Learning the friendly way

Let's be honest, entering the world of crypto can feel like trying to surf a tsunami while blindfolded. Especially during a bull market, when excitement is running high and everyone seems to be making money, it's easy to get swept up in the madness. We’ve all be there. But here's the deal: smart surfing is about strategy, not just catching the biggest wave.

What you need to know about bull markets

A bull market is crypto's version of spring - everything's blooming, prices are rising, and optimism is in the air. But just like spring can bring unexpected storms, the crypto market has its own unpredictable weather.

Do your homework (just do it)

Forget following random influencers promising overnight riches. The crypto world moves fast, and information is your best life jacket. Here's what to focus on:

• Research is your superpower: Dive deep into projects. What problem are they solving? Who's behind the team? What makes them unique?
• Understand the narratives: The crypto market loves stories. Right now, everyone's talking about AI tokens, decentralised infrastructure, and meme coins. Know what's trending, but don't just jump in blindly.

Build your crypto survival kit

Think of your crypto journey like preparing for an adventure:

1. Diversification is your friendsome text
   • Don't put all your eggs in one digital basket
   • Mix different types of cryptocurrencies
   • Consider a blend of established coins and promising new projects
2. Emotional discipline is your mentorsome text
   • FOMO (Fear Of Missing Out) is the crypto trader's worst enemy
   • Set clear goals and stick to them
   • Have a plan for both buying and selling

Spot the red flags and warning signs

Spotting the red flags

• Promises of guaranteed returns? 🚩 Red flag
• Projects with zero transparency? 🚩 Run away
• Everyone's talking about a coin, and you feel pressured? Take a breath

Risk management implementation

• Only invest what you can afford to lose
• Consider using strategies like Dollar Cost Averaging (buying small amounts regularly)
• Set up stop-loss mechanisms to protect your investment

The learning never stops

There’s nothing wrong with a long-term hodl plan. But if you’re looking to shake things up: stay curious, stay learning:

• Follow reputable crypto news sources
• Join community discussions
• Watch educational content from experienced traders

Always look beyond the hype

Look beyond price. Understanding blockchain technology, market trends, and the real-world applications of cryptocurrencies will make you a smarter investor.

Mindset matters

Remember, this isn't a get-rich-quick scheme. It's a journey of learning, strategy, and calculated risks. Some days you'll feel like a crypto wizard, other days like you're playing financial Jenga.

Pro tips from the crypto trenches

• Keep emotions in check
• Don't chase every shiny new token
• Learn from both your wins and losses
• Stay humble and curious

The bottom line

Crypto trading during a bull market is thrilling, but it's not a lottery. It's about informed decisions, continuous learning, and maintaining a level head.

Disclaimer: This guide is for educational purposes only. The crypto market is volatile, and past performance doesn't guarantee future results. Always do your own research and consider consulting with a qualified financial advisor before making investment decisions.

Stay smart, stay safe, and enjoy the ride! 

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Ever wondered how cryptocurrency prices are worked out on exchanges? The answer lies in a powerful tool called an order book. Think of it as a real-time snapshot of what is happening in the crypto market, showing exactly who wants to buy and sell at what prices. 

In this article, we explain everything you need to know about crypto order books and how they fit into your crypto journey. 

Understanding the basics: what is a crypto order book?

A crypto order book is like a dynamic ledger that displays all pending buy and sell orders for a specific cryptocurrency on an exchange. Imagine it as a marketplace where buyers and sellers gather, each stating their desired prices. The order book continuously updates in real-time, keeping a live record of the ever-changing supply and demand dynamics.

How does a crypto order book work?

The order book is divided into two main sections:

1. Bid Orders (Buy Side)some text
   • Shows prices traders are willing to pay
   • Typically displayed in green
   • Higher bids appear at the top
2. Ask Orders (Sell Side)some text
   • Shows prices traders want to sell at
   • Usually displayed in red
   • Lower asks appear at the bottom

The difference between the highest bid and lowest ask is called the "bid-ask spread". This number is a prime indicator of market liquidity and trading costs.

Different order types

The order book handles several types of orders:

• Market orders: Execute immediately at the best available price
• Limit orders: Set a specific price for execution
• Stop loss: Automatically sell when the price hits a certain level
• Take profit: Lock in gains at predetermined prices

Market depth

The order book also indicates market depth, showing the volume of orders at different price levels. Deep markets with large order volumes typically mean:

• More stable prices
• Easier trading
• Better price execution

How to use an order book 

1. Watch the spreadsome text
   • Tighter spreads indicate better liquidity
   • Wider spreads might mean higher trading costs
2. Monitor depthsome text
   • Look for significant support and resistance levels
   • Be cautious of thin order books
3. Consider volumesome text
   • Higher volumes suggest more active trading
   • Lower volumes might indicate increased risk

Why order books matter for crypto trading

Order books have become an integral part of crypto trading because they provide a clear view of real-time supply and demand. This helps traders understand market sentiment, track price changes, and spot potential trends. With this transparency, it’s easier to gauge how the market is moving at any given time.

They also offer a valuable tool for building trading strategies. They help traders find support and resistance levels, identify large orders that might affect prices, and decide when to enter or exit trades. 

Common order book patterns to watch out for

1. Wall: Large orders at a specific price level that might prevent price movement
2. Depth Imbalance: More orders on one side, suggesting potential price direction
3. Tight Spread: Indicates high liquidity and active trading
4. Wide Spread: Suggests low liquidity and potential volatility

Alternatives to order book trading

While order books dominate centralized exchanges, other trading mechanisms also exist:

1. Automated Market Makers (AMMs)some text
   • Used by decentralized exchanges
   • Rely on mathematical formulas instead of order matching
   • Popular in DeFi applications
2. Over-the-Counter (OTC)some text
   • Direct trading between parties
   • Typically used for large volumes
   • More private than exchange trading

Final thoughts

Understanding crypto order books is crucial for anyone serious about trading digital assets. They provide valuable insights into market dynamics and help traders make informed decisions. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced trader, mastering order book analysis can significantly improve your trading strategy.

Remember: Order books are just one tool in your trading arsenal. Experienced traders tend to combine order book analysis with other technical and fundamental analysis methods for a more comprehensive trading approach.

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In the colorful and often chaotic world of crypto, there exists a quirky corner dominated by what is affectionately known as “meme coins." These digital assets, born from the memes and trends that dominate online culture, are the playful jesters of the crypto kingdom. 

Despite their playful charm, meme coins are often caught up in pump-and-dump schemes and other scams, making them quite the rollercoaster ride. Their volatility is high, and the risk is real. 

So, what draws people to these digital jokes? Simple: some meme coins have handed out enormous returns to those daring enough to dive in. But with a whole galaxy of meme coins out there, how do you spot the stars from the scams? Stick around for some handy pointers.

‍What makes meme coins popular? 

meme coins, like the iconic Dogecoin or Shiba Inu, often start as jokes, are often associated with entertainment rather than usability, and often gain traction thanks to the power of community, social media, and, occasionally, celebrity endorsements.

Unlike more traditional cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin or Ethereum, meme coins generally lack complex technology or specific use cases. They're not about solving grand technological challenges but rather about capturing the spirit of the internet in a tokenized form. This means that their value is often driven by pure enthusiasm, online buzz, and the thrill of being part of a viral movement.

So why are these coins so popular? The appeal of meme coins lies in their accessibility and the sense of belonging they create. They're fun, easy to understand, and often tied to shared cultural experiences that resonate with a broad audience. The sense of community and the potential possibility of rapid gains draw people in, making some meme coins a fascinating aspect of the crypto landscape.

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The downside to meme coin’s popularity

Lately, meme coins have been the talk of the town, sparking a wave of enthusiasm—and, unfortunately, a spike in scams too. Navigating the crypto market's more playful corner requires a keen eye. Before you leap into a memecoin, take a good look at the project and the brains behind it, as well as its development plan and the project’s overall transparency. 

It's wise to tread carefully in these waters and resist the urge to jump in just because a memecoin is all the rage.

‍How to spot a meme coin from a scam

1. Beyond jokes and buzz
   The initial charm of a meme coin may come from its humour, but lasting appeal requires more substance. Look for meme coins that offer real utility and a role within a broader ecosystem—these are signs of a coin that could stick around.
2. Transparency is key
   Steer clear of meme coins shrouded in mystery, where details about the team and their updates are scarce. A trustworthy memecoin project is open about its progress and the people behind it.
3. Security measures
   Given that meme coins often attract the attention of hackers, robust security is a must. A credible meme coin will have undergone thorough security audits and checks. If a coin lacks evidence of strong security measures, it's a red flag.
4. Community strength
   A vibrant and active community is crucial for a memecoin's success. meme coins that are driven by their communities tend to have a more promising future, thriving on the collective support and engagement of their members.

As meme coins continue to capture the imagination of the online world, they've also caught the eye of regulators. The wild, unregulated environment in which these coins thrive poses challenges for authorities trying to protect consumers from potential scams or market manipulation. Despite this, the decentralised nature of most meme coins makes regulation a complex issue, leaving this corner of the crypto world as something of a digital Wild West.

Conclusion

meme coins are the whimsical, unpredictable, and culturally significant players in the cryptocurrency arena. They bring together the lightheartedness of internet memes with the fast-paced world of digital assets, creating a unique blend of humour and speculation. Whether you're laughing with them or at them, meme coins have undeniably become a fascinating part of the crypto narrative.

However, the very traits that make meme coins so appealing—their viral nature and community-driven buzz—also make them a hotspot for speculative bubbles and financial mishaps. As they continue to captivate the imagination of the online masses, they also pose significant challenges and risks, often operating in the murky waters of regulatory oversight. This unregulated and often wild market dynamic invites both opportunistic gains and blatant scammers.

For enthusiasts and investors alike, navigating this landscape means staying informed, vigilant, and discerning. Understanding the signs of a genuine meme coin versus a scam is crucial. It's not just about the initial buzz or the humor; it's about the underlying value, security measures, transparency, and community engagement that support the token's longevity and potential growth.

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Crypto recovery scams involve fraudsters claiming they can recover lost or stolen cryptocurrency for a fee. These scammers prey on individuals who have lost access to their digital assets.

As cryptocurrencies grow in popularity, these deceptive schemes are also becoming more and more prevalent. Being able to identify and avoid such scams is crucial. Not only will it help to safeguard your current investments but will also prevent further financial losses. In this article we’re going to guide you through identifying these scams, and what to do from there. 

Signs of a crypto recovery scam

Spotting a crypto recovery scam can be easier if you know the telltale signs:

• Be wary of unsolicited offers to recover your lost or stolen crypto, as legitimate services don't operate that way. 
• Scammers often demand exorbitant upfront fees before providing any services, while legitimate ones typically charge after a successful recovery.
• Unrealistic promises of guaranteed recovery should also raise suspicion, as legitimate services are upfront about risks and limitations.

Another red flag is a lack of transparency about their methods and processes. Scammers tend to be vague, while legitimate services are open about their approach. 

Finally, watch out for high-pressure tactics like creating a false sense of urgency. Scammers may use these to rush you into a decision, whereas legitimate services allow you to make an informed choice. Acknowledging and staying vigilant about these signs can protect you from falling victim to crypto recovery scams.

How scammers typically operate a crypto recovery scam

In a cunning ploy, scammers impersonate representatives from reputable companies, reaching out to unsuspecting individuals with the promise of recovering funds lost in previous scams. These impostors may even possess specific details about the victims, such as the amount of money they had lost, further lending credibility to their claims.

Once they gain the trust of their targets, the scammers instruct the victims to promptly send Bitcoin or other cryptocurrencies to a wallet address controlled by the scammers themselves. In some cases, the scammers may suggest that the victims create accounts on cryptocurrency exchanges that allow multiple owners for a single wallet, such as Atomic Wallet. In other instances, the scammers may have already set up these accounts themselves and merely grant the victims access, ensuring complete control over the funds.

To further facilitate the transfer of funds, some victims are coaxed into downloading remote access software like AnyDesk, under the pretense of receiving assistance with setting up bank or exchange accounts. This tactic grants the scammers direct access to the victims' devices, providing yet another avenue for diverting funds to their chosen destinations.

How to protect yourself

To protect yourself from crypto recovery scams, it's essential to do thorough research on any company or service before engaging with it. Be sure to scrutinize their credentials, reviews, and track record, and if something sounds too good to be true, it usually is. 

As mentioned above, always be highly sceptical of unsolicited offers or claims, as these are often tactics used by scammers. Instead, do your own homework and find a service that aligns with your needs and sense of comfort. 

Never share your private keys or seed phrases with anyone, as this grants them complete access to your funds. Instead, consider using reputable and trusted crypto recovery services, such as CryptoRecovery.com or CoinRecovered.com, which have established reputations and transparent processes.

While this might sound like scary business, rest assured that by exercising due diligence, maintaining a healthy dose of scepticism, and safeguarding your private information, you can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to these deceptive schemes.

Reporting crypto recovery scams

If you suspect you have been contacted by a crypto recovery scam service or found one online, report it to the appropriate authorities as well as the Tap team immediately. Many countries have dedicated cybercrime units or financial fraud hotlines where you can file a complaint. Additionally, by alerting Tap we can escalate the report and inform other crypto holders before they potentially fall prey to these scammers.

Always remember that raising awareness is crucial in combating these scams. Share your experience on forums, social media, or with your network to warn others. By doing so, you can help prevent more people from falling victim and contribute to the collective effort against crypto-related frauds.

Key takeaways from this article

Key signs of a crypto recovery scam include unsolicited offers, demands for exorbitant upfront fees, lack of transparency about methods, unrealistic promises of guaranteed recovery, and high-pressure tactics. Exercise extreme caution and conduct thorough due diligence before engaging with any service claiming to recover lost or stolen cryptocurrency.

Additionally, spreading awareness is crucial to combating these scams. Share information about the telltale signs and your experiences with Tap, the appropriate authorities, your network and online communities. By raising awareness, you can help others avoid falling victim to these deceptive schemes and contribute to the collective effort against crypto-related fraud.

For more information, here are the top 5 crypto scams people fall victim to.

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No matter your travel budget, navigating ATM fees is worth your time when travelling around Europe. In this article, we’re giving you a run-through of the common charges you may face, from withdrawal and balance inquiry fees to currency conversion costs, and how to easily navigate them. 

Why do ATMs charge fees?

Wondering why ATMs charge those pesky fees? The truth is, there's a cost involved for the banks behind those convenient cash machines. They have to stock the cash, maintain the equipment, and liaise with your home bank to reconcile the transactions. Those ATM fees you see? That's how banks recoup those operational expenses, with a little profit margin added in for good measure.

Common ATM fees in Europe

When using ATMs in Europe, you'll likely encounter several common fees that can mount up fast. While less common in the UK, in countries like Germany, ATM fees can quickly add up to €4. Let’s take a look at what kinds of fees one might encounter. 

Bear in mind that the amount you'll have to pay at a European ATM depends on two main factors:

• Your home bank's fees: they may charge a withdrawal fee, typically a few euros to several dollars, every time you use an ATM abroad.
• The ATM's own fees: the bank that owns the ATM you're using may also levy its own withdrawal fee, on top of what your home bank charges.

These charges will vary depending on your bank, so be sure to check before leaving. While most banks list their ATM use charges in their terms, with some offering limited free withdrawals, others charge a flat fee per transaction, especially for out-of-network or international ATM use, so be mindful of potential fees when accessing your money abroad.

In addition to withdrawal fees, you may also encounter balance inquiry fees just for checking your account balance, as well as conversion or foreign transaction fees when using a card issued outside of the Eurozone.

Factors affecting ATM fees

The fees you'll encounter at European ATMs can vary quite a bit depending on several key factors. First, the location of the ATM makes a big difference - if it's part of your home bank's network, you'll likely pay lower (or even no) withdrawal fees. But use an out-of-network machine, and those charges can start to add up quickly.

The type of card you're using also plays a role. Debit cards generally incur fewer fees than credit cards when used for ATM withdrawals. And your home bank's specific policies on international ATM use can further impact the costs you face.

Keeping these variables in mind as you access cash abroad will help you sidestep unnecessary fees and make your travel budget stretch further.

Tips for minimising ATM fees in Europe

When navigating the ATM landscape in Europe, there are a few savvy strategies you can employ to steer clear of those ATM fees:

• Seek out a bank account that offers fee-free withdrawals - some digital-only banks provide a certain number of complimentary ATM transactions each month.
• Stick to ATMs owned and operated by banks, rather than independent machines often found in convenience stores, as those are more likely to come with added charges.
• Be strategic with your cash withdrawals - if your account allows for free branch ATM use, plan ahead and make larger, less frequent withdrawals to minimise fees. Conversely, if you have a limited number of free monthly transactions, opt for larger sums to get more mileage from those.
• Finally, minimise cash usage altogether by relying on your debit card for payments wherever possible, reserving cash for small, cash-only establishments like markets.

By employing these tactics, you can keep more of your hard-earned money in your pocket while exploring Europe.

The Tap Solution

Tap provides users within the European zone with a free prepaid crypto and fiat card that can be used anywhere in the world. Powered by Mastercard, the card links directly to the funds in the holder’s Tap app, allowing them to easily manage their money and constantly be in the know. 

With all options providing free card deposits and free in store purchases, the premium options (Black and Titanium) offer impressive fees when it comes to exchanging and trading funds. In terms of ATM withdrawal fees, the Standard account offers free ATM withdrawals up to €500, while Black card holders have up to €1,000 and Titanium up to €4,000 before incurring charges. 

Get more information about the available options when it comes to your Tap card here. 

Conclusion

In summary, being aware of European ATM fees - including withdrawal charges, balance inquiries, and currency conversion costs - is key to managing your travel budget. Research your bank's policies, locate in-network ATMs, and strategise cash withdrawals before your trip. With some smart planning, you can sidestep unnecessary fees and make the most of your time exploring Europe.

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With billions of credit, debit and prepaid cards in circulation around the world, they are undoubtedly a permanent fixture in the payments sector. According to Statista, over the two-year period from 2019 to 2021, the total number of credit, debit, and prepaid cards globally increased by 2 billion, reaching 25.2 billion cards, with this volume projected to grow by 21% between 2021 and 2025 before stabilising.

Further on this, the payments landscape has evolved to include a wide array of digital payment methods beyond just traditional cards. These include enabling payments via SMS on mobile phones, "Buy Now, Pay Later" financing schemes, mobile wallets, contactless payments leveraging Near Field Communication technology, QR code-based transactions, and cryptocurrency payments.

As these trends continue developing, a prominent feature on the landscape is customizable white-label cards, which while tailored to the unique needs of the client, can incorporate any of these methods mentioned above. Let’s explore the white-label card market. 

What is a white-label card?

To recap, white-label products and services are made by a third party but sold under a distinct brand, allowing that brand to seamlessly use the infrastructure already established by the third party. This practice has expanded beyond retail into the financial sector, enabling businesses to offer their own branded payment cards.

With white-label card issuing, a company can issue cards under its own branding, while the underlying functionality and processing are provided by third-party services. This allows the business to introduce branded cards without the complexity of obtaining a separate issuing licence required in the regulated financial sector.

As an example, in 2023, Bitfinex, a prominent cryptocurrency exchange platform, partnered with Tap to offer a white-label prepaid card solution. This allowed Bitfinex to provide its clients with a branded payment option while generating a new revenue stream, leveraging Tap's underlying financial infrastructure.

The many white-label card solutions

White-label payment cards come in various forms to suit diverse financial needs:

Debit cards 

Provide access to bank account funds for daily transactions and ATM withdrawals.

Credit cards 

Allow borrowing up to a limit, similar to traditional credit.

Prepaid cards 

Loaded with a set amount for budgeting and spending control.

Virtual cards 

Exist only digitally for secure online payments.

Payroll cards

Where employers directly deposit wages, eliminating the need for cash or direct transfers.

Expense cards

With specific purposes and spending limits or restrictions, like for business expenses.

The advantages of white-label cards for consumers

While the benefits of white-label cards are typically associated with businesses, there are several advantages for the consumer, too. 

• Customised perks

White-label cards provide tailored rewards, discounts, and exclusive offers to enhance the shopping experience and deliver savings.

• Streamlined shopping experiences

These cards can streamline purchases within specific stores or brands, making transactions convenient and focused on preferred retailers.

• Improved credit access

Consumers with diverse credit profiles can often access white-label cards, enabling them to build or improve their credit history through responsible usage.

The advantages of white-label cards for businesses

White-label card issuing provides businesses with several key advantages:

• Distinctive branding

Cards can be tailored to match the business's branding, enhancing visibility and customer recognition.

• Quick market entry

Partnering for white-label issuance enables a quick introduction of new card offerings, establishing a market presence before saturation.

• Reduced development costs

Businesses can offer branded cards without the expense of developing a full card program from scratch, instead leveraging already established payment infrastructure. 

• Increased customer engagement

Branded cards with rewards, discounts, or exclusive benefits can foster loyalty and repeat business with new or established customers.

• Seamless operations

By tapping into an established infrastructure, businesses ensure seamless functionality, security, and dependability for cardholders.

Industries utilizing white-label cards

White-label card issuing has emerged as a versatile solution, catering to the needs of diverse industries, from neobanks and retailers to gig platforms and fleet management.

Retail and E-commerce

White-label credit programs allow retailers to provide customers with relaxed payment terms, encouraging higher spending through the convenience of deferred payment. Customers often earn loyalty rewards, fostering repeat business. Retail giants frequently offer private-label credit cards, such as Amazon's virtual cardless solution and its Prime Store Card.

Neobanks

Many neobanks have adopted white-label card solutions, like Revolut, enabling seamless multi-currency spending, especially for international travel. Revolut empowers customers with full control over their banking experience, offering a choice between NFC and magnetic stripe payment preferences.

Corporate cards

For large organisations, white-label corporate credit cards integrated into expense management programs can streamline processes, eliminating the need for manual tasks like expense reporting and payroll management.

Fuel cards for fleets

Fleet white-label cards are specialised payment solutions tailored for businesses operating vehicle fleets. These cards, often offered in collaboration with financial institutions, streamline expense management and provide benefits like fuel discounts.

Gig economy

As gig platforms continue to rise, integrating white-label card solutions has become a notable advancement. Fiverr, a freelance services platform, has embraced white-label cards to enhance user experience, enabling swift transactions and access to earnings.

The current state of the white-label card sector

The white-label card market is experiencing substantial growth and innovation, presenting significant opportunities across industries. These white-label solutions, including debit, credit, and prepaid cards, enable companies to customize payment gateways and card products as their own, without the overhead of building infrastructure from scratch.

Businesses like e-commerce platforms, SaaS providers, financial institutions, and online marketplaces commonly benefit from white-label cards. These offerings allow companies to strengthen their brand, enhance customer loyalty, and unlock new revenue through tailored loyalty programs and rewards.

A key advantage of white-label cards is their adaptability. They support various payment methods, accommodate international transactions, and integrate seamlessly with existing systems, providing a streamlined customer experience. This flexibility extends to virtual cards, which are gaining popularity for their ease of use in digital payments.

In summary, the white-label card sector offers a robust platform for businesses to expand payment solutions with minimal infrastructure investment, enhancing their service offerings and customer engagement.

For more information on issuing your own white-label card, you can learn more about Tap’s business services on the website here and contact Tap here. 

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