Cryptocurrency is the most divisive investment asset regularly discussed in mainstream circles among investors. As an emerging asset class, cryptocurrency moves dramatically up and down. The risks are high. So can be the rewards. More investors are looking for ways to add cryptocurrency to their portfolio rather than subtract or exclude it.
However, learning as much as possible about what you’re getting into is important. Crypto assets are different from stocks, bonds, and similar assets. Here is a beginner’s guide to crypto investments.
Digital or Virtual Currency
Crypto is a form of digital currency. It operates independently of any traditional bank. Unlike national currencies, they do not have the same stability. Its value
High-Risk, Volatile Assets
Crypto is volatile. It can increase or decrease in value quickly and without warning. If you’re uneducated on a specific asset, an investor can lose much of their money. If you’re educated, at best, it’s still a high-risk situation that requires careful monitoring and navigation.
Growth Can Be Exponential
Some cryptocurrencies have seen extraordinarily high growth, with Bitcoin and Ethereum being glaring examples. Investing in the right coin can yield significant returns in a short time.
Blockchain Powers Cryptocurrency
Cryptocurrency is built on blockchain technology. Blockchain is a decentralized ledger that records transactions whenever there is a sale. It keeps these transactions transparent, secure, and immutable.
Bitcoin and Ethereum
The two top crypto coins in the world of cryptocurrency are Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH). For first-time investors, these are the golden standard. Both have growth potential but are volatile and high-risk like other crypto coins.
Hundreds of Cryptocurrencies Exist
There are hundreds of cryptocurrencies, and more are added seemingly every month. Many fail, but others demonstrate tremendous growth as well. Each cryptocurrency generally has its origin and purpose. It’s up to the investor to research crypto investments and decide for themselves what’s most likely to produce a strong return.
Buy and Sell Through Secure Means
Secure, safe ways to buy and sell cryptocurrency are a must. A BTC ATM and using a digital wallet are among the most popular methods, as are online exchanges. Ensure what you purchase is kept secure.
Short-Term or Long-Term Strategy
A short-term crypto strategy is more popular than a long-term strategy. It allows an investor to buy and sell quickly, sometimes within the same day, and take advantage of price fluctuations. A long-term strategy might involve waiting weeks or months to trade away an asset eventually, but only when there’s a clear profit.
Day Trading Has Higher Risks
Day trading cryptocurrency requires understanding candlestick charts and market indicators to identify trading opportunities. However, due to the volatility, there is a high risk of losing one’s investment.
Hype-Driven Coins
For a beginner, it is best to avoid hype-driven coins and focus on those with strong market fundamentals. The more well-established cryptocurrencies with years of history typically fare better than newly released coins or ones that have not been publicly listed for under 24 months.
Research and Avoid Impulsive Decisions
Do not buy by impulse or emotion. Ensure your crypto investments are data-backed. Invest the time in extensive research to determine whether a given coin is worth purchasing. This should be done based on where you’ve set your risk tolerance and your available capital.
Treat Crypto as an Opportunity to Diversify
Many investors use cryptocurrency to diversify their portfolios. It allows them to explore an asset besides stocks and bonds and adds excitement to a portfolio. It’s a potential pathway to capitalize on market volatility.
Diversify Your Crypto Portfolio
After you get going as a beginner, you may be tempted to invest in more than one cryptocurrency. That’s smart! Diversify your crypto portfolio by investing in large-cap, mid-cap, and small-cap coins. This way, you mitigate risk while enhancing your likely growth.
Security Tips for a Beginner Crypto Investor
Regarding crypto security, there are two key rules to follow. Use a hardware wallet. Do not leave crypto assets on any exchange.
Use cold wallets for long-term storage and hot wallets for daily transactions, balancing convenience with security as best as possible. Enable two-factor authentication and never share your private keys.
Buying And Holding Cryptocurrency Is Your Best Strategy
Buying and holding cryptocurrency and sitting on it for an extended period is what most beginner investors want to start with. Focus on established coins. Settle in on what buy-and-sell method you want to use, such as a Bitcoin ATM. This is how you can build wealth over time.