Whether you’re new to crypto or an old hand, there are many important things you should know. From how it works to what risks you should be aware of, we’ll help you understand what cryptocurrency is and how it can benefit your portfolio or everyday life.
A cryptocurrency is a digital asset that acts as money. It is not backed by any government or central bank, but instead is secured by encryption. This makes it difficult for anyone to counterfeit or double-spend.
Bitcoin and Ethereum are the most popular cryptocurrencies. But there are thousands of others that have been created over the years, each with unique features. Some are designed to be a store of value, while others focus on speed and transaction fees. The key to choosing the right one is understanding its purpose, risks, and potential for growth.
The rise of crypto has captivated the attention of investors, with eye-popping returns in some cases. However, the short-term volatility of the market can make it challenging to manage risk and build wealth over time.
There are several risks associated with investing in cryptocurrencies, including the risk of loss, regulatory uncertainty, and theft. Cryptos are not insured by the FDIC or SIPC like traditional investments, and platforms that buy and sell crypto can be hacked. Moreover, the legal status of crypto is uncertain, with some governments considering them as securities or currencies, while others are regulating them more closely.
Cryptocurrencies have gained popularity among individual investors because of their high returns and low correlations with other assets, such as stocks and bonds. In addition, some cryptocurrencies offer the promise of technological advancements, such as smart contracts that can automate certain financial transactions.
The security of cryptocurrencies is also a big draw. For example, with Bitcoin, “miners” around the world race to be the first to solve a complex math problem, which verifies and updates the blockchain, a record of all transactions. The miner who solves the problem gets new bitcoin, which is added to the broader marketplace. This system helps prevent hacking and fraud, as a change to the blockchain would not align with everyone else’s copy of the ledger.
As the popularity of cryptocurrencies has increased, more large investment funds, brokerages, and banks have been adding them to their portfolios. This has helped them diversify their risks and increase opportunities for growth. The future of regulation is another factor driving interest in cryptos. Many investors believe that laws will ultimately determine how people use them, and that could impact their price.
If you’re ready to start buying and trading crypto, NerdWallet can help you find a reputable broker or exchange. Our ratings and reviews take into account over 15 factors, from account fees and minimums to investment choices, customer support, and mobile app capabilities. We’ll also walk you through the process of opening an account, funding it, and storing your crypto securely. Then, once you’ve got some experience, we’ll show you how to move your crypto between exchanges and wallets.