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XTP is back soon: ProBit integration underway

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We want to inform you that XTP trading will be temporarily paused starting today on the Tap app. We’ll be temporarily pausing XTP trading on the Tap app. This short pause will give us the time we need to complete the integration of ProBit, an exchange that continues to support XTP trading.

We sincerely apologise for any inconvenience caused by the Bitfinex delisting. XTP was removed alongside several other major tokens, and the short notice left limited time to implement an alternative solution. We moved quickly, and the integration with ProBit an exchange that supports XTP is already in progress.

Here’s what you need to know:

  • XTP trading will be paused for a few days
  • We’re integrating ProBit into our trading engine
  • Once that’s done, XTP trading will resume as usual in the app
  • We’re also in active talks with several other exchanges to expand access to XTP

We know how important XTP is to many of you, and it’s at the heart of the Tap ecosystem. Thank you for your patience and continued trust. We’ll keep you updated and let you know the moment trading goes live again.

The Tap Team

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NEWS AND UPDATES

Millennials and Gen Z: The Catalysts of the Money Revolution?

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!

Read more

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.

Terra, Celsius: The crypto crashes in 2022 explained

2022 was a rollercoaster for crypto investors. Explore the reasons behind the crashes of Terra and Celsius and what the future holds.

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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. 

‍

What is a CBDC?

Unveiling the future of money: Explore the game-changing Central Bank Digital Currencies and their potential impact on finance.

Read more

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.

Understanding the crypto Travel Rule's role

You might have heard of the "Travel Rule" before, but do you know what it actually mean? Let us dive into it for you.

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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.

‍

Millennials and Gen Z: The Catalysts of the Money Revolution?

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!

Read more
Terra, Celsius: The crypto crashes in 2022 explained

2022 was a rollercoaster for crypto investors. Explore the reasons behind the crashes of Terra and Celsius and what the future holds.

Read more
What is a CBDC?

Unveiling the future of money: Explore the game-changing Central Bank Digital Currencies and their potential impact on finance.

Read more
Understanding the crypto Travel Rule's role

You might have heard of the "Travel Rule" before, but do you know what it actually mean? Let us dive into it for you.

Read more
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LATEST ARTICLE

Crypto
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Vad är stablecoins?
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Om du är ny i kryptovärlden, eller bara nyfiken på stablecoins, så har du hittat rätt. Här går vi igenom allt du behöver veta om dessa digitala tillgångar. Vi kommer att förklara varför de är användbara på finansmarknaden och även titta närmare på några av de mest populära stablecoins som handlas idag.

Stablecoins är inte skapade för att ge avkastning, men de fungerar som ett effektivt skydd mot värdeförluster när marknaden vänder nedåt. Dessutom låter de användare dra nytta av kryptons fördelar som traditionella valutor inte kan erbjuda.

Även om man kan tro att regleringen för stablecoins skulle skilja sig från annan krypto, ligger de idag under samma paraply som övriga digitala tillgångar. Dock pågår diskussioner om att reglera stablecoin-emittenter mer specifikt.

Vad är stablecoins?

Stablecoins är en typ av kryptovaluta som är utformad för att hålla ett stabilt värde genom att knytas till en stabil tillgång, som till exempel en fiatvaluta eller råvara. Syftet är att erbjuda en stabilare marknad i en annars volatil bransch.

Stablecoins gör det möjligt för företag att använda krypto utan att utsätta sig för extrema prisrörelser eller risker kopplade till motparter. Även om de inte ger den avkastning som ofta förknippas med kryptomarknaden, erbjuder de en strategi för att skydda sig mot volatilitet.

I takt med att kryptomarknaden växer snabbt, har vi nu ett brett utbud av stablecoins med olika strukturer, ledarskap, rykten och användningsområden. Stablecoins delas huvudsakligen in i två kategorier: fiat-säkrade stablecoins och krypto-säkrade stablecoins, men det finns också algoritmiska stablecoins och råvarubackade stablecoins.

Fiat-säkrade stablecoins (fiatvalutor)

Fiat-säkrade stablecoins är knutna till statligt utgivna valutor, som den amerikanska dollarn. Dessa coins är backade i förhållandet 1:1, vilket innebär att emittenten håller motsvarande mängd fiatvaluta i ett säkert konto.

Exempel på stablecoins i denna kategori är Tether (USDT), Paxos Standard Token (PAX) och USD Coin (USDC). Alla är kopplade till den amerikanska dollarn och kräver att utgivaren håller motsvarande belopp i reserv.

Krypto-säkrade stablecoins (kryptovalutor)

En något ovanligare typ av stablecoins är de som är säkrade med andra kryptotillgångar. Här baseras värdet på den underliggande kryptovalutan, och projektet behöver inte en tredje part för att hålla reserver.

Ett bra exempel är DAI — en krypto-säkrad stablecoin som skapas när användare skickar ETH till ett Ethereum-baserat smart kontrakt.

Algoritmiska stablecoins (smart contracts)

Algoritmiska stablecoins är kopplade till andra digitala tillgångars värde via smarta kontrakt och samverkar med en annan kryptovaluta. Om priset går över den tänkta nivån, skapas nya coins för att sänka värdet. Om priset sjunker under peggingen, bränns coins för att höja värdet.

Att investera i algoritmiska stablecoins betraktas som högrisk, eftersom eventuella fel i algoritmen kan leda till dramatiska värdeförluster — något vi såg med Terra LUNA-kraschen 2022.

Råvarubackade stablecoins

Det finns även stablecoins som är backade av råvaror, som guld. Populära exempel här är Paxos Gold (PAXG) och Tether Gold (AUXt), vilka är kopplade till fysiskt guld som lagras i valv.

Vissa stablecoins, som kallas centralbankernas digitala valutor (CBDC), backas inte av någon specifik tillgång men är ändå kopplade till ett fiatvärde. Dessa ges ut av centralbanker som en digital version av deras nationella valuta.

Hur fungerar stablecoins?

Stablecoins är oftast byggda på blockkedjenätverk som möjliggör smidiga transaktioner. Det mest populära standardprotokollet för stablecoins är Ethereum's ERC-20.

Precis som andra kryptovalutor används stablecoins i peer-to-peer-transaktioner, men de nyttjar Ethereum-nätverket för att genomföra dessa och hålla nätverket säkert.

Emittenten av stablecoinen ansvarar för att hålla motsvarande belopp i fiat eller andra säkra tillgångar i reserv. I fallet med råvarubackade stablecoins lagras den underliggande tillgången fysiskt i valv.

Vad används stablecoins till?

Medan världen långsamt integrerar kryptovalutor i det traditionella finansiella systemet, erbjuder stablecoins ett enkelt sätt att bygga broar mellan dessa två världar.

Stablecoins ger användare fördelarna med digitala tillgångar utan den typiska volatiliteten och hjälper kryptoekosystemet att smidigt integreras i vardagen.

Vilka risker finns med stablecoins?

Trots deras namn bär stablecoins fortfarande vissa risker. Deras värde är beroende av den tillgång de är kopplade till, vilket betyder att de inte är helt immuna mot snabba prisrörelser.

Regleringsrisk är också en faktor, eftersom lagar och riktlinjer för stablecoins snabbt kan förändras. Dessutom är stablecoins utsatta för emittentrisk — deras stabilitet beror på trovärdigheten hos den organisation som backar dem.

Otillräckliga reserver eller bristande transparens kan leda till likviditetsproblem och skakiga marknader.

Vad är syftet med stablecoins?

Du kanske undrar varför man skulle vilja köpa en tillgång som inte förväntas ge avkastning. Svaret är att stablecoins spelar en viktig roll inom kryptomarknaden.

Skydd mot volatilitet

De fungerar som en säker hamn när marknaderna svänger kraftigt. Eftersom de är kopplade till en stabil tillgång kan du skydda dina medel under björnmarknader och enkelt flytta tillbaka dem när marknaden stabiliseras.

Prisstabilitet (likt fiatvalutor)

Stablecoins ger också stabilitet vid handel med kryptovalutor, vilket är särskilt värdefullt för företag som vill använda krypto för betalningar. Genom att använda en stabil valuta slipper de risken att ett köp för $2 plötsligt bara är värt $1.

Remitteringsmarknaden

Stablecoins används också flitigt för att snabbt och billigt skicka pengar över landsgränser — betydligt smidigare än traditionella banköverföringar.

Populära stablecoins på kryptomarknaden

Stablecoins har gått från att vara ifrågasatta till att idag finnas med bland de fem största kryptovalutorna sett till marknadsvärde.

Tether (USDT)

Tether är förmodligen den mest kända stablecoinen och hör till de fem största kryptovalutorna totalt. Trots viss kontrovers kring dess reserver är Tether ett självklart val för många företag och investerare.

Ursprungligen lanserades Tether 2014 under namnet Realcoin och byggdes som ett lager ovanpå Bitcoin-nätverket. Idag används ERC-20-standarden och stöds även på Ethereum, EOS, Tron, Algorand och OMG.

Dai (DAI)

DAI började som Single-Collateral DAI (SAI), baserat på en enda kryptotillgång. 2019 lanserades Multi-Collateral DAI, som är soft-peggad till den amerikanska dollarn och baserad på flera kryptotillgångar via Ethereum smarta kontrakt.

DAI hanteras av Maker Protocol och MakerDAO, och användare kan även tjäna ränta genom att hålla DAI-tokens.

USD Coin (USDC)

USDC är en annan populär fiat-backad stablecoin, med ett något mindre kontroversiellt rykte. Bakom står Centre Consortium, som håller $1 i reserv för varje USDC som ges ut.

Målet är att skapa ett ekosystem där USDC accepteras av så många plånböcker, börser och tjänster som möjligt.

Utforska stablecoin-världen i appen

Stablecoins är kända för sin förmåga att hålla värdet stabilt och erbjuda ett skydd mot prisrörelser på marknaden.

Oavsett om du vill bygga en portfölj med fiat- eller krypto-säkrade stablecoins, eller hålla dig till traditionella kryptovalutor, så erbjuder Tap-appen en smidig och säker plattform för att hantera dina tillgångar.

Med Tap-appen får du tillgång till både börshandel och en unik plånbok där du kan förvara både krypto och fiat. Dessutom kan du använda ett förbetalt kryptokort för att betala var som helst i världen — med ett enkelt knapptryck.

Pressmeddelande
Lizzy
Tap now supports Enjin (ENJ).
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We are delighted to announce the listing and support of Enjin (ENJ) on Tap!

ENJ is now available for trading on the Tap mobile app. You can now Buy, Sell, Trade or hold ENJ for any of the other asset supported on the platform without any pair boundaries. Tap is pair agnostic, meaning you can trade any asset for any other asset without having to worries if a "trading pair" is available.

We believe supporting ENJ will provide value to our users. We are looking forward to continue supporting new crypto projects with the aim of providing access to financial power and freedom for all.

Playing an important role in the adoption of Web3, Enjin provides a platform of software products designed to allow anyone to harness the power of NFTs (non-fungible tokens) through the development, trade, monetization, and marketing of blockchain assets.

Powering the ecosystem is the Enjin Coin (ENJ), a token used to back the value of NFTs and other assets minted on the platform. When an asset is minted it locks ENJ tokens into a smart contract and effectively removes the tokens from circulation.

Enjin Coin (ENJ) is the native token of the Enjin ecosystem. Built on the Ethereum blockchain and compatible with multiple gaming platforms, the Enjin Coin is an ERC-20 token that allows the in-game items created on the platform to be traded with real-world value. The ENJ token has a maximum supply of 1 billion coins.

Get to know more about Enjin (ENJ) in our dedicated article here.

Pressmeddelande
James
Tap now supports Chiliz (CHZ)
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We are delighted to announce the listing and support of Chiliz (CHZ) on Tap!

CHZ is now available for trading on the Tap mobile app. You can now Buy, Sell, Trade or hold CHZ for any of the other asset supported on the platform without any pair boundaries. Tap is pair agnostic, meaning you can trade any asset for any other asset without having to worries if a "trading pair" is available.

We believe supporting CHZ will provide value to our users. We are looking forward to continue supporting new crypto projects with the aim of providing access to financial power and freedom for all.

Chiliz is a fintech company that uses blockchain technology to create new ways for fans to support and engage directly with their favorite sports teams. The company's goal is to be the leading provider of fintech solutions for sports and entertainment businesses around the world. Chiliz enables its users to trade tokens to show their support for professional sports teams.

Chiliz fans can buy their favorite team's Fan Tokens using the native Chiliz token " CHZ " on socios.com, the crowd management platform that Chiliz uses. Sports fans staking $CHZ on Socios.com also have opportunity to receive new Fan tokens as well as a up to 10% $CHZ bonus yield.

Crypto
Ash
What is Wrapped Bitcoin (WBTC)?
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Despite radically changing the financial landscape, the world’s leading cryptocurrency has limitations when interacting with newer blockchains like Ethereum. Wrapped Bitcoin (WBTC) solves this by allowing Bitcoin to function on the Ethereum network, enabling access to decentralised finance (DeFi) services.

Each WBTC token is backed 1:1 by Bitcoin, combining Bitcoin’s value with Ethereum’s smart contract capabilities. Unlike Bitcoin variants aiming to improve its technology, WBTC extends Bitcoin’s utility without replacing it.

This article explores how WBTC works, its benefits, risks, and how it connects Bitcoin to the broader DeFi ecosystem.

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TLDR

- Bridging Bitcoin & Ethereum: WBTC brings Bitcoin to Ethereum, enabling DeFi participation without selling BTC.

- Increased utility & liquidity: BTC holders can lend, borrow, trade, and earn yield while unlocking Bitcoin’s market value.

- Faster & more efficient transactions: WBTC uses Ethereum’s network for quicker, cheaper, and more flexible transfers.

- Trade-offs & risks: While enhancing Bitcoin’s use, WBTC involves custodial risks, centralisation, and reliance on trusted entities.

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What is Wrapped Bitcoin (WBTC)?

Wrapped Bitcoin (WBTC) is an ERC-20 token that represents Bitcoin on the Ethereum blockchain. Launched in January 2019, approximately 10 years after Bitcoin's initial release, WBTC was created as a collaborative effort between BitGo, Kyber Network, and Ren (formerly Republic Protocol), along with other major players in the DeFi space including MakerDAO, Dharma, and Set Protocol. 

As an ERC-20 token, WBTC adheres to Ethereum's token standard, making it compatible with the entire Ethereum ecosystem, including its smart contracts, decentralised applications (dapps), and wallets.

In structure, WBTC bears similarities to stablecoins like USDC or USDT, which are backed by reserve assets. However, while stablecoins aim to maintain a stable value (usually pegged to a fiat currency like the US dollar), WBTC's value fluctuates with Bitcoin's market price. 

Each WBTC token is backed by an equivalent amount of Bitcoin (BTC) held in reserve by a custodian, maintaining a strict 1:1 ratio – meaning 1 WBTC is always equivalent to 1 BTC in value.

Wrapped Bitcoin is now under the control of a Decentralized Autonomous Organization (DAO) called the WBTC DAO. This organisation oversees the protocol, ensuring the integrity of the wrapping process and maintaining transparency in the system. Unlike Bitcoin's fully decentralised nature, WBTC relies on certain trusted entities to maintain the backing of the tokens, which creates an interesting balance between utility and trustlessness.

WBTC belongs to a broader category of financial instruments known as "wrapped tokens." These are cryptocurrencies that are enclosed or "wrapped" in a digital vault and represented as another token on a different blockchain. While WBTC represents Bitcoin on Ethereum, there are other wrapped tokens in the cryptocurrency space, including Wrapped Ether (WETH) which, somewhat paradoxically, is a wrapped version of Ethereum's native token on its own blockchain that conforms more strictly to the ERC-20 standard.

Why does Wrapped Bitcoin exist?

Wrapped Bitcoin (WBTC) was created to bridge the gap between Bitcoin and newer blockchain platforms like Ethereum.

1. Bitcoin’s limited smart contract functionality
Bitcoin prioritizes security over programmability, making it unsuitable for complex dapps. In contrast, Ethereum supports smart contracts that power a wide range of automated financial services.

2. Access to DeFi for Bitcoin holders
Ethereum’s DeFi ecosystem offers lending, trading, and yield farming, but Bitcoin holders couldn’t participate without converting their BTC. WBTC solves this, letting them use Bitcoin’s value within Ethereum-based applications.

3. Unlocking Bitcoin’s liquidity
Bitcoin’s vast market capitalization holds significant untapped liquidity. WBTC brings this capital into Ethereum’s DeFi network, benefiting both Bitcoin holders and the broader ecosystem.

4. Faster, more flexible Bitcoin transactions
While Bitcoin transactions can be slow and costly, WBTC uses Ethereum’s network for quicker, cheaper trades—ideal for active traders and DeFi users.

In short, WBTC enhances Bitcoin’s utility without altering its core protocol, connecting it to the evolving world of decentralized finance.

How Wrapped Bitcoin works

Wrapped Bitcoin (WBTC) bridges Bitcoin and Ethereum through a secure, transparent process involving key participants and smart contracts.

1. Wrapping and unwrapping process:

  • Wrapping (BTC → WBTC): Users send Bitcoin to a custodian, who secures it and mints an equivalent amount of WBTC on Ethereum, sending it to the user’s Ethereum wallet.
  • Unwrapping (WBTC → BTC): Users burn WBTC, prompting the custodian to release the equivalent Bitcoin back to their Bitcoin wallet.
    This 1:1 pegging ensures WBTC is fully backed by Bitcoin reserves.

2. Key participants:

  • Custodians (e.g., BitGo): Hold and safeguard the Bitcoin backing WBTC.
  • Merchants: Authorized to request minting or burning of WBTC.
  • Users: Individuals or entities using WBTC in Ethereum’s DeFi ecosystem.
  • WBTC DAO Members: Stakeholders who govern protocol decisions.

3. Transparency and verification:

  • Proof of reserves: Publicly verifiable Bitcoin addresses back every WBTC in circulation.
  • On-chain verification: Minting and burning are recorded on both blockchains.
  • Regular attestations: Independent checks confirm reserve accuracy.

4. Technical implementation:
WBTC operates as an ERC-20 token, making it compatible with Ethereum-based apps and exchanges. While users can acquire WBTC directly through merchants, most opt to swap BTC for WBTC on decentralized exchanges (DEXs) for convenience.

This system ensures WBTC remains a secure, transparent, and efficient way to use Bitcoin within Ethereum’s DeFi space.

The benefits of Wrapped Bitcoin

1. DeFi accessibility:
WBTC lets users leverage Bitcoin in DeFi platforms for:

  • Lending & borrowing: Use WBTC as collateral on platforms like Aave or Compound to earn interest or borrow assets.
  • Yield farming: Provide WBTC liquidity for rewards, often surpassing Bitcoin’s passive holding returns.
  • Liquidity provision: Earn trading fees by adding WBTC to pools on exchanges like Uniswap.
  • Synthetic assets: Mint assets pegged to traditional markets using WBTC as collateral.

2. Enhanced liquidity:
WBTC boosts capital efficiency across Ethereum by:

  • Expanding DeFi liquidity: Unlocking Bitcoin’s market value to strengthen liquidity pools.
  • Reducing slippage: Deeper markets enable smoother trades.
  • Providing stable collateral: Bitcoin-backed assets offer trusted options for DeFi protocols.

3. Transaction advantages:
Compared to Bitcoin, WBTC transactions on Ethereum benefit from:

  • Faster confirmations: Ethereum’s ~12-second block times outpace Bitcoin’s 10-minute average.
  • Predictable fees: Ethereum’s fee structure can be more cost-effective in certain conditions.
  • Smart contract integration: WBTC supports complex transactions Bitcoin’s network can’t handle.

4. Broader utility:
Beyond DeFi, WBTC enhances user options by:

  • Accessing smart contracts: Participate in advanced applications without selling Bitcoin.
  • Composability: Use WBTC across multiple protocols simultaneously.
  • Simplified management: Store WBTC alongside other Ethereum assets in common wallets.
  • Gaming & NFTs: Spend WBTC in blockchain games or NFT marketplaces.

While WBTC offers significant opportunities, it comes with trade-offs regarding decentralisation and security, as covered in the next section.

Risks and challenges of Wrapped Bitcoin (WBTC)

Custodial risks
WBTC depends on custodians like BitGo to hold the backing Bitcoin, creating a central point of failure. Users must trust these custodians to safeguard funds, process redemptions, and comply with regulations that could freeze assets or restrict conversions.

Smart contract risks
WBTC relies on Ethereum smart contracts, which, despite audits, can still have vulnerabilities or coding flaws. It’s also affected by Ethereum network issues like congestion, high gas fees, and risks from interacting with DeFi platforms.

Price and market risks
WBTC tracks Bitcoin’s price and shares its volatility. In turbulent markets, it may trade slightly above or below Bitcoin’s value. Large conversions can strain liquidity, making big trades harder without impacting price.

Operational challenges
Managing WBTC involves both Bitcoin and Ethereum blockchains, which can be complex for newcomers. High Ethereum gas fees and slow WBTC-to-Bitcoin conversions (especially for large transactions) are additional hurdles.

Alternatives with less trust required
Some users prefer fully decentralised options like native Bitcoin, though it lacks smart contract functionality. Other wrapped Bitcoin solutions use different technologies to reduce reliance on custodians.

Other Wrapped Bitcoin alternatives

While WBTC is the most widely used Bitcoin representation on Ethereum, several alternatives have emerged, each with different approaches to the bridge between Bitcoin and other blockchains:

  • renBTC
  • tBTC
  • sBTC (Synthetic BTC)
  • HBTC
  • pBTC

Conclusion

Wrapped Bitcoin represents a significant innovation in the cryptocurrency ecosystem, effectively bridging the gap between Bitcoin's unparalleled network security and store-of-value properties with Ethereum's programmability and vibrant DeFi landscape. 

Since its launch in 2019, WBTC has grown from a novel concept to a cornerstone of cross-chain interoperability, holding billions of dollars in value and enabling countless new use cases for Bitcoin holders.

Key takeaways

  • Bridge between worlds: WBTC links Bitcoin with Ethereum’s smart contracts, offering value beyond what each can provide alone.
  • Benefits with trade-offs: WBTC boosts DeFi access and speed, but involves centralisation and custodial risks.
  • Evolving ecosystem: Wrapped Bitcoin solutions are evolving, balancing security, decentralisation, and functionality.
  • Growing adoption: WBTC’s growing market cap and DeFi use show strong demand for Bitcoin exposure in crypto.
  • Future innovation: Wrapped assets like WBTC will likely see improvements in decentralisation, security, and cross-chain compatibility.

The broader significance

WBTC represents a shift in the cryptocurrency space from isolated blockchains to an interconnected network where different chains can leverage each other’s strengths. This interoperability will likely define the next phase of blockchain development.

For users, WBTC allows exposure to Bitcoin while engaging with decentralised finance (DeFi) on Ethereum and other platforms, enabling participation in both without choosing between them.

For DeFi, Bitcoin’s liquidity has spurred growth, bringing stability and asset diversity. WBTC has also paved the way for other wrapped assets, making the crypto ecosystem more interconnected and efficient.

As blockchain technology evolves, solutions like WBTC will address limitations while retaining core utility. Its success shows how cryptocurrency innovation can extend existing strengths without replacing them.

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Säkerhet
James
The 5 most common crypto scams to watch out for
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As we move into a more digital world with enhanced security systems, so too are hackers and fraudsters. With millions of dollars lost each year at the hands of these ill actors, in this article we take a look at the 5 most common crypto scams and how to spot them. The financial world need not be a scary place, with a few precautions in place you can bank on being able to avoid them.

What is a crypto scam?

A crypto scam is a type of investment fraud revolving around cryptocurrencies. According to a report by Chainalysis, a record-breaking $14 billion of crypto was stolen last year through crypto scams. While there are many different types of crypto scams, of which we'll explore 5 below, the common thread is that crypto is wrongfully taken from a user through fraudulent activities. 

The biggest crypto scam of recent times was in late 2020 when people hacked into the Twitter accounts of high profile individuals and claimed that should someone send Bitcoin or Ethereum to an address they will receive twice the value back. These accounts included the likes of Barack Obama, Elon Musk and Joe Biden. 

The top 5 most common crypto scams

While there are an infinite amount of crypto scams out there, below we are highlighting the 5 most common ones.

Fake crypto exchanges

These types of exchanges provide a buy/sell platform on which users can trade cryptocurrency, however, once they have deposited the funds they cannot withdraw any money. These funds might still appear on the platform although the money is long gone. 

Always read the reviews of a platform, and do your own research before depositing money anywhere. 

Ponzi schemes

Ponzi schemes might have started in the late 1800s but they're still here. The scheme works in such a way that each member earns rewards by recruiting new members, whose money is then used to pay off older members. This eventually reaches a saturation point after which it collapses. 

Always do your due diligence and ensure that the scheme you're investing in is solid. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

Fake investment schemes

Be wary of an investment opportunity promising to deliver unbelievable gains. This might be in the form of depositing funds on a platform only to lose the money or struggle to withdraw it at a later stage. These are often circulated through well-known publications or on social media with celebrities "endorsing" the products. 

Pump and dumps also fall into this category. These schemes are created when a large group of people decide to invest in a coin, only to drive up the prices and cash out at the top. Many people are then left with a worthless coin at the end, having lost their investment. 

Imitating a crypto exchange

Similar to the concept of phishing, someone might create a social media account of a big exchange and contact the user "on behalf of the company". This is intended to gain your trust and is either done in an attempt to gain your passwords, or with a message that you owe large amounts in tax which needs to be paid in Bitcoin immediately to avoid imprisonment. 

Never follow links in an email, rather access the site from your own browser directly and be sure to check the URL. Successful scams of this nature often have a small typo in the URL which goes unnoticed. 

Malware & ransomware

The malware allows scammers to gain access to your computer, either locking you out of files or stealing credit card or crypto address details. With this information, they can drain your accounts in minutes. 

Ransomware works slightly differently in that the scammers lock the entire computer and demand a ransom to gain access again. This is often paired with blackmail where the victim, and in some cases organizations, are threatened that if they don't pay sensitive information will be released. A lot of victims in this situation manage to get out of it unharmed.

These might sound very scary, but should you maintain safe online protocols and check URLs before entering your details, they should be entirely avoided. 

5 tips on how to avoid crypto scams

These might sound obvious but it never hurts to read them again. Below are 5 tips on how to stay vigilant and avoid crypto scams entirely.

  • Be wary of phone calls and emails claiming to be from exchanges and never click the links from them. 
  • Never give your password, private key or security codes to anyone.
  • Never give someone remote access to your device.
  • Look out for social media accounts imitating legal firms or exchanges or a prominent person in the industry. Support will never contact you from a social media account.
  • And lastly, if it sounds too good to be true - it probably is. 

Easily avoided, comfortably secure

We hope this information assists you in keeping your data and money secure online, proper security is always imperative when using payment methods or services on the internet. As technology evolves, so too must our security systems and vigilance. With these tips above you should be well on your way to spotting something that doesn't quite look right, and avoiding crypto scam.

Crypto
Ash
Hodling vs trading: What are the pros and cons ?
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There's a time-old debate over whether hodling or trading leads to better profits when it comes to buying into the cryptocurrency market. While both are great options, in the article below we look at the pros and cons of each option and weigh them up.

What is trading?‍

Trading refers to the buying and selling of financial instruments, assets, or commodities in financial markets with the aim of making a profit. Trading requires continuous monitoring of the charts and frequent study, whether in the crypto or stock market. Crypto trading involves buying and selling crypto at various intervals, whether minutes, hours, days, weeks, months, and years. Despite the greater risks involved, the potential for big percentage returns attracts individuals to trading.

If you want to trade crypto assets, it's essential to have a basic knowledge of the industry and how events in the news may influence Bitcoin's price. Remember to set stop losses and take profits so that you can protect your trade.

The pros of trading

  • Potentially sizable profits

Crypto is known to be a volatile market and it's not uncommon to see price movements of 30% or above when crypto trading. With some strong analytical skills, one can observe, analyze and trade these waves and yield sizable profits.

  • You're in control

Some people make a living trading part-time or full-time, particularly day trading. Day trading is where you enter and exit positions typically within a 24-hour period. Either way, you are in control of your own hours and workload, allowing you to take a break after you've met or exceeded your daily or weekly earnings targets.

The cons of trading

  • Need to know trading fundamentals and technical analysis

Before you begin trading, you need to learn how to do fundamental and technical analysis of charts. This process requires dedicated effort and time investment.

  • Need to be able to manage emotions

The prices of cryptocurrencies can change rapidly, making this a more risky proposition than long-term holding. You must be prepared to sell a losing cryptocurrency when it's plunging or decide to hodl for it to recover. Anything might happen in this fast-paced market, so you must make wise decisions without getting emotional.

What is hodling?

The term first came about in 2013 from a misspelled work in a BitcoinTalk Forum. The inebriated trader made the now infamous typo, and the word stuck. Almost a decade later, the term "hodl" remains a permanent fixture in the crypto ecosystem. Some have since branded it as "Hold On for Dear Life".

The term refers to holding a particular cryptocurrency for long periods of time, ignoring market volatility and knuckling through a bear market. As a passive strategy designed for long-term time frames, hodling requires a trader to simply buy a cryptocurrency and hold it in a secure place for months or even years until it reaches your price target.

You can buy Bitcoin or your favorite cryptocurrency at regular intervals if you're planning to HODL. This term is associated with buying a small amount of Bitcoins weekly or monthly. For example, let's say you have $1,000 to buy over time.

In this case, you might purchase $30 in Bitcoin each week or $50 worth every month. By staggering your buys like this rather than putting it all at once, you minimize the likelihood of price fluctuations having as much impact on the price per coin. This strategy prefers to buy Bitcoin over trade Bitcoin.

The upside to hodling

  • Minimal effort

Hodling requires initial research into the cryptocurrency you wish to buy in (very important ans crucial to do your own research). From there establish your budget and strategy.

  • Minimal stress

The crypto market is known for its significant swings in value. Thankfully with hodling there is no need to time the market for entry and exit positions or watch the chart all of the time.

  • Minimal trading fees

Save money on trading fees by conducting on a few transactions, versus the many you will need to do when day trading. Some countries won't even charge tax on your crypto gains after a certain period of time (but be sure to check this in your area).

The downside of hodling

  • Need patience

As hodling is a long-term strategy approach it requires patience and mental endurance. If you decide to use the Hodling strategy you'll need to manage emotions during tough market fluctuations and might need to wait years before being able to cash in on any ROI (return on investment).

  • Funds are locked in

Because this is a long-term strategy, your funds would be inaccessible for an extended period of time. This might result in foregone opportunities to invest elsewhere in the crypto space or any other market.

However, this can be avoided by leaving your funds in a crypto interest account. Tap provides users access to yield-generating wallets that allow you to enjoy both the long-term price gains as well as the returns.

In Conclusion: hodling vs trading

If you're a novice cryptocurrency investor, proceed with caution. There is no right or wrong answer to which of these strategies is "superior" and you could always combine both methods to match your portfolio depending of your risk appetite. Always keep in mind that before making any decisions, always do your homework, research about the asset you wish to purchase and about diversifying your portfolio to reduce risk regardless of the strategy you pick.

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