer eftertänksamhet. Det finns fortfarande de som tror att Bitcoin ska nå en miljon dollar – men också pensionsfonder som långsamt lägger till det i sina portföljer.

Institutionell närvaro

Stora finansaktörer erbjuder nu Bitcoin-tjänster. Det går att köpa Bitcoin-ETFer genom vanliga mäklare. Företag håller Bitcoin som reserv. Något som var otänkbart för bara några år sedan.

Regleringsläget

Myndigheter jobbar fortfarande på hur Bitcoin ska hanteras, men tonen har förändrats. Istället för förbud handlar det nu mer om tydligare regler. Det kan skapa osäkerhet på kort sikt, men ge stabilitet längre fram.

Varför många känner att de missat tåget

Vi måste också prata om psykologin. Det finns flera skäl till att Bitcoin känns skrämmande för nya intressenter.

• Miljonärsberättelserna. Alla artiklar nämner någon som blev rik snabbt. Det är sant – men ovanligt. Lite som att vinna på lotto.
• Rubrikerna. “Bitcoin rasar 50 %!” får fler klick än “Bitcoin svänger som vanligt”. Mediebilden blir snedvriden.
• Höga priser. När en Bitcoin kostar tiotusentals kronor känns det ouppnåeligt. Men många vet inte att man kan köpa delar av en Bitcoin.

Argumenten för att det INTE är för sent

Begränsat utbud, ökad efterfrågan

Det kommer aldrig finnas mer än 21 miljoner Bitcoin. Samtidigt växer intresset år för år. Enligt enkel ekonomi kan det pressa priset uppåt.

Digitalt guld på uppgång

Många ser Bitcoin som “digitalt guld” – en värdebevarare för den digitala tidsåldern. Om den rollen blir verklighet, finns det utrymme för tillväxt.

Global adoption är i sin linda

De flesta i världen äger fortfarande inte Bitcoin. Om spridningen fortsätter, särskilt i länder med instabila valutor, kan efterfrågan öka kraftigt.

Bättre infrastruktur

Det har blivit enklare att köpa, förvara och använda Bitcoin. Teknisk utveckling leder ofta till bredare användning.

Argumenten för att det KAN vara för sent

Volatiliteten är kvar

Priset svänger fortfarande kraftigt. En nedgång på 20 % på en dag är inte ovanlig, vilket kan vara svårt att hantera.

Osäker reglering

Även om ett totalförbud verkar osannolikt, kan hårda regler sätta käppar i hjulen för tillväxten.

Miljöfrågor

Bitcoin kräver mycket energi. Klimatdebatten kan påverka intresset, särskilt bland institutioner.

Konkurrens

Bitcoin var först – men långt ifrån ensam. Nyare tekniker kan ta över vissa användningsområden.

Vanliga strategier för att närma sig Bitcoin

Månadsvis köp

Vissa köper en liten summa regelbundet, t.ex. 500 kr i månaden. Det jämnar ut priset över tid.

“Kaffepengsstrategin”

Istället för att köpa en kaffe ute varje dag, lägg undan den summan i Bitcoin. Det är pengar du inte direkt saknar.

Tidsramar

De som ser Bitcoin som en långsiktig investering (5+ år) oroar sig ofta mindre för dagliga svängningar.

Rimlig exponering

En vanlig tumregel: investera aldrig mer än du har råd att förlora. För de flesta bör det vara en liten del av portföljen.

Vad säger experterna?

Traditionella rådgivare

Vissa föreslår en liten andel Bitcoin i portföljen, som skydd mot inflation. Andra är mer skeptiska på grund av prisvolatiliteten.

Kryptospecialister

Analytiker inom krypto spår ofta högre priser på lång sikt, baserat på utbud och efterfrågan – men är också tydliga med att det kommer svänga mycket på vägen dit.

Historiska mönster

Tekniker som förändrat världen – internet, smartphones – har ofta vuxit i vågor: först en boom, sen en dipp, sedan stabil tillväxt.

Alternativ till att köpa Bitcoin direkt

Om du är osäker, finns det andra sätt att få exponering.

• Bitcoin-ETF: Går att köpa genom din mäklare, utan att hålla krypto själv.
• Bitcoin-gruvbolag: Vissa företag är specialiserade på mining. Deras aktier påverkas ofta av Bitcoinpriset.
• Blockchain-investeringar: Fokusera på företag som bygger infrastrukturen bakom kryptovärlden.

Vanliga misstag att undvika

• Att investera pengar du inte har råd att förlora
• Att försöka pricka “perfekta” tillfället att köpa
• Att falla för löften om snabba pengar
• Att slarva med säkerheten vid direktköp
• Att låta känslorna styra besluten

Hur man köper Bitcoin säkert (om du bestämmer dig)

Om du bestämmer dig för att köpa Bitcoin via Tap, gör så här:

1. Ladda ner appen
2. Skapa ett konto och slutför verifieringen
3. Öppna din personliga Bitcoin-plånbok i appen
4. Ange hur mycket du vill köpa
5. Bekräfta köpet – dina Bitcoin läggs till i din plånbok

(För en steg-för-steg-guide, se mer här.)

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(Psst: här hittar du en mer detaljerad guide)

Slutsats: Vad är rätt beslut för dig?

Så, är det för sent att köpa Bitcoin?

Bitcoin har överlevt flera nedgångar och kommit tillbaka varje gång. Tekniken väcker fortfarande stort intresse, även bland etablerade aktörer.

Men det är också en mycket volatil tillgång, och ingen vet vad framtiden bär med sig. Ditt beslut bör baseras på din egen ekonomiska situation, din risktolerans och dina mål.

Du behöver inte bestämma dig idag. Läs på, följ marknaden och vänta tills du känner dig trygg. Det viktigaste är att beslutet känns rätt för dig – inte att du följer andras stress eller hype.