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Decoding the disconnect: America's cautious approach to crypto

Explore why Bitcoin and the crypto market are worth $2.1 trillion and why skepticism still lingers among Americans in this deep dive.

Decoding the disconnect: America's cautious approach to crypto
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Bitcoin and the broader crypto market have soared to a staggering $2.1 trillion in value, but why does skepticism still linger among so many Americans?

Despite increasing adoption, digital currencies remain shrouded in doubt, revealing a significant trust gap that continues to challenge the industry. As cryptocurrencies become more woven into everyday financial transactions, closing this trust deficit is essential for ensuring sustained growth and mainstream acceptance.

In this article, we'll dive into the key reasons behind this persistent mistrust, uncover the expanding real-world uses of digital assets, and explore how education and technological advancements can help bridge the confidence gap. Keep in mind, the data presented draws from multiple studies, so some figures and age groupings may vary slightly.

A Look at the Current State of Crypto Trust

To truly understand cryptocurrency adoption and the accompanying trust issues, it’s essential to examine the latest statistics and demographic data. This section breaks down public sentiment toward crypto and provides a snapshot of its user base.

General Public Sentiment

Percentage of Americans Who Own Cryptocurrency

Cryptocurrency adoption has seen slow but steady growth over the years. According to surveys conducted by Pew Research Center in 2021 and 2023, 17% of Americans have invested in, traded, or used cryptocurrency, up slightly from 16% in 2021.

While estimates vary, Security.org places this figure higher, estimating that roughly 40% of the U.S. population - around 93 million adults - own some form of cryptocurrency.

Both studies agree that younger generations are driving much of this growth, with 30% of Americans aged 18-29 reporting they have experience with crypto.

Trust Levels in Cryptocurrency

Despite rising adoption rates, trust in cryptocurrency remains a significant hurdle. Pew Research Center found that 75% of Americans have little or no confidence that cryptocurrency exchanges can safeguard their funds. Similarly, a recent report by Morning Consult shows that 7 in 10 consumers familiar with crypto express low or no trust in it.

This contrasts the 31% who have some or high trust, or the 24% in the Pew study who are “somewhat” to “extremely” confident in cryptocurrencies.

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Demographics of Crypto Adopters

Age Groups

Cryptocurrency adoption trends reveal a distinct generational divide. According to the 2023 Morning Consult survey, Gen Z adults (ages 18-25) lead in crypto ownership at 36%, closely followed by Millennials at 30%.

These younger groups are also more inclined toward future investments, with 39% of Gen Z and 45% of Millennials planning to invest in crypto in the coming years. Over half of both generations view cryptocurrency and blockchain as the future, while a notable percentage (27% of Gen Z and 21% of Millennials) considered opening an account with a crypto exchange in the past year.

When compared to other asset classes, data from Bankrate’s 2021 survey reveals that younger Millennials (ages 25-31) favor real estate and stock market investments, while Baby Boomers have the least interest in cryptocurrency. Older Millennials (32-40) lean toward cash investments, with cryptocurrency’s appeal steadily declining with age.

Interestingly, the report also highlights gender differences, showing that 80% of women familiar with crypto express low confidence, compared to 71% of men, indicating a broader trust gap among female users.

Income Levels

Contrary to common assumptions, cryptocurrency adoption is not confined to high-income individuals. The same Pew Research Center survey revealed that crypto ownership is relatively evenly spread across income brackets:

13% of those earning less than $56,600 annually own crypto.
19% of those earning between $56,600 and $169,800 own crypto.
22% of those earning over $169,800 own crypto.

This data suggests that while higher earners may be more inclined to own cryptocurrency, the appeal of digital assets spans various income levels.

Educational Background

Education also plays a role in crypto adoption. A 2022 report by Triple-A found that the majority of crypto owners are “highly educated”:

24% of crypto owners have graduated from middle or high school.
10% have some vocational or college education.
39% are college graduates.
27% hold postgraduate degrees.

This shows that while those with some college education or a degree are more likely to own crypto, it is not exclusively a pursuit of the highly educated.

This demographic data paints a picture of cryptocurrency adopters as predominantly younger, spread across a range of income levels, and with diverse educational backgrounds. However, the trust gap between crypto and traditional financial systems remains a significant barrier to wider acceptance of digital assets.

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Key Trust Barriers

To bridge the gap between cryptocurrency adoption and trust, it’s crucial to understand the major concerns fueling skepticism. This section explores these concerns and contrasts them with similar risks in traditional financial systems.

The Primary Concerns of Skeptics

Volatility

One of the most significant barriers to cryptocurrency adoption is its notorious volatility, particularly for investors seeking stable, long-term assets. Bitcoin, the most well-known cryptocurrency, symbolizes this risk.

In 2022, Bitcoin’s volatility was stark. Its 30-day volatility reached 64.02% in June, driven by broader economic uncertainty and market downturns, compared to the S&P 500’s much lower volatility of 4.71% during the same period.

Over the course of the year, Bitcoin’s price swung from a peak of $47,835 to a low of $18,490, marking a substantial 61% decline from its highest point in 2022. Factors such as rising interest rates, geopolitical tensions, and major crypto market disruptions, like the TerraUSD collapse and Celsius’ liquidity crisis, played a pivotal role.

This extreme volatility reinforces the perception of cryptocurrencies as high-risk investments.

However, traditional stock markets, while typically more stable than crypto, can also experience sharp fluctuations, especially in times of economic stress. For instance, the CBOE Volatility Index (VIX), which measures expected near-term volatility in the U.S. stock market, dropped by 23% to 28.71 on June 30, 2022, far below the 82.69 peak recorded during the early COVID-19 market turbulence in March 2020. This shows that even stock markets, generally seen as safer, can experience moments of intense volatility, particularly during global crises.

Additionally, when compared to the "Magnificent Seven" (a group of top-performing and influential stocks) Bitcoin’s volatility doesn't stand out as unusual. In fact, over the past two years, Bitcoin has shown less volatility than Netflix (NFLX) stock.

On a 90-day timeframe, NFLX had an average realized volatility of 53%, while Bitcoin’s was slightly lower at 46%. The reality is that among all S&P 500 companies, Bitcoin has demonstrated lower annualized historical volatility than 33 of the 503 constituents.

In October 2023, Bitcoin was actually less volatile than 92 stocks in the S&P 500, based on 90-day realized historical volatility figures, including some large-cap and mega-cap companies.

Security

Security concerns are another major hurdle in building trust with cryptocurrencies. Cryptocurrency exchanges and wallets have been targeted by numerous high-profile hacks and frauds, raising doubts about the safety of digital assets. It comes as no surprise that a study from Morning Consult found that 67% of Americans believe having a secure and trustworthy platform is essential to entering the crypto market.

While security threats in the crypto space are well-documented, traditional banking systems are not immune to fraud either. Federal Trade Commission data reveals that consumer fraud losses in the traditional financial sector hit a record high of $10 billion in 2023, marking a 14% increase from the previous year.

Although traditional banks have more safeguards in place to protect consumers, they remain vulnerable to attacks, showing that security is a universal challenge across both crypto and traditional finance.

Prevention remains key, which in this case equates to using only reliable platforms or hardwallets.

Regulatory Uncertainty

Regulatory ambiguity continues to be a critical barrier for both cryptocurrency investors and businesses. The evolving landscape creates uncertainty about the future of digital assets.

Currently, cryptocurrency is legal in 119 countries and four British Overseas Territories, covering more than half of the world’s nations. Notably, 64.7% of these countries are emerging and developing economies, primarily in Asia and Africa.

However, only 62 of these 119 countries (52.1%) have comprehensive regulations in place. This represents significant growth from 2018, when only 33 jurisdictions had formal regulations, showing a 53.2% increase, but still falls short in creating a sense of “unified safety”.

In the United States, regulatory views remain fragmented. Various agencies, such as the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), have conflicting perspectives on how to classify and regulate cryptocurrencies. Since 2019, the SEC has filed over 116 crypto-related lawsuits, adding to the regulatory uncertainty faced by the industry.

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The Growing Integration Of Digital Assets In Daily Life

As we progress further into the digital age, cryptocurrencies and digital assets are increasingly becoming part of our everyday financial transactions. This shift is driven by two key developments: the rise of crypto payment options and the growing adoption of Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs).

According to a MatrixPort report, global cryptocurrency adoption has now reached 7.51% of the population, underscoring the expanding influence of digital currencies worldwide. By 2025, this rate is expected to surpass 8%, signaling a potential shift from niche usage to mainstream acceptance.

The list of major retailers embracing cryptocurrency as a payment method continues to grow. Some notable companies now accepting crypto include:

Microsoft: Accepts Bitcoin for Xbox store credits.
AT&T: The first major U.S. mobile carrier to accept crypto payments.
Whole Foods: Accepts Bitcoin via the Spedn app.
Overstock: One of the first major retailers to accept Bitcoin.
Starbucks: Allows customers to load their Starbucks cards with Bitcoin through the Bakkt app.

A 2022 Deloitte survey revealed that nearly 75% of retailers plan to accept either cryptocurrency or stablecoin payments within the next two years. This trend highlights the growing mainstream acceptance of digital assets as a legitimate payment method.

Crypto-backed debit cards are further bridging the gap between digital assets and everyday transactions. These cards enable users to spend their cryptocurrency at any merchant that accepts traditional debit cards.

According to Factual Market Research, the global crypto card market is projected to reach $9.5 billion by 2030, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of approximately 31.6% from 2021 to 2030. This growth reflects the increasing popularity of crypto-backed debit cards as a way for consumers to integrate their digital assets into daily spending.

The Rise of Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs)

Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs) represent digital versions of a country’s fiat currency, issued and regulated by the national monetary authority. In 2024, the global progress of CBDCs has seen a significant uptick, with marked advances in both research and adoption. As of this year:

11 countries have fully launched CBDCs, including the Bahamas, Nigeria, Jamaica, and China.
44 countries are conducting pilot programs, up from 36, reflecting growing interest in testing the functionality and stability of digital currencies.
66 nations are at advanced stages of CBDC development, contributing to a global landscape where 134 countries (accounting for 98% of the world’s economy) are engaged in CBDC projects.

In the United States, the Federal Reserve is exploring the feasibility of a CBDC through Project Hamilton, a collaborative research initiative with MIT. This exploration aligns with broader goals to reduce reliance on cash, enhance financial inclusion, and improve control over national monetary systems amid the rise of digital payments and cryptocurrencies.

The introduction of CBDCs could significantly reshape daily financial transactions in several ways:

Increased financial inclusion: CBDCs could offer digital payment access to the 1.4 billion adults who remain unbanked, according to World Bank estimates.
Faster and cheaper transactions: CBDCs could streamline both domestic and cross-border payments, reducing costs and settlement times.
Enhanced monetary policy: Central banks would gain more direct control over money supply and circulation.
Improved traceability: CBDCs could help combat financial crimes and reduce tax evasion by providing greater transaction transparency.

However, challenges persist, including concerns about privacy, cybersecurity risks, and the potential disruption of existing banking systems.

As digital assets continue to integrate into everyday life, they hold the potential to transform how we think about and use money. Despite these challenges, trends in both private cryptocurrency adoption and CBDC development point to a future where digital assets play a central role in our financial systems.

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Building Trust Through Technology and Education

According to the 2023 Web3 UI/UX Report, nearly 48% of users cite security concerns and asset protection as the primary barriers to crypto adoption. Other challenges include high transaction fees and the steep learning curve needed to fully grasp both the technology and its benefits.

Despite these obstacles, the blockchain sector has made significant strides as it matures, particularly in enhancing security. Hack-related losses in the crypto market dropped from $3.7 billion in 2022 to $1.8 billion in 2023, underscoring the progress in safeguarding digital assets.

The increased adoption of offline hardware wallets and multi-signature wallets, both of which add critical layers of security, reflects this momentum. Advances in smart contract auditing tools and stronger compliance standards are also minimizing risks, creating a safer environment for both users and institutions.

These improvements highlight the industry’s commitment to establishing a more secure foundation for digital transactions and bolstering confidence in blockchain as a reliable financial technology.

In another positive development, in May 2023, the European Council approved the first comprehensive legal framework for the cryptocurrency industry. This legislation sets a new standard for regulatory transparency and oversight, further reinforcing trust.

Financial Literacy Initiatives

The rise of crypto education in the U.S. is playing a pivotal role in increasing public understanding and encouraging adoption. Programs such as Coinbase Earn aim to simplify the onboarding process for new users, directly addressing the complexity and security concerns that often deter people from engaging with crypto.

According to recent data, 43% of respondents feel that insufficient knowledge is a key reason they avoid the sector, highlighting the ongoing need for crypto-related learning.

Additionally, Chainalysis' 2024 Global Crypto Adoption Index noted a significant increase in crypto interest following the launch of spot Bitcoin ETFs in the U.S. earlier in the year. This development enabled investors to trade ETF shares tied to Bitcoin directly on stock exchanges, making it easier to enter the market without needing extensive technical expertise - thus driving a surge in adoption.

These advancements in security and education are gradually fostering greater trust in the cryptocurrency ecosystem. As the sector continues to evolve, these efforts may pave the way for broader adoption and deeper integration of digital assets into daily financial life.

The Future of Digital Asset Adoption

As digital assets continue to evolve and capture mainstream attention, their potential to transform the financial landscape is becoming increasingly evident. From late 2023 through early 2024, global crypto transaction volumes surged, surpassing the peaks of the 2021 bull market (as illustrated below).

Interestingly, much of this growth in adoption was driven by lower-middle income countries, highlighting the global reach of digital assets.

Below, we explore projections for cryptocurrency usage and its potential impact on traditional banking and finance.

Projections for Crypto Usage in the Next 5-10 Years

Several studies and reports offer insights into the expected growth of cryptocurrency over the next decade:

Global Adoption
The global cryptocurrency market revenue is projected to reach approximately $56.7 billion in 2024, with the United States leading the charge, expected to generate around $9.8 billion in revenue. Statista predicts the number of global crypto users will hit 861 million by 2025, marking a significant shift toward mainstream use.

Institutional Adoption
The 2023 Institutional Investor Digital Assets Study found that 65% of the 1,042 institutional investors surveyed plan to buy or invest in digital assets in the future.

As of 2024, digital currency usage among U.S. organisations is expanding, particularly in sectors such as finance, retail, and technology. Hundreds of financial services and fintech firms are now involved in digital assets, whether in payment processing, investments, or blockchain-based applications. This includes major companies utilising cryptocurrencies as stored value and exploring stablecoin use cases to enhance transaction efficiency.

Notably, major U.S. companies are increasingly engaging with blockchain and digital assets, as regulatory clarity improves and security concerns are addressed.

Retail Adoption
At present, about 85% of major retailers generating over $1 billion in annual online sales accept cryptocurrency payments. In contrast, 23% of mid-sized retailers, with online sales between $250 million and $1 billion, currently accept crypto payments. This growing trend points to an expanding role for digital assets in retail, especially among large-scale businesses.

Potential Impact on Traditional Banking and Finance

The rise of digital asset utilisation is poised to reshape traditional banking systems in multiple areas. For starters, the growth of blockchain technology and digitised financial services is driving the decentralised finance (DeFi) market, which is projected to reach $450 billion by 2030, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 46%.

In Q3 2024 alone, trading on decentralised exchanges surpassed $100 billion, marking the third consecutive month of growth in trading volume. This trend underscores the increasing interest and activity in the decentralised finance space.

As Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs) are likely to be adopted by 80% of central banks by 2030, the role of commercial banks in money distribution could diminish significantly. Meanwhile, blockchain technology and stablecoins are expected to revolutionise cross-border B2B payments, with 20% of these transactions powered by blockchain by 2025. Stablecoin payment volumes are projected to hit $620 billion by 2026.

Furthermore, the investment landscape is set to evolve as asset tokenisation scales, potentially reaching a value of $16 trillion, making crypto a standard component in investment portfolios.

With regulatory clarity expected to improve - more than half of financial institutions anticipate clearer rules within the next three years - crypto integration is likely to become more widespread. These developments emphasise the transformative potential of digital assets across payments, investments, and financial structures globally.

Bridging the trust gap in crypto adoption

The cryptocurrency landscape is experiencing a surge in institutional interest, which could be a pivotal moment for integrating digital assets into traditional finance. Financial giants like BlackRock are at the forefront of this movement, signaling a shift in mainstream perception and adoption of cryptocurrencies.

Historically, the introduction of new investment vehicles around Bitcoin has spurred market growth. As Markus Thielen, founder of 10x Research, highlights, the launch of spot ETFs could bring about a new wave of institutional involvement, potentially driving the next phase of market expansion.

This growing institutional momentum, combined with evolving regulatory frameworks, is reshaping the crypto ecosystem. However, a key question remains: Will these developments be enough to close the trust gap and push cryptocurrencies into mainstream adoption?

As we stand at this crossroads, the future of digital assets hangs in the balance. The coming years will be critical in determining whether cryptocurrencies can overcome persistent skepticism and fully integrate into the global financial system, or if they will remain a niche, yet impactful, financial instrument.
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What is a CBDC?

L'avenir de l'argent dévoilé : Explorez les révolutionnaires devises numériques des banques centrales et leur potentiel en 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.

Nouvelle fonction : L'auto recharge de carte est là

Activez l’Auto Recharge une fois, et votre carte Tap se rechargera toute seule, en fiat ou en crypto. Simple, pratique, sans prise de tête.

The Tap Journey: 2024 in Review

Curious about the milestones we reached in 2024? Take a look at what we’ve accomplished and our journey throughout the year.

Simplifying Your Spending: Why Tap’s New Partnership with TapiX Matters to You

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What happened: Trump’s “Strategic Crypto Reserve”

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On Friday, 7 March 2025, the White House held its first-ever Crypto Summit, marking a major turning point in how the U.S. government views the crypto industry. The event gathered top industry leaders, policymakers, and key players to discuss the future of digital assets in the U.S.

In this article, we explore what people expected from the summit, what actually happened, and how it’s already shaping the crypto market.

What was anticipated

Before the summit, the crypto community was cautiously optimistic. The Trump administration had already shown interest in digital assets—especially after President Trump appeared at Bitcoin 2024, which got mixed reactions from the market.

Many investors and industry leaders were hoping the summit would bring clearer rules, encourage innovation, and fix past regulatory issues.

Hype grew even more after the announcement of an executive order to create a Strategic Bitcoin Reserve, raising expectations that Bitcoin might soon play a bigger role in the U.S. economy. Spurring a 12% increase across the crypto market, Bitcoin’s price rose above $92,000 in anticipation of the meeting.

Summit proceedings

The summit featured prominent figures such as Michael Saylor (of Strategy), Brian Armstrong (of Coinbase), and Brad Garlinghouse (of Ripple), reflecting the administration's commitment to engaging with key industry stakeholders.

One of the most significant highlights of the gathering was President Trump signing an executive order to create a U.S. Strategic Bitcoin Reserve. The plan is to boost the country’s economic strength by holding Bitcoin seized through asset forfeitures. Described as a “virtual Fort Knox” for digital gold, managed by the Treasury.

Data from Arkham Intelligence reveals that the U.S. government presently owns 198,109 Bitcoin worth $17.5 billion based on current market values.

The executive order also requires federal departments to review their cryptocurrency holdings and find ways to acquire more Bitcoin through “budget-neutral” strategies without burdening taxpayers.

There was also talk about creating a Digital Asset Stockpile, which would include other cryptocurrencies like XRP, Solana (SOL), and Cardano (ADA), to boost the credibility of these digital assets.

Strategic Bitcoin Reserve vs Digital Asset Stockpile

The U.S. government’s approach to digital assets involves two distinct initiatives: the Strategic Bitcoin Reserve and the Digital Asset Stockpile.

The Strategic Bitcoin Reserve aims to hold Bitcoin long-term, using confiscated Bitcoin rather than new government purchases, which has sparked controversy due to Bitcoin's volatility and its decentralised nature, which some argue conflicts with government control.

Critics also worry that the reserve’s reliance on confiscated assets may lead to politically motivated holdings, rather than a clear strategic plan.

In contrast, the Digital Asset Stockpile, managed by the Treasury, will hold other cryptocurrencies like Ethereum, XRP, Solana, and Cardano. Unlike the Bitcoin reserve, the stockpile may allow for more flexibility, including potential sales of its assets.

While the Bitcoin reserve aims to solidify Bitcoin’s place as a strategic asset, the inclusion of other cryptocurrencies in the stockpile raises questions about the government’s broader digital asset strategy. Many aspects still remain unclear.

Market reactions over the outcome

The market's reaction to the summit was mixed. At first, Bitcoin's price surged on optimism. But when it became clear that the Strategic Bitcoin Reserve would rely on existing government holdings instead of new purchases, sentiment shifted. The executive order signed on Thursday confirmed that the reserve would only include Bitcoin the government already holds—mostly from asset forfeitures in criminal and civil cases. Many had expected fresh Bitcoin buys for the fund. While that seems unlikely in the short term, the door has been left open.

This led to a significant price correction, with Bitcoin's value dropping to around $85,000 before stabilising at approximately $88,000, marking a decline of over 3% within 24 hours. Within days, the price dropped to below $80,000.

In addition, Bitcoin ETFs saw significant outflows, with $370 million pulled out as investors reconsidered the impact of the government’s strategy. The wider cryptocurrency market mirrored this volatility, reflecting the complex dynamics between government policy announcements and investor sentiment.

Navigating the future of cryptocurrency regulation

The White House Crypto Summit was a landmark event in how the U.S. government engages with the crypto industry. While the creation of the Strategic Bitcoin Reserve shows a move toward officially recognising digital assets, the market’s reaction made it clear that investors want clearer, more practical policies. The U.S. is at a pivotal moment in shaping the future of digital finance.

The White House Crypto Summit signalled a shift toward embracing crypto, but the real challenge lies ahead—crafting policies that fuel innovation while keeping markets steady. With the right approach, the U.S. could very well lead the global financial revolution, unlocking the full potential of digital assets and setting the stage for a future where opportunity and stability go hand in hand.

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Prévisions de prix Onyxcoin (XCN)

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Qu’est-ce que l’Onyxcoin (XCN) ?

Anciennement connu sous le nom de Chain (CHN), Onyxcoin (XCN) marque une avancée majeure dans le développement d’infrastructures blockchain destinées aux entreprises. Depuis son rebranding en mars 2022, le protocole s’est imposé comme une solution de référence dans le domaine des blockchains privées.

En résumé : le protocole Onyx fournit une infrastructure cloud permettant aux entreprises de créer et déployer des services financiers via des réseaux blockchain privés.

À quoi sert le jeton XCN ?

Le XCN est le jeton utilitaire et de gouvernance du protocole Onyx. Il alimente les services premium, finance les mises à niveau du réseau et permet aux détenteurs de participer aux décisions via la DAO Onyx intégrée sur Ethereum.

Le protocole se distingue par :

Une séparation claire entre contrôle des actifs et synchronisation du registre
La possibilité de créer des actifs via des programmes personnalisés
Un système de validation par une fédération de « signataires de blocs »
Un générateur unique de blocs pour des validations rapides

Aperçu du projet

Créé en 2014, Onyx a bénéficié du soutien de grands noms du capital-risque et de partenariats avec des institutions comme Nasdaq et Citigroup. Le protocole s’est peu à peu affirmé comme une alternative fiable, évolutive et indépendante pour les infrastructures blockchain.

Fonctionnalités clés :

Infrastructure blockchain cloud pour les entreprises
Outils personnalisables pour l’émission d’actifs
Contrats intelligents via des « programmes de contrôle »
Gouvernance décentralisée via la DAO Onyx
Services standards et premium intégrés

Analyse fondamentale et technique

Données fondamentales

Offre maximale : 48,47 milliards de XCN
Environ 65 % actuellement en circulation
Répartition : 15 milliards pour la fondation, 10 milliards pour la DAO
Libération mensuelle : 200 millions de XCN, pour maintenir un contrôle progressif de l’offre

Cadre technique

Réseaux blockchain multiples fonctionnant en parallèle
Sécurisation des actifs via le principe du moindre privilège
Validation par signataires désignés
Création efficace de blocs via un générateur unique

Activité du marché : volume, volatilité, sentiment

Volumes de trading

Les volumes actuels de XCN offrent un aperçu de l'intérêt des investisseurs. Des pics d’activité apparaissent souvent en réaction à des annonces ou à des tendances globales du marché.

Volatilité

XCN présente une volatilité modérée à élevée, influencée par les conditions macroéconomiques et le climat global des cryptos. Cela peut attirer les traders, mais rebuter les profils plus prudents.

Indicateurs de sentiment

Les tendances sur les réseaux sociaux, les discussions communautaires et la couverture médiatique influencent largement le sentiment autour du XCN. Les pics de positivité coïncident souvent avec des mises à jour majeures du protocole.

Prévisions à court terme (1 à 3 ans)

Prix de référence actuel : ~0,012 $ (à la date de rédaction)

Scénarios haussiers

Adoption par les entreprises
Prévision : 0,005 $ – 0,01 $
Moteur : Intégration du protocole dans des systèmes financiers privés

Développements technologiques
Prévision : 0,006 $ – 0,012 $
Impact : Amélioration des performances et réduction des frais

Investissements institutionnels
Prévision : 0,007 $ – 0,015 $
Catalyseur : Intérêt croissant des institutions financières

Scénarios baissiers

Réglementations strictes
Prévision : 0,001 $ – 0,0015 $
Conséquence : Restrictions potentielles sur les opérations

Concurrence accrue
Prévision : 0,0012 $ – 0,0017 $
Risque : Saturation du marché par des solutions similaires

Prévisions à long terme (3 à 5 ans)

Perspectives optimistes

Adoption massive par les entreprises
Prévision : 0,02 $ – 0,05 $
Objectif : Intégration dans les systèmes financiers classiques

Évolution technologique
Prévision : 0,03 $ – 0,06 $
Bénéfice : Avantage concurrentiel renforcé

Croissance du marché crypto
Prévision : 0,04 $ – 0,08 $
Facteur : Acceptation grand public des actifs numériques

Perspectives prudentes

Baisse du marché crypto
Prévision : 0,0005 $ – 0,001 $
Conséquence : Réduction de la confiance des investisseurs

Nouveaux concurrents technologiques
Prévision : 0,0008 $ – 0,0015 $
Risque : Obsolescence relative du protocole

Conclusion

Onyxcoin (XCN) est un projet ambitieux avec un potentiel réel, notamment dans le domaine des blockchains d’entreprise. Son jeton XCN est au cœur de sa gouvernance et de son fonctionnement. Entre scénarios haussiers soutenus par l’innovation et les partenariats, et scénarios plus prudents liés aux conditions de marché, le futur du jeton reste incertain mais prometteur.

👉 Rappel important : ces estimations sont spéculatives et ne constituent pas un conseil en investissement. Faites toujours vos propres recherches et évaluez votre profil de risque avant toute décision.

Consultez la page XCN dans l’application Tap pour suivre les évolutions du prix en temps réel.

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Crypto

Lizzy

What is XCN? Everything you need to know about Onyxcoin (XCN)

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The cryptocurrency market can be a maze of projects, platforms, and partnerships. Among these, XCN (Onyxcoin) has emerged as a notable digital asset that often sparks discussion – and sometimes confusion – in the crypto community.

This guide cuts through the complexity to deliver a clear picture of XCN. We'll examine what makes this cryptocurrency unique, tackle common misconceptions about its ownership (particularly regarding JP Morgan), and explore its potential value to the greater blockchain ecosystem.

Whether you're researching XCN for investment purposes or simply want to understand its role in the crypto ecosystem, this article will provide you with straightforward, accurate information to guide your decisions.

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What Is Onyx Protocol (XCN)?

Onyx Protocol is a cloud-based blockchain infrastructure enabling companies to create private blockchain networks for enhanced financial services. Unlike public blockchains, Onyx provides a closed, secure environment for issuing, storing, and transferring digital assets, minimising risks like security breaches and transaction delays.

It caters to enterprise needs through products such as the Remote Procedure Call API (RPC/API) and Sequence, a blockchain-based accounting service. These services offer both standard and premium tiers, with premium features accessible via XCN payments.

The protocol’s core design addresses key financial settlement challenges, including reducing fees, increasing transparency, and streamlining transaction settlements, and uses innovative features like "issuance programs" for asset creation and "control programs" for managing assets securely. Block signers safeguard the network, while block generators ensure efficient block creation.

The Onyx Protocol is governed by a Decentralised Autonomous Organisation (DAO), where XCN token holders participate in decision-making by staking their tokens. This means that XCN acts as both a utility and governance token, offering voting rights, discounts on premium services, and a means to pay for Onyx Cloud and Sequence fees.

Founded in 2014 by venture capitalist Adam Ludwin, Onyx was initially backed by major firms like Nasdaq and Citigroup, raising over $40 million. After being acquired by Stellar’s Lightyear Corp. in 2018, it later became a privately held corporation in 2021.

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With a maximum supply of 48.4 billion tokens, XCN powers the ecosystem and incentivises community-driven growth through its transparent, decentralised governance model.

XCN’s infrastructure

XCN's technological foundation rests on three main pillars:

A scalable proof-of-stake blockchain that prioritises transaction speed and energy efficiency
Smart contract functionality that enables complex financial operations and decentralised applications
Cross-chain compatibility for seamless interaction with other blockchain networks

Although the platform uses advanced security protocols it still manages to maintain user accessibility, making it suitable for both individual and institutional users.

How to purchase and stake XCN

XCN tokens can be bought through several major cryptocurrency exchanges, including Tap. In order to participate in the staking process, users will need to acquire the tokens and complete the following:

Set up a compatible wallet that supports XCN staking
Participate in the staking program through the official platform
Earn rewards based on the amount staked and duration of participation

The minimum staking requirements and reward rates are designed to encourage long-term holder participation. For more detailed explanations please see the official project’s instructions.

Leadership and development behind XCN

The Onyx blockchain network was founded in 2014 by venture capitalist Adam Ludwin with support from major venture capital firms, aiming to modernise financial systems. The team launched Chain Core after raising over $40 million through strategic partnerships with Nasdaq, Orange, Capital One, and Citigroup.

In 2018, the platform was sold to Lightyear Corp., part of the Stellar Development Foundation, before transitioning in 2021 to operate as a privately held corporation with a new board, shareholders, and offices. In March 2022, CHN was rebranded to XCN spurring positive price growth.

Today, the XCN project is led by a team of seasoned blockchain developers and fintech experts specialising in smart contracts, protocol optimisation, and financial infrastructure. They are known to actively engage with the community via Discord, Twitter, and governance forums, maintaining transparency through roadmaps, progress reports, and AMAs.

Alongside the strong development team is a decentralised governance model, allowing XCN token holders to shape the platform’s future, voting on critical proposals to ensure collective growth and innovation.

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XCN price prediction

Onyxcoin (XCN) has gained attention for its role in DeFi and its governance function within the Onyx Protocol. While price predictions vary, with some analysts anticipating steady growth as adoption of the platform increases, it is worth keeping an eye on the key factors influencing its price, notably market demand, advancements within the Onyx ecosystem, broader crypto market trends, and regulatory developments.

However, given the volatility of the cryptocurrency market, it’s best to approach these XCN price predictions carefully and conduct thorough research before making any financial decisions.

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Clearing the air: JP Morgan's Kinexys (formerly Onyx) does not own OnyxCoin (XCN)

In early November 2024, JP Morgan rebranded its blockchain unit from Onyx to Kinexys, sparking conversations about distinguishing between unrelated entities in the blockchain world. Below we break down the key differences between OnyxCoin (XCN) and JP Morgan's Kinexys to clear up any confusion for investors and industry professionals.

Let the record state: OnyxCoin (XCN) is a separate cryptocurrency project operating independently of JP Morgan and its blockchain initiatives. To avoid potential confusion:

XCN is not affiliated with JP Morgan or any traditional banking institution
The cryptocurrency project operates independently of JP Morgan's blockchain platforms
Any similarity in naming to JP Morgan's former Onyx unit is coincidental

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Looking to the future

XCN is a prime example of blockchain technology's evolution and the growing maturity of digital assets. As the cryptocurrency landscape continues to expand, XCN’s innovative framework and governance structure show how decentralised systems can adapt to meet new challenges.

With blockchain advancing rapidly, platforms like XCN highlight the potential for transformation in the digital economy. Whether you’re drawn to the technical details or the broader implications, staying informed about these developments is key to understanding this ever-changing space.

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Communiqué de presse

James

The Tap Journey: 2024 in Review

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As we step into 2025, it's time to reflect on an incredible year of growth and milestones at Tap. What a ride 2024 has been! When we look back at everything we've achieved together at Tap this year, it's hard not to feel a surge of pride and excitement. Let's dive into the highlights that made this year truly special.

Revamped payment with a new card design

This year, we introduced our new card and design. Your feedback sparks our creativity and innovation, many of you joked about needing to make a gang sign with your fingers to hide card numbers when sharing photos. Taking that humor to heart, we've redesigned our card so all sensitive information is now on the back, keeping it out of sight.

This means you can proudly showcase your Tap card in pictures without any awkward gestures. Our user-centric design not only enhances your privacy but also makes sharing your Tap experience easier and more stylish than ever. Thank you for inspiring us to create a more seamless and secure way to use and share your Tap Premium benefits.

Did someone say Cashback?

For those of you wanting more from your Tap experience, we've been listening to what you need, which led us to introduce new premium plans. They're not about bells and whistles – just practical great rewards and rebates that add real value for those who need them. Same goes for our new Cashback feature. Not only are you earning rewards on your spending, but it also gives XTP a more meaningful purpose in your everyday transactions.

Our new Cashback feature has been a game-changer, offering users not only rewards on their Tap card transactions but also increased utility for our native token, XTP. This feature underscores our commitment to delivering tangible benefits and fostering a rewarding financial ecosystem.

Expanding horizons: launching in the USA

2024 was a landmark year as we launched Tap in the USA, marking our entry into one of the world's largest and most dynamic markets. A particularly humbling milestone, it's been a learning experience, and we're grateful for the patience and enthusiasm of our new American users as we continue to refine our services.

New practical features and tools you've been asking for:

To further empower our users, we rolled out a suite of new features, including:

A smart search bar that helps you find exactly what you need, when you need it.
A card spending dashboard that enables you to track your card and spending limits.
A comprehensive markets section for tracking your favorite tokens in real-time.
And yes, that discrete hide balance option for when you need to keep things private.

These features are designed to provide our users with greater transparency, control, and convenience in managing their finances.

Expanding cryptocurrency and fiat options

In response to the growing demand for diverse financial options, we added three new cryptocurrencies and four new fiat currencies to the app. This expansion allows our users to transact with greater flexibility and access a wider range of financial instruments. Because why should anyone have to compromise on their financial choices?

Navigating regulatory landscapes: UK and Bulgaria

Even with all this growth, we haven't lost sight of what matters most – doing things right. On the regulatory front, this year tested our resilience and commitment to our users, particularly in the UK. When new FCA regulations required us to suspend XTP token locking for UK Premium accounts last October, we didn't just accept it as a permanent setback.

Instead, our team spent the year methodically working through complex legal requirements to craft a compliant, user-friendly solution. The result? We successfully relaunched XTP token locking for our UK Premium users – a testament to our dedication to finding ways forward even through regulatory challenges.

This commitment to compliance also led us to secure our VASP license in Bulgaria, further strengthening our regulatory foundation across different jurisdictions. While these behind-the-scenes achievements might not be the most exciting news, they're crucial steps in building a service that's trustworthy.

Looking Ahead with Optimism

As we step into 2025, we're just getting warmed up. Everything we've accomplished this year sets the stage for even bigger moves ahead. We've got some exciting plans taking shape, but more importantly, we have a clear vision of how to make Tap work better for you every day. And the best part? We're building this future with you, our incredible Tap community.

Thank you for being part of this journey – for your trust, your patience, and your candid feedback. Together, we're not just building another fintech platform; we're crafting the future of finance, one thoughtful step at a time.

Here's to the next chapter of our journey together – it's going to be epic!

Budgétisation

Ash

5 ways to beat the “lifestyle creep”

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We’ve all been here: you land that dream job or get a nice raise, and suddenly your old budget feels unnecessarily restrictive. A few premium subscriptions here, some fancy dinners there, maybe a nicer apartment – before you know it, your higher income somehow feels tighter than before.

Welcome to lifestyle creep, the subtle way our spending habits expand to match (or exceed) our growing income. It’s real, and it’s out there. Here’s how you can fight back.

Why it happens

Lifestyle creep isn't just about splurging. Often, it's a series of small, seemingly reasonable upgrades. That €15 lunch delivery doesn't feel extravagant when you're having a hard day, and those €20 fitness classes are justified as a worthwhile investment in your health.

The problem isn't any single expense, it's how these small changes compound over time, transforming from luxuries into what feel like necessities. And those small expenses can add up dramatically: an extra €50 per week on conveniences means €2,600 per year that could have gone toward retirement, a dream vacation, or your emergency fund. That’s a chunk of change in the end.

Breaking the cycle

1. Find your motivation

Before making changes, identify why you want to control your spending. Maybe you want to switch careers, start a business, or build an emergency fund. Having a concrete “why” makes it easier to resist those immediate gratifications.

2. Audit your joy

Review your recent expenses and honestly assess which ones truly enhance your life. That streaming service you barely use? The subscription box that sits unopened? These are easy cuts. But don't stop at the obvious – examine everything, including your "necessary" expenses. Sometimes what we think we need is just habit in disguise.

Start doing this weekly, eventually moving up to monthly, until your inner accountant is completely satisfied with where your money is going. The idea here isn’t to strip all joy from your life, it’s merely to streamline it.

3. Create friction

Make impulse spending harder:

Remove saved payment information from shopping sites and phone settings
Unsubscribe from marketing emails
Establish a 48-hour waiting period for non-essential purchases

4. Address your triggers

Our spending habits are heavily influenced by our environment. Consider:

Unfollowing social media accounts that trigger spending urges
Finding free or low-cost alternatives to expensive social activities
Being honest with friends about your financial situation and goals
Planning social activities that don't revolve around spending

5. Regular check-ins

Schedule monthly "money dates" with yourself. Review your spending, celebrate wins, and adjust your strategy. Make it enjoyable – pour yourself a drink and put on your favourite record. This isn't about punishment, it's about alignment with your goals.

The mindset shift

Remember that reducing expenses isn't about deprivation, it's about choice and control. You might find that some lifestyle upgrades are worth keeping because they genuinely improve your quality of life. Others might be easy to let go once you realise they're not adding that much value.

The goal isn't to return to living like a college student. Instead, aim to be intentional about which upgrades you keep and which you can live without. This mindful approach to spending helps steer your money toward things that truly matter to you, rather than disappearing into a series of forgettable purchases.

By taking control of lifestyle creep, you're not just saving money – you're buying yourself options, flexibility, and peace of mind. And those are luxuries worth keeping.

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NEWS AND UPDATES

Decoding the disconnect: America's cautious approach to crypto‍

A Look at the Current State of Crypto Trust

General Public Sentiment

Demographics of Crypto Adopters

Key Trust Barriers

The Primary Concerns of Skeptics

Volatility

Security

Regulatory Uncertainty

The Growing Integration Of Digital Assets In Daily Life

The Rise of Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs)

Building Trust Through Technology and Education

Financial Literacy Initiatives

The Future of Digital Asset Adoption

Projections for Crypto Usage in the Next 5-10 Years

Potential Impact on Traditional Banking and Finance

Bridging the trust gap in crypto adoption

Types of central bank digital currencies

Wholesale CBDCs

Retail CBDCs

Pros and cons of a central bank digital currency (CBDC)

Pros of central bank digital currency (CBDC)

Cons of central bank digital currency (CDBC)

Central bank digital currency conclusion

LATEST ARTICLE

Pourquoi vous allez l'adorer

Comment ça marche ? ✨

Comment l’activer ?

Toujours là quand vous en avez besoin‍

What was anticipated

Summit proceedings

Strategic Bitcoin Reserve vs Digital Asset Stockpile

Market reactions over the outcome

Navigating the future of cryptocurrency regulation

Qu’est-ce que l’Onyxcoin (XCN) ?

À quoi sert le jeton XCN ?

Aperçu du projet

Fonctionnalités clés :

Analyse fondamentale et technique

Données fondamentales

Cadre technique

Activité du marché : volume, volatilité, sentiment

Volumes de trading

Volatilité

Indicateurs de sentiment

Prévisions à court terme (1 à 3 ans)

Scénarios haussiers

Scénarios baissiers

Prévisions à long terme (3 à 5 ans)

Perspectives optimistes

Perspectives prudentes

Conclusion

What Is Onyx Protocol (XCN)?

XCN’s infrastructure

How to purchase and stake XCN

Leadership and development behind XCN

XCN price prediction

Clearing the air: JP Morgan's Kinexys (formerly Onyx) does not own OnyxCoin (XCN)

Looking to the future

Revamped payment with a new card design

Did someone say Cashback?

New practical features and tools you've been asking for:

Expanding cryptocurrency and fiat options

Navigating regulatory landscapes: UK and Bulgaria

Looking Ahead with Optimism

Why it happens

Breaking the cycle

1. Find your motivation

2. Audit your joy

3. Create friction

4. Address your triggers

5. Regular check-ins

The mindset shift

Kickstart your financial journey

Decoding the disconnect: America's cautious approach to crypto
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