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Cryptocurrency is a complex topic, especially for those just starting out. This comprehensive guide breaks down the fundamentals in an easy-to-understand way to help you get started. Whether you want to invest in crypto, use it for payments, or just learn more, this beginner’s guide has got you covered.


What is Cryptocurrency?

Cryptocurrency is digital money that uses encryption techniques to control the creation of monetary units and verify transfers. This makes it secure and resistant to counterfeiting.

The "crypto" part refers to cryptography, which is the process of converting information into code to prevent unauthorized access.

The "currency" part refers to the ability to use these digital tokens as money to purchase goods and services.

Some key things that set cryptocurrency apart from traditional fiat money:

  • Decentralized - No central authority controls it, network participants manage it
  • Transaction transparency - Details are recorded on a public ledger called the blockchain
  • Pseudonymous - Accounts are not linked to real world identities
  • Irreversible payments - No chargebacks or reversals once settled
  • Limited supply - New units are created at a fixed rate according to an algorithm

Top cryptocurrencies include Bitcoin, Ethereum, Tether, and Binance Coin. There are now over 20,000 different cryptocurrencies in existence.


How Does Cryptocurrency Work?

Cryptocurrencies run on distributed networks of computers around the world. Transactions are recorded on a shared public ledger called a blockchain. Here's how it works:

  • Wallets - Used to store tokens and interact with the network. Wallets have a public address users share to transact.
  • Transactions - Transfer of cryptocurrency between wallets on the network. Recorded on the blockchain.
  • Mining - Computers that validate and process transactions, adding them to the blockchain. Rewarded with newly minted cryptocurrency.
  • Blockchain - Distributed digital ledger containing the transaction history. Copies maintained and updated by miners.
  • Private Keys - Secure digital codes used to authorize transactions. Needed to access cryptocurrency.

This decentralized verification and record-keeping allows cryptocurrency networks to operate without central banks or regulators.


Cryptocurrency vs Traditional Money

Cryptocurrencies have some key differences from traditional fiat money like dollars and euros:

  • Fiat - Government-issued legal tender, value determined by central banks.
  • Crypto - Generated and valued by code, not issued by governments.
  • Fiat - Physical cash, stored in bank accounts.
  • Crypto - Digital tokens, stored in wallets.
  • Fiat - Centralized control by banks and financial institutions.
  • Crypto - Decentralized networks, distributed ledgers.
  • Fiat - Transfers often reversible.
  • Crypto - Irreversible transactions.
  • Fiat - Unlimited ability for governments to print more.
  • Crypto - Fixed supply based on algorithms.

Both cryptocurrency and fiat can be used for payments, transactions, and storing value. But they operate very differently.


Top Reasons to Use Cryptocurrency

Here are some of the key benefits cryptocurrency offers over traditional money:

  • Lower fees - Avoid high wire transfer fees, currency exchange fees, and payment processing fees.
  • Accessibility - Anyone with an internet connection can use it, including those without bank accounts.
  • Anonymity - Transactions don't require personal information beyond wallet addresses.
  • Speed - No long wait times for checks to clear or wire transfers to settle.
  • Global - Not restricted to a particular country or region, can be sent anywhere.
  • Control - Users control cryptocurrency, not regulated by governments or banks.
  • Security - Encryption, irreversibility, and decentralized networks make it very secure.
  • Investment - Increased value over time for many cryptocurrencies makes it attractive to hold.

These advantages make cryptocurrency useful for payments, transfers, transactions, investments, and more. It opens up financial systems to those without traditional access.


Types of Cryptocurrency

While Bitcoin was the first, there are now thousands of cryptocurrencies in existence. Here are some major types:

  • Bitcoin - The original and largest cryptocurrency by market cap.
  • Altcoins - Alternative coins inspired by Bitcoin. Includes Ethereum, Dogecoin, XRP, Polkadot, Cardano, Solana, etc.
  • Stablecoins - Pegged to an asset like fiat currencies to stabilize value. Tether, USD Coin.
  • Security Tokens - Represent assets like stocks, bonds, real estate. SEC regulated.
  • Utility Tokens - Provide access to products/services on a blockchain network.
  • CBDCs - Digital versions of fiat currency issued by central banks.

Cryptocurrencies can have different purposes, functions, and market values while sharing core blockchain technology.


Understanding Market Cap and Supply

Two key metrics to look at when evaluating cryptocurrencies are market capitalization (market cap) and circulating supply.

  • Market Cap - Total value of all the coins on the market. Price x total supply. Indicates network value.
  • Circulating Supply - Number of coins actually accessible trading. Excludes locked-up coins.
  • Total Supply - The maximum number of coins that will ever exist. Release determined by algorithms.

Higher market cap indicates more value, but also consider the total and circulating supply. A small supply with high price can result in high market cap as well.

As more coins enter circulation, this can dilute the price per coin. Supply dynamics help determine cryptocurrency valuations.


How to Buy Cryptocurrency

There are several options to obtain cryptocurrency:

  • Exchanges - Buy from platforms like Coinbase, Kraken, Gemini, Binance. Deposit fiat money and trade for coins.
  • Brokers - Intermediaries that buy/sell crypto on your behalf for a fee like Robinhood and Revolut. Easier but less control.
  • Debit Cards - Prepaid crypto debit cards can convert coins to spendable fiat anywhere major cards accepted.
  • P2P - Decentralized methods like LocalBitcoins to buy directly from other users without a centralized exchange.
  • Mining - Use specialized computing equipment to validate transactions and earn newly created coins.
  • Work - Get paid for products/services in cryptocurrency like through crypto freelancing or Microtasks.
  • ATMs - Deposit cash into a physical kiosk to load crypto onto your wallet. Fees range 5-20%.
  • Airdrops - Some blockchain projects give away free coins for marketing or to seed network adoption.

Do your own research to pick safe, regulated options that fit your needs and level of technical skill.


Storing Cryptocurrency Securely

Unlike physical money, cryptocurrency exists entirely digitally. This means you need to store it securely to protect from theft, hardware failures, accidents, and your own mistakes. Here are some best practices for storing crypto:

  • Cold Storage - Keep the majority of holdings offline in a hardware wallet, paper wallet, or other cold storage. Less accessible but very secure.
  • Hot Storage - Keep a small amount in software/exchange wallets for active trading and transactions. More convenient but more susceptible to hacking.
  • Backup - Have redundant copies of wallets, keys, passphrases, and seed phrases. Store backups both digitally and physically (e.g. USB drives, paper).
  • Multi-signature - Use wallets that require multiple keys to authorize transactions for better security.
  • Encryption - Use wallets that encrypt all data and transactions locally before transmitting.
  • Updates - Keep software up-to-date to have the latest security fixes. Turn on auto-updates if available.
  • Reputable Sources - Only download wallets from official websites, app stores, and trusted sources.

Take security seriously from the start. Lost, stolen, or inaccessible crypto is often gone for good.


Cryptocurrency Volatility

Unlike stable assets, most cryptocurrencies are highly volatile and go through cycles of rapid price fluctuations. Here’s why:

  • Speculation - Large amount of speculative investment creates volatility since people buy/sell based on predictions.
  • News - Major news events and announcements can instantly impact prices.
  • Adoption - accelerating adoption and real world usage drives up demand and prices.
  • Limit Supply - Unlike fiat, once maximum coins are mined, no more can enter circulation.
  • Inflation - Rising fiat inflation often leads investors to scarce assets like crypto as a hedge.

Cryptocurrency volatility makes for high-risk investments. It's wise to only invest discretionary income and avoid large positions in more volatile assets.

Crypto Market Cycles

The crypto market goes through boom and bust cycles with sustained periods of rising and falling prices. The two primary market cycles are:

Bull Market

  • Optimism and confidence among investors
  • New money rapidly entering the market
  • Prices steadily rising over months/years
  • Assets reaching new highs daily/weekly
  • Fear of Missing Out (FOMO) kicks in

Bear Market

  • Pessimism and fear take over
  • Money gets pulled out of the market
  • Prices steadily decline over months/years
  • Assets falling to new lows daily/weekly
  • Investors capitulate near the bottom

These cycles can lead to crypto wiping out gains or dropping 90% from peak prices. Having a long-term outlook helps endure bear markets and capitalize on bull runs.


Crypto Investment Strategy Tips

Here are some tips for investing in cryptocurrency:

  • Diversify - Invest in a variety of cryptocurrencies and assets beyond just crypto.
  • Dollar Cost Average - Systematically invest set amounts regardless of price over time.
  • Focus on fundamentals - Learn about the technology, teams, use cases, communities behind coins.
  • Avoid hype - Don't invest in pumps driven by hype and FOMO without deeper analysis.
  • HODL - Hold coins long-term instead of frequently trading in and out.
  • Take profits - Sell a percentage of holdings after large gains to realize some profits.
  • Automate - Use automatic purchasing options like recurring buys to remove emotions from investing.
  • Keep learning - Follow crypto news and educate yourself on emerging developments.

A prudent strategy considers both risk management and profit-taking. Never "bet the farm" on crypto investments.


Cryptocurrency Risks

While cryptocurrency offers many advantages, it also comes with considerable risks:

  • Volatility - Large price fluctuations can rapidly drive up or erase value.
  • Liquidity - Lower trading volume makes some coins hard to sell at a fair market value.
  • Hacks - Exchanges and wallets are vulnerable to hacks and thefts.
  • Scams - Many sham cryptocurrencies and fake opportunities exist.
  • Regulation - Evolving government policies add uncertainty to the future of crypto.
  • Tax - Cryptocurrency taxation remains complex with unclear implications.
  • Losing Keys - If you lose access to keys/seeds, cryptocurrency becomes inaccessible.
  • Failed Projects - Many startups don't succeed and coins become worthless.

Only invest money you can afford to lose. While the upside can be massive, it may also drop to zero. Manage risks wisely.


Cryptocurrency Taxes

Cryptocurrency is treated as property for tax purposes in most countries. Using it triggers capital gains and losses that must be reported. Key points:

  • Trading crypto to crypto is taxable - you must calculate gains on each trade.
  • Selling crypto for fiat is a taxable event.
  • Income from mining, staking, and airdrops is taxable.
  • Gifts of crypto over a certain amount are subject to gift tax.
  • Losses can be deducted and used to offset capital gains.
  • Third-party tax software can import trades and manage reporting.
  • Tax rules vary by country - consult local guidance.

Failing to report cryptocurrency taxes can lead to interest and penalties. Track activity, document trades, and report taxes properly.


Common Crypto and Blockchain Terms

Learning the lingo is key to navigating crypto conversations and understanding how things work:

  • ROI - Return on Investment - percentage gain or loss on an investment.
  • ATH - All-Time High - The highest price a cryptocurrency has reached.
  • Bear/Bull - Belief market will go down/up.
  • Wallet - Software holding cryptocurrency and enabling transactions.
  • Cold Storage - Offline wallets for asset security.
  • Block - Group of transactions added to blockchain ledger.
  • Mining - Using computers to validate blockchain transactions.
  • 51% Attack - When single miner controls over half of processing power of a network.
  • FOMO - Fear Of Missing Out - feeling of regret from missing investment gains.
  • FUD - Fear Uncertainty Doubt - feeling of anxiety due to price declines or news.
  • Pump and Dump - Artificially inflating asset prices through hype only to sell and crash it.
  • HODL - Holding assets long-term rather than actively trading them.
  • Fork - Split in blockchain pathways usually due to updates.

Follow crypto blogs and YouTube channels to learn more terms as you dive deeper!


Getting Started with Crypto

Here are some tips for getting started investing in and using cryptocurrency:

  • Start small - invest small amounts to learn without large financial risk
  • Choose established, reputable platforms and wallets
  • Enable two-factor authentication for additional account security
  • Begin tracking assets using a portfolio app or spreadsheet
  • Don't fall for "get rich quick" hype - sustainable gains take time
  • Keep private keys and seed words safe - don't lose or share these!
  • Move holdings into your own private wallet instead of leaving on an exchange
  • Stay up to date on crypto news, trends, regulations in your area
  • Spend time learning about blockchain, the technology powering cryptocurrencies
  • Interact with helpful, supportive crypto communities

The learning curve is steep, but take it slow. Crypto lets anyone be their own bank and invest in emerging technologies!


Frequently Asked Questions


Questions about crypto



What makes cryptocurrency go up in value?

Some key factors that affect cryptocurrency prices and cause valuation to rise include increased adoption/usage, major institutional investment, scarcity/halvings reducing new supply rate, significant project/technology development, and general investor demand outpacing supply. Media hype and speculation can also fuel short-term price rises.

Is cryptocurrency safe?

The underlying blockchain technology is generally very secure. However, cryptocurrency exchanges and individual wallets/accounts can be vulnerable to hacking or theft if proper precautions aren't taken. Following best practices for securing accounts and holdings reduces these risks substantially. The technology itself and leading blockchain networks have proven resilient over a decade now.

Can cryptocurrency be converted to cash?

Yes, cryptocurrency can easily be converted to cash by selling or withdrawing it from an exchange that allows fiat withdrawals. The funds can then be transferred to a bank account. Debit cards are also available that will convert crypto balances to cash for spending anywhere major cards are accepted. It's easy to liquidate crypto holdings.

What will make cryptocurrency go down?

Some potential triggers for falling crypto prices include new government regulations restricting usage, denial of service attacks on networks, a major project failure or hack, lack of confidence/adoption from institutions and the wider public, and downward price pressure from miners and whales selling holdings. Loss of belief in the underlying value of blockchain technology could also adversely impact prices long-term.

Which cryptocurrency is best to invest in?

Every cryptocurrency has different characteristics, use cases, tokenomics, risks, and potential rewards. There is no one "best" cryptocurrency investment suitable for everyone. It's important to research projects fully, considering things like the team, roadmap, community interest, and both current capabilities and future vision. Determine which align closest with your own goals and risk tolerance. Diversification is recommended as well.

What will cryptocurrency be worth in 5 years?

The cryptocurrency market is extremely difficult to forecast with any kind of long-term precision. While the technology holds immense promise and major projects are building out capabilities, it's impossible to predict specific pricing and valuations years in advance due to the high volatility and complexity of intertwining factors driving both growth and declines at different points in time. The landscape 5 years from now could vary widely.

How many cryptocurrencies are there?

There are over 20,000 different cryptocurrencies currently in existence as of 2023 and the number continues growing daily. However, only about 600 of these have any significant traction based on active communities, development, and market capitalization. Most focus is on the top 100 largest projects by market cap, with Bitcoin and Ethereum dominating as the defacto "blue chips" of crypto.

Can you lose all your money on cryptocurrency?

Yes, it's absolutely possible to lose your entire cryptocurrency investment. If purchased cryptocurrency drops to a price of zero, the entire amount invested would be lost. Cryptocurrencies are highly volatile assets with considerable risk. Never invest more than you can afford to lose. The risk can be mitigated by only allocating a responsible percentage of your portfolio to cryptocurrency and dollar cost averaging into positions over time.

What is the most widely accepted cryptocurrency?

Bitcoin is by far the most widely accepted cryptocurrency at mainstream companies and merchants. As the first cryptocurrency, Bitcoin has the network effect advantage and is beginning to permeate industries like banking, finance, retail, and travel. Other commonly accepted cryptocurrencies include Ethereum, Litecoin, and Bitcoin Cash. Stablecoins tied to USD value have increasing utility for payments as well.

Conclusion

This comprehensive beginner's guide covers all the fundamentals to get you started in the world of cryptocurrency. There's still so much more to learn, but understanding these core concepts will give