
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
NEWS AND UPDATES

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

2022 was a rollercoaster for crypto investors. Explore the reasons behind the crashes of Terra and Celsius and what the future holds.
There is seldom a dull moment in the cryptosphere. In a matter of weeks, crypto winters can turn into bull runs, high-profile celebrities can send the price of a cryptocurrency to an all-time high and big networks can go from hero to bankruptcy. While we await the next bull run, let’s dissect some of the bigger moments of this year so far.
In a matter of weeks, we saw two major cryptocurrencies drop significantly in value and later declare themselves bankrupt. Not only did these companies lose millions, but millions of investors lost immense amounts of money.
As some media sources use these stories as an opportunity to spread FUD (fear, uncertainty and doubt) about the crypto industry, in this article we’ll look at what affected these particular networks. This is not the “norm” when it comes to investing in digital assets, these are cases of not doing enough thorough research.
The Downfall of Terra
Terra is a blockchain platform that offered several cryptocurrencies (mostly stablecoins), most notably the stablecoin TerraUST (UST) and Terra (LUNA). LUNA tokens played an integral role in maintaining the price of the algorithmic stablecoins, incentivizing trading between LUNA and stablecoins should they need to increase or decrease a stablecoin's supply.
In December 2021, following a token burn, LUNA entered the top 10 biggest cryptocurrencies by market cap trading at $75. LUNA’s success was tied to that of UST. In April, UST overtook Binance USD to become the third-largest stablecoin in the cryptocurrency market. The Anchor protocol of the Terra ecosystem, which offers returns as high as 20% APY, aided UST's rise.
In May of 2022, UST unpegged from its $1 position, sending LUNA into a tailspin losing 99.9% of its value in a matter of days. The coin’s market cap dipped from $41b to $6.6m. The demise of the platform led to $60 billion of investors’ money going down the drain. So, what went wrong?
After a large sell-off of UST in early May, the stablecoin began to depeg. This caused a further mass sell-off of the algorithmic cryptocurrency causing mass amounts of LUNA to be minted to maintain its price equilibrium. This sent LUNA's circulating supply sky-rocketing, in turn crashing the price of the once top ten coin. The circulating supply of LUNA went from around 345 million to 3.47 billion in a matter of days.
As investors scrambled to try to liquidate their assets, the damage was already done. The Luna Foundation Guard (LFG) had been acquiring large quantities of Bitcoin as a safeguard against the UST stablecoin unpegging, however, this did not prove to help as the network's tokens had already entered what's known as a "death spiral".
The LFG and Do Kwon reported bought $3 billion worth of Bitcoin and stored it in reserves should they need to use them for an unpegging. When the time came they claimed to have sold around 80,000 BTC, causing havoc on the rest of the market. Following these actions, the Bitcoin price dipped below $30,000, and continued to do so.
After losing nearly 100% of its value, the Terra blockchain halted services and went into overdrive to try and rectify the situation. As large exchanges started delisting both coins one by one, Terra’s founder Do Kwon released a recovery plan. While this had an effect on the coin’s price, rising to $4.46, it soon ran its course sending LUNA’s price below $1 again.
In a final attempt to rectify the situation, Do Kwon alongside co-founder Daniel Shin hard forked the Terra blockchain to create a new version, renaming the original blockchain Terra Classic. The platform then released a new coin, Luna 2.0, while the original LUNA coin was renamed LUNC.
Reviewing the situation in hindsight, a Web3 investor and venture partner at Farmer Fund, Stuti Pandey said, “What the Luna ecosystem did was they had a very aggressive and optimistic monetary policy that pretty much worked when markets were going very well, but they had a very weak monetary policy for when we encounter bear markets.”
Then Celsius Froze Over
In mid-June 2022, Celsius, a blockchain-based platform that specializes in crypto loans and borrowing, halted all withdrawals citing “extreme market conditions”. Following a month of turmoil, Celsius officially announced that it had filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in July.
Just a year earlier, in June 2021, the platform’s native token CEL had reached its all-time high of $8.02 with a market cap of $1.9 billion. Following the platform’s upheaval, at the time of writing CEL was trading at $1.18 with a market cap of $281 million.
According to court filings, when the platform filed for bankruptcy it was $1.2 billion in the red with $5.5 billion in liabilities, of which $4.7 billion is customer holdings. A far cry from its reign as one of the most successful DeFi (decentralized finance) platforms. What led to this demise?
Last year, the platform faced its first minor bump in the road when the US states of Texas, Alabama and New Jersey took legal action against the company for allegedly selling unregistered securities to users.
Then, in April 2022, following pressure from regulators, Celsius also stopped providing interest-bearing accounts to non-accredited investors. While against the nature of DeFi, the company was left with little choice.
Things then hit the fan in May of this year. The collapse of LUNA and UST caused significant damage to investor confidence across the entire cryptocurrency market. This is believed to have accelerated the start of a "crypto winter" and led to an industry-wide sell-off that produced a bank-run-style series of withdrawals by Celsius users. In bankruptcy documents, Celsius attributes its liquidity problems to the "domino effect" of LUNA's failure.
According to the company, Celsius had 1.7 million users and $11.7 billion worth of assets under management (AUM) and had made over $8 billion in loans alongside its very high APY (annual percentage yields) of 17%.
These loans, however, came to a grinding halt when the platform froze all its clients' assets and announced a company-wide freeze on withdrawals in early June.
Celsius released a statement stating: “Due to extreme market conditions, today we are announcing that Celsius is pausing all withdrawals, Swap, and transfers between accounts. We are taking this necessary action for the benefit of our entire community to stabilize liquidity and operations while we take steps to preserve and protect assets.”
Two weeks later the platform hired restructuring expert Alvarez & Marsal to assist with alleviating the damage caused by June’s uncertainty and the mounting liquidity issues.
As of mid-July, after paying off several loans, Celsius filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of New York.
Final Thoughts
The biggest takeaway from these examples above it to always do your own research when it comes to investing in cryptocurrency or cryptocurrency platforms. Never chase “get-rich-quick” schemes, instead do your due diligence and read the fine print. If a platform is offering 20% APY, be sure to get to the bottom of how they intend to provide this. If there’s no transparency, there should be no investment.
The cryptocurrency market has been faced with copious amounts of stressors in recent months, from the demise of these networks mentioned above (alongside others like Voyager and Three Anchor Capital) to a market-wide liquidity crunch, to the recent inflation rate increases around the globe. Not to mention the fearful anticipation of regulatory changes.
If there’s one thing we know about cryptocurrencies it’s that the market as a whole is incredibly resilient. In recent weeks, prices of top cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum have slowly started to increase, causing speculation that we might finally be making our way out of the crypto winter. While this won’t be an overnight endeavour, the sentiment in the market remains hopeful.
Unveiling the future of money: Explore the game-changing Central Bank Digital Currencies and their potential impact on finance.
Since the debut of Bitcoin in 2009, central banks have been living in fear of the disruptive technology that is cryptocurrency. Distributed ledger technology has revolutionized the digital world and has continued to challenge the corruption of central bank morals.
Financial institutions can’t beat or control cryptocurrency, so they are joining them in creating digital currencies. Governments have now been embracing digital currencies in the form of CBDCs, otherwise known as central bank digital currencies.
Central bank digital currencies are digital tokens, similar to cryptocurrency, issued by a central bank. They are pegged to the value of that country's fiat currency, acting as a digital currency version of the national currency. CBDCs are created and regulated by a country's central bank and monetary authorities.
A central bank digital currency is generally created for a sense of financial inclusion and to improve the application of monetary and fiscal policy. Central banks adopting currency in digital form presents great benefits for the federal reserve system as well as citizens, but there are some cons lurking behind the central bank digital currency facade.
Types of central bank digital currencies
While the concept of a central bank digital currency is quite easy to understand, there are layers to central bank money in its digital form. Before we take a deep dive into the possibilities presented by the central banks and their digital money, we will break down the different types of central bank digital currencies.
Wholesale CBDCs
Wholesale central bank digital currencies are targeted at financial institutions, whereby reserve balances are held within a central bank. This integration assists the financial system and institutions in improving payment systems and security payment efficiency.
This is much simpler than rolling out a central bank digital currency to the whole country but provides support for large businesses when they want to transfer money. These digital payments would also act as a digital ledger and aid in the avoidance of money laundering.
Retail CBDCs
A retail central bank digital currency refers to government-backed digital assets used between businesses and customers. This type of central bank digital currency is aimed at traditional currency, acting as a digital version of physical currency. These digital assets would allow retail payment systems, direct P2P CBDC transactions, as well as international settlements among businesses. It would be similar to having a bank account, where you could digitally transfer money through commercial banks, except the currency would be in the form of a digital yuan or euro, rather than the federal reserve of currency held by central banks.
Pros and cons of a central bank digital currency (CBDC)
Central banks are looking for ways to keep their money in the country, as opposed to it being spent on buying cryptocurrencies, thus losing it to a global market. As digital currencies become more popular, each central bank must decide whether they want to fight it or profit from the potential. Regardless of adoption, central banks creating their own digital currencies comes with benefits and disadvantages to users that you need to know.
Pros of central bank digital currency (CBDC)
- Cross border payments
- Track money laundering activity
- Secure international monetary fund
- Reduces risk of commercial bank collapse
- Cheaper
- More secure
- Promotes financial inclusion
Cons of central bank digital currency (CDBC)
- Central banks have complete control
- No anonymity of digital currency transfers
- Cybersecurity issues
- Price reliant on fiat currency equivalent
- Physical money may be eliminated
- Ban of distributed ledger technology and cryptocurrency
Central bank digital currency conclusion
Central bank money in an electronic form has been a big debate in the blockchain technology space, with so many countries considering the possibility. The European Central Bank, as well as other central banks, have been considering the possibility of central bank digital currencies as a means of improving the financial system. The Chinese government is in the midst of testing out their e-CNY, which some are calling the digital yuan. They have seen great success so far, but only after completely banning Bitcoin trading.
There is a lot of good that can come from CBDCs, but the benefits are mostly for the federal reserve system and central banks. Bank-account holders and citizens may have their privacy compromised and their investment options limited if the world adopts CBDCs.
It's important to remember that central bank digital currencies are not cryptocurrencies. They do not compete with cryptocurrencies and the benefits of blockchain technology. Their limited use cases can only be applied when reinforced by a financial system authority. Only time will tell if CBDCs will succeed, but right now you can appreciate the advantages brought to you by crypto.

You might have heard of the "Travel Rule" before, but do you know what it actually mean? Let us dive into it for you.
What is the "Travel Rule"?
You might have heard of the "Travel Rule" before, but do you know what it actually mean? Well, let me break it down for you. The Travel Rule, also known as FATF Recommendation 16, is a set of measures aimed at combating money laundering and terrorism financing through financial transactions.
So, why is it called the Travel Rule? It's because the personal data of the transacting parties "travels" with the transfers, making it easier for authorities to monitor and regulate these transactions. See, now it all makes sense!
The Travel Rule applies to financial institutions engaged in virtual asset transfers and crypto companies, collectively referred to as virtual asset service providers (VASPs). These VASPs have to obtain and share "required and accurate originator information and required beneficiary information" with counterparty VASPs or financial institutions during or before the transaction.
To make things more practical, the FATF recommends that countries adopt a de minimis threshold of 1,000 USD/EUR for virtual asset transfers. This means that transactions below this threshold would have fewer requirements compared to those exceeding it.
For transfers of Virtual Assets falling below the de minimis threshold, Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs) are required to gather:
- The identities of the sender (originator) and receiver (beneficiary).
- Either the wallet address associated with each transaction involving Virtual Assets (VAs) or a unique reference number assigned to the transaction.
- Verification of this gathered data is not obligatory, unless any suspicious circumstances concerning money laundering or terrorism financing arise. In such instances, it becomes essential to verify customer information.
Conversely, for transfers surpassing the de minimis threshold, VASPs are obligated to collect more extensive particulars, encompassing:
- Full name of the sender (originator).
- The account number employed by the sender (originator) for processing the transaction, such as a wallet address.
- The physical (geographical) address of the sender (originator), national identity number, a customer identification number that uniquely distinguishes the sender to the ordering institution, or details like date and place of birth.
- Name of the receiver (beneficiary).
- Account number of the receiver (beneficiary) utilized for transaction processing, similar to a wallet address.
By following these guidelines, virtual asset service providers can contribute to a safer and more transparent virtual asset ecosystem while complying with international regulations on anti-money laundering and countering the financing of terrorism. It's all about ensuring the integrity of financial transactions and safeguarding against illicit activities.
Implementation of the Travel Rule in the United Kingdom
A notable shift is anticipated in the United Kingdom's oversight of the virtual asset sector, commencing September 1, 2023.
This seminal development comes in the form of the Travel Rule, which falls under Part 7A of the Money Laundering Regulations 2017. Designed to combat money laundering and terrorist financing within the virtual asset industry, this new regulation expands the information-sharing requirements for wire transfers to encompass virtual asset transfers.
The HM Treasury of the UK has meticulously customized the provisions of the revised Wire Transfer Regulations to cater to the unique demands of the virtual asset sector. This underscores the government's unwavering commitment to fostering a secure and transparent financial ecosystem. Concurrently, it signals their resolve to enable the virtual asset industry to flourish.
The Travel Rule itself originates from the updated version of the Financial Action Task Force's recommendation on information-sharing requirements for wire transfers. By extending these recommendations to cover virtual asset transfers, the UK aspires to significantly mitigate the risk of illicit activities within the sector.
Undoubtedly, the Travel Rule heralds a landmark stride forward in regulating the virtual asset industry in the UK. By extending the ambit of information-sharing requirements and fortifying oversight over virtual asset firms
Implementation of the Travel Rule in the European Union
Prepare yourself, as a new regulation called the Travel Rule is set to be introduced in the world of virtual assets within the European Union. Effective from December 30, 2024, this rule will take effect precisely 18 months after the initial enforcement of the Transfer of Funds Regulation.
Let's delve into the details of the Travel Rule. When it comes to information requirements, there will be no distinction made between cross-border transfers and transfers within the EU. The revised Transfer of Funds regulation recognizes all virtual asset transfers as cross-border, acknowledging the borderless nature and global reach of such transactions and services.
Now, let's discuss compliance obligations. To ensure adherence to these regulations, European Crypto Asset Service Providers (CASPs) must comply with certain measures. For transactions exceeding 1,000 EUR with self-hosted wallets, CASPs are obligated to collect crucial originator and beneficiary information. Additionally, CASPs are required to fulfill additional wallet verification obligations.
The implementation of these measures within the European Union aims to enhance transparency and mitigate potential risks associated with virtual asset transfers. For individuals involved in this domain, it is of utmost importance to stay informed and adhere to these new guidelines in order to ensure compliance.
What does the travel rules means to me as user?
As a user in the virtual asset industry, the implementation of the Travel Rule brings some significant changes that are designed to enhance the security and transparency of financial transactions. This means that when you engage in virtual asset transfers, certain personal information will now be shared between the involved parties. While this might sound intrusive at first, it plays a crucial role in combating fraud, money laundering, and terrorist financing.
The Travel Rule aims to create a safer environment for individuals like you by reducing the risks associated with illicit activities. This means that you can have greater confidence in the legitimacy of the virtual asset transactions you engage in. The regulation aims to weed out illicit activities and promote a level playing field for legitimate users. This fosters trust and confidence among users, attracting more participants and further driving the growth and development of the industry.
However, it's important to note that complying with this rule may require you to provide additional information to virtual asset service providers. Your privacy and the protection of your personal data remain paramount, and service providers are bound by strict regulations to ensure the security of your information.
In summary, the Travel Rule is a positive development for digital asset users like yourself, as it contributes to a more secure and trustworthy virtual asset industry.
Unlocking Compliance and Seamless Experiences: Tap's Proactive Approach to Upcoming Regulations
Tap is fully committed to upholding regulatory compliance, while also prioritizing a seamless and enjoyable customer experience. In order to achieve this delicate balance, Tap has proactively sought out partnerships with trusted solution providers and is actively engaged in industry working groups. By collaborating with experts in the field, Tap ensures it remains on the cutting edge of best practices and innovative solutions.
These efforts not only demonstrate Tap's dedication to compliance, but also contribute to creating a secure and transparent environment for its users. By staying ahead of the curve, Tap can foster trust and confidence in the cryptocurrency ecosystem, reassuring customers that their financial transactions are safe and protected.
But Tap's commitment to compliance doesn't mean sacrificing user experience. On the contrary, Tap understands the importance of providing a seamless journey for its customers. This means that while regulatory requirements may be changing, Tap is working diligently to ensure that users can continue to enjoy a smooth and hassle-free experience.
By combining a proactive approach to compliance with a determination to maintain user satisfaction, Tap is setting itself apart as a trusted leader in the financial technology industry. So rest assured, as Tap evolves in response to new regulations, your experience as a customer will remain top-notch and worry-free.
LATEST ARTICLE
Online banking scams are becoming more prevalent these days, and it's crucial for you to be aware and stay vigilant.
At Tap, we take security seriously and work tirelessly to provide you with a safe experience. However, we also believe in educating our community about the various types of scams they might come across.
By learning how to identify online scammers, you can protect yourself and your hard-earned money effectively. So, let's explore some tips on recognizing these scams and ensuring your financial safety.
Stay Alert: Spotting the red flags for financial scams
If you happen to stumble upon any of these telltale signs while scrolling through your social media feed, chances are high that you're dealing with a scam:
- Mentions of "free money".
- The mention of “Airdrop”.
- Images flaunting large sums of cash or luxurious items.
- References to Tap "support" or "representative".
Tap will never ask over the phone, chat, email, text, or social media for you to provide:
- Seed phrase / private key of your wallet.
- Personal Information. (name, credentials, email address/ phone number).
- Asking you to send in additional funds in order to release funds you hold on deposit.
- Advise you that in order for your transaction to be processed on chain, you need to send in additional funds.
Types of scams to look out for:
Phishing
Be on guard against phishing attacks! Scammers employ deceptive links, messages, or emails (often boasting a sense of urgency) to deceive you into divulging your passwords or private keys. Stay vigilant and never fall for their tricks! Protect your sensitive information and avoid replying to any message or email that was not solicited in the first place.
Impersonation
Watch out for impersonation scams. Scammers pretend to be someone they're not, like celebrities or trading experts, with the aim of convincing you to invest based on their reputation.
Pump and Dump
Watch out for the infamous "Pump and Dump" hustle! These scammers go to great lengths to create a buzz around a completely worthless cryptocurrency. They manipulate unsuspecting investors into driving up the price ("pump") before the scammer makes a swift exit by selling off their own stash ("dumps"). Don't fall for their tricks and be sure to steer clear of these deceptive tactics!
Cash or money flipping
Beware of "cash flipping" schemes on social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter. Look out for posts with images of cash or luxury items, and flooded with hashtags like #fastcash, #cashflip or #moneyflip.
These scammers claim to possess a "secret" investment strategy where if you send them money, they'll multiply it tenfold. Remember, these are too good to be true!
Fake Tap support websites and social media profiles
Beware of fake Tap support websites and social media profiles. These cunning scammers go to great lengths, setting up deceptive "Tap Support" websites and social media accounts. Their ultimate aim is to trick unsuspecting members into revealing their login credentials and sensitive account information.
Remember, authentic Tap social media accounts are listed on the footer of our official website, www.withtap.com. To be absolutely certain you're engaging with genuine Tap channels, visit our homepage and click on the social media icons located at the bottom of the page (see the picture below). Additionally, please be aware that our team will never initiate contact with you first on social media. Stay vigilant!

Malware
Stay one step ahead of malware! Crafty scammers use malicious viruses or trojans to invade your computer or mobile device, snatching away your passwords or private keys and draining your hard-earned cryptocurrency from your wallet.
Tips for ensuring your safety and preventing scams
Scammers are incredibly resourceful and constantly come up with new and inventive ways to deceive unsuspecting individuals. While we have covered several popular scam techniques earlier, it is important to understand that this list is not exhaustive.
Given the vast array of scams out there, it is crucial to maintain a vigilant attitude. We want to emphasize that Tap will never initiate contact with you via phone, email, or text message to request personal information or passwords.
To further enhance your security, here are a few additional tips:
- Refrain from sharing personal details such as your account number, username, password, Social Security number, birthdate, or address with strangers or on unsecured websites.
- Enable push notifications in the Tap app so that you receive immediate alerts regarding suspicious activities.
- Avoid writing any identifying information, especially your PIN, directly on your debit card.
- Whenever you don't plan on using your card, you can safeguard yourself by blocking all debit card transactions through a quick swipe in the app. It freezes your card temporarily.
- If you suspect that your account has been compromised, it is imperative to change your password immediately. Additionally, if you believe you have fallen victim to a scam, please immediately reach out to Tap support and report the incident to the police without delay.
By following these precautions, you can significantly reduce the risk of falling prey to scams and ensure your personal information remains secure.
Tap’s approach to addressing scams and protecting users
At Tap, we are continuously working to combat the presence of fake accounts and take swift action to shut them down. However, despite our efforts, new fraudulent accounts may still surface.
Your personal information security is of paramount importance to us, and we strongly urge you to exercise caution in safeguarding it. If you come across any suspicious activity or encounter a scam, we appreciate your proactive assistance in bringing it to our attention as soon as possible.
To report a scam or share information regarding fraudulent incidents, you can reach out to us via our support live chat in the app, our support email (All the ways to contact us are available here : https://www.withtap.com/contact-us). Your input plays a crucial role in helping us combat scams effectively.
Rest assured we are committed to maintaining a secure environment for all Tap users, and your cooperation in reporting scams is greatly appreciated. Together, we can work towards a safer community and protect one another from fraudulent activities.
Trading innebär att köpa och sälja tillgångar på finansiella marknader, till exempel aktier, valutor, obligationer och råvaror. Det skiljer sig från investering där man oftast köper och behåller tillgångar över längre tid.
För att lyckas som trader krävs det att man konsekvent genererar vinster över tid. Nedan förklarar vi vad trading innebär, hur det fungerar och vilka tillgångar man kan handla med.
Vad är trading?
Trading är konsten att köpa och sälja finansiella instrument i syfte att göra vinst. Det kan röra sig om allt från aktier och obligationer till kryptovalutor – där varje tillgång har ett unikt värde som ständigt förändras.
Grunden i trading är att utnyttja prisförändringar: köpa till ett lägre pris och sälja till ett högre. Finansiella tillgångar handlas på olika marknader – valutor på valutamarknaden (Forex), aktier på börser som New York Stock Exchange eller Stockholmsbörsen.
Det finns över 17 000 tillgångar att handla med världen över – och fler läggs till hela tiden.
Hur fungerar trading?
Trading innebär att du går in på marknaden genom att köpa en tillgång. Om priset stiger, kan du sälja och göra vinst. Om priset sjunker, kan du välja att sälja till förlust eller hålla kvar och vänta på att marknaden återhämtar sig.
Priset styrs i grunden av utbud och efterfrågan – ju fler som vill köpa, desto högre pris. Om det finns fler säljare än köpare sjunker efterfrågan och därmed också priset.
De två vanligaste sätten att handla på är via:
- Börs (Exchange): priser sätts automatiskt och handeln sker i realtid.
- OTC (Over-the-Counter): handel sker direkt mellan två parter till ett överenskommet pris.
Oavsett om du handlar aktier eller valutor, följer processen samma grundprincip: köp billigt, sälj dyrt.
Vilka tillgångar kan man handla med?
Här är några av de mest populära tillgångstyperna på marknaden:
Aktier
Aktier ger dig ägarandel i ett företag. Du köper och säljer dem på börser och hoppas på värdeökning eller utdelning.
Valutor (Forex)
Valutahandel sker i par, t.ex. USD/EUR. Du köper en valuta i hopp om att den ska stärkas gentemot den andra.
Obligationer
En obligation är ett skuldebrev där köparen lånar ut pengar till exempelvis en stat eller ett företag mot ränta.
ETF:er
Exchange Traded Funds är fonder som följer ett visst index eller tillgångar. De ger diversifiering med lägre risk.
Kryptovalutor
Digitala tillgångar som kan handlas dygnet runt. De är decentraliserade och har hög prisvolatilitet.
Indexfonder
Index följer utvecklingen av en grupp aktier. De kan spegla geografiska regioner, branscher eller hela börser.
Råvaror
Råvaror delas oftast in i fyra kategorier: metall, energi, jordbruk samt kött & boskap. Handlas ofta via terminer (futures).
Aktiemarknaden vs valutamarknaden
Att handla aktier och att handla på valutamarknaden (Forex) är två olika världar – med olika förutsättningar och strategier.
- Aktiemarknaden: handlas på börser och innebär ofta högre avgifter. Du handlar i mindre volymer men med större prisvolatilitet.
- Forex: handlas dygnet runt via banker, mäklare och institutioner. Här krävs mindre kapital och avgifterna är oftast lägre. Handeln sker i större volymer men med mindre prissvängningar.
Båda har potential för vinst – det gäller bara att välja det som passar dina mål och risktolerans bäst.
Fyra populära tradingstrategier
Det finns ingen universell metod för trading – olika stilar passar olika personer. Här är fyra vanliga strategier:
1. Day Trading
Här köper och säljer man tillgångar inom samma dag. Fokus ligger på att utnyttja kortsiktiga prisrörelser. Snabbt, intensivt och kräver stor uppmärksamhet.
2. Position Trading
Långsiktig strategi där man håller en position i dagar, veckor eller månader. Man rider på marknadstrender och använder teknisk analys för att följa utvecklingen.
3. Swing Trading
Handlar om att dra nytta av medellånga prisrörelser. Swing traders hoppar in när trender vänder och håller positioner i några dagar upp till ett par veckor.
4. Scalping
En mycket kortsiktig metod där man gör många små affärer på minuter eller sekunder. Fokus ligger på att dra nytta av små prisskillnader. Kräver hög likviditet och ofta mycket startkapital.
Trading vs investering
Även om både trading och investering syftar till att skapa avkastning, skiljer de sig tydligt åt:
- Trading: kortsiktigt, spekulativt och bygger på prisrörelser. Du behöver inte nödvändigtvis äga tillgångarna du handlar.
- Investering: långsiktigt ägande, ofta i aktier eller fonder. Investerare får ibland utdelningar och rösträtt i bolag.
Sammanfattning
Trading innebär att köpa och sälja finansiella instrument som aktier, valutor, råvaror eller kryptovalutor för att dra nytta av prisrörelser. Det bygger på analys, strategi och timing.
Oavsett om du är nybörjare eller har erfarenhet är det viktigt att förstå marknaderna, hitta en metod som passar dig – och alltid handla med sunt förnuft.

In today's fast-paced world and ever-evolving financial landscape, cryptocurrencies have emerged as a revolutionary digital asset class. With their blockchain technology, decentralized nature, and potential for high returns, there’s no denying that cryptocurrencies have captured the attention of both novice and seasoned investors.
In this article, we will delve into the advantages and disadvantages of cryptocurrency, shedding light on their accessibility, potential returns, and security, as well as the challenges they pose to beginners. If you’re curious about cryptocurrencies or are on the fence about whether they’re a viable addition to your portfolio, we hope the following can shed some light on the matter.
The pros of cryptocurrency
Accessibility and inclusivity
Cryptocurrencies have democratized financial systems, providing individuals around the world with access to previously inaccessible financial services. Powered by blockchain technology, their core aim is inclusivity.
By eliminating intermediaries like financial institutions, digital currencies offer greater financial freedom and empowerment to anyone, anywhere. This includes lower transaction fees and around-the-clock operations as cryptocurrency markets never close.
Additionally, the reduced transaction costs associated with cryptocurrency transactions make them an attractive alternative for cross-border payments, for both individuals and businesses alike. Transactions that previously took days to complete through financial institutions can now be executed in minutes for a much lower cost thanks to cryptocurrency markets and the ability to transfer funds directly.
High-risk, high reward
Cryptocurrencies are renowned for having volatile price movements, however, this isn’t always a negative thing. The volatile nature of cryptocurrencies presents unique investment opportunities. While this volatility comes with risks, it has also been the catalyst for the success stories of early adopters who have seen substantial returns on their investments.
For beginners with an appropriate degree of risk tolerance willing to navigate the market carefully, cryptocurrencies can offer the potential for significant financial gains.
Security and privacy
Cryptocurrencies make use of cryptographic encryption to ensure secure crypto transactions and protect user privacy. The underlying blockchain technology provides a transparent and immutable ledger that safeguards against fraud and tampering thereby giving users greater control over their financial information. With the use of a private key system, retrieved when creating a crypto wallet, users have sole access to their cryptocurrency at all times.
Due to the nature of blockchain, cryptocurrency transactions are pseudonymous (and on some decentralized networks offering private transactions, anonymous) allowing for greater privacy when it comes to one’s financial matters. This means that when conducting Bitcoin transactions, for instance, the wallet address of the sender and receiver will be stored on the blockchain ledger as opposed to the names associated with the accounts.
The cons of cryptocurrency
Volatility and risk
While discussed as a pro of trading cryptocurrencies, volatility can also be a con. The biggest one is that the unpredictable price fluctuations of a digital currency can be intimidating for beginners. Market uncertainty, driven by factors like regulatory changes and investor sentiment, can result in significant losses.
Additionally, the lack of regulations in the cryptocurrency market makes it susceptible to scams and fraudulent activities such as money laundering, which can pose a risk to unsuspecting investors. Always ensure that you are using a reputable platform to trade and manage your digital currency.
Technical complexity
As cryptocurrencies operate on complex technological frameworks, it's often assumed that there is a big learning curve for beginners entering the crypto markets. Understanding concepts such as how a digital wallet works, what a private key is, and blockchain can be overwhelming initially but with our library of informative and easy-to-digest content, users can bypass the overwhelm. Our content is created to empower crypto enthusiasts looking to navigate the world of digital assets and decentralized currency.
Ensuring the security of cryptocurrency holdings and managing wallets require a certain level of caution and online security to prevent loss or theft. To bypass this obstacle Tap has created an easy-to-use app that allows for the management of multiple crypto and fiat currency in one hyper-secure place.
Limited acceptance and adoption
Perhaps the greatest hindrance to the world of cryptocurrency is its slow-paced adoption. While the acceptance of cryptocurrencies is growing, it remains limited compared to traditional fiat currencies.
Not all merchants and businesses accept cryptocurrencies as a form of payment, which restricts their usability in daily financial transactions. On top of this, the lack of mainstream recognition and regulatory frameworks presents challenges for the wider adoption of crypto transactions.
Conclusion
As a beginner exploring the world of cryptocurrencies, it's crucial to weigh the advantages and disadvantages before diving into the cryptocurrency market. While digital assets offer accessibility, the potential for high returns, and enhanced security and privacy, there are also the disadvantages of cryptocurrency such as risks related to volatility, technical complexity, and limited acceptance.
When investing or trading cryptocurrency, it's essential to proceed with caution, conduct thorough research, and consider personal risk tolerance and investment goals. By staying informed and always conducting their own research, beginners can navigate the digital asset landscape effectively and make informed investment decisions.
Remember, cryptocurrencies are a rapidly evolving space, and continuous learning and adaptation are key to staying ahead. Stay informed, monitor market trends, and explore reputable resources to expand your understanding of digital assets and blockchain technology and their potential in the ever-changing financial landscape.
Here we discuss what dividends are and how they work so you can make informed decisions when investing in dividend paying stocks. As a company, regular dividend payments create an incentive for shareholders to remain invested and keep the business growing, while for investors a dividend payment can increase the overall ROI and provide additional income streams. Learn the difference between stock dividends and cash dividends below.
What is a dividend?
Dividends are a way for companies to share their profits with shareholders. When a company earns profits, it can choose to distribute those profits back to its shareholders in the form of dividends. Dividend payments are typically made in cash and are usually paid out every quarter or semi-annually. Dividend paying companies can also choose to pay stock dividends, which is essentially dividend income paid out in shares.
By investing in dividend paying stocks, investors have the potential to earn regular income from their investments as well as benefit from capital appreciation when stock prices rise.
Dividend paying stock and the stock exchange
Investors in the stock market can earn returns in two ways, one is through an increase in the stock price from when they purchased it, and the other is through dividends. A company can decide whether they pay out dividends or not, and it's worth noting that not every company on the stock market does pay out dividends. The ones that do are typically mature ones.
Companies might instead decide to use the profits to reinvest in the company, hire new employees, or expand their business. Start-ups and newer companies are more likely to take this approach as their goals are more aligned with growth.
These payments are made in cash and generally occur at regular intervals, be it quarterly or annually. The amount per share, and when and how often dividends are paid out are determined by the company's board of directors.
Why a company might pay dividends
When a company is profitable, it might do one of these three things with its profits:
- pay off debt
- chase a growth opportunity by reinvesting the money into the business
- pay dividends to their shareholders, attracting new ones and rewarding current ones
Companies pay dividends to reward their shareholders, generating a steady income stream, and increasing the overall value of their stock. Additionally, dividend payments can be used to attract new investors and signal financial strength. Only profitable companies will pay out dividends, and typically ones without significant debt.
Stocks that pay dividends
Whether a company pays dividends is directly related to its goals and priorities. As mentioned above, younger companies typically use profits to reinvest in the business as the current goal is growth, while more mature, established companies opt to reward (and attract) shareholders.
Growth stocks
Companies looking to capitalize on growth opportunities might make the wiser move by reinvesting their earnings instead of offering dividends to shareholders.
Let's use retail as an example. If a company has just released a new product, it'd likely benefit more from hiring additional salespeople who can promote it than partaking in payouts for investors. In doing so, this allows the business to seek out maximum returns and drive the stock price up instead of giving away potential gains prematurely.
Mature stocks
As companies reach their peak and shift to a sustaining stage, they are more likely to prioritize dividend payments for shareholders over investing any additional funds into growth.
Ultimately, leaders must determine what is best for the company's shareholders depending on its size and age: paying dividends, funding development opportunities, or debt reduction. The ideal choice depends heavily upon the organization’s state of expansion as well as other considerations.
Mutual funds and ETFs
Investors in mutual funds and exchange-traded funds can also tap into dividend income provided that the stocks pay dividends. These are typically paid out on an annual basis, however, this will be determined by the shareholder's brokerage account.
Timeline of dividend payouts
Whether a company pays out dividends at regular intervals or on a once-off basis, below are several dates to note with regard to the when and how of these payments. From the declaration date to the ex-dividend date to the payment date, these all play an important role for investors looking to benefit from dividend yield.
- The Declaration Date
When the Board of Directors announces the value, record date, and payment date for the upcoming dividend.
- Ex-Dividend Date
The ex-dividend date is the final date by which you can buy the stock and earn dividends. If you purchase stock after the ex-dividend date you are not liable to receive dividends. Stock purchases can sometimes take two days to clear so ensure that you do so at the right time.
- Record Date
The date that you need to be an official shareholder in order to receive dividends. If your stock purchase is not settled by this date you are not liable for the payouts. The record date is typically one date after the ex-dividend date.
- Payment Date
When payments are made to all registered shareholders (as of the record date). Depending on the preferences specified in your brokerage account, the dividend could either be credited to you as cash (cash dividends) or reinvested back into the issuing business, distributed as stock dividends.
How dividend payments can affect the share price
Due to dividends being paid out by profitable businesses, when a business does pay out dividends this sends a signal to the market that the business is doing well and could drive the stock price up. However, it could have the opposite effect too, driving the price down when there is no dividend payout.
- when dividends drive the stock price up
Dividends can be a celebration of a company's profits and act as rewards to shareholders for investing in the company. This makes the stock more attractive to investors looking to earn passive income and will ultimately drive the price up.
- when dividends drive the stock price down
Companies generally pay dividends only when they are assured that the rate of return can be sustained, thanks to reliable profits. Therefore, if a company announces any reduction in this rate of dividend payment, it is likely because their business is encountering certain difficulties, sending out a negative signal instead.
In conclusion: what is a dividend payment?
A dividend is a payment that companies make to their shareholders, usually in the form of cash or stock. It's a type of reward for investors who have held onto the company's shares for a certain period of time. Usually companies pay dividends on a quarterly basis, often based on a portion of the company’s profits.
Because dividends are usually paid in cash, they can be a great source of income for investors. This extra income comes with less risk than other types of investing, which makes them attractive to many people who are looking for reliable returns on their investments. Dividend stocks also tend to outperform the overall stock market.
Public and private keys are integral to the use of cryptocurrencies. They not only allow people to send and receive cryptocurrencies but also to maintain the security and ownership of the funds. Private and public keys are generated when one creates a digital wallet.
What is a private key?
Every cryptocurrency wallet consists of a public key and a private key. Anyone can deposit cryptocurrency into a public address (public key), but no one except the owner of the corresponding private key can remove funds from that same account.
A private key, also known as a secret key, is a random string of numbers and/or letters used to protect one's cryptocurrency wallet and receive crypto transactions, similar to a pin code for a bank account. Private keys prove ownership of one's wallet address, protect it from unauthorized access and theft, and are used to sign transactions on the blockchain.
Private keys are used in conjunction with an algorithm to encrypt or decrypt data. The holder of the private key should be the only one who knows it, as this secrecy is what gives the private key its power. The golden rule is to keep your private key safe.
Private key vs public key
Public and private keys are mathematically linked to each other and relevant to only one blockchain wallet. A public key can be compared to your traditional bank account while the private key is akin to the pin code to access this account.
Users would share the public key with anyone looking to transfer funds to their crypto wallet, however, under no circumstances should your unique private key ever be shared with anyone. It is also strongly recommended that one stores their private key offline in a safe space, and not on a desktop or accessible location (in the event of a hack).
When one loses their private key, whether lost or maliciously taken, they will lose access to their crypto funds. Due to the decentralized nature of cryptocurrencies, there is no support line or central authority that can access that information.
This is where exchange wallets come in handy as the account is created using an identity that once verified can gain access to the funds. This is known as a custodial wallet where the platform holds the private keys for you and allows you to access the funds through a user-generated password. When it comes to storing private keys, this is the most convenient option, however, if you use an untrustworthy platform that increases your risks greatly. It is strongly recommended to enable two-factor authentication when using this option.
How do private keys work?
A public key is generated using complicated mathematics by your private key, ensuring they form a matched pair. These digital keys are created when one creates their crypto wallet on a particular blockchain.
After being generated, a private key must be stored in a secure location, ideally offline. Furthermore, private keys can have an extra layer of security by being password-protected, encrypted or hashed, ideally all three.
The owner of the public key will use the private key to encrypt the digital signature when making a transaction.
A transaction is encrypted using a public key and can only be decrypted by using the matching private key. Therefore, when someone sends a transaction they will need their private key to decrypt and prove they own the funds being used in this transaction.
The private key is used to sign the transaction, which verifies that the transaction hasn't been modified. A digital signature is created when someone combines their private key with the data that's being sent as part of a transaction.
Once the transaction has been executed the nodes on the network will check and authenticate the details of the transaction and if any information is incorrect the transaction will be rejected. Once executed transactions cannot be reversed.
Where should you store your private key?
Your private keys are essentially your passwords, so it's of utmost importance that you keep them safe. Your best bet is to store them offline somewhere safe. This might mean written on a piece of paper, stored on an offline device, or kept in a password manager. As mentioned above, public keys can be stored anywhere and shared with anyone.
To avoid the hassle and stress of ensuring the safety of your private keys at all times, you can use a hot wallet supplied through a reputable exchange. If you choose to take this route ensure that the crypto platform is regulated and adheres to stringent security measures. The Tap app ticks these regulatory boxes and ensures that customers have full access to their funds at all times, without the risk of losing them if they lose their private keys.
In conclusion
Private keys are digital passwords used to establish one's ownership in a crypto wallet and are created in conjunction with the public key of the same wallet. One should never share their private keys with anyone.
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.
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