In the colourful and often chaotic world of crypto, there exists a quirky corner dominated by what are affectionately known as “memecoins." 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, memecoins 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 memecoins have handed out enormous returns to those daring enough to dive in. But with a whole galaxy of memecoins out there, how do you spot the stars from the scams? Stick around for some handy pointers.

What makes memecoins popular? 

Memecoins, 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, memecoins generally lack complex technology or specific use cases. They're not about solving grand technological challenges but rather are about capturing the spirit of the internet in a tokenised form. This means that their value is often driven by pure enthusiasm, online buzz, and the thrill of being part of a viral movement.
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So why are these coins so popular? The appeal of memecoins 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 memecoins a fascinating aspect of the crypto landscape.

‍The downside to memecoin’s popularity

Lately, memecoins 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 memecoin from a scam

1. Beyond jokes and buzz
   The initial charm of a memecoin may come from its humour, but lasting appeal requires more substance. Look for memecoins 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 memecoins 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 memecoins often attract the attention of hackers, robust security is a must. A credible memecoin 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. Memecoins that are driven by their communities tend to have a more promising future, thriving on the collective support and engagement of their members.

As memecoins 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 memecoins makes regulation a complex issue, leaving this corner of the crypto world as something of a digital Wild West.

Conclusion

Memecoins 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, memecoins have undeniably become a fascinating part of the crypto narrative.

However, the very traits that make memecoins 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 memecoin versus a scam is crucial. It's not just about the initial buzz or the humour; 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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Dear Tap Community,

We're writing to inform you about changes to GBP deposits on Tap and a special offer for our UK users.

What's Changing: Due to new UK banking regulations, we're temporarily pausing GBP bank transfers while we transition to a new payment provider.

During this transition we're pleased to offer a 50% reduction on debit card deposit fees for our UK customers.

What This Means for You:

·      GBP withdrawals are fully operational as per usual

·      Instant deposits available via debit card (now with 50% lower fees)

·      All other Tap services remain unchanged

Alternative Deposit Method:
Debit Card Deposits: Add funds instantly using your debit card at reduced fees. View our step-by-step guide here.

Next Steps: We're in advanced discussions with new partners to restore GBP bank transfer deposits soon. We'll update you as soon as this service becomes available.

Have Questions?

·      Our 24/7 support team is ready to help via in-app chat

Thank you for your trust in Tap. We're committed to providing you with the best possible service during this transition.

Best regards,
The Tap Team

The financial world is undergoing a significant transformation, largely driven by Millennials and Gen Z. These digital-native generations are embracing cryptocurrencies at an unprecedented rate, challenging traditional financial systems and catalysing a shift toward new forms of digital finance, redefining how we perceive and interact with money.

This movement is not just a fleeting trend but a fundamental change that is redefining how we perceive and interact with money.

Digital Natives Leading the Way

Growing up in the digital age, Millennials (born 1981-1996) and Gen Z (born 1997-2012) are inherently comfortable with technology. This familiarity extends to their financial behaviours, with a noticeable inclination toward adopting innovative solutions like cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology.

According to the Grayscale Investments and Harris Poll Report which studied Americans, 44% agree that “crypto and blockchain technology are the future of finance.” Looking more closely at the demographics, Millenials and Gen Z’s expressed the highest levels of enthusiasm, underscoring the pivotal role younger generations play in driving cryptocurrency adoption.

Desire for Financial Empowerment and Inclusion

Economic challenges such as the 2008 financial crisis and the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic have shaped these generations' perspectives on traditional finance. There's a growing scepticism toward conventional financial institutions and a desire for greater control over personal finances.

The Grayscale-Harris Poll found that 23% of those surveyed believe that cryptocurrencies are a long-term investment, up from 19% the previous year. The report also found that 41% of participants are currently paying more attention to Bitcoin and other crypto assets because of geopolitical tensions, inflation, and a weakening US dollar (up from  34%). 

This sentiment fuels engagement with cryptocurrencies as viable investment assets and tools for financial empowerment.

Influence on Market Dynamics

The collective financial influence of Millennials and Gen Z is significant. Their active participation in cryptocurrency markets contributes to increased liquidity and shapes market trends. Social media platforms like Reddit, Twitter, and TikTok have become pivotal in disseminating information and investment strategies among these generations.

The rise of cryptocurrencies like Dogecoin and Shiba Inu demonstrates how younger investors leverage online communities to impact financial markets². This phenomenon shows their ability to mobilise and drive market movements, challenging traditional investment paradigms.

Embracing Innovation and Technological Advancement

Cryptocurrencies represent more than just investment opportunities; they embody technological innovation that resonates with Millennials and Gen Z. Blockchain technology and digital assets are areas where these generations are not only users but also contributors.

A 2021 survey by Pew Research Center indicated that 31% of Americans aged 18-29 have invested in, traded, or used cryptocurrency, compared to just 8% of those aged 50-64. This significant disparity highlights the generational embrace of digital assets and the technologies underpinning them.

Impact on Traditional Financial Institutions

The shift toward cryptocurrencies is prompting traditional financial institutions to adapt. Banks, investment firms, and payment platforms are increasingly integrating crypto services to meet the evolving demands of younger clients.

Companies like PayPal and Square have expanded their cryptocurrency offerings, allowing users to buy, hold, and sell cryptocurrencies directly from their platforms. These developments signify the financial industry's recognition of the growing importance of cryptocurrencies.

Challenges and Considerations

While enthusiasm is high, challenges such as regulatory uncertainties, security concerns, and market volatility remain. However, Millennials and Gen Z appear willing to navigate these risks, drawn by the potential rewards and alignment with their values of innovation and financial autonomy.

In summary

Millennials and Gen Z are redefining the financial landscape, with their embrace of cryptocurrencies serving as a catalyst for broader change. This isn't just about alternative investments; it's a shift in how younger generations view financial systems and their place within them. Their drive for autonomy, transparency, and technological integration is pushing traditional institutions to innovate rapidly.

This generational influence extends beyond personal finance, potentially reshaping global economic structures. For industry players, from established banks to fintech startups, adapting to these changing preferences isn't just advantageous—it's essential for long-term viability.

As cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology mature, we're likely to see further transformations in how society interacts with money. Those who can navigate this evolving landscape, balancing innovation with stability, will be well-positioned for the future of finance. It's a complex shift, but one that offers exciting possibilities for a more inclusive and technologically advanced financial ecosystem. The financial world is changing, and it's the young guns who are calling the shots.

As we approach the 2024 U.S. presidential election, a new force is emerging in the political landscape: the crypto generation. Young voters, particularly Gen Zs and Millennials, are not only becoming a significant voting force but are also bringing with them a strong interest in cryptocurrency and blockchain technology. This intersection of youth, technology, and politics could potentially reshape the outcome of the upcoming election.

The rising power of young voters

The political influence of young Americans has been growing steadily over the past few election cycles. In the 2020 election, voter turnout among those under 30 reached 55%, a significant increase from 44% in 2016. 

What's more, the sheer size of this voting bloc is impossible to ignore. Gen Z and Millennial voters now make up 40% of all eligible voters and are projected to become the majority of the electorate by 2028. This demographic shift is introducing new priorities and viewpoints into political discussions.

The crypto connection

One of the most interesting parts of this surge in young voters is their strong interest in cryptocurrency and blockchain technology. Recent data shows that 34% of people who own crypto are between 18 and 34 years old. This isn't just about investment trends - it reflects a broader dissatisfaction with the current financial system and a desire for change.

Consider these statistics:

• Only 7% of young Americans report that the current financial system works well for them.
• 38% of young voters believe crypto and blockchain can increase economic opportunities in ways traditional finance can't.
• 51% of young voters are likely to support crypto-friendly candidates in 2024.

These numbers suggest that crypto policy could become a key issue in the upcoming election, especially in battleground states where the margins are often very close.

A look at battleground states: where crypto could tip the scales

In key swing states, the combination of high youth turnout and growing crypto enthusiasm could be a game-changer. 

Take Georgia as an example, where supporters of the Stand with Crypto movement now outnumber the vote difference that decided the 2020 election there, by three times. And in Arizona, nearly 90% of crypto owners under 44 believe the financial system needs change, with over a quarter wanting a complete overhaul. 

Meanwhile, in Michigan, youth voter turnout jumped from 42% in 2016 to 54% in 2020, indicating that the crypto vote could be crucial.

Beyond party lines: crypto as a bipartisan issue

Interestingly, crypto enthusiasm crosses traditional party lines. Among previous or current crypto owners under 35 in swing states, 41% identify as Democrats, 39% as Republicans, and 20% as independent or other. 

This suggests that crypto policy could be a unique issue capable of attracting voters from across the political spectrum.

A call for financial innovation

The rise of the crypto generation in politics reflects more than just an interest in digital assets. It signifies a broader desire for financial innovation and economic opportunity. 

Young voters, facing challenges such as rising living costs and student debt, are looking to blockchain technology as a potential solution to systemic economic issues. 

This aligns perfectly with the original vision behind Bitcoin's creation: a decentralised financial system designed to address the shortcomings of traditional banking and monetary policy.

Conclusion

The 2024 election is quickly approaching, and it's clear that candidates at all levels will need to address the concerns of the "crypto generation." Whether it’s clarifying regulations for digital assets or exploring blockchain for government services, politicians who can connect with these topics could have a significant edge. 

It’s not just crypto investments that this generation is after; they’re investing in a vision for a more accessible, efficient, and innovative financial future. As more of them head to the polls, this vision could become a defining aspect of American politics for years to come.

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Note: This article is based on data and trends as of August 2024. As with all political and technological trends, the landscape may shift rapidly. Readers are encouraged to stay informed about the latest developments in both the political and crypto spheres.

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In the fast-paced world of fintech, standing still means falling behind. At Tap, we've embraced this ethos wholeheartedly, pushing the boundaries of what's possible in digital finance. As we reflect on the first half of this year, we're proud to share a story of relentless innovation, expansion, and customer-centric improvements that have solidified our position as an innovative crypto-fintech player.

A Fresh Face for Finance

Our journey this year began with a seemingly simple yet profoundly impactful change – we gave our card a fresh new look. This was more than just aesthetics; it was a statement. In a world where your card is an extension of your digital identity, we wanted to ensure that every time our users reach for their Tap card, they feel a sense of pride and modernity.

Our community spoke, and we listened. Our users, ever  trendsetters, made it clear: they wanted to flaunt their Tap cards without turning their hands into impromptu privacy screens. The result? A card so sleek, so modern, that it practically begs to be photographed which makes a big difference in today's social media-driven world.

But we didn't stop at the surface. While giving our cards a modern facelift, our engineering dev team was hard at work enhancing our platform's core. We’ve also added a new exchange to our smart router and improved trading execution times. For our users, this means faster, more efficient transactions – because in the world of finance, every second counts.

Unparalleled Rewards - The Game-Changing Cashback Feature

Our standout achievement this year is undoubtedly the launch of our new Cashback feature. Born from the vocal requests of our vibrant community, this feature offers one of the industry-leading Cashback rates of up to 8% on card purchases. It's more than just a perk, it's a game changer that puts real rewards back into our users' pockets with every transaction.

This feature also breathes new life into our native XTP token, creating a symbiotic ecosystem where token holders can unlock even more value. By embedding XTP directly into our Cashback system, we've supercharged its Tokenomics, seamlessly connecting the best of traditional finance and crypto in a way that's simple, rewarding, and user-centric.

Expanding Horizons: Conquering the American Frontier

Our ambition knows no borders, and this year, we've made significant strides in our global expansion, particularly in the USA. This wasn't just another market entry – it was a testament to Tap’s resilience and unwavering commitment to our global vision.

The path to the US market was fraught with challenges. The regulatory landscape in the USA is notoriously complex, and the new government crackdown in early 2023 delayed our expansion plans, halting our launch just one week before it was set to go live. 

While this setback caused many companies to retreat from the jurisdiction, we saw it as an opportunity to demonstrate our adaptability and determination.

In the face of these obstacles, we didn't just persevere – we thrived. We've built a new, updated app platform specifically for our American users, tailored to navigate the intricate regulatory environment while delivering the innovative financial solutions Tap is known for.

Our successful expansion into the USA, despite the hurdles, is more than just a new market entry. It's a clear signal of Tap’s global ambitions and our ability to adapt and excel in even the most challenging environments.

Premium Experiences for Premium Users

Recognising that our users' needs evolve, we've introduced new premium user tiers. These tiers are designed to offer tailored experiences that align with the diverse financial journeys of our users and to fit every taste and budget. This is a reimagining of how financial services can be personalised.

Each plan now includes our brand new Cashback feature, allowing users to earn as they spend, and a dedicated market newsletter to keep them informed and empowered in their financial decisions. From the budget-conscious to the exclusivity seeker, there's now a Tap experience crafted for everyone.

Elevating the User Experience

Many of you requested this add on and that’s why we've introduced a search bar – a simple addition that makes navigating our feature-rich app a breeze. This simple yet effective addition makes it easier for users to find specific features, transactions, or information within the app.

The search functionality helps both new and experienced users navigate our growing range of services more efficiently, saving time and improving overall satisfaction with the app.

As part of our ongoing efforts to provide diverse financial options, we've expanded our cryptocurrency offerings this year. We've added two new tokens to our platform: GALA and YFI, giving our users more choice in their crypto investments.

Additionally, we've introduced an in-app XTP-BTC trading pair. This new feature allows users to conveniently trade between our native token and Bitcoin directly within the Tap app.

Strengthening Our Core: Behind-the-Scenes

While the changes mentioned above are the ones you can see and touch, they're just the tip of the iceberg. Behind the scenes, we've implemented close to 80 improvements that, while not immediately visible, have dramatically enhanced the overall user experience. 

From app fluidity enhancements to reinforced security measures and new provider integrations, we've been working round the clock to make your Tap experience smoother, safer, and more efficient than ever before.

Looking Ahead‍

As we move into the second half of the year, we're more excited than ever about the future of Tap. We're not just a financial app; we're your partner in navigating the complex world of modern finance. 

With every update, every new feature, and every market we enter, we're driven by a single goal: to empower you to get more from your money.

The story of Tap is one of constant evolution, and we're thrilled to have you along for the ride. Here's to the innovations of today and the financial revolutions of tomorrow.

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The crypto market has entered a phase that veterans often call the "boring zone." It's a time when:

• Bitcoin's price seems stuck, fluctuating between $50,000 and $70,000 for months.
• Altcoins are in an even deeper slumber, with many down 50-80% from their peaks.
• Trading volumes on major exchanges have plummeted, dropping 30% from the last bull market's heights.

Sound familiar? It should. This lull is a recurring theme in the crypto market cycle, and historically, it's often the calm before the storm. It’s also a common attribute after a recent Bitcoin halving. 

Let's look at what happened after previous Bitcoin halvings:

• 2012 Halving: 92 days until new all-time high
• 2016 Halving: 291 days until new all-time high
• 2020 Halving: 216 days until new all-time high

For perspective, 28 July 2024 marks 100 days from the most recent halving, with 25 February 2025 marking the 300-day mark. 

The power of patient investing

Investing in cryptocurrencies over longer time horizons can be likened to early-stage venture investing, where patience could potentially lead to significant returns. While past performance doesn't guarantee future results, historical examples like Ethereum and Solana demonstrate this potential. 

Ethereum, launching at less than $1 in 2014, and Solana, starting below $1 in 2020, have since seen their values grow to over $3,000 and $140 respectively as of early 2024.

In the crypto space, what’s known as the HODL approach, emphasises the power of time and compound growth, similar to that of traditional asset classes. The idea is straightforward: if you've taken a position in a project you believe has strong fundamentals, maintaining that position through periods of high volatility could potentially lead to significant gains.

To illustrate this point further, in 2010, Bitcoin was worth less than $0.01. By April 2024, it had reached around $70,000. An investor who bought $100 worth of Bitcoin in 2010 and held it until 2024 would have seen their investment grow to millions of dollars.

Strategies for surviving (and thriving) in the "boring zone"

During quiet periods in crypto dive deeper into blockchain fundamentals, research promising projects, instead of anxiously checking prices or reacting to every piece of news, use this time productively.

Alternatively, for those with capital to invest, dollar-cost averaging (DCA) could be something to consider. A Vanguard study found that DCA outperformed lump-sum investing in 68% of cases during market downturns, highlighting its potential effectiveness in notoriously volatile markets.

Know with certainty that this "boring zone" is often temporary. Based on previous cycles, we might see a new Bitcoin all-time high in 30 to 150 days, and once Bitcoin breaks its previous record, top altcoin projects have historically seen gains of 200% to 1,000%.

By staying patient and disciplined during quiet periods, you can be prepared for potential opportunities that may arise as the crypto market evolves. Remember, while historical patterns offer insights, they don't guarantee future results, but these historical patterns are worth considering as you plan your strategy.

We get it, the waiting game is hard

Holding onto your crypto during boring market times can be tougher than you'd think. When prices aren't moving much, it's easy to get antsy or start doubting your choices. But keeping a cool head and being rational is key to long-term success.

First off, remember why you got into crypto in the first place. Was it the tech? The potential? Keep that big picture in mind. It helps to set realistic expectations too - crypto's known for its ups and downs, so flat periods are normal.

Try to limit how often you check prices. Constantly peeking at your portfolio can drive you nuts during slow times. Instead, focus on other parts of your life or dive deeper into learning about blockchain.

Connecting with other crypto fans can help too. Chat about ideas, not just prices. And don't forget to celebrate small wins - even if the market's quiet, projects are still developing and growing.

Stay patient, stay curious, and remember: in crypto, today's boredom could be tomorrow's excitement.