Lizzy

Volatility has become a defining characteristic of the cryptocurrency market, however, it doesn’t need to be a negative thing. As these digital assets experience significant price swings, driven by factors like speculation, regulation changes, and technological developments, this presents a perfect opportunity to potentially generate substantial returns. 

This article explores strategies to capitalise on crypto volatility, including dollar-cost averaging, swing trading, leverage, and arbitrage. By understanding and embracing volatility, investors can navigate the market's ups and downs and potentially unlock rewarding gains in this dynamic landscape. Let’s dive in.

Understanding what volatility is

Volatility in finance refers to how much an asset price moves up and down over time. There’s no denying that cryptocurrency prices are known for being highly volatile and changing a lot in a short time, or that in many cases this has led traders to a rather healthy return on investment. While also synonymous with the stock market, volatility is typically caused by things like investors speculating and trading based on emotions, news stories that impact cryptocurrencies or shares, and uncertainty around government regulations or geopolitical events. 

Since cryptocurrencies are still fairly new and can be traded globally 24/7, their prices tend to swing wildly. These unpredictable price swings are common in crypto markets, so it's important to understand what causes the big ups and downs, how they contribute to greater economic growth, and to understand the importance of having a solid risk management strategy in place. 

Strategies for capitalising on crypto volatility

No matter which currency you are trading, one common strategy in taking advantage of volatility is dollar-cost averaging (DCA), this means investing a fixed amount at regular intervals regardless of price. DCA allows you to buy more when prices are low and less when prices are high, smoothing out the impact of volatility over time. For example, investing $100 weekly into Bitcoin.

Another approach is buying the dips, purchasing after a price drop, aiming to get in at lower levels. However, trying to "catch a falling knife" by buying too early carries risks. Technical analysis can help identify potential dip-buying opportunities for finding the best value.

Taking profits during rallies is also a key strategy used by investors. This involves setting target prices to sell portions of your holdings allowing you to secure gains amid volatility. A trailing stop-loss strategy can automate this, selling if prices retrace a set percentage from recent highs. It's important to remember that this strategy needs to be monitored and adjusted according to market movements.

Don't put all your eggs in one crypto basket. Diversification is crucial for managing risk in volatile markets. Spread investments across various cryptocurrencies, stablecoins, and asset classes like stocks to buffer volatility's impacts.

While lucrative opportunities exist in crypto volatility, appropriate risk management is crucial. Start small, learn strategies gradually, and as the trading law goes: never risk more than you can afford to lose.

The importance of proper risk management

Managing risk carefully and having an effective risk management plan in place is very important when trading cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, Ethereum and other altcoins. Using stop-loss orders to automatically exit losing trades and sizing your position properly for your account size can help limit losses. However, be cautious about overtrading or putting too much money into extremely volatile crypto assets. Having too much exposure increases your risks dramatically and may cost you in the long run.

Instead, make sure that you diversify your portfolio and follow a disciplined trading plan as responsible risk management protects your capital and helps ensure long-term success in this unpredictable market.

Conclusion

While volatility defines the cryptocurrency market, it also presents opportunities for savvy investors. By embracing strategies like dollar-cost averaging, buying dips, taking profits during rallies, and diversifying across assets, you can navigate volatility's ups and downs. However, proper risk management through stop losses, position sizing, and avoiding overexposure is paramount. 

Start small, learn gradually, and never risk more than you can afford to lose. With discipline and a solid strategy, you can unlock crypto volatility's potential rewards while mitigating risks in this dynamic landscape. The key is understanding volatility's drivers and harnessing its power through proven tactics. Approach with caution, but don't let volatility's roller coaster scare you away from crypto's wealth-building possibilities.

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Private label cards are branded payment solutions that enable businesses to offer customized rewards, incentives, and financing options to their customers and employees. These cards serve as powerful tools for driving customer loyalty, improving cash flow management, and gaining valuable spending insights. In this article, we'll guide you through the concept of private label cards, their key benefits for businesses, and delve into how they work. 

What are private label cards?

Private label cards are branded payment cards issued by businesses to their customers or employees, allowing them to make purchases or access funds within a specific ecosystem or network. Unlike traditional debit or credit cards issued by a bank, private label cards are a product tailored to the branding and specific needs of the issuing company.

These cards differ from traditional cards in several ways. Firstly, they are not tied to a specific financial institution but rather to the company's brand and loyalty program. Secondly, they often offer unique rewards and incentives tailored to the business's products or services. Additionally, private label cards provide businesses with valuable customer data and insights, enabling targeted marketing efforts and personalized experiences.

Private label cards and fintechs

In recent years, fintech platforms have revolutionized the issuance and management of private label cards. These technology-driven companies act as program managers, handling the end-to-end process of card issuance, transaction processing, and compliance adherence. 

By partnering with fintech platforms like Tap, businesses can efficiently launch and manage their private label card programs, leveraging advanced technologies, scalability, and industry expertise without the need for extensive in-house resources.

How private label cards benefit businesses

Private label cards empower businesses to strengthen customer relationships, optimize financial operations, and gain a competitive edge through tailored rewards, data-driven insights, and robust security measures. Let’s explore some of these concepts below:

Drive business

Private label cards offer businesses a range of benefits that can drive customer loyalty, enhance brand recognition, and streamline operations. By offering customizable rewards and loyalty programs tailored to their products or services, businesses can incentivize customers to make repeat purchases while simultaneously collecting data on customer preferences, fostering long-term relationships and brand advocacy.

Cash flow management

Private label cards provide businesses with a valuable tool for cash flow management. By encouraging customers to use their branded cards, companies can receive payments more quickly, improving their working capital and financial flexibility.

Collect data and analytics

One of the key advantages of private label cards is the wealth of data and analytics they provide. Businesses can gain insights into customer spending patterns, preferences, and behaviours, enabling data-driven decision-making and targeted marketing strategies.

Security benefits

Additionally, private label card programs prioritize security and fraud prevention measures. Fintech platforms offering these solutions employ advanced technologies and protocols to safeguard customer information and transactions, providing businesses and their customers with peace of mind.

The differences between private label and co-branded cards

Private label cards are issued by a single retailer or business, bearing their branding and tailored rewards program. Co-branded cards, however, involve a partnership between a merchant and a major card network (Visa, Mastercard), carrying dual branding.

In general, private label cards offer more customization and control for the merchant but may have limited acceptance outside their network. They can also drive stronger loyalty but require more resources to manage.

Co-branded cards, on the other hand, have wider acceptance but less flexibility in terms of rewards/benefits. As they leverage an existing card network's infrastructure, they offer less differentiation.

The choice depends on the merchant's goals; private label are beneficial for deeper customization and loyalty while co-branded cards off wider acceptance and shared resources with a card network partner.

How private label cards work

Private label cards are issued through a collaborative process involving businesses and fintech platforms. Businesses define the card program's features, branding, and reward structure, while fintech platforms handle the technical and operational aspects. As program managers, fintech companies then oversee card issuance, transaction processing, and data management, leveraging their expertise and scalable technologies.

The importance of compliance and adherence to regulatory requirements cannot be underestimated or overlooked when looking at the issuance of private label cards. Fintech platforms need to ensure that card programs comply with industry standards, data privacy laws, and anti-fraud measures, providing businesses with a secure and reliable payment solution. 

Regular audits and risk assessments are conducted to maintain compliance and mitigate potential risks. Businesses must always do their research before engaging in private label card issuance with a fintech platform. 

Examples of use cases

Private label cards can offer a range of use cases across various industries. See several examples below: 

Retail and e-commerce

In the retail and e-commerce sectors, they serve as powerful loyalty tools, incentivizing customers with tailored rewards and exclusive offers. Businesses can leverage these cards to drive repeat purchases and foster brand loyalty. An example would be the Amazon Store Card. 

Corporate expense management

Corporate organizations utilize private label cards for streamlined expense management, enabling employees to make authorized purchases while providing detailed spending data for analysis and budgeting purposes. 

These cards also facilitate employee incentive and recognition programs, rewarding high-performers with customized benefits and privileges. An example of this would be a company card issued to employees to use for company expenses. 

Specific purposes

Additionally, private label cards can be issued as prepaid cards for specific purposes, such as payroll disbursements, gift cards, or restricted-use cards for controlled spending. This versatility allows businesses to tailor card programs to their unique needs, ensuring efficient fund management and targeted usage. 

An example of this could be a corporate-branded preloaded gift card for promotional purposes allowing holders to buy something in-store using the card.

How to create a private label card for your business

With Tap, you can seamlessly integrate private label card programs into your operations. Tap streamlines the entire card issuance and management process, allowing companies to leverage off their advanced technologies and industry expertise. 

By partnering with Tap, you gain access to a scalable and flexible solution, enabling you to launch and adapt card programs efficiently, tailored to your company’s specific needs. Tap's platform offers robust features, real-time analytics, and end-to-end support, empowering every businesses to deliver tailored payment experiences while ensuring compliance and security.

With Tap, you have the power to not only launch and adapt your card programs efficiently but also to customise the fees charged to your users. Our approach is entirely flexible,  allowing you to set charges that align with your clientele's needs. Our platform offers unparalleled freedom, allowing you to tailor your card programs precisely to your company's needs and goals.

Conclusion

In summary, private label cards empower businesses with a versatile payment solution that promotes customer loyalty, optimizes operations, and delivers valuable data insights. Whether for retail, corporate, or specific use cases, private label cards offer a competitive edge through tailored rewards, data-driven strategies, and enhanced customer experiences - paving the way for business growth.

Please contact xxx for further information on setting up your private label card.

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Tap, announces a temporary suspension of XTP locking/fees payment for all its users, reflecting a steadfast commitment to regulatory compliance and global collaboration.

In alignment with our regulatory-first vision, Tap announce the temporarily suspending XTP locking and fee payment in XTP. This strategic move reflects our dedication to regulatory compliance in every aspect of our operations.

At Tap, we prioritize responsibility alongside innovation. This temporary suspension underscores our commitment to regulatory compliance and our ability to effectively serve all our users in the United Kingdom, aligning with the new FCA regulations set in place.

In accordance with the Financial Conduct Authority's (FCA) financial promotion rule, we regret to inform our UK residents that the utilization of XTP for locking or payment is temporarily suspended. The FCA has classified the use of digital assets for obtaining discounts as a financial incentive, thus preventing its extension to any UK resident.

The temporary suspension of services in the UK has necessitated a pause in functionality across our entire platform due to its unified nature. Nevertheless, our team remains unwavering in our commitment to restoring Locking/Paying Fees in XTP for our global community. 

While this transition may present temporary challenges, it also represents an opportunity for growth and collective progress.

We extend our heartfelt appreciation to our users for their unwavering support and patience as we navigate through this transition. Rest assured, Tap remains steadfastly committed to delivering an unparalleled digital asset experience that is compliant, secure, seamless, and transformative for users worldwide.

TAP Partners with Notabene to Implement Innovative Solutions Ensuring Adherence to Cryptocurrencies’ Travel Rule

Tap is proud to announce its new partnership with Notabene, in a concerted and strategic response to strengthen its compliance operations, by utilizing the market-leading solutions to ensure ongoing compliance with the Travel Rule for cryptocurrencies. Embracing the ever-evolving regulatory landscape, this partnership underscores TAP's dedication to ensuring consumer trust and guaranteeing pre-transaction regulatory compliance requirements at all times.

Tap has always taken pride in its regulatory-first approach, emphasizing the importance of consumer trust and operational transparency. Tap's decision to partner with Notabene is grounded in a multitude of strategic rationales. Notabene's all-encompassing SafeTransact platform, renowned for its excellence in identifying and mitigating high-risk activity before it occurs, provides compliance teams with the tools to make data-driven choices and enhances operational efficiency by seamlessly integrating the Travel Rule into compliance processes.

Notabene's notable offering includes its SafeGateway solution, which facilitates VASP-to-VASP interaction across protocols. This positions them as strong contenders in the cryptocurrency compliance solutions sector. This underscores why TAP views this partnership as a positive step toward maintaining a competitive edge in the fintech compliance landscape.

Comment from Kriya Patel, CEO of Tap

“I am delighted to be able to announce our strategic partnership with Notabene and I look forward to growing the relationship together whilst navigating through to meeting and maintaining our current and future regulatory requirements in our industry. 

The partnership with Notabene was a natural one. They share the same values as Tap by focusing on  customer-driven product needs, whilst allowing us to maintain a regulated and security-first approach.”

Comment from Pelle Braendgaard, CEO of Notabene

"We are pleased to collaborate with Tap, their commitment to compliance and customer trust aligns seamlessly with our mission. Together, we can advance the industry while ensuring the highest standards of security and transparency."

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Digital currencies are propelling the banking industry into a period of rapid innovation. As digital currencies continue to immerse themselves in the greater financial landscape, businesses incorporating cryptocurrencies are reaping the benefits from the forefront of this new revolution. This article addresses everything a small to mid-size business needs to know about crypto banking and how to leverage this new-age technology. 
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What is crypto banking?

The term "crypto banking" refers to the management of one's crypto assets by a third-party financial institution. Similar to how traditional banks manage services pertaining to fiat currency, a crypto bank would manage all services relating to cryptocurrencies.
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These crypto banking services typically allow users to hold a balance, make payments with a crypto debit card and earn interest on a supported crypto asset through crypto interest accounts, also known as crypto savings accounts. Some platforms might also offer loan services and crypto interest accounts, also known as crypto savings accounts.
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Due to regulatory restrictions imposed on these fintech companies and the crypto market, it is common for these types of institutions within the financial sector to operate in certain jurisdictions like the United Kingdom or the United States of America. This is not uncommon for traditional banks either.
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A crypto bank is not typically a crypto exchange, instead, it is defined as a fintech platform operating in the crypto banking space. Providing services for both fiat currency and digital assets, crypto banks are revolutionizing the financial institution sector.
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What are the benefits of incorporating crypto into your business?

With over 320 million customers around the world shopping with cryptocurrencies, incorporating digital assets into your payment options allows you to tap into this broad group of consumers.
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Additionally, the advantages of crypto payments outweigh fiat transactions in a number of ways, providing a more secure and faster means to send money across borders (or simply next door). These include:
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• More rapid transactions
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• More cost-effective transactions
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• Accessibility
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• Security
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• No chargebacks (all transactions are final)
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• Reduced fraud
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Data suggests that an increasing number of businesses are starting to explore crypto payments, where employees can earn either their full salary or a part of it in digital assets in remuneration for their job. Some remote workers are even maintaining a career solely relying on crypto payments, hence the rise in crypto banks and crypto banking services.
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Crypto banking, payment gateways, and businesses

Through crypto banking services or payment gateways, businesses are able to receive payments in digital assets and instantly convert them into fiat should they wish to do so. It's important to note that these services go beyond the services of that a normal crypto exchange might offer.
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Some crypto service providers will allow businesses to make crypto payments directly from their account, however, until this becomes normalized business owners often chose to convert their digital assets due to concerns over volatility and cash flow. 
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Below we cover the most pressing questions concerning small to medium-sized businesses incorporating crypto assets into their business models and how to effectively use crypto banking services to streamline this. 
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Crypto Banking Services and Small Businesses 

Can small businesses use cryptocurrency?

Whether you’re conducting a few transactions a week or several hundred a day, cryptocurrencies provide an ideal payment solution. With minimal fees and no foreign exchange rates, accepting crypto payments is a cost-effective solution for small businesses, especially ones operating with a global customer base. 
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By engaging in crypto banking services offered by a reputable crypto bank, businesses can manage cryptocurrency with the same ease as a traditional bank account.
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Why do small businesses use crypto?

Small businesses will typically incorporate cryptocurrencies into their payment methods as a cost-effective solution as well as an opportunity to tap into a broader target market. With minimal transaction fees, short processing times, and heightened security, crypto transactions provide a perfect solution for small businesses. By adding crypto payments to their menu, many businesses are gaining an edge over their competition.
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With the innovation that crypto banks are bringing to the forefront, small businesses can bypass the high fees associated with crypto exchanges and instead tap into crypto banking services at a more realistic price point.
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Crypto as a Business Expense 

Can crypto be a business expense?

For any size business, understanding the tax implications of accepting cryptocurrency payments is crucial. While it's important to understand the tax rules in your area, consulting a tax professional will likely be in your best interest. 
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Businesses can also opt to incorporate crypto tracking software or crypto tax software in their business models to ensure that they are compliant. Please consult your tax professional regarding any questions you might have about being taxed on crypto in your country before engaging in any crypto banking or opening a bank account with a crypto bank.
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Can I buy crypto as a business expense?

As each country’s laws on taxing cryptocurrencies differ, it's best to consult a tax professional in your area who can properly advise. While you don't need a degree in tax to manage a business, gaining an education on the implications of the taxation of cryptocurrencies will do you, as a business owner accepting cryptocurrencies, a world of good. Reach out to your crypto bank or look to crypto companies for recommendations.
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Crypto as Business Investment 

Can businesses invest in crypto?

Yes, it has become increasingly common for businesses of all scales to invest in cryptocurrencies. Due to the high returns that Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies have presented over the years and its strong ability to store value paired with the increasing adoption of digital currencies as payment methods, many businesses have chosen cryptocurrencies as a viable investment option. 
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With the rising popularity of crypto lending, many businesses are using their digital currency investments to generate wealth. Operating in the same way as traditional savings accounts, businesses can store their digital currency in an interest-generating account that provides returns.
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However, before investing in cryptocurrencies we encourage you to conduct thorough research on the topic and decide if it suits your business’s financial goals and business plan. 
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Can my LLC invest in crypto assets?

Limited Liability Companies (LLCs) provide the best of both worlds: access to the liability shield typically associated with corporations and the tax benefits found in partnerships or sole proprietorships. With this being said, it’s best to check on the cryptocurrency laws and tax implications in your area before engaging in any crypto investments. 

Businesses and Crypto Wallets 

Can a business hold a crypto wallet?

Yes, anyone can open a crypto wallet. When looking to incorporate cryptocurrencies or any crypto financial services in your business opening a wallet is a must. Consider what your business intends to do with the cryptocurrencies (i.e. will you be making daily transactions or storing funds long term) and choose an appropriate wallet. 
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Can I set up a crypto wallet for my business?

Any company can set up a business account and crypto wallet with Tap. Tap provides businesses operating within the digital asset sector with dedicated IBANs allowing for access to international payments, settlement and trading services for both stablecoins and cryptocurrencies. Businesses also gain access to dedicated account managers and support. 
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How do I set up a crypto wallet business account?

To set up a crypto wallet business account with Tap, anyone from the company can fill out this form and a dedicated account manager will get back to you in 1 to 2 working days. 
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Paying Employees with Crypto

Can I pay my employees with crypto?

Yes, cryptocurrencies can be used to pay employees’ salaries in most countries. Before going ahead with the process ensure that you have done adequate research about crypto payments in your area and are familiar with the rules and regulations. I.e. some states require employers to pay the minimum wage in USD and the remainder in cryptocurrencies. 
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Crypto and Business Operations

What is a crypto business account?

A crypto business account is an account from which a business can manage its cryptocurrencies. While crypto business accounts might vary from platform to platform, the basis is that the account will allow a business to buy and sell cryptocurrencies and hold a balance. 

Tap’s business account also provides companies with access to trading facilities, a wide range of crypto wallets, the ability to pay external accounts, passive income generation, and a dedicated account manager. 
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How is crypto taxed for business?

Typically, cryptocurrency income is taxed as regular income tax, however, a business must do adequate research on the matter to determine the tax implications of accepting and investing in cryptocurrencies in your country. We always recommend contacting a tax professional that specializes in cryptocurrencies in your region. 
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How do I report crypto as business income?

You will need to find the relevant tax rules in your area to determine how to report crypto as a business income. Countries will typically require a specialized crypto tax form when declaring crypto income. Remember, it is a criminal offense to not declare the appropriate earnings. 
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Should my business start accepting cryptocurrency?

By embracing cryptocurrency as a payment option, you can lower your transaction fees, safeguard yourself from costly chargebacks and broaden your customer base to better suit their inclinations. This will not only help strengthen the security of your business but is also guaranteed to expand its reach in today's market.

Accepting cryptocurrencies might not be appropriate for every business model, so ensure that the payment option fits into your business model. 

How can a business accept crypto payments?

In order to accept cryptocurrencies you will need to provide your wallet details or QR code in your payment options. Installing crypto payments into your online store is seamless and straightforward, simply find the appropriate plug-in or app compatible with your e-commerce platform. If this option isn't accessible, businesses can add the code from their wallet in HTML.

Can I buy crypto with my LLC?

LLCs are legally allowed to own and trade cryptocurrencies in most countries, however, you will need to confirm with the relevant laws in your area. Businesses can open a crypto wallet in the LLC’s name and purchase the funds directly or transfer the funds from a personal wallet. Alternatively, one can open a business account with Tap and gain access to a wide range of crypto services for your business including a dedicated account manager and support. 

Businesses and Crypto Accounts

How do I buy a crypto account for my business?

Setting up a business crypto account can be done in one simple step. Simply complete the form here and a dedicated account manager will get in touch with you within 1-2 working days and personally guide you through the process. You will be required to provide proof of identity and several business documents. While gaining access to a wide range of crypto services there are no fees associated with opening the account. 

Can you open a crypto bank account for a business?

Yes, absolutely. Setting up a business crypto account with Tap is simple and straightforward. All you need to do is fill out this form and a dedicated account manager will get in touch with you to guide you through the process best suited to your business needs. 
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Can I open a crypto account for my business?

Yes, absolutely. Opening a crypto business account with Tap is very simple. All you need to do is fill out the form and you will be contacted by one of our knowledgeable account managers who will help you find the right solution for your company's needs. 

Interest is a fundamental concept in the world of finance and economics. At its simplest, interest can be understood as the fee charged for borrowing money, or the amount earned on invested money. Understanding interest is essential for anyone seeking to manage their finances effectively, whether they are borrowing money, investing their savings, or simply trying to make informed decisions about their financial future.

In this article, we will explore the basics of interest, including how it is calculated, the different types of interest, and how to navigate interest in various financial situations. We will also provide real-life examples and valuable tips to help you make informed decisions about your money.

Types of Interest

There are two primary types of interest: landed money interest and earned interest. Landed money interest refers to the interest paid on borrowed money, while earned interest refers to the interest earned on invested money.

Landed Money Interest

Landed money interest, also known as borrowing interest, is the interest paid by a borrower to a lender in exchange for the use of money. This type of interest is charged on a wide range of financial products, including mortgages, car loans, personal loans, and credit cards.

The interest rate on a loan is typically expressed as a percentage of the amount borrowed, and is determined by a variety of factors, including the borrower's credit score, the term of the loan, and the lender's own risk assessment. The interest rate on a loan can have a significant impact on the overall cost of borrowing, with higher interest rates resulting in higher monthly payments and a greater total cost over the life of the loan.

For example, let's say you take out a $10,000 car loan with an interest rate of 5% per year, to be repaid over a five-year term. Over the course of the loan, you will pay a total of $1,322.74 in interest, in addition to the $10,000 principal amount. If the interest rate were increased to 8%, the total cost of the loan would rise to $1,845.87, a difference of over $500.

Earned Interest

Earned interest, also known as investment interest, is the interest earned on invested money. This type of interest is paid to investors by banks, governments, and other financial institutions in exchange for the use of their money.

The interest rate on investments can vary widely depending on the type of investment, the term of the investment, and the risk associated with the investment. For example, savings accounts and certificates of deposit (CDs) typically offer lower interest rates but are considered low-risk investments, while stocks and other securities can offer higher potential returns but are also considered higher risk.

For example, let's say you invest $10,000 in a CD with an interest rate of 2% per year for a five-year term. At the end of the term, you will have earned a total of $1,047.13 in interest, in addition to the $10,000 principal amount. If you had instead invested the same $10,000 in the stock market and earned an average annual return of 8%, your investment would have grown to $14,693.28 over the same five-year period.

Calculating Interest

The calculation of interest depends on a variety of factors, including the amount of the loan or investment, the interest rate, and the length of the loan or investment term. In general, the formula for calculating interest is as follows:
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Interest = Principal x Rate x Time

Where:
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• Principal is the amount borrowed or invested
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• Rate is the interest rate expressed as a decimal
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• Time is the length of the loan or investment term, expressed in years
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For example, let's say you invest $5,000 in a savings account with an interest rate of 2% per year, to be held for three years. Using the formula above, we can calculate the interest earned as follows:
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Interest = $5,000 x 0.02 x 3Interest = $300
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In this case, you would earn $300 in interest over the three-year term, in addition to the $5,000 principal amount.

Tips for Navigating Interest

Navigating interest can be challenging, particularly for those new to the world of finance. Here are some valuable tips to help you make informed decisions about interest in various financial situations:

1. Understand the terms of your loan or investment: Before taking out a loan or investing your money, make sure you understand the terms of the agreement, including the interest rate, term length, and any associated fees or penalties.
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2. Shop around for the best interest rates: When taking out a loan or investing your money, be sure to shop around for the best interest rates. Compare offers from multiple lenders or financial institutions to ensure you are getting the best deal.
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3. Consider the impact of compounding interest: When investing your money, consider the impact of compounding interest. Compounding interest is interest that is earned on both the principal amount and any accumulated interest, resulting in exponential growth over time.
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4. Avoid overexposure: Be careful not to overexpose yourself to any one type of investment or loan. Diversify your portfolio and consider spreading your investments across a range of asset classes to minimize risk.
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5. Take advantage of tax benefits: Some types of interest, such as mortgage interest and student loan interest, may be tax-deductible. Be sure to take advantage of any available tax benefits when borrowing or investing.

Real-Life Examples

Let's look at some real-life examples of interest in action:

1. Car loan: You take out a $20,000 car loan with an interest rate of 4% per year, to be repaid over a five-year term. Over the course of the loan, you will pay a total of $2,164.17 in interest, in addition to the $20,000 principal amount.
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2. Savings account: You deposit $10,000 in a savings account with an interest rate of 1% per year, to be held for three years. Over the three-year term, you will earn a total of $308.18 in interest, in addition to the $10,000 principal amount.
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3. Mortgage: You take out a $300,000 mortgage with an interest rate of 3.5% per year, to be repaid over a 30-year term. Over the course of the mortgage, you will pay a total of $184,968.79 in interest, in addition to the $300,000 principal amount.

In Conclusion:

Interest is a fundamental concept in the world of finance and economics, and understanding how it works is essential for anyone seeking to manage their finances effectively.

Whether you are borrowing money, investing your savings, or simply trying to make informed decisions about your financial future, understanding interest can help you make better decisions and maximize your potential returns. By considering the tips and real-life examples presented in this article, you can navigate interest with confidence and make informed decisions about your money.

So you decided to go deeper into the fundamentals of investing and learn what an APY is. You've come to the right place, let's get you started with this perplexing "APY" term.

What Is APY?

In conventional finance, a savings account frequently offers both a low-interest rate and an annual percentage yield (APY). Let's look at what they are and what they mean.

• The Annual Percentage Yield (APY) is the annual return from the principal and accumulated interest on investments or savings, expressed as a percentage.
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• The simple interest rate is the amount earned on the original deposit. 

Assume an account at a bank offers a yearly interest rate of 5%. If someone deposits €2,000 into the account, it will be worth €2,100 after a year with the 5% yearly interest rate.                                           

The Difference Between Interest Rate, APY and APR

The APY takes into account the impact of compounding, whereas the interest rate does not. The APY is the projected rate of return earned annually on a deposit after taking compound interest into account.

Compounding interest is the interest that a person accrues from their initial deposit, as well as the interest they earn from their original investment (or in other words, the initial deposit amount plus the interest generated).

The terms APY and APR are frequently used interchangeably, although they represent two different things. These words are sometimes confused due to their close resemblance. However, APY and APR aren't the same things.

The APR (annual percentage rate) is a formula that determines how much interest you'll pay when borrowing money and is the rate of return earned if your funds are invested in an interest-bearing account. 

When a person takes out a loan, their lender sets an APR that varies based on the loan. APRs are either fixed or fluctuating depending on the type of loan the user requires. However, the APR is a rather basic interest rate and does not take compounding into account, unlike APY. 

How Is APY Calculated?

APY represents your rate of return, also known as the amount of earnings or profit you can make. Of course, your ultimate earnings will vary depending on how long you keep your assets invested while the holding period will influence how much you will earn. 

APY measures the rate of the annual return earned on any amount of money or investment after taking into account compounding interest.

The following is the formula for calculating APY:

APY = (1 + p/n)ⁿ − 1

Where:

p = periodic rate of return (or annual APR)

n = number of compounding periods each year
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Bear in mind that an APY can be calculated in a variety of ways depending on the provider.

When Satoshi Nakamoto created Bitcoin, they designed it in such a way that should the value increase dramatically, there would still be an inclusive decimal value for the masses. Satoshis could one day be how we buy a cup of coffee anywhere in the world, using the same currency from Britain to Japan.

How many Satoshis are in a Bitcoin?

Much like fiat currencies, cryptocurrencies can be divided into smaller units. While the US dollar and Euro has cents as its smallest denomination, Bitcoin has satoshis (also referred to as SATs). But unlike cents, satoshis are 100 millionth of a Bitcoin, meaning that Bitcoin can be divided into 100 million units, that's eighteen decimal places. 

See the table below illustrating the various values of Bitcoin vs satoshis.

How many Satoshis are in a Bitcoin, exactly?

1 Satoshi 0.00000001 Bitcoin
10 Satoshi 0.00000010 Bitcoin
100 Satoshi 0.00000100 Bitcoin
1,000 Satoshi 0.00001000 Bitcoin
10,000 Satoshi 0.00010000 Bitcoin
100,000 Satoshi 0.00100000 Bitcoin
1,000,000 Satoshi 0.01000000 Bitcoin
10,000,000 Satoshi 0.10000000 Bitcoin
100,000,000 Satoshi 1.00000000 Bitcoin

As defined by the technology, only 21 million Bitcoin will ever exist, meaning that there will only ever be 210,000,000,000,000 satoshis. That's a tough figure to wrap your head around. As indicated above the link between satoshis and Bitcoin is several decimal places, certainly not calculations we were taught in school. A less complicated notion to digest is that satoshis were named after Bitcoin's creator, Satoshi Nakamoto.  

Bitcoin measurement units

The creator of the peer-to-peer digital currency outlined in the Bitcoin white paper the decimal places that Bitcoin is divisible by. Throughout the whitepaper, they only referred to two measurement units, Bitcoin itself and satoshis. Several years down the line as the BTC price continued increasing, market research and various discussions resulted in the decision that more measurement units were required.

Five years after Satoshi Nakamoto disappeared from online forums, a universal ISO update was released that recognised two new Bitcoin measurements. 

• MicroBitcoin (μBTC) 

1 BTC = 1,000,000 MicroBitcoins (μBTC) = 100 SATs

• MilliBitcoin X (mBTC)

1 BTC = 1,000 MilliBitcoins (mBTC) = 100,000 SATs

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When taking a glance at your Bitcoin wallet you can choose to see satoshis, microBitcoins or miliBitcoins. By any account, it will likely take a few years before we're referring to buying goods in SATs.

How to calculate SATs

As we've already established in the information provided above, 1 BTC is worth 100,000,000 SATs. While one could do the maths, there are plenty of tools available online that can do the sums for you. Better yet, as satoshis are recognised as universal units of value, you can change the currency setting on several sites.

For instance, on Coin Market Cap, you can change the default currency to SATs by selecting the currency drop down option in the top right-hand corner. Select the Satoshi option under Bitcoin units.

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This will then display all values as satoshis. 

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Alternatively, you can use one of the many satoshi calculators available online, which will instantly convert your currency value into SATs. In the future when using SATs as a form of payment, the value owed will likely be presented to you in the same form, allowing for a much easier consumer experience.

‍Key Takeaways

SATs are used by the Bitcoin network and crypto exchanges. Miners on the Bitcoin blockchain use SATs to determine the fee owned to them for transactions validated, while some exchanges use SATs to measure altcoin's value and performance against Bitcoin.

It is likely if in the future Bitcoin is fully integrated into our financial systems that prices in shops and supermarkets will be reflected as a value in SATs as opposed to BTC.

One of the first stablecoins to come into existence, Dai was launched in 2017 and is maintained and regulated by MakerDAO. Using a series of smart contracts, Dai maintains a value of $1, or very close to it. Due to the coin’s soft peg to the US dollar, the Dai stablecoin not only provides a stable long-term store of value but also a strong medium of exchange. 

Let’s explore what Dai is and how it contributes to the crypto ecosystem. 

What Are Dai tokens?

Dai is an ERC-20-based stablecoin pegged to the US dollar. While more stablecoins hold the fiat currency to which they are pegged in reserves, the Dai stablecoin instead uses several cryptocurrencies to ensure it holds its peg. 

Supported cryptocurrencies include Ethereum (ETH), (BAT), USD Coin (USDC), Wrapped Bitcoin (wBTC), Compound (COMP), and many more. With a wide range of collateralized cryptocurrencies, user risk is decreased and Dai's price stability is increased.

Dai is issued and operated by the Maker Protocol and the MakerDAO (decentralized autonomous organization). Designed to provide a means of lending and borrowing crypto assets, the Dai stablecoin was at the forefront of the DeFi revolution. 

Holders of Dai can also earn interest. The platform also has another coin, MKR, which allows holders to set the Dai Savings Rate (DSR) and act as guarantors for Dai. This ensures that MKR tokens can be liquidated if the system fails. This structure motivates guarantors to ensure that the Dai system and its collateralized coins operate properly.

How do you generate Dai?

Users can generate Dai by paying collateral assets. Dai is created when users deposit ETH or any supported cryptocurrency as collateral. The equivalent amount of Dai is then issued and the user will receive Dai tokens.

If the Dai holders want the collateral assets back, the borrowed Dai can be paid back (plus a stability fee) and the collateral assets will be released. This Dai is then removed from circulation.

History of the Dai Stablecoin

The MakerDAO was first launched in 2015 by Rune Christensen and is the longest-running protocol on the Ethereum blockchain to date. It holds more than 2.3 million ETH in its protocol, approximately 2% of Ethereum’s total supply.

When first created, only Ether could be used as collateral, however, in 2019 more cryptocurrencies were added to this list. The Dai price has always been soft pegged to the US dollar.

How Does DAI Work?

The Dai cryptocurrency is an ERC-20 token that can be bought on both centralized and decentralized exchanges (DEXs). Users can also generate and borrow Dai by using MakerDAO's Oasis Borrow dashboard to establish a Maker collateral vault and put Ethereum-based assets in as collateral.

In its original use, the Maker protocol stored collateral in smart contracts known as maker collateral vaults. These smart contracts held collateral in escrow until the borrowed Dai was repaid, also known as collateralized debt positions (CDPs). The value of the security you send always exceeds the amount of DAI you receive otherwise the collateral will be liquidated. 

The Dai platform is one of the most integrated digital assets in the blockchain industry and can be utilized across decentralized finance (DeFi) applications and blockchain-based games, among other places.

The Advantages of DAI

No Minimum Amount Required

There is no minimum account balance required to use DAI, as there is with most other types of money. A lot of people around the world do not have the minimal amount of assets needed in order to qualify for a bank account, but there is no minimum balance requirement for utilizing DAI.

Price Stability

DAI can serve as a safe alternative store of money and access to financial inclusion for people who live in places where the economy is unstable.

Decentralized Financial Inclusion (smart contracts)

As DAI is a transparent and permissionless system, it allows users to have greater freedom over their money. Zimbabwe and Myanmar, for example, have been recognized as countries where people are limited in their ability to access fiat currency due to daily or monthly withdrawal restrictions on bank accounts imposed by the government.

Passive Income

Users can use DAI tokens to earn money through lockup and interest generation through the DAI Savings Rate system. Because DAI is based on the Ethereum blockchain, it doesn't have its own staking mechanism.

Owners of DAI tokens, on the other hand, may profit by putting DAI into a MakerDAO smart contract. This unique smart contract system protects the user's money and allows for immediate withdrawal.

Quick And Cost-Effective Transactions

In many cases, international wire transfer fees can be extremely high, and the time it takes to complete a transaction might be inconvenient. Global transactions between two users' wallets are made more transparent and efficient due to DAI's low transfer fees and quick processing times.

Operates 24/7

Traditional financial institutions operate only during "business" hours. As a result, transactions through such organizations may be delayed for days and will only finalize after banking institutions are open and transfers have been completed. Transactions can now be completed at any time of the year and on any day of the week using DAI and the Ethereum blockchain.

Continuously Vetted

The MakerDAO system has been found to conduct thorough checks and studies in order to guarantee the platform's security. Developers formally validate all smart contracts and core protocol elements that make up the system's internal architecture through mathematical analysis. Always DYOR (Do Your Own Research) and fully understand any DeFi protocol before using it.

If you’re a business owner looking to tap into the over 575 million people across the globe using cryptocurrencies, you’ve come to the right place. In this piece, we’re covering why that’s a great idea, and how you can incorporate cryptocurrencies as a payment option.

The benefits of crypto payments

Whether you want to accept Bitcoin payments or crypto payments, incorporating digital currencies into your business is a great idea. Below we run through several advantages that crypto payments bring to the table. 

• Faster Settlements

Did you know that credit card companies can take a few business days to move the funds into your account? With crypto payments, once the transaction has been executed the funds will (almost) immediately appear in your crypto wallet. 

• Lower Fees

Card processing companies charge anywhere from 1% - 3% plus an additional charge for using that service. Other payment services, like PayPal for example, charge even more. While the transaction fee structure is dependent on the specific network, cryptocurrencies charge a minimal flat rate, with no added hidden costs. When making or accepting crypto payments, you will know the transaction fees upfront.

• Wider Audience

According to Statista, there are over 575 million people using cryptocurrencies, offering a much wider audience for your business to tap into. Capture new customers by adding crypto payments to your payment options and attract a new demographic.

• Reduce Fraudulent Charges

Fraudulent card activity costs the global economy over $32 billion each year. These chargebacks can occur for a number of reasons, from technical issues to outright fraud. With cryptocurrencies, transactions are final and cannot be reversed due to the nature of blockchain technology facilitating these crypto payments. 

How crypto payments can take your business to the next level

Accepting cryptocurrency payments allows your business to tap into a new growth potential, opening your business up to over 575 million global crypto users, attracting a forward-thinking new customer base seeking cutting-edge payment options. 

Additionally, you will be able to enjoy the benefits of near-instant settlements directly into your crypto wallet and ultra-low transaction fees that let you save big. Say goodbye to frustrating chargebacks and fraudulent transactions thanks to crypto's secure technology. Let crypto payments propel your enterprise to new heights. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ILSss0jpENQ 

What does a business accepting cryptocurrencies entail?

First, you will need to have a proper understanding of cryptocurrencies and an idea of which cryptocurrencies you would like to accept. While most businesses new to accepting crypto payments might opt for Bitcoin payments, there are several alternative options with varying features. Bitcoin Cash, for example, provides faster transaction times at a lower cost.

Next, you will need to create an account with a payment gateway, the crypto equivalent of a payment processor. This gateway will allow you to transfer crypto to fiat and vice versa easily. Ensure that the platform you opt to use is reputable, has high levels of security, and is in line with the regulatory requirements. If you decide to accept Bitcoin payments, you need to ensure that everything you are doing is above board.

Once you have chosen your payment gateway and set up the account, the last step is to let your customers know. Whether you do this through a marketing campaign or simply incorporate the crypto QR code on your website or in-store, this is an excellent opportunity to get the word out there and create a buzz around your business now accepting crypto payments.

A crash course in cryptocurrencies

For the sake of getting you fully prepared to accept crypto payments, we've included a short crash course on cryptocurrencies. The first cryptocurrency to come into existence was launched in 2009 as a response to the global financial crisis. The still-anonymous creator, Satoshi Nakamoto, wanted to create a global digital currency that would allow each individual to take control of their own funds, and not have to rely on governments and centralised financial institutions to do so.

A few years after Bitcoin entered the scene, several other cryptocurrencies started emerging, many of which used the same infrastructure. Bitcoin Cash and Litecoin are examples of this, offering the same service with several tweaks, notably faster and cheaper transactions.

While adoption was slow to take off, crypto payments eventually integrated into the mainstream financial sector as several companies started catering to the crypto crowd. While the markets still go through the typical economic cycles, cryptocurrencies and most notably crypto payments are here to stay.

How can I incorporate cryptocurrency payments into my business?

If you’ve decided to accept Bitcoin payments and propel your business into the crypto-sphere, the process is likely to be much more simple than one would initially imagine. Accepting cryptocurrency payments is made even easier through Tap’s corporate crypto accounts, created especially to fulfil your business needs.

The best part about deciding to accept cryptocurrency payments is that you don't need to forgo your traditional payment methods. Cryptocurrency works perfectly alongside your current point-of-sale system and offers an alternative online payment solution. With Tap, you also don't need to worry about crypto price volatility as you can easily make the quick exchange of crypto to fiat directly through the app.

In order to start accepting Bitcoin payments, you will need to fill in a quick form on the Tap website. You do not need to have a Tap account prior to this. One of our Account Managers will make contact with you and assist with the setup process, including creating a crypto wallet for your business. This Account Manager will continue to work closely with you, providing assistance at any time.

Tap is fully regulated by the Gibraltar Financial Services Commission and operates with a stringent level of security. Known for its easy-to-use crypto payments app, Tap allows users to buy and sell a range of crypto assets and easily convert them to fiat. Integrating the traditional financial sector with the crypto sector, Tap allows users to make payments directly from the app, selecting which currency, whether fiat or crypto, they would like to use. 

The app also provides users with the opportunity to earn interest on their crypto and fiat currencies by simply depositing them into a specific fiat or crypto wallet. With no lock-in periods and constant access to the funds, users can earn interest which is paid out weekly. Corporate crypto accounts offer the same earning opportunities. 

To find out more about our crypto accounts for businesses and set up your account to accept cryptocurrency payments, take a look here. 

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Portfolio diversification is a strategy that involves allocating funds across a variety of different securities and assets to reduce risk and improve overall potential returns. It is recommended by financial experts because it helps to spread out the risk and prevents your portfolio from being too dependent on one particular asset.

What is diversification?

Diversification is a key strategy for managing portfolios and risks. Effective risk management involves spreading out allocations to minimise vulnerability to market changes.

The concept of diversification is simple - instead of putting all your eggs in one basket, you spread them out across multiple baskets. This way, if one allocation underperforms or experiences a loss, the impact on your overall portfolio is minimised because the other allocations can potentially offset those losses.

A diversified portfolio can consist of various types of assets, including stocks, bonds, funds, real estate, CDs, and even savings accounts. As each asset class behaves differently in different economic conditions, it offers varying levels of potential gain and loss.

While we won't cover this topic here, it's worth noting that when referred to in a business sense, diversification involves expanding product offerings or entering new markets to reduce reliance on a single revenue source and mitigate risks.

Exploring the concept of diversification in portfolio management

Diversification involves spreading allocations across various asset classes to reduce risk exposure. For instance, allocating funds to stocks, bonds, and cash equivalents simultaneously forms a diversified portfolio, or allocating funds to stocks across several countries and industries.

Diversification minimises the impact of poor performance in one asset class. In contrast to relying solely on a single asset type, diversified portfolios provide a safety net against market volatility, enhancing long-term stability.

Different types of asset options

Below we explore a number of asset options that can be utilised in a diversified portfolio:

Stocks

• Stocks tend to have the highest long-term potential returns but can also experience significant volatility in the short term.

Funds

• Funds can be diversified if they hold many different assets, but some funds may focus on a specific industry or sector.

Bonds

• Bonds offer more stable potential returns with fixed payouts but are influenced by changes in interest rates.

CDs and savings accounts

• CDs and savings accounts provide stability and steady growth based on interest rates.

Real estate

• Real estate can provide slow appreciation over time and potential income, but it also involves maintenance costs and high commissions.

By owning a mix of these assets, you can benefit from the different performance characteristics they offer. When some assets are performing well, others may not be doing as well, and vice versa. This lack of correlation between assets is what makes diversification effective in reducing risk.

The benefits of diversification

Diversification not only helps to reduce the risk of your portfolio, but it can also improve your potential returns. By spreading your allocations across different types of assets, you are more likely to have a smoother overall potential return. While one asset may be experiencing a downturn, another asset may be performing well, balancing out the overall performance of your portfolio.

It's important to note that while diversification can reduce risk, it cannot eliminate all risk. Diversification helps to reduce asset-specific risk, such as the risk associated with having too much allocation in one stock or one type of asset. However, it cannot protect you from market-specific risk, which is the risk associated with owning a particular type of asset in general.

How to build a diversified strategy

To develop a diversification strategy, you can start by creating a portfolio that includes a mix of different assets. Be sure to allocate based on your personal risk tolerance, time horizon, and financial objectives. Below are several options to consider when building a diversified portfolio.

Examples of building a diversified portfolio

Please note that this is not financial advice but merely examples of how one might diversify their portfolio.

You might explore the option of allocating funds to a widely diversified index fund, such as the S&P 500 index, which holds interests in numerous companies. Combining bonds and CDs could contribute to portfolio stability and assured potential returns. Holding cash in a savings account can offer stability and act as a financial safety net.

If you're inclined to expand beyond the fundamental approach, further diversifying your stock and bond allocations is an option. For stocks, you could contemplate allocating funds to a fund targeting emerging markets or international corporations, as these often diverge from broader index funds. Regarding bonds, varying maturity lengths in bond funds can grant access to short-term and long-term bonds.

Some financial professionals even suggest the consideration of including commodities like gold or silver to extend diversification beyond conventional assets.

Building a diversified portfolio may seem complex, but it doesn't have to be. You can utilise low-cost mutual funds or exchange-traded funds (ETFs) that offer diversification across different asset classes. Many major brokerages now offer these funds with zero commissions, making it a more accessible and cost-effective offering for those allocating funds.

If you prefer a more hands-off approach, you could contemplate allocating funds to a target-date fund or utilising a robo-advisor. Target-date funds recalibrate asset allocation according to your planned time horizon, progressively adjusting to lower-risk assets. Robo-advisors use algorithms to formulate and sustain a diversified portfolio grounded in your objectives and risk tolerance.

Risk management

Be sure to regularly review and rebalance your portfolio to ensure it aligns with your objectives. Assessing and adjusting the asset allocation helps maintain desired levels of risk and potential returns.

In conclusion

Diversification is an essential strategy for those looking to reduce risk and potentially improve returns. By spreading allocations across different assets, you can mitigate the impact of any single asset's performance on your overall portfolio.

Whether you choose to build a diversified portfolio yourself or seek assistance from a fund or robo-advisor, diversification can help you navigate varying economic conditions and work towards your financial objectives.

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As you become acquainted with the cryptocurrency industry there will be several new phrases added to your vocabulary. One of them is Hodl. While not a term used in the traditional finance industry, we'll cover the reason why hodl has become a treasured part of the cryptosphere. In this article, we explore the history of the infamous term, what it means, and why every crypto trader should be learning about the concept. 

What does hodl mean?

Hodl refers to holding a particular digital currency for a long period of time in order to make money from the price gains. In recent times, many in the crypto community have built the acronym into Hold On for Dear Life, however, this is not part of the origin story. 

Hodl has become synonymous with not selling a cryptocurrency during a bear market or period of heightened volatility. The term has become widely adopted by the crypto community and can be seen used in content across all platforms and calibres. 

Where does hodl come from?

Hodl was first conceptualised in a BitcoinTalk forum in 2013 when a user by the name of GameKyuubi misspelt the word “hold”. The inebriated user posted the following message: 

“I type d that tyitle twice because I knew it was wrong the first time. Still wrong. w/e," GameKyuubi wrote about the now-famous misspelling of "holding." "WHY AM I HODLING? I'LL TELL YOU WHY," he continued. "It's because I'm a bad trader and I KNOW I'M A BAD TRADER. Yeah you good traders can spot the highs and the lows pit pat piffy wing wong wang just like that and make a millino bucks sure no problem bro.”

In 2013, the price of Bitcoin went through a volatile period, soaring from $130 in April to $950 in December. The user encouraged fellow Bitcoin investors not to sell and rather “hodl”. 

Within an hour of the post, the new term had become a widespread meme and continues to be used a decade later. 

Hodl as a trading strategy

In cryptocurrency investing, price volatility is a constant concern. However, the concept of "hodling" offers a strategic approach to weathering these fluctuations. Hodling refers to holding onto your investments for an extended period, regardless of short-term price movements. Despite market ups and downs, hodling can provide stability and potentially lead to long-term gains. This strategy allows investors to navigate price volatility with patience and confidence in future growth.

The concept has been widely adopted by a large portion of the Bitcoin and greater cryptocurrency community as a strategy to earn gains. For Bitcoin maximalists, it’s a way of life. Many maximalists have taken on the hodl strategy to avoid any profit-eroding moves, including reactions to FUD (Fear, Uncertainty, and Doubt) and FOMO (Fear of Missing Out), more on this later.

When is the best time to hodl?

Much in the same way as the Chinese proverb, “The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second best time is now,” the best time to hodl is now. As an investment strategy, buying and holding an asset in any market is always believed to be lucrative as its value grows over time. 

Hodling is an ideological belief in the long-term prospects of blockchain technology, cryptocurrencies, and the communities that have formed around them. Some stock market traders have even adopted this mindset, although the term "hodl" remains predominantly used when referring to crypto.

Other important crypto terms to know

As you continue to build your crypto vocabulary, here are several other terms you are likely to come across. These include:

BTFD (buy the f***ing dip)

A slang term commonly used on Twitter, BTFD encourages traders to buy when the prices are low (when coins are in a dip) with the intention to make profits when the prices return to normal levels. 

FUD (fear, uncertainty, doubt)

As mentioned above, FUD refers to misinformation spread by individuals and organisations that typically encourages traders to sell. 

FOMO (fear of missing out)

Content creators or the mainstream media might use FOMO as a way to entice people to buy a coin. They play on the emotion that traders might miss out on big profits or the next big thing. 

Lambo

Short for Lamborghini, lambo refers to asset prices becoming so high that the user can sell them and buy the luxury vehicle. “When Lambo?” is a common phrase which asks when the price is going to reach such levels. 

To The Moon

Used to describe prices reaching extraordinary levels, as if they’re going so high they’re going to the moon. 

Whale

A crypto whale is an individual or organisation that holds a large amount of a particular cryptocurrency. This is generally considered to be around 10% of that cryptocurrency's total supply.

Closing thoughts

Hodling refers to a buy-and-hold strategy created from a typo in a BitcoinTalk forum in 2013. The concept remains relevant a decade later with many traders and maximalists opting to use this approach. The goal of hodling is to experience the benefits of substantial price gains and mitigate volatile markets. 

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We are delighted to announce the listing and support of Enjin (ENJ) on Tap!

ENJ is now available for trading on the Tap mobile app. You can now Buy, Sell, Trade or hold ENJ for any of the other asset supported on the platform without any pair boundaries. Tap is pair agnostic, meaning you can trade any asset for any other asset without having to worries if a "trading pair" is available.

We believe supporting ENJ will provide value to our users. We are looking forward to continue supporting new crypto projects with the aim of providing access to financial power and freedom for all.

Playing an important role in the adoption of Web3, Enjin provides a platform of software products designed to allow anyone to harness the power of NFTs (non-fungible tokens) through the development, trade, monetization, and marketing of blockchain assets.

Powering the ecosystem is the Enjin Coin (ENJ), a token used to back the value of NFTs and other assets minted on the platform. When an asset is minted it locks ENJ tokens into a smart contract and effectively removes the tokens from circulation.

Enjin Coin (ENJ) is the native token of the Enjin ecosystem. Built on the Ethereum blockchain and compatible with multiple gaming platforms, the Enjin Coin is an ERC-20 token that allows the in-game items created on the platform to be traded with real-world value. The ENJ token has a maximum supply of 1 billion coins.

Get to know more about Enjin (ENJ) in our dedicated article here.

The financial industry has seen significant growth within its digital sector due to the adaptation required during Covid-19. With the increased interest in digital payments has come the rise of virtual cards.

Shopping online and online purchases continue to break barriers that traditional financial institutions never predicted. While these institutions do allow users to do online shopping, there are still a lot of limitations and risks to be wary of. 

Every time you shop online, you risk your account number and details being stolen and used against you. Credit card companies have had to evolve, and one way they have done that is through the introduction of an actual account-linked virtual card.

How do virtual credit cards and debit cards work?

Virtual cards are stored on your mobile device and can be used to make contactless payments in store or online. A virtual card has its own unique card number, CVC, and expiration date. These virtual cards are simply a copy of your physical card, linked to your bank account, and stored on your application or phone. Think of it as an online account and card.

Virtual cards are very similar to an actual credit or debit card, with the main difference being that they only exist digitally, and can not be used to withdraw physical cash. Virtual credit cards provide the same features and mechanics as traditional credit and debit cards. 

A virtual credit card still has an expiry date and 16-digit account number, and CVV codes. They are connected to payment networks like Visa and Mastercard and are generally accepted by merchants who use physical card machines, similar to Apple and Google Pay. 

Your virtual card information and virtual credit card number are stored digitally, eliminating the risk of someone stealing your card and simply entering your details when shopping online. 

Virtual credit cards act as digital wallets, providing more advanced security and ease of online access. Virtual cards are created for one-time use or act as a temporary account number, but what are the benefits of a limited-use virtual card number? Let’s get into it.

Benefits of a virtual credit card

The first and foremost virtual credit card feature benefit that you can expect is an enhanced layer of security. To combat fraudulent activity, a data breach, and account information being stolen, virtual cards have randomly generated and disposable card numbers. This makes virtual cards one of the safest payment methods, eliminating physical and confirmed details, meaning your temporary information can not be stolen or lost. If your info is compromised, you can cancel it without having to create a new bank account or waiting for a new card in the mail.

Control and customization is an additional layer of benefits users can expect from using virtual credit cards. Users can customize how many virtual account numbers they want, set spending limits, choose their preferred currencies, and more. Similar to a normal debit card account, you can also create recurring payments with merchant details, as tailored to the amount, time, and so on.

Some virtual credit cards provide users with point-earning rewards or store credit when used. Credit card companies can also easily access your information to improve your credit score based on your recurring payments set up. 

Creating multiple virtual debit cards allows you to distribute, allocate, and track funds with ease. This means at the end of the day, you have more visibility of your funds going in and out and can create a dedicated virtual debit card for a specific area of your financial responsibilities.

Getting your virtual card number

Whether you are trying to manage your funds with your debit or credit cards accounts, a virtual card can make matters easier. All you need is a debit or credit card account, such as the one offered by Tap and you can create your unique virtual card at the click of a button. With some traditional banks you can even create multiple cards if you want, each with its own unique account number and expiration date. 

These digital wallets and accounts provide ease when you want to shop online, avoid physical wallet and card theft, as well as easier fund management. A virtual debit card is a big part of the future, as we move into the digital era.

Experience a whole new world of digital payments and money management from the safety of your mobile device. You should be able to use your virtual card at any merchant that accepts debit and credit card payments, or contactless transactions, such as Apple Pay or Google Pay. Create your virtual account number today and enjoy purchases online and in-store. The future of payments is here.

Cryptocurrency and blockchain technology are not the easiest topics to understand, especially with fast and ever-growing industries forming beneath them. Even if you have a grasp on the core details, there is still a lot of external factors that come into play. While Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies hold undeniable value, external factors still hold considerable influence and can affect the financial value of these assets.

When it comes to trading cryptocurrencies, having an understanding of the market can prove incredibly useful, while having an understanding of crypto fundamental analysis can prove to be invaluable for traders, investors, and those curious about sentiment. In order to understand why crypto fundamental analysis is so important, we need to understand what it is.

What is fundamental analysis?

Fundamental analysis can be understood as methods to evaluate the core metrics and proposition of an asset, in this case the world of digital money, cryptocurrencies. Fundamental analysis is more than looking at the price of a cryptocurrency, but rather delving deeper into the external factors that could impact the product, such as macro and micro factors.

Fundamental analysis is about looking at all the available data of a financial asset. This can include countries' sentiment towards the currency, how many people are using the digital cash every day, or even the team behind the project.

The process of fundamental analysis can be started by taking a wider outlook before narrowing it down and focusing on smaller details. You would start by evaluating the projects' market cap and how healthy the ecosystem is in terms of daily buy-in or sales data. You could then look at the projects' marketing approach, the team, and what the public has to say about the token, for an example of strategy.

To put it simply, looking at what the media is saying about Bitcoin would be an in-depth outlook, whereas just looking at the price would be considered more of a broad approach, all these factors work together to create fundamental analysis.

There are three metric areas of analysis that investors generally look at, so let's take a deeper look at those fundamentals.

Fundamental analysis metrics

These are a few of the most common metrics investors look out for, although there are definitely more things to keep in mind. At the basics of fundamental analysis, it is just doing your own research and seeing if a project aligns with what you are looking for, whether that be long-term or short-term.

The three main metrics that people evaluate are on-chain metrics, project metrics, and financial metrics. There are some things within those metrics to be considered:

On-chain Metrics

• Transaction Count
• Active Addresses
• Fees
• Hash Rate

Financial Metrics

• Market Cap
• Liquidity
• Token Supply

Project Metrics

• Whitepaper
• Tokenomics
• Competitors
• Team

These metrics will help you vet projects you potentially want to invest in or trade. Let's take a look at an example from each one. Starting with project metrics, looking at the team behind a project often shows whether they have the experience or commitment to see a project through to success. When it comes to financial metrics, understanding the token supply and the potential it has on the market cap in the future can be greatly rewarding.

Finally, for on-chain metrics, finding out how many active addresses there are within that blockchain can pinpoint whether this chain has a flourishing and healthy ecosystem for buyers and sellers. All points should be taken into consideration to verify your fundamental analysis.

Crypto fundamental analysis Q+A

After covering what fundamental analysis is, how it affects cryptocurrency investing, and what metrics to consider, let's look at some of the frequently asked questions. These are the most commonly asked questions when it comes to cryptocurrency fundamental analysis.

Is there fundamental analysis in crypto?

Yes, as outlined by this article. Fundamental analysis in crypto is very similar to that of more traditional financial assets, just with a few different metrics in place.

How do you analyse crypto?

As already stated, there are three main metrics investors and traders look at: projects metrics, financial metrics, and on-chain metrics. There are more metrics to be considered, but these have been proven to be the most helpful.

What fundamentals affect Bitcoin?

Bitcoin doesn't have much of a focus on project metrics, as it lacks a team and tokenomics for the future. The metrics relating to market cap, token supply, transaction count, active addresses, and fees are still very much important to look at.

Is fundamental or technical analysis better?

That depends on what your goal is, without going into too much detail about technical analysis, most prefer it for short-term reasoning whereas fundamental analysis can be used for short-term and long-term reasoning, although it is much better for the long term.

Does fundamental analysis work?

Yes, it most certainly does when done properly. It's basically just in-depth research of a project to see whether it has the potential to succeed or fail.

Crypto fundamental analysis conclusion

And now you know. These are the basics of fundamental analysis when it comes to cryptocurrency, as vague as they may seem, these are the markers to consider when vetting a project you want to put funds into. Sadly we can not help you vet every project you come across, but we hope this guide will assist you in more confidently doing the analysis yourself.

Every project is different, from its founding date to the project economics, but the above information should help you get a rough idea of whether it is a project you are interested in. In crypto, it always comes down to "DYOR", or do your own research, and crypto fundamental analysis is no different. Good luck and happy fundamental analysing.

If you’re thinking about incorporating crypto into your business or looking to better understand how digital currencies are infiltrating the business world, you’ll find everything you need to know on the topic below. Looking at the benefits these digital currencies can provide, as well as the downsides, we are effectively dissecting the concept of cryptocurrency in a traditional business model.

Each day we move into a more digital space, be it from the way we communicate to the way we pay for goods, there is no denying that the direction we’re headed in is digitally dominated. The evolution of money is taking a similar stride, from gold coins to banknotes to electronic transfers, and now, digital currencies.

Since the advent of Bitcoin, the world’s first cryptocurrency, over a decade ago, the world has embraced the new age payment system (even if it was one sector at a time). From early investors and developers to huge corporations, crypto has and continues to, infiltrate the financial sector. The recent Bitcoin futures ETF approval provides a classic example.

Crypto In Business

Since the global pandemic, Bitcoin (and the cryptocurrency industry) has edged itself into both the mainstream media as well as the corporate world. Following global market crashes, Bitcoin rose from the ashes and soared to reach unprecedented highs months later.

Many corporations looked to shift their company reserves from the devaluing US dollar to Bitcoin, instigating a massive wave of institutional involvement. Many big companies, everyone from PayPal to Wholefoods, started accepting (or facilitating the trade of) Bitcoin, and gradually crypto became less of a taboo in the Financial sector.

By the end of 2020, it is estimated that around 2,300 businesses in the United States had started accepting cryptocurrencies, alongside the 17,000 Bitcoin ATMs available across the country. As more businesses create teams to focus on the benefits of implementing cryptocurrency in their business, we’ve outlined the pros and cons of adopting the revolutionary technology.

The Pros Of Crypto In Business

For those not yet familiar with the benefits of crypto, or perhaps what it could do for companies (especially virtual and e-commerce ones), find the advantages that cryptocurrency can bring below:

• Removes The Middleman

The intent behind cryptocurrency creation was to establish a peer-to-peer payment system that circumvents the need for intermediary banks and financial establishments. This direct transactional approach results in diminished fees, quicker processing times, and a reduction in the often protracted paperwork and administrative formalities. Instead of relying on centralized entities, this payment system relies on a distributed network and a transparent, unchangeable ledger for its operational functionality.

• Fast, Secure Settlements‍

The network can facilitate international transactions in under an hour, for a fraction of the cost that fiat transactions cost. Using encrypted means of facilitating transactions, cryptocurrency networks are much more secure than any traditional bank.

• Increased User Engagement And Conversion Rates

The more payment options a company offers, the bigger the net of potential customers and conversion rates. The same is true for a wider range of currencies. By providing more options for customers to choose from, the wider the net of potential profit grows.

• Growth Potential

Change often leads to growth, particularly in saturated, highly competitive markets. Adopting and supporting crypto in business practices puts the company at the forefront of emerging technology, a space many will want to be as the world gets more digital.

• Lower Transaction Fees

Payment networks are notorious for charging high fees when receiving transactions, however, Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies typically charge a much lower percentage. Tap has recently opened a channel for companies to conduct crypto business activities, and charges as low as 1.00% fees on transactions for business accounts.  

The Cons Of Crypto In Business

Of course, there is always a downside to everything. Below we look at some of the risks associated with incorporating cryptocurrencies in business.

• Volatility

Cryptocurrencies have become synonymous with volatility, as the markets move to match supply and demand. Each market has been known to go through stages of increased price movement, however, analysts remain certain that while short term volatility is imminent, long term growth is on the cards.

• Consider Your Target Market

Not everyone has jumped on the crypto bandwagon so it is best to assess whether your clientele would be interested in such an option. If your business is catered to a predominantly older demographic then perhaps incorporating crypto as a payment option is not the best move.

• Security Is Your Responsibility

In the past, many people have lost their crypto portfolios due to lost private keys or hacks. With cryptocurrency, the onus lies on the holder to maintain adequate security measures in order to ensure the safety of the funds. Thankfully, Tap’s business section bypasses with cold storage of your cryptocurrencies assets and state of the art security.  

Conclusion

After evaluating the advantages and disadvantages of incorporating cryptocurrency into your business, take a moment to determine if this decision aligns with your company's strategic direction. If you're considering integrating this modern payment system into your business operations, consider Tap as your solution to handle your requirements and provide the necessary infrastructure for the implementation of cryptocurrencies in your business.

Investing is not as easy as the internet makes it seem, with every profit comes plenty of research behind it. Not to mention all the strategies. Similar to trading, investing can at times be time-consuming and demanding. While investing, whether in the stock market or cryptocurrencies or any other asset classes, is beneficial in so many aspects, it can also come with some trial and error. In this article, we take a look at the time-tested dollar-cost averaging and explain why this is considered to be a low-risk strategy.

What is DCA?

DCA is an abbreviation for dollar-cost averaging. You may be wondering what DCA is? To put it simply, DCA is an investment strategy that sees people investing gradually over time rather than dropping a lump sum of money into assets.

Let's say an investor has a total of $10,000 to invest monthly, lump-sum investing would see them entering all that money into an asset market while DCA would have them investing $500 each week or month. Not only does DCA provide your leeway to pay your bills while still investing, but it also protects you from excess loss. While lump-sum investing does have its perks, it also has the potential for big losses.

By investing only what you are willing to lose, you are at no risk of financially crippling yourself. DCA ensures you do not lose all your money on an investment, whereas one wrong trade in lump sum trading can greatly set you back. DCA is a great way for newbies to test the markets and trust in an investment before moving forward, seasoned traders are also a fan of DCA as it allows them to diversify their funds in a more structured way. 

The point of DCA is to avoid market watching and big losses, DCA is the practice of routinely investing smaller amounts, timed over regular intervals, regardless of price. This typically allows the investor to buy an asset at an average cost of a long period of time.

Why and how to use DCA

The how is easily answered, as already stated prior, it is as simple as allocating a set amount aside each month with the plan to invest. You invest your set amount a month routinely, regardless of the price, growing your total shares. But the real question is why? Why is this strategy so popular and why is it so highly recommended? Let's get into it. 

The benefits right from the get-go are clear, you hold less risk of losing everything at once. As the traders' tale goes, only put in what you are willing to lose. Lump-sum investments do not take this approach with caution, putting it all on the line, or a large portion at least.

DCA means that you are continuously putting in small amounts that do not greatly limit your day-to-day life while still growing the value of your portfolio. DCA is a longer-term investment strategy. It also eliminates some of the risks involved with investing.

With DCA, the markets don't matter, you are buying your assets at whatever price they are at and reaping the profits when the price climbs. But also, by purchasing every week rather than all at once, you have the option and ability to buy in on the volatile markets getting better prices per share than someone who puts it all in at once.

This strategy also helps you manage emotional investing, forcing you to hold onto your investment despite FUD being spread, ensuring you don't sell low or buy high.

The DCA conclusion

While there are many investment strategies out there, this is a favoured strategy by many investors, that is not to say it is the only or best strategy, just one to consider. There are many perks that come with DCA, and that's what we wanted to highlight in this piece for you today. DCA provides a sense of commitment that is hard to find, ensuring you secure your space in the market without any added risks. There will always be risks involved with investing, but the DCA strategy finds some ways to minimise those risks in comparison.

Never underestimate the power of emotions and trading. While this might sound redundant, emotions play a much larger role in decision making than most might like to admit, and crypto trading is no exception. In order to make successful decisions, traders need to avoid the emotional rollercoaster and learn to look at the markets objectively. 

Here we will show you how to master the emotional pitfalls of decision making when it comes to trading, a skill every successful trader has acquired at some point in their journey. Outlined below are several points one can incorporate into their trading practices, whether trading daily or once a month. 

Outline Your Trading Goals

Before you implement any of these strategies into your trading practices, first establish what your trading goals are. Are you looking to make small returns on short term trades, or are you looking to make smart decisions over a long period of time? When it comes to mastering emotional management in trading you will need to ensure that every decision is in the best interests of your ultimate goal.

Black And White

Learn to remove the grey areas when it comes to decision making and view crypto trading in black and white, i.e. trade like a robot. By incorporating a systematic and rule-based approach to trading you can automatically alleviate the grey areas, this might include algorithms and computer-executed trading strategies. 

Red Light, Green Light

Colours play a huge role in our psyche and can often trigger an emotional response. For instance, if you see a big red candle this will likely stir feelings attached to danger, stopping and signs of warning. Don’t fall into the trap of allowing this to trigger you, and the same goes for seeing green candles. Don’t allow these colours to trigger your emotions and make decisions that deviate from your end goal. 

Axiomatic Framework

Solidify a set of rules for your trading practices that provide unquestionable pathways through which you can trade. For example, set up entries, exits, risk limits and stop orders. Also look at establishing rules in advance around when to exit a trade if it moves favourably or unfavourably, and what your risk parameters are. 

If a trade does not entirely meet all the predetermined criteria you established, do not enter a trade. 

Take A Break

If you’re on a bad streak, consider taking a break from trading activities to re-centre. This practice is used by risk managers on trading floors and is referred to as cut-offs. If a trader is experiencing a poor performance streak they will be moved to a demo trading model until they start to perform better, this also might include taking a break completely. 

Self Reflect On Behavioural Shortcomings

Dig deep to find what reactions you make when faced with emotions such as greed or fear. Attempt to learn as much as possible about your behavioural patterns when trading so that once triggered you can learn to recognise these patterns so as not to fall victim to your own emotional responses. 

Balance

Don’t underestimate the power of balance as it plays an imperative role when it comes to clear judgement, reason and logic. When it comes to being a strong athlete, it’s imperative that the athlete needs to be in a good mental space too. The same runs true for being a strong trader, mental (and even physical) strength plays a strong role in overall balance and your ability to function optimally. These positive changes reverberate across all aspects of your life and can certainly have an effect on your trading endeavours.

Master Emotional Management In Trading

Ultimately the most disciplined version of yourself will yield the best results when it comes to trading. Consider improving on all aspects of your life and then implement several strategies listed above and you should be well on your way to an incredibly successful trading path. 
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To learn more about this topic, consider reading “Trading in the Zone” by Mark Douglas and “The Psychology of Trading” by Brett N. Steenbarger.

When it comes to investing in crypto, many people think about either mining cryptocurrencies or buying them outright on a crypto exchange. But what about those who want more control over their digital wallet? For the everyday crypto-investors, there's a viable cost-free alternative to earning more crypto: staking also known as "coins staking." Crypto staking allows you to generate more cryptocurrencies using your crypto holdings.

There are many new terms entering the financial world, but staking may be one of them that you should know. What exactly is it? Crypto staking is a relatively new concept that has the potential to revolutionize how we invest in cryptocurrency.

While it may appear complex at first, learning about the benefits of crypto-staking can help you make more educated decisions when investing in cryptocurrency.

In this article, you'll learn the ins and outs of staking. We've broken it down so that even if your experience level with cryptocurrencies is at beginner or below, you'll be able to start staking yourself. Let's get started!

What Is Staking?

Staking crypto is the process of locking crypto assets in a wallet to earn rewards. Doing so allows users to contribute to verifying transactions and building consensus on blockchain networks.

The procedures for validating cryptocurrency are known as "proof-of-stake" or "proof-of-work" depending on the sort of the cryptocurrency you're dealing with and the technologies that support it. Each of these methods aids blockchain networks in achieving consensus, or confirmation that all transaction data agrees.

It also requires participants to make that consensus possible. Staking is the act of investors who keep their cryptocurrency in their crypto wallet and actively participate in network consensus-making processes. Stakers, in essence, are approving, verifying and confirming transactions on the blockchain.

In crypto staking, coin holders can lock up their coins (staking) for some time period from hours to years in exchange for stakes back from the platform or network.

Staking crypto can be passive income generating - crypto holders who stake their coins will receive rewards for helping validate transactions on blockchain networks, often through an interest system similar to that of traditional fiat currency.

How does crypto staking work?

For the investor, crypto staking is a passive process. When a Staker stakes its assets (that is, leaves them in their crypto wallet), the network may utilize those assets to create new blocks on the blockchain.

The block's information is "written" into it, and the investor's assets are used to validate it. Because coins already contain "baked-in" data from the blockchain, they may be utilized as validators. The Staker is then rewarded financially for allowing his or her tokens to be used as validators by the network.

The pros and cons of Staking.

Because staking crypto is a passive investment, there are virtually close to no disadvantages. However, it's important to consider the block rewards earned by staking coins you own, as well as cryptocurrency's volatility in general—if the value of the coin drops, so does the value of your staking interest earned.

Is crypto staking profitable?

The advantage of staking is that anyone can make returns from it, with various yearly returns rates, staking is an easy way to generate passive income.

Staking is a type of passive income similar to stock dividends. It only requires you to keep the proper assets in the right location for a specific length of time. Compound interest will enhance the earnings potential over time as long as a user stakes their coins.

The value of the coin being staked must also be considered. Assuming this value stays constant or rises, staking may be profitable. However, if the price of the coin falls, profits could rapidly diminish. If you don't want to risk a downward trend in volatility.

Closing thoughts

Staking is a method for earning rewards using your cryptocurrency assets or coins. It's comparable to generating interest on cash savings or receiving dividends on stock possessions.

Stakers allow their cryptocurrency/cash to be used in the blockchain validation process and are compensated by the network for its use. Staking may provide a new way for crypto investors or currency holders to generate returns.

Tap is a regulated DLT company in Gibraltar, we are also agents of Transact Payments Limited who and as a regulated Electronic Money Institution (EMI) Transact Payments are required by law to “safeguard” customer monies received under its E-Money or Payment Services permissions.
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What is safeguarding?

Under the requirements of the Gibraltar E-Money Regulations 2020 and Payment Services Regulations 2020 Transact Payments must;

·        Segregate all client monies from our own funds.

·        Deposit customer funds with a Credit Institution (Bank) with permission to hold client funds.

That Credit Institution must designate (name) the account to show that it is an account which is held for the purpose of segregating and safeguarding the funds or assets in accordance with regulations.

No person other than the payment institution may have any interest in or right over any funds or assets placed in safeguarding accounts.
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What does this mean?

All Customer funds are entirely separate from operational funds and held within an authorised credit institution separate from Tap and Transact Payments.

During the course of normal business, Tap and or Transact Payments have rights to use those funds to settle transactions as authorised / instructed by the customer, including redemption to the customer.

Should Tap or Transact Payments experience an insolvency event those segregated safeguarded funds cannot be used for any other purposes.
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Is safeguarding limited?

No. 100% of customer balances are safeguarded. There is no limit to the amount that you would receive should an event occur that required the return of your funds.
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Reporting.

Transact Payments regulatory reporting requires regular reporting on Transact Payments regulatory capital, own funds calculations and outstanding e-money balances.

Both Tap and Transact Team are committed to open and transparent engagement with our customers. If you have any further question or queries, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Since the advent of cryptocurrencies in 2009, the world has seen a substantial shift in the way that people transact and manage their money online. The first cryptocurrency, Bitcoin, sparked a wave that has impacted almost every corner of the globe, significantly shifting the financial landscape as we know it. Let’s explore how crypto is expanding economic freedom on a global scale.

What is economic freedom?

Before we evaluate how this $2 trillion industry is contributing to financial liberation, let’s first establish what economic freedom is. Explained simply, the term refers to measures that grant users the freedom to manage their money, property, and labour in each country, which is then compared globally.

More accurately, the measure of economic freedom is determined by using the Index of Economic Freedom, which weighs up 12 factors contributing to a country’s overall measure. This is broken down into 4 categories, each carrying varying subcategories, such as market openness measuring a country’s trade, financial and investment freedom. The others are regulatory efficiency, rules of law, and government size, each with its own subcategories.

This index was first published in 1995 by The Heritage Foundation and The Wall Street Journal and is used around the world today. This year, Singapore, New Zealand, Australia, Switzerland, and Ireland have ranked as the most financially free countries in the world.

Crypto and economic freedom

Cryptocurrencies were first established to provide an alternative monetary solution to the global financial crisis that sent the world into disarray in 2007. Satoshi Nakamoto created the new age payment system to empower individuals to hold control over their own finances, allowing them to manage and transact their money without the control of an authoritarian entity. For the first time in history, people were able to send money overseas without incurring the usual costly and time-consuming setbacks incurred with regular, global fiat transactions.

Due to the decentralized nature in which they are run, people are responsible for managing their own crypto wallets and specialised users on the network positioned across the globe are responsible for verifying and executing transactions. After Bitcoin entered the scene a significant number of new cryptocurrencies have been launched, over 12,000 at the time of writing. While some maintain the same “medium of exchange” model, many new cryptocurrencies have emerged providing alternative solutions to the industry.

Ethereum, the world’s second-biggest cryptocurrency, for example, provides a platform on which developers can create their own decentralized apps and cryptocurrencies, while other cryptocurrencies revolve around faster transaction times, cloud storage and private transactions. Each of these projects utilizes a blockchain network that was designed to improve and innovate the crypto and blockchain space.

Spanning beyond government control and lengthy paperwork, cryptocurrencies are able to provide a global currency that operates entirely online and is not confirmed to the borders of a country. Cryptocurrencies are global, accessible 24/7 and cannot be frozen in accounts.

How crypto is driving economic freedom

Requiring only an internet connection and start-up funds, Bitcoin (and cryptocurrencies in general) allows anyone around the world to create a wallet and start trading. One doesn’t need access to a large bank branch or lengthy paperwork, one simply needs an internet connection and a smartphone.

Curling back to the factors that contribute to economic freedom, cryptocurrencies are able to seamlessly check six of twelve of the categories of the Index of Economic Freedom through their innate properties. 

• Trade Freedom [Market Openness]
• Financial Freedom  [Market Openness]
• Business Freedom  [Regulatory Efficiency]
• Labour Freedom  [Regulatory Efficiency]
• Monetary Freedom  [Regulatory Efficiency]
• Property Rights  [Rule Of Law] 

The remaining categories however revolve around the governments running the nations in question, particularly the rule of law and government size categories. Nevertheless, cryptocurrencies can still assist in creating better-functioning economies and provide the technology that allows for a more open and free financial system.

A free and open financial system

As cryptocurrencies remove the barriers of borders, they allow people to transact their money in the same way that they communicate with each other (through the internet). As the digital age continues to evolve, we are likely to continue seeing a significant increase in the level of economic freedom that crypto provides to users around the world, empowering both the individual and the nation.

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Technical analysis is a method of evaluating the strength and weakness of an asset by collecting historical price data to identify trends. It involves using tools like charts, graphs, indicators or signals in order to compare them from past data in order to make predictions about what's going to happen next with the market for a specific financial instrument such as equities, crypto, commodities etc.

Technical analysis is a method of evaluating stocks, crypto and commodities using past market data. The goal here is to determine the future price movements. In contrast fundamental analysis which involves analyzing financial statements in order to assess what fair value would be for that company.

Technical Analysis can be applied to any security with historical trading data, such as cryptocurrencies, forex (foreign exchange), commodities and stocks.

Let’s now dive into the subject and learn more about the different tools and techniques that you can use for technical analysis.

The Market trend‍

‍‍The most important step in learning how to spot a trend is to figure out what one is. For any beginner in technical analysis, knowing how to identify the trend should be the first order of business. Let’s watch this Chart below:

We can here observe the three different trends:

The Uptrend: In an uptrend, the asset is going up and making higher highs with each wave. Each high is also greater than the last one, resulting in a series of higher lows as well that push prices even further upward.

The Downtrend: A downtrend is a pattern of decreasing price that continues until it breaks. It’s called "downtrend" because the asset keeps going down, making lower highs and lows each time they form.

The sideways trend: The asset trades between a dynamic range of prices in an horizontal channel.

You may as well encounter different terms such as “Bearish” and "Bullish" to refer to a trend. The term, Bullish comes from the bull who strikes upwards with its horns thus pushing prices higher; in contrast, Bearish comes from bear who drives down markets by striking downwards with their paws.

Resistance & Support

Understanding the support and resistance levels of a cryptocurrency can help you time your buying or selling to maximize profit. A technical trader identifies these points on their chart so they know where it's best to buy in, when there is likely an upcoming breakout, as well as knowing where not be eager with new investments because prices are more likely than ever before to reverse quickly at this price point. When the resistance level is broken, it usually becomes a support level and vice versa.

Support: Support is a level where buyers tend to concentrate, and this will help the downtrend that has been occurring stop or rebound.

Resistance: A level where an uptrend can be expected to pause or rebound. This is a concentration of sellers and indicates that the market may have reached its peak for now.

Candlestick

Candlestick charting is a popular way to track the market trend.  Candlestick chart, is also known as a Japanese candlestick chart (Developed in Japan in the 1700s, historical records indicate that this tool was first used to track rice prices). This type of financial chart is used to track stock prices or other asset prices. The candlestick's shape can vary depending on the high, low, opening and closing prices of a given day.

A candlestick shows both bullish and bearish price movement over its duration, and gives more detailed information than the simple bar charts. A candlestick looks at the prices during a specific time interval, such as a day. The main feature which distinguishes this from other charts is the ability to plot each day's open, high, low and close values on a single chart.

This method of charting involves plotting price data over time on an open, high low and close basis with wicks projecting out from each end of the body for daily bars or just one day in higher timeframe charts.

Bullish candle: The close is above the opening‍‍ (green)

‍Bearish candle: The close is below the opening (red)

Moving average and (MACD)

The moving average is a technical trading indicator that calculates the constantly changing stock price over time. It smoothes out this data by creating an average of different subsets to help investors make decisions on what direction prices are heading and how long they will continue to change in such directions.  A moving average is a customizable indicator meaning that an investor can freely choose whatever time frame they want when calculating an average.

The Moving average convergence divergence (MACD) is a trend-following momentum indicator that looks at the relationship between two moving averages of an asset's price and gives traders an indication to changes in momentum, strength, directionality and duration of a trend for a given asset.

It combine these 2 moving average: 

-A short-term moving average

-A long-term moving average

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Chart interpretation:

The lines on the chart below can be interpreted as follows:

-If the green line (MACD) is above or crosses over the orange line (signal), it means that momentum for a certain market is bullish. 

-On conversely, if the green line is below the orange one, then this shows bearishness in terms of momentum 

-When the lines diverge, it denotes a strengthening of the current trend. However, when they converge, this shows that there is likely to be an upcoming reversal in trends.

-When they cross, this signals confirmation that we have evidence for a change in momentum.
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Bollinger bands

Bollinger bands attempt to measure market volatility by creating a band around a moving average. This strategy was created by John Bollinger in the 1980s. They serve as a relative indicator of whether prices are high or low on a moving average.

Bollinger bands are typically used by traders who like to use a long-term approach. This technique can be applied to any major currency pair, as well as commodities and stocks. As opposed to short term strategies that try and capture very small price movements, this strategy works best when combined with a directional view where the trader believes that the market will either go up or down in the long run.

The main disadvantage to this technical analysis is that it is not as effective when markets are flat or choppy (trading range). This strategy can also be difficult to use for novice traders who do not have a good understanding of market conditions, and an entry/exit approach.

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News are a big influencer of crypto prices

Cryptocurrencies are heavily influenced by speculation, and even a small piece of news can trigger multiple price reactions by investors. 

For example, when Bitcoin Cash was launched on August 1st 2017, it resulted in a sharp decline in the price of Bitcoin as well as other cryptocurrencies as investors feared that a new competitor could undermine the value of existing cryptocurrencies.

The use of advance statistical techniques helps you to take into consideration past data to generate price forecasts. The best way to do this would be to look at historical prices and volumes for cryptos, and compare them to current data. This allows analysts and traders to gain some degree of insight on how the market price will react to future events.

Our aims is to help you grow your knowledge about trading and cryptocurrencies. That's why we're here to help you better understand Cryptocurrencies and trading technics. We want everyone who uses Tap not only to feel informed about market trends but also be inspired by crypto culture, which drives people like you and me into a passionate future for this technology.

If you wish to learn more find more resources in our dedicated education centre available here: Crypto Basics

While cryptocurrencies have been around for over a decade we continue to learn and observe new things in the market to this day. Over the years many trading patterns have been repeated, regulation has changed the nature of the game and of course, volatile price movements have played out.

While this sounds unpredictable and scary, it has also allowed trading analysts to observe the cyclical nature of these activities. This information allowed investors and customers to better understand the crypto market cycles, and more importantly, use them to their advantage. 

In this article, we'll show you how to not only understand the crypto market cycles but how to identify and use them to your advantage.

What are market cycles?

Reaching beyond the cryptocurrency market and across a wide range of assets, market cycles are no stranger to stocks, commodities, etc. They are regular occurrences and can be summarised as the stages in between the all-time high and the low of a market. Whether trading traditional stocks, money, or assets built on blockchain technology, market cycles are prevalent across the board.

The length of a market cycle can vary and will depend on what style of trading one is conducting (short term/long term) however they are always categorised by four main components. These phases in the cycle are categorized by the accumulation, markup, distribution, and markdown phases and will be outlined based on analysis and research below.

The four phases of a market cycle

1. Accumulation phase

This takes place when the market has reached a low and prices have flattened. While many view this as a negative stage in the market cycle, many others (particularly ones with experience in the crypto market) view it as a prime time to buy the asset. When traders accumulate the undervalued asset, this is referred to as "buying the dip" and is often a lucrative endeavour. 

These low price swings are often paired with a lot of indecision in the market as weak hands exit the market and long term traders enter it, representing a period of consolidation. This typically happens before an uptrend. The accumulation phase is over when the market sentiment moves from a negative stance to a neutral one. During this phase, a lot of money is both entering and leaving the market at the same time.

2. The markup phase

As the sentiment shifts, the market begins to climb and more stability takes shape. Typically more experienced traders will continue buying, further igniting the bullish trend, and in turn saturating the crypto's buying power. This will eventually fuel FOMO, drawing many buyers into the market and in turn pushing up the price. 

As the market greed increases and trading volumes spike, the markup phase will see high-profile investors begin to sell. This slows the price increases and causes a pullback in the market. As the accumulation phase saw a move from negative to neutral sentiments, the markup phase represents a shift from neutral to bullish to euphoria. 

3. Distribution phase

With the price reaching its peak, the mixture of sellers and buyers send the market into sideways trading. The sentiment is a combination of greed, fear and hope as some believe the market could spontaneously surge again. Typically, the distribution phase is coloured with many bullish price indicators such as head and shoulder trading patterns and double or triple tops, however, the sentiment will eventually shift to a negative space, easily triggered by bad news.

The distribution phase can take place over a short period of time, or last months on end, depending on the number of consolidations, breakouts, and pullbacks and is known to be the phase with the highest levels of volatility. The distribution phase will witness the sentiment turning negative.

4. The markdown phase

The markdown phase is the fourth and final phase in the market cycle and can be the most upsetting for inexperienced traders caught off guard. While some traders might sell at a loss, others maintain their positions looking to leverage a later phase of the next cycle.

The markdown phase sees a decline in price and is a strong indicator that a bottom is approaching. When the price reaches half of its peak value there is generally another mass sell-off, driving the downtrend further into the red. The sentiment is unequivocally negative. 

Example of a crypto market cycle

Looking at the Bitcoin network, many traders believe the cycles revolve around the halvings. Bitcoin halvings are when the miners' rewards for mining a new block are reduced by half, which takes place every 210,000 blocks (roughly every 4 years).

To date, three Bitcoin halvings have taken place, each one instigating a bull run in months to follow. The most recent halving took effect on 11 May 2020, when the BTC price was trading at $8,600. Just 7 months later the price reached $40,000 for the first time in history, setting off a string of all-time high records. To date, the highest Bitcoin price that has been reached is $68,789.63 in November 2021 but went on to lose 40% of its value over the next two months. 

Market cycles are based on the cryptocurrency's overall trading patterns and not on any exchange activity. In a perfect world, the cryptocurrency's trading patterns will reflect the four phases mentioned above in this set order, allowing a set amount of time between transitions.

With time, crypto customers will be able to identify these phases, allowing any individual to build strategies around when to open or close a position, leading to the best trade result. While there is still risk involved, understanding the data surrounding the cyclical nature of trading patterns will assist in getting the best out of a digital asset project.

Crypto supercycles

Crypto supercycles are a unique phenomenon in the blockchain industry. They involve price fluctuations across the entire crypto market, influenced by the increasing adoption of blockchain technology. This concept is more speculative than concrete, lacking well-defined parameters. It revolves around factors like the rise of institutional investors and retail adoption. Opinions vary regarding the existence of the supercycle (notably, Bitcoin's value has surged more than fivefold in a year). This market cycle stands out for its series of all-time highs, with minimal significant or lasting declines. Irrespective of the presence of a crypto supercycle, individuals can consider capitalizing on the market cycle by purchasing Bitcoin during the accumulation phase as prices gain traction after hitting a low point.

For those keen on comprehending crypto trading cycles, it's prudent to formulate a personal strategy for navigating diverse market cycles, as mentioned earlier. Analyzing market trends and patterns has the potential to be rewarding. While some individuals pursue day trading and financial services as a full-time occupation, studying the markets and their behaviors can in some instance also be a profitable part-time pursuit.

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Yield farming is a method to generate more crypto with your crypto holdings. The process involves you lending your digital assets to others by means of the power of computer programs known as smart contracts.

Cryptocurrency holders have the option of leaving their assets idle in a wallet or binding them into a smart contract to assist with liquidity. Yield farming allows you to benefit and gain rewards from your cryptocurrency without spending any more of it. Sounds quite easy, right?

Well, hold on because it isn't that straightforward and we are just getting started. 

Yield farmers employ highly advanced tactics in order to improve returns.

They constantly move their cryptocurrencies among a variety of lending markets in order to optimize their returns. After a quick Google search, you would wonder why there isn't more content surrounding strategies and why these yield farmers are so tight-lipped about the greatest yield farming procedures.

Well, the answer is quite simple: the more people are informed about a strategy, the less effective it becomes. Yield farming is the lawless territory of Decentralized Finance (DeFi), where farmers compete for the opportunity to grow the highest-yield crops. 

As of November 2021, there is $269 billion in crypto assets locked in DeFi, gaining an impressive almost 27% in value compared to the previous month of October.

The DeFi yield farming rise shows that the excitement in the crypto market has extended far beyond community- and culture-based meme tokens and planted itself in the centre of the hype. What exactly does it take to be a yield farmer?

What kinds of yields can you anticipate? Where do you start If you're considering becoming a yield farmer?  Here, we'll guide you through everything you need to know.

What is Yield Farming? 

Also referred to as liquidity farming, yield farming is a method for generating profits using your cryptocurrency holdings instead of leaving them idle in an account on a crypto website. In a nutshell, it involves bidding cryptocurrency assets into platforms that offer lending and borrowing services and earning a reward for it.

Yield farming is similar to bank loans or bonds in that you must pay back the money with interest when the loan is due. Yield farming works the same way, but this time, the banks are replaced in this scenario by crypto holders like yourself in a decentralized environment. Yield farming is a form of cryptocurrency investment in which "idle cryptocurrencies" that would have otherwise been held on an exchange or hot wallet are utilized to provide liquidity in DeFi protocols in exchange for a return. 

Yield farming is not possible without liquidity pools or liquidity farming. But, what is a liquidity pool? It's basically a smart contract that contains funds. Liquidity pools are working with users called liquidity providers (LP) that add funds to liquidity pools. Find more information about liquidity pools, liquidity providers, and the automated market maker model below.

How Does Yield Farming Work?

Liquidity pools (smart contracts filled with cash) are used by yield farming platforms to offer trustless methods for crypto investors to make passive revenue by loaning out their funds or crypto using smart contracts.

Similar to how people create bonds to pay off a house and then pay the bank interest for the loan, users can tap into a decentralized loan pool to pay for the bonds.

Yield farming is a type of investment that involves the use of a liquidity provider and a liquidity pool in order to run a DeFi market. 

• A liquidity provider is a person or company who puts money into a smart contract.
• The liquidity pool is a smart contract filled with cash. 

Liquidity providers (LPs), also known as market makers, are in charge of staking funds in liquidity pools enabling sellers and purchasers to transact conveniently by executing a buyer-seller agreement utilizing smart contracts. LPs earn a reward for providing liquidity to the pool. Yield farming is based on liquidity providers and liquidity pools, which are the foundations of yield farming. These work by staking or lending crypto assets on DeFi protocols to earn incentives, interest or additional cryptocurrency. It's similar to how venture capital firms invest in high-yield equities, which is the practice of investing in equities that offer better long term results. 

Yield farmers will frequently shuffle their money between diverse protocols in search of high yields. For this reason, DeFi platforms may also use other economic incentives to entice more capital onto their platform as higher liquidity tends to attract more liquidity. The method of distribution of the rewards will be determined by the specific implementation of the protocol. By yield farming law, the liquidity providers get compensated for the amount of liquidity they contribute to the pool.

How Are Yield Farming Returns Calculated?

Estimated yield returns are calculated on an annualized model. This estimates the returns that you could expect throughout a year. The primary difference between them is that annual percentage rates (APR) don't consider compound interest, while annual percentage yield (APY) does. Compounding is the process of reinvesting current profits to achieve greater results (i.e. returns).  Most calculation models are simply estimates. It is difficult to accurately calculate returns on yield farming because it is a dynamic market and the rewards can fluctuate rapidly leading to a drop in profitability. The market is quite volatile and risky for both borrowers and lenders.

Before Getting Started, Understand The Risks Of Yield Farming

Despite the obvious potential benefits, yield farming has its challenges. Yield farming isn't easy. The most successful yield farming techniques are quite complex, recommended only to advanced users or experts who have done their research.

Here are the different risks: 

Smart contract

Smart contracts are computerized agreements that automatically implement the terms of the agreement between parties and predefined rules. Smart contracts remove intermediaries, are less expensive to operate and are a safer way to conduct transactions. However, they are vulnerable to attack vectors and bugs in the code.

Liquidation risks 

DeFi platforms, like traditional finance platforms, use customer deposits to create liquidity in their markets. However, if the collateral's value falls below the loan's price, you would be liquidated. Collateral is subject to volatility, and debt positions are vulnerable to under-collateralization in market fluctuations.

If you borrow XX collateralized by YY a rise in the value of XX would force the loan to be liquidated since the collateral YY value would be inferior to the value of the XX loan.

DeFi Rug Pulls

In most cases, rug pulls are obvious exit scams that are intended to entice investors with a well-manufactured promising project in order to attract investors. 

A crypto rug pull happens when developers create a token paired with a valuable cryptocurrency. When funds flow into the project and the price rises, developers then seize as much liquidity they can get their hands on resulting in losses for the investors left in. 

Impermanent loss

Impermanent loss happens when a liquidity provider deposits their crypto into a liquidity pool and the price changes within a few days. The amount of money lost as a result of that change is what is called an impermanent loss. This situation is counter-intuitive yet crucial for liquidity providers to comprehend.

Exercise Caution When Getting Into Yield Farming

If you have no prior knowledge of the cryptocurrency world, entering into the yield farming production may be a hazardous endeavour. You might lose everything you've put into the project. Yield farming is a fast-paced and volatile industry. If you want to venture into yield farming, make sure you don't put more money in than you can afford, there's a reason why the United Kingdom has recently implemented serious crypto regulations.

What The Future Holds For Yield Farming

We hope that after reading this article you will have a much deeper understanding of yield farming and that it answered some of your burning questions.

In summary, yield farming uses investors' funds to create liquidity in the market in exchange for returns. It has significant potential for growth, but it's not without its faults.

What else might the decentralized financial revolution have in store for us? It's difficult to anticipate what future applications may emerge based on these present components. However, trustless liquidity protocols and other DeFi technologies are driving finance, cryptoeconomics, and computer science forward.

Certainly, DeFi money markets have the ability to contribute to the development of a more open and inclusive financial system that is accessible to everyone with an Internet connection. 

Now in its 14th year, the Emerging Payments Awards celebrate innovation and collaboration by recognising companies that have made significant impact in supporting and providing payment solutions for consumers and businesses.

It is one of the most recognized awards within the UK payments industry with an independent panel of 58 judges including this year:

·        Anna Maj FinTech Leader, Senior Advisor, Truffle Capital, Senior Lecturer CFTE

·        Jill Docherty [ of Business Development, UK & Ireland, Visa

·        Martha Mghendi-Fishe Founder & Executive Board Chair, EWPN

·        Mark Walker Co-founder & COO Editorial Director, The Fintech Power 50 and The Fintech Times

·        Joanne Dewar CEO, Global Processing Services

·        Nikki Evans CEO EMEA, EML

Tap Global was shortlisted for The ‘Best B2C Payments Programme’ category based on criteri as such as the benefits it provides to its end-users, how TAP stands out from its competitors due to its features and innovation, and the proven evidence of its success in the market.

“‘Tap was one of the first companies to launch a crypto prepaid payment card with Mastercard in the EU’ in 2020 and our cryptocurrency-to-fiat prepaid Mastercard and smartphone app give users the power to instantly trade all major cryptocurrencies to fiat, and to make purchases withtheir cryptocurrency”, comments David Carr, CEO at TAP GLOBAL.

“Tap’s proprietary AI Middleware connects to multiple exchanges simultaneously, automatically validating available liquidity and selecting the most competitive prices while facilitating trades in a matter of seconds. Users can convert their cryptocurrency assets to fiat instantly,allowing them to pay for goods or use an ATM anywhere Mastercard is accepted.

Through the smartphone app, users can securely send and receive cryptocurrencies and fiat, view their transaction history, lock and unlock their card in case of loss and instantly view their PIN. Tap offers its users full EEA coverage for card, banking and cryptocurrencies and a named EUR IBAN and/or GBP Sort Code and Account Number, as well as secure, offline, cold storage behind a multi-signature wallet with the highest-grade security for all cryptocurrency assets”, he further adds.

“It’s an honour to be shortlisted for this award which further recognizes the added value TAP brings to market and the benefits for our end-users. None of this would have been achievable without the hard work of our teams and the support of our partners”, says David.

Commenting on the announcement, Kriya Patel, CEO at Transact Payments adds, “The EPA awards are some of the most prestigious awards in our industry recognising companies that are making a real difference in driving innovation in payments. We’re delighted to be working with TAP Global and being shortlisted for this award.”

Saving and investing are two key elements to managing one's personal wealth. In this article, we explore the benefits and downfalls of both these tools and give you a broader understanding of the topics.

What Does saving entail?

Saving money is an imperative step in building one's wealth and involves putting money away on a consistent basis, consistency is key. These funds are usually kept in an interest-bearing account, allowing the value to increase passively over the years. 

In the United Kingdom, there are different types of ISA (individual savings accounts) that offer tax-free savings options.

In order to save, one must be spending less than they're earning. 

What does investing entail?

Investing involves buying an asset with the intention for it to accumulate in value. This typically comes after saving, although the earlier the better. People invest in the likes of stocks, cryptocurrencies, property and even themselves (education, capital for a business) in the hopes of generating returns. 

What's the difference between saving and investing?

The biggest difference between the two is the varying returns you can earn. Saving money in a bank account typically provides returns of 0.5 - 0.8%, while the return potential on cryptocurrencies and stock is much greater.

The other main difference between saving and investing is the risk. So, while earning higher returns on investments might sound much more appealing, the risk is usually greater. Savings accounts carry minimal risk and are usually insured while investment portfolios will rise and fall with the market and are only insured if the investment company fails. Investors should balance the options and establish which risk level they are comfortable with.

In light of these risks, savings are recommended for short term goals while investments cater better to long term financial objectives. This is because long term investments will ride out the ebb and flow of markets and recover even if there is a drop over a certain period. Savings on the other hand are more easily accessible and won't be "interrupted" if the funds are used for an emergency. 

However, savings are also susceptible to inflation as the interest rates are seldom higher than the inflation rates. For example, if your bank is offering a 0.6% interest on your savings account and inflation rose 2%, your savings would have actually decreased in value. Investing typically beats inflation.

The similarities between savings and investing

As both tools are excellent at building and creating more wealth, there are bound to be similarities between the two.

The main similarity between the two is that both options are best started now, whether you're in them for the long or short term benefits. This is due to compounding. Compounding is the process where the interest you earn on an investment or savings account is continuously reinvested, increasing the base sum each period. 

For example, if you put $1,000 into a compounding savings account and earned 2% interest each year. The next year you will be earning 2% interest on the lump sum plus the interest earned, $1,020. The next year you would earn $1,020.40 ($1,020 interest earned, $20.40). This doesn't sound like too much, but over a ten-year period, you would have amassed $219.20 without having done a thing. 

Before you get started

Before getting started on either of these options, ensure that you have a positive cash flow and are debt-free. You'll also need to establish what your risk tolerance is, your short term and long term financial requirements, and when you would like to access the money.

If you don't have one already, you'll want to establish an Emergency Fund that can cover your living expenses for 3 - 6 months. Should you lose your job you can then fall back on this loan and not have to rely on credit cards with high-interest rates. 

Experts also recommend setting up a retirement fund, with automated monthly contributions. Once your emergency and retirement funds are established, you can consider a short term savings account or long term investment, or both. 

Pros and cons of saving and investing

Below we highlight the pros and cons of both tools:

Saving

Pro: Money is accessible and can easily be withdrawn.

Pro: Exempt from market volatility.

Con: Cannot leverage on market gains (potentially missing out on large compound interest benefits).

Con: Susceptible to inflation.

Investing

Pro: Longer time frames allow for favourable compounding interest.

Pro: Could tap into large market gains. 

Con: Exposed to more risk as markets are susceptible to drops.

Con: May incur a penalty if the money is withdrawn too soon. 

The bottom line

Both savings and investment options carry their own set of risks and rewards and it's ultimately best for you to speak to a financial adviser who is able to provide you with calculated professional advice. 

Disclaimer: This article is intended for communication purposes only, you should not consider any such information, opinions or other material as financial advice. The information herein does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation to purchase/invest in any assets and is not to be taken as a recommendation that any particular investment or trading approach is appropriate for any specific person. There is a possibility of risk in investing as investors are exposed to fluctuations in all markets. This communication should be read in conjunction with Tap's Terms and Conditions.

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Day, Month,2021, LONDON: TAP Global has been shortlistedin the ‘Best Use of Crypto in Financial Services’ in the Emerging Payments Awards(EPA) 2021.

Now in its 14th year, the Emerging Payments Awardscelebrate innovation and collaboration by recognising companies thathave made significant impact in supporting and providing payment solutions forconsumers and businesses.

It is one of the most recognized awards within the UK payments industry with an independentpanel of 58 judges including this year:

·        Anna Maj FinTech Leader, Senior Advisor, Truffle Capital, SeniorLecturer CFTE

·        Jill Docherty [ of Business Development, UK & Ireland, Visa

·        Martha Mghendi-Fishe Founder & Executive Board Chair, EWPN

·        Mark Walker Co-founder & COO Editorial Director, The FintechPower 50 and The Fintech Times

·        Joanne Dewar CEO, Global Processing Services

·        Nikki Evans CEO EMEA, EML

Tap Global wasshortlisted for The ‘Best Use of Cyrpto inFinancial Services’ category based on criterias such as the benefits it providesto its end-users, how TAP stands out from its competitors due to its featuresand innovation, and the proven evidence of its success in the market.

“‘Tap was one of the first companies to launch a crypto prepaidpayment card with Mastercard in the EU’ in 2020 and our cryptocurrency-to-fiat prepaidMastercard and smartphone app give users the

power to instantly trade all major cryptocurrencies to fiat, andto make purchases with their cryptocurrency”, comments David Carr, CEO atTAP GLOBAL.

“Tap’s proprietary AI Middlewareconnects to multiple exchanges simultaneously, automatically validatingavailable liquidity and selecting the most competitive prices whilefacilitating trades in a matter of seconds. Users can convert their cryptocurrency assets to fiat instantly,allowing them to pay for goods or use an ATM anywhere Mastercard is accepted.

Through the smartphone app, users can securely send and receivecryptocurrencies and fiat, view their transaction history, lock and unlocktheir card in case of loss and instantly view their PIN. Tap offers its usersfull EEA coverage for card, banking and cryptocurrencies and a named EUR IBANand/or GBP Sort Code and Account Number, as well as secure, offline, coldstorage behind a multi-signature wallet with the highest grade security for allcryptocurrency assets”, he further adds.

“It’s an honour to be shortlisted for this award which furtherrecognizes the added value TAP brings to market and the benefits for our end-users.None of this would have been achievable without the hard work of our teams andthe support of our partners”, says David.

Commenting on theannouncement, Kriya Patel, CEO at Transact Payments adds, “The EPAawards are some of the most prestigious awards in our industry recognisingcompanies that are making a real difference in driving innovation in payments.We’re delighted to be working with TAP Global and being shortlisted for thisaward.”

Now in its 14th year, the Emerging Payments Awards celebrate innovation and collaboration by recognising companies that have made significant impact in supporting and providing payment solutions for consumers and businesses.

It is one of the most recognized awards within the UK payments industry with an independent panel of 58 judges including this year:

·        Anna Maj FinTech Leader, Senior Advisor, Truffle Capital, Senior Lecturer CFTE

·        Jill Docherty [ of Business Development, UK & Ireland, Visa

·        Martha Mghendi-Fishe Founder & Executive Board Chair, EWPN

·        Mark Walker Co-founder & COO Editorial Director, The Fintech Power 50 and The Fintech Times

·        Joanne Dewar CEO, Global Processing Services

·        Nikki Evans CEO EMEA, EML

Tap Global was shortlisted for The ‘Leading Financial Services or Payments Start-Up’ category based on criteria s such as the benefits it provides to its end-users, how TAP stands out from its competitors due to its features and innovation, and the proven evidence of its success in the market.

“‘Tap was one of the first companies to launch a crypto prepaid payment card with Mastercard in the EU’ in 2020 and our cryptocurrency-to-fiat prepaid Mastercard and smartphone app give users the power to instantly trade all major cryptocurrencies to fiat, and to make purchases with their cryptocurrency”, comments David Carr, CEO at TAP GLOBAL.

“Tap’s proprietary AI Middleware connects to multiple exchanges simultaneously, automatically validating available liquidity and selecting the most competitive prices while facilitating trades in a matter of seconds. Users can convert their cryptocurrency assets to fiat instantly, allowing them to pay for goods or use an ATM anywhere Mastercard is accepted.

Through the smartphone app, users can securely send and receive cryptocurrencies and fiat, view their transaction history, lock and unlock their card in case of loss and instantly view their PIN. Tap offers its users full EEA coverage for card, banking and cryptocurrencies and a named EUR IBAN and/or GBP Sort Code and Account Number, as well as secure, offline, cold storage behind a multi-signature wallet with the highest grade security for all cryptocurrency assets”, he further adds.

“It’s an honour to be shortlisted for this award which further recognizes the added value TAP brings to market and the benefits for our end-users. None of this would have been achievable without the hard work of our teams and the support of our partners”, says David.

Commenting on the announcement, Kriya Patel, CEO at Transact Payments adds, “The EPA awards are some of the most prestigious awards in our industry recognising companies that are making a real difference in driving innovation in payments. We’re delighted to be working with TAP Global and being shortlisted for this award.”

This year has proved to be an exciting one for the crypto adopters, with markets taking turns playing out to bulls’ and bears’ delights. Bitcoin crossed the $66,000 mark for the first time in history, and with that, a new data trend has emerged which has shone a light on a significant gap in the market.

Here we explore the vast potential of the integration of the corporate market into the crypto industry. Recent data has exposed the large gap between crypto trading taking place on major exchanges. It has been discovered that there is little trading activity between the retail or institutional type of trader, setting two extremes: retail investors trade hundreds to several thousands of dollars while institutional investors trade millions.

In other markets, this range is generally made up of family offices ,mid-to-large corporations, or high-net-worth individuals. However, in the crypto space it appears that navigating the $100,000–$500,000 trading bracket is not as common.

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An Overview of the ever-expanding cryptocurrency market

According to a study conducted by Chainalysis, cryptocurrencies usage across the globe increased by 880% when compared to that of last year. Meanwhile, experts forecast that this number is likely to increase. In 2021, major companies across many industries have taken an interest or invested in cryptocurrency and blockchain.

Cryptocurrencies are becoming increasingly popular, especially among institutions. This demonstrates that interest is no longer restricted to individual crypto aficionado traders. Large financial firms like BlackRock and Goldman Sachs have invested in cryptocurrencies, showing the potential of this asset class.

Bitcoin and Ethereum have grown popular and should be perceived as a positive development as it is a necessary step for cryptocurrencies to achieve widespread adoption. Some experts predict that more large, multinational businesses will accelerate the adoption of blockchain technology in the coming months.

Accepting cryptocurrencies as payment is something to consider if you run a business. As cryptocurrency adoption grows, so is the number of merchants who accept it.

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Bridging the gap

Several reasons why this corporate market is yet to engage in cryptocurrencies is believed to be due to the lack of trusted liquidity providers, reasonable pricing, banking partners or secure technology. If your company is interested in opening a corporate account enabling your business to accept crypto payment, transfer, billing, and trading, Tap can assist your venture getting started with cryptocurrencies.

Bridging the gap, Tap is launching a new service that will provide crypto exposure to this mid-range market through its trusted and verified mobile app. The new Corporate Account will provide specialised B2B services catered directly to companies looking to enter the world of cryptocurrencies.

Through these services, companies will be able to make and receive payments in the supported crypto and fiat currencies, enjoy reduced transaction fees through the native token XTP, as well as earn interest through the Earn feature. While the B2C market has become somewhat saturated, Tap Global has taken aim at the B2B market, providing an early entry, alongside transparent pricing, for corporate companies into the crypto sphere. 

As the financial landscape continues developing at a rapid pace, the app serves to provide an early and seamless approach to the future of payments that we are fast approaching. 

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From “Risky Investment” to global reserve

While Bitcoin hasn’t entirely evolved into a global reserve currency (yet), it has undoubtedly emerged from the speculative asset it was considered to be just several years ago. As crypto continues to break into new markets, the corporate market is growing in interest at a steady pace and seeking a way to integrate crypto payment and investments into their businesses.

With a range of reliable and tech-forward products on the market, there is little doubt that the rate of crypto adoption will continue to grow. While Tap provides a space for early adopters and high-net-worth investors, the company also opens its doors to a wide range of individuals and corporations, no matter where on the scale of net-worth or transaction volume they might sit.

Bitcoin has become a household name around the world, for very good reasons. The same way gold became the standard of currency, bitcoin is doing the same. With the rise of gold, we also saw a gold rush, as people flocked to the mines to find every flake of gold they could. Something similar is happening to bitcoin right now as the cryptocurrency mining rush has begun, with the world hiking up their ASIC miners to process as fast as possible.

Especially with talk of Elon Musk considering reinstating Bitcoin payments once the carbon emissions and energy consumption associated with bitcoin mining are decreased. But why the sudden rush? it is not just another bubble, it is about global economic sustainability and excelling cryptocurrencies. 

Where is the Bitcoin mining rush happening?

Although the whole world may be captivated by the potential of cryptocurrency, China has always been a top contender for miners. Despite the repeat FUD spreading around China and its acceptance of digital currency, China bitcoin mining once accounted for more than 70% of mining power. But this summer's sweeping crackdown in China has greatly increased profits for miners outside of the world's second-largest economy, with counties such as the USA, Russia, and Iran making up for lost blocks. These regulations won’t stop Chinese miners from doing what they need, they just may no longer be doing it within the borders of China. 

It was 2 months ago that Beijing made moves to crack down on cryptocurrency. One of the steps was halting the supply of power to bitcoin farms, giving Chinese miners no choice but to pack their bags for more crypto-friendly countries. Chinese researchers express data portraying excess use of electricity consumption, especially in these stressful times. 

What is Chinas’ issue with digital currency mining?

China has had numerous issues with cryptocurrencies over the years, first stating they didn’t want their economic wealth flooding into a global currency. They have potentially solved this problem as they announce their own digital currency created by a group of specialist. China’s digital currency, the digital yuan, is controlled by its central bank which will issue the new currency. Now they may have created a digital form of currency, but it is nowhere near cryptocurrency, aside from some computational comparisons. China plans to strip away the anonymity so beloved within Blockchain, and inside track and control where their digital currency goes. Nonetheless, their first issue has been fixed, so what is their problem now?

Supposably carbon emissions and energy consumption in the country are rising, due to cryptocurrency, not the masses staying at home. Regardless of if their reasoning and intent are pure, we know carbon emission due to cryptocurrency is a very real and impending issue. This theory has been confirmed by Tesla's Elon Musk halting bitcoin payments until the carbon emission issue is resolved, rightfully so as the guy selling low carbon emission electric cars. 

What is next for Chinese miners?

Bitcoin mining is one of the most lucrative major industries in the world, yet many people don't know that Bitcoin mining generates just as much revenue as gold and silver extraction. The old Gold Rush might be waning, but Bitcoin miners are reaping the rewards of a new gold rush. The current generation shows entrepreneurial spirit unlike many before it, especially as the online era continues to expand.

They see the market and trend associated with cryptocurrency and are ensuring they are involved in as many ways as possible. From trading on an exchange, accepting bitcoin for services, or using their computer to mine crypto. Blockchain technology is proving to be a leader in so many industries, even emission avoidance, so no issue should or will stop people from accepting and collecting it. 

Renewable energy countries 

The solution to China's electricity and energy consumption issues is not to stop cryptocurrency mining altogether, but rather for miners to move to more power conscious countries. This may not be so appealing for China itself, but it is proving to be the best option for miners. Miners may take a lot of energy and computer processing, but they also run very hot.

So miners are looking for a country with a cheaper electricity cost to move to, with the added benefit of them being cold for an additional cooling process. Most countries that use renewable energy find their costs a lot lower than those that do not, this was even seen in China. Miners would run to the mountains of Sichuan, where abundant hydroelectric power made electricity services costs exceptionally cheaper per unit. 

Colder climates like Germany, Sweden, and Scotland are becoming increasingly more desirable countries of residency for crypto miners. Sweden is planning to be the world's first fossil fuel free country by the year 2040. Denmark has broken a wind power record, showing 43% of its electricity consumption being covered by wind; they also plan to be fossil fuel free by 2050.

Germany is a leader in renewable energy, and in the first half of 2018 they proved that, by producing enough renewable electricity to power every household in the country for a year. Scotland is also joining the ranks of the greatest renewable energy countries. Scotland plans to build the worlds’ largest floating wind turbine farm, as wind power can generate 98% of Scotland’s electricity needs.

These are all brilliant, and cold countries can easily fit the needs of any cryptocurrency miner, with cheaper watts and a cooler climate to cut down even more on watts. 

Risk of regulations

While the above-mentioned countries are great candidates for cryptocurrency and bitcoin mining, there are other problems to be wary of. Crypto regulations are just an issue among crypto miners, but also for exchange services. Each country has taken its own approach to enforcing cryptocurrency into its economy, but some may be trickier than others. VISAs are also another thing to take into consideration. Holiday VISAs are easily acquired, but moving your entire mining farm across borders may not be as easy.

Would you need a work VISA? A residency VISA? That is up to each miner to find out. Germany has shown positive sentiment to cryptocurrency, considering it as legal tender, and allowing institutional funds to hold up to 20% in cryptocurrency. Denmark and Scotland have also shown interest in cryptocurrencies, considering tax policies to help their native traders and the economy. Miners may be susceptible to taxation, and VISA regulations, but they do not have to worry about being in a country that wants to get rid of cryptocurrency. This alone, in addition to renewable energy, are benefits to any crypto enthusiast. 

Bettering the blockchain process

Not only does renewable energy mining save the world and miners money, but it also advances blockchain in general. Projects and people are more likely to accept cryptocurrency and Blockchain when it doesn’t have such a high economic and environmental burden. Using a terawatt of renewable energy is far more efficient and cost-effective than using electricity powered by fossil fuels and coal. With the bitcoin and cryptocurrency mining rush continuing to rally up troops, we in the community need to make conscious decisions for both cryptocurrency and our planet.

The process of excelling bitcoin and bitcoin mining starts at finding a computing process that consumes less energy. Whether the miners in China, or around the world, have this intent is not the issue, as long as the rest of the planet pushes them towards more eco-friendly options. It doesn’t start with the miners, they are simply the suppliers, its starts with what we demand, as seen by Mr. Musk. Let us make better choices for Blockchain, earth, and our national economies. 

It was only a matter of time before the crypto craze took over our lives. Some people use it in business transactions, while others are content with investing for long term growth

Crypto technologies are here to stay. The era where crypto was only for a specific circle of people is over and more companies are taking advantage of this steadily growing market.  More large corporations than ever before are willing to develop and invest in the advantageous market of cryptocurrencies.

The crypto-world is blooming with new developments, and it seems that developers in this field can't stop pumping out innovative updates. Skilled developers and talented specialists in this field are making exchanges more accessible with their innovative work, by turning simple tasks into ease of access for users around the globe.

Crypto banking has been the go-to for many people in need of an alternative to conventional banking. With its lack of certain features, it still provides all that is needed with crypto limitations taken care of and more!  Here's a look at some advantages of using this service over fiat currency.

The first thing you'll notice when comparing bank services side by side is how similar they can be despite being different types altogether; one might not work without another if both suit your needs well enough

Crypto banking is a revolutionary new way of doing banking. It has many advantages and disadvantages when compared with regular fiat banking. Let’s explore in more detail and analyse what are the advantage and disadvantages of crypto- banking.

The advantages:

Independent system   

Cryptocurrency, as a whole, is set to be free of reliance on outdated and archaic centralized economies allowing users to manage every aspect of it while giving them full control over its finance. There are no strings attached to trap you into a quagmire of peculiar circumstances.

Low withdrawal fees

Banks are generally charging a fee whenever you withdraw cash from an ATM or the terminal, while crypto banking enables you to withdraw cash for free up to a certain amount.

Withdrawal fees with crypto banking are one of the best features and a major step towards the future, they charge users as low as 0.01% for their transactions no matter how big the amount you try to withdraw is compared to conventional banks.

Openness

Crypto banking platforms have created opportunities for people who were previously shut out of traditional financial services. If you've credit score is low, it'll be hard to find a loan that's affordable and most banks don't offer good interest rates on their saving accounts either.

Higher returns rate

Crypto platforms offer high-yield savings accounts with rates that far exceed traditional ones, enabling their users to beat the inflationary effects. They also provide secured loans without a credit check and other financial services for people in need who are not considered eligible elsewhere.

Currency exchange

So, you’re exchanging your currency for another one? Well, that could cost as much as 4% - applied to a large amount that could be as high as 40£ for every 1000£ that you are converting! Crypto banking, on the other hand, provides an opportunity for you to exchange between various cryptos with a commission as low as 0.1% and conduct rapid peer-to-peer transfers that can be, depending on your plan, free of charge.

The cons

Online-based   

Crypto banking is based and operated online. It’s all about convenience with a quick and easy app for your smart device to control any of your operations in real-time. However, they might not be the best option for seniors or customers who are challenged with using these online services as they often need more personal attention than what this system offers them.   

Assets volatility

While cryptocurrencies have gained in popularity over the years, they remain volatile assets. Thankfully you can now use fiat currencies and stable coins with many crypto banking providers in order to eliminate this risk.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, crypto banking became an essential part of the global financial transformation happening worldwide. In view of the advancement pace it evolved at, we wouldn’t be surprised to see it prosper in the coming years, and infiltrate every aspect of our everyday life.  

This year has proven to be historical both in terms of substantial market fluctuations as well as regulatory development across a wide range of jurisdictions. As leadership around the world gears up to provide a much needed regulatory framework surrounding the blockchain and cryptocurrency industry, we explore the factors these bodies will need to consider in order to find the balance between implementing crypto regulation without stifling innovation.  

Why regulation is necessary

There has long been a stigma in the industry against the regulation of cryptocurrencies, with many believing it will hinder the free-world currency. As Bitcoin and subsequent cryptocurrencies were created to oppose the constructs placed on people’s finances by governments and financial institutions, some feel that regulation will disarm the decentralized nature of its use. 

This is however untrue. With regulation comes widespread education and, many believe,  adoption. With more frameworks in place constituting what one can and cannot do with the digital assets, comes clearer concepts of what the currency can achieve, and more fingers in the pie, so to speak.

At this point, it would be foolish to assume that a wave of regulation is a remote possibility. Governments around the world are in the midst of creating their own regulation and enforcement memorandums, some being more public about it than others. 

What factors crypto regulation policymakers need to consider

For many industry insiders, this move is a positive step forward, and a vital one if the industry is to become an integral part of daily life, as anticipated. According to Everett Rogers’ technology adoption lifecycle model, as more investors outside of the blockchain industry turn to digital currencies purely based on the regulation in place, the lifecycle of adoption steadily increases. 

As the key goal here is to protect investors from financial losses, there is concern that any stifled, misguided policies will hinder the innovation and prosperity of cryptocurrencies. Hence, here are the following factors that deem most important when walking the tightrope trying to find a balance between the two goals. 

• Market Participation

In order to properly understand and implement policies regarding the crypto market, prominent figures in the industry should be consulted. Typically, most governments don’t have a team of crypto-enthusiasts to converse with. 
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Market participants should be at the centre of their debates and should provide valuable insight as well as vast expertise into how digital payment systems function. Policymakers need to ensure that they are collaborating with appropriate expertise should they wish to get this right.

• Gradual Implementation

While it might seem tempting to build and implement a highly complex regulatory framework around an industry that is just over a decade old overnight, this process needs to be done slowly and intricately if it intends to succeed.
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There is little need to rush to impose policies across the board without proper and thorough examination and reflection. Instead of barring the industry with sanctions that might make little sense, policymakers should consider taking a slow and steady approach to build regulation governing the industry, as the consequences of not doing so can be dire. 

• Deserved Recognition

Giving credit where credit is due, cryptocurrencies are unique assets and cannot be treated with the same standards as stocks, commodities, etc. The digital currencies process distinctive characteristics that need to be respected and celebrated as opposed to sanctioned by people in power who do not understand their worth. 
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Therefore, outdated policies need to be rebuilt if they wish to be constructive. 
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As the first globally decentralized industry, the blockchain and cryptocurrency industry requires a slow and steady implementation of regulation, one that materializes organically as opposed to in a rushed, authoritarian manner. By opening a dialogue between policymakers and private-sector expertise, the process can be developed and debated at a pace that guarantees success.

Regulation Efforts To Date In The US

Considering that an estimated 46 million people in the United States hold cryptocurrency and that the DeFi (decentralized finance) industry has grown by over 6,000% this year alone, a number of regulatory bodies in the US have geared up to take action. 

Various bodies have taken different ventures into the crypto regulation space, with the President’s Working Group on Financial Markets studying stablecoins, Congress introducing legislation that ensures “comprehensive” crypto regulation, and the SEC threatening and suing cryptocurrency companies at an alarming rate.
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To date, the SEC has been in a complicated legal battle with RippleLabs, the company behind XRP, and scared Coinbase from launching a Lend feature with threats of legal action if they do so. Tom Emmer, a lawmaker interested in blockchain, has called out the SEC for their threatening manner, citing that:
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“I disagree with [SEC Head Gary Gensler] strenuously when he suggests that almost all of these [crypto products] are securities. I think the vast majority of cryptocurrency offerings or related offerings are actually currencies or commodities. The SEC is not involved. If the SEC were to deem one of these coins a security, the value of that token would plummet. And those retail investors would be seriously hurt — that’s directly the opposite of his mission and his authority.”

Finally, the international pioneer in combating money laundering, the Financial Action Task Force, has issued a draft guidance report encouraging countries to regulate unhosted wallets in an attempt to hold those who profit from these accountable. 

Regulation Efforts To Date In The UK

The United Kingdom has also set about to regulate cryptocurrency trading, however, in a less disruptive manner. The regulatory body, the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), targeted trading platforms requiring them to present information required in order to verify and certify their company practices. 

One of the largest crypto trading platforms failed to do so and subsequently lost the right to provide services to UK citizens. While trading of digital assets in the UK is not strictly prohibited, the platforms offering these services are required to be registered with the FCA and prove that they comply with anti-money laundering rules, particularly in the crypto derivatives market. 

More recently, the deputy financial stability officer for the Bank of England, Jon Cunliffe, called for crypto regulation to be pursued as a matter of urgency, warning that crypto poses “a rapidly growing threat to the global economy.”

Cunliffe went on to compare the 2008 financial market crash to what could occur should the crypto markets take on a similar crash. He noted that the instigator in the crash, the $1.2 trillion subprime market, was but a tiny portion of the $250 trillion global financial system at the time, and a significantly smaller segment of the market than what the cryptocurrency market is today.

This is largely due to a report released by the IMF (International Monetary Fund), calling for governments to create a regulatory framework around the world. The report further warned that heightened adoption could weaken fiat currencies, destabilise capital flows, and promote tax evasion. 

With Regulation Comes Growth

As this technical revolution continues to develop and grow, regulatory bodies around the world must work constructively to build and implement regulations that support the benefits that cryptocurrencies have to offer and allow society to evolve into a superior version of itself as a result.

There is little doubt that the cryptocurrency market is now on the top of the agenda for central bank leaders and finance ministers around the world. While cryptocurrencies weren’t designed to be contained by (government-constructed) laws, regulation is a necessary step forward in the worldwide adoption of digital assets. Regulation should be viewed as an accolade instead of a hindrance. 

With more structural framework, comes an indubitable acceptance that cryptocurrencies have entered mainstream financial markets, proving that they are indisputably here to stay.

In market terminology, a bull market is a period of generally rising prices and investor optimism. The term "bull market" comes from the market that rises steadily and consistently like a healthy bull. A bear market is the opposite: It refers to a condition when prices are falling and investors are pessimistic about future market value. Historical market cycles are well defined and provide a good understanding of market trends.

It's all about cycles

The market cycle helps investors to know whether they should invest or hold back their crypto coins. To avoid making wrong market choices, investors should know market cycles so they can decide whether the crypto market is on the rise or not.

The market cycle helps people to know when the market is already booming and ready to take a plunge. This helps traders to decide which crypto coin to buy at its lowest value, hold it until market bull cycle and then sell it to make a very good profit.

The Bull Market:

A Bull market is a long run of increasing prices and investor optimism where buyers outnumber sellers. As the market bull cycle goes on, more investors will see the market as their opportunity to buy low and sell high. The result is a market cycle that is not as steep as it had previously been.

The Bear Market:

A Bear market is the opposite of a Bull market where prices are falling and investors have low expectations for future market values. The market cycles are frequently broken up into bull markets and bear markets. This market cycle happens when market prices fall and investors sell their coins, this causes market prices to drop even more until the trend reverses.

The case of the Dead/flat market

A Dead market is a term used to describe a period of time where there is not much movement in either direction but it is not a market downturn by any means. This market cycle can occur after prolonged market cycles such as bull (rising trend market) and bear (falling trend market).

The market is not a straight line, it goes up and down so even though the market has gone on for a considerable time without any market fluctuation, market volatility will eventually return.

The market can be dead for a long time but it could cause worry within investors so they should know where market cycles stand.

Since market cycles are consistent it is better to be ready for market volatility, this will help you make informed market decisions when market cycles return.

In conclusion: the market cycle is a repeating market trend that describes market fluctuations over time. When market prices increase, it is called a bull market; when prices fall, it's called a bear market. Knowledge of market cycles is an important asset for investors in the crypto market as the knowledge of swings, downturns and upturns can help make better-informed decisions with investing in cryptocurrencies.

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You've likely come across the term "ERC-20" in your crypto endeavours, with plenty of these token standards currently ranked in the top 10 (even top 100) cryptocurrencies. But what does ERC-20 actually mean, and what is a token standard? In this piece, we're uncovering everything you need to know about these popular crypto terms.

To start things off, ERC stands for Ethereum request for comment.

What is a token standard?

Let's start at the beginning. When Ethereum was created to provide developers with a platform on which to build decentralized apps (Dapps), the team incorporated several token standards. 

These token standards allow new projects to create, issue and deploy various functioning tokens on the blockchain. Each token standard is a smart contract that holds a set of particular "rules" that must be followed in order to be created.

In recent years a number of blockchain platforms that provide Dapp creation functionality have created their own token standards, however, for the sake of this article we are only looking at Ethereum.

The most popular token standards on Ethereum are the ERC-20, ERC-721, ERC-777, and ERC-1155 tokens. Each holds its own functionality and would be utilized depending on what the Dapp intends to use it for, i.e. will it be a transferable asset or be used to hold ownership rights. 

What is an ERC-20 token?

By far the most popular token standard utilized on the Ethereum network, the ERC-20 token is a fungible token that can be bought, sold and traded in the blockchain ecosystem. To date over 350,000 ERC-20 tokens have been created. 

Similar to the functioning of other cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Litecoin, ERC-20 tokens also hold value and are able to be bought and sold, however, they operate solely on the Ethereum blockchain. This means that all ERC-20 transactions conducted are executed on the Ethereum blockchain network.

The rules associated with this particular token ensure that it can function optimally on the Ethereum blockchain, and must be submitted to the community leadership for approval prior to its launch. While some rules are mandatory and others optional, the required ERC-20 rules are as follows:

• total supply: defines the total supply of the token
• balance of: indicates how many tokens are in a wallet address
• transfer To, Transfer From: must be able to be transferred from one user to another
• allowance: ensures that wallets have a sufficient amount before making a transaction
• approve: checks total supply against transactions

The optional elements are centred around the token's name, its ticker symbol and how many decimal places it would have %u200BFor instance, Ethereum's token name is Ether, its ticker symbol is ETH and it is divisible by up to 18 decimal places.

Examples of ERC-20 tokens are Augur (REP), Basic Attention Token (BAT), Maker (MKR), USD Coin (USDC) and OmiseGO (OMG).

Can you mine ERC-20 tokens?

ERC-20 tokens, unlike Ethereum and its native coins (ether), cannot be mined. That is, new tokens are 'minted' when a planned initial token offering (ICO) or security token offering (STO) event takes place. Usually, these events involve users sending ether to a smart contract address and in return receiving the newly minted ERC-20 token.

An ERC-20 token is technically a smart contract so it's possible for the developer team behind an ERC-20 token to issue new tokens at will. However, this isn't recommended because users would be less likely to trust these tokens if they could be minted at will. There must be a measure of scarcity in order for tokens to be valuable.

The pros & cons of ERC-20 tokens:

Some of the main benefits of ERC-20 tokens include: 

Fungible

Fungible ERC20 tokens are interchangeable, just like cash. Although the coins are technically distinct, they function in exactly the same way. You can trade one for another and they will be functionally equivalent, just like cash or gold.

Fungible tokens are fantastic, and there's a lot of value in the technical aspect. On a technical level, it's worth noting that fungible tokens don't add extra value to goods. They're typically beneficial in a variety of commercial scenarios.

Broad adoption

The popularity of ERC-20 tokens is quite apparent in the cryptocurrency industry. The number of exchanges, wallets, and smart contracts that already support newly-launched tokens has made it easy for new projects to integrate with them. There is plenty of developer support and documentation to go around.

Flexibility

The first thing to note about ERC-20 tokens is that they are highly flexible and may be used in a variety of circumstances and applications. This is due to the fact that these tokens are very customizable. They can be used in a lot of different scenarios such as Loyalty points programs, in-game currencies, or digital collectibles such as NFT's.

Some of the main cons of ERC-20 tokens include:

Mainstream

The popularity of ERC-20 tokens is also their greatest weakness. There are so many projects using the same standard that it's difficult to stand out from the crowd without differentiating your token in some way. Moreover, since they're essentially all the same on a technical level.

Fraud and Scams

It takes minimal effort to create a simple ERC-20 token, meaning that anyone could do it for good or bad purposes. As such you want to be careful with what you're investing in when considering blockchains projects because there are some Pyramid schemes masquerading as legitimate projects out there and trying to get unsuspecting investors involved in their scams. As a result, when looking at blockchain projects, you need to be cautious with what you invest in.

Other ERC Token Standards

While there is a large range of ERC tokens available, below we've outlined the most popular ones (excluding the ERC-20 one as it is listed above). 

ERC-721 

This token standard is for a non-fungible token (NFT) which gained huge popularity in the last year across the gaming and digital art worlds. These tokens represent ownership of something, and cannot be used interchangeably. 

ERC-777 

An evolution of the ERC-20 token, the ERC-777 provides more usability, particularly pertaining to its ability to mint or burn tokens. It also holds improved transaction privacy and an emergency recovery function. 

ERC-1155

This token standard allows for the creation of both utility tokens and non-fungible tokens. Making trading more efficient, the token standard allows for bundling of transactions which in turn saves costs. 

Learn more about cryptocurrencies and blockchain

You can learn more about crypto basics from our specially created Learn centre, which covers everything a trader ought to know about cryptocurrencies and the blockchain industry. 

An asset can be described as a resource or item that provides future economic benefits to the individual, corporation, or country that owns it. Assets have long had a place in a company's balance sheet, but today take on a broader identity when associated with the broader financial sector. From financial assets to assets that provide future economic value, below we outline everything you need to know about assets.

What does the term "asset" mean?

Assets can refer to an item or resource that holds economic value, with the individual, company, or country that owns it being able to expect future monetary benefits. Assets can be held to maintain liquidity or sold to make a profit. These assets are usually assigned a dollar value upon which their liquidity or potential profits can be judged. 

Assets owned by an individual are referred to as personal assets, while assets owned by a company or corporation are referred to as business assets.  

Assets are used to increase net worth, raise business value, and more. Assets can be physical or intangible, such as gold or Bitcoin. Individuals and companies alike use assets as a means to provide and prove solvency, financial health, and equity. They can be used as liquidity to secure loans or can be sold to make a profit. Business success probability is generally worked out by subtracting liability from total asset value. 

An asset can be considered a resource that in the future can generate cash flow, whether it's manufacturing equipment or a patent. 

Assets can be categorized into current assets, fixed assets, tangible and intangible assets, operating assets, and non-operating assets. 

How do assets work?

Individuals, companies, and governments accumulate assets with the expectation that they will provide short-term or long-term economic gains in the future. Assets do not promise gains though, as assets can either appreciate or depreciate in value, with gains only realized after the sale. This volatility can affect the sale value and change the overall solvency of a person, corporation, or country.

Solvency implies that the assets held are enough to manage or pay back outstanding liabilities. Companies usually use a balance sheet, covering current assets, liabilities, and equity, to evaluate how the held assets suffice against their liabilities. But before we delve deeper into the broad topic of assets, let’s dissect the current most common types of assets. 

Types of assets 

There are 6 main examples of assets that can be broken down into the categories listed below. The definition of assets is broad so one asset may fit into one or more asset classification categories. These are the most popular types of assets. 

Current Assets (business assets)

Current assets can quickly be converted into cash, otherwise referred to as liquid assets, and are used to pay bills or settle liabilities promptly. Some examples of current assets include but are not limited to cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, inventory, or prepaid expenses.

Fixed Assets

Fixed assets, otherwise referred to as non-current assets, are assets that are purchased for long-term use, more than 12 months usually, and are not likely to be converted quickly into cash. These assets hold future economic benefit. Some examples of fixed assets include land, buildings, or equipment.

Tangible Assets

Tangible assets refer to assets that you can see and touch, also known as physical assets. These types of assets would be considered as cash, inventory, buildings, stock, machinery, or furniture.

Intangible Assets

Intangible assets refer to an asset that lacks physical substance, the opposite of tangible assets, and can not be touched or seen. Types of intangible assets would be considered as intellectual property, patents, cryptocurrency, licenses, grants, and secret formulas.  

Operating Assets

Operating assets refer to assets owned by a business for daily operations or to generate revenue through usage. Some examples of operating assets include but are not limited to inventories, patents, equipment, secret formulas, and licenses.

Non-operating Assets

Non-operating assets refer to assets that are not necessarily used for business activities but may still create profits in the future. Some examples of non-operating assets include vacant land, marketable securities, short-term investments, and long-term investments.

Definition of an asset 

As already discussed, the definition of an asset is too broad, and even when broken down into categories does not captivate the true potential. While patents are considered an intangible asset, with rights usually stored digitally, it is also vital operating asset for some businesses. 

Bitcoin is another example of an asset breaking barriers, considered an intangible asset, stored digitally. Bitcoin could also be referred to as a current asset, or liquid asset. 

Inventory is a current, tangible, operating asset. It can be one or all at the same time. This just goes to show there is no one definition of an asset or asset type, but it is rather up to how the investor chooses to use said asset. 

But it is important to remember that tangible assets can not be intangible assets. Current assets can not be fixed assets. And operating assets can not be non-operating assets. There may be some exceptions, but this is a general rule to remember. 

Assets vs liabilities

Whether you are working out an entrepreneur's net worth, or a company's value, liabilities play a massive role in the solvency of an individual, cooperation, or country. When you minus liabilities from assets, you can work out Fund Balance, also referred to as Net Assets or Equity.

In order to figure out a company's fund balance, you would need to evaluate its balance sheet. Viewing their balance sheet depends on whether the company is private or public, with public companies being legally required to provide their balance sheets in annual reports. 

To put it simply: Assets - Liabilities = Equity 

Understanding assets and their economic value

The definition of assets is limitless, even the sapphire necklace you inherited from your grandmother could be considered a current and tangible asset. The value of the necklace could be profited from immediately, or you could wait for a sapphire shortage to claim even more.

The basics of assets within personal and professional lives differ, and we hope through this article you could come to a greater understanding of the differences and similarities. 

Assets remain an item or resource that a person, business, or government can expect to generate a cash flow. Whether it be a fixed or current asset, the goal of acquiring assets is to eventually profit from them. Gold, Bitcoin, houses, cars, secret formulas, and patents are all classed as assets, rightfully so, as they have the ability to generate value in a cash equivalent. 

Now that you know more about assets, and the value they are supposed to hold, do your own research and find an asset that fits your investment needs and wants. 
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Investing has become an increasingly important part of many people's financial plans, as it offers the potential for greater returns than simply leaving money in a savings account. By investing your hard-earned money, you can potentially build wealth over time and secure a better future for yourself and your family.

But what exactly is investing? Put simply, investing involves putting your money into assets with the goal of making more money. There are various types of investments available to individuals, from stocks and bonds to mutual funds and real estate investments. Understanding how each type works is key to making smart investment decisions that will help you meet your financial goals.

Investing can also involve investing in time and labor, especially when it comes to business operations. These investments are similar in that one expects to see returns. While no investment carries a guarantee, understanding what they are and how they operate will assist you in making smart financial decisions. 

What is an investment?

When you invest, you're essentially trading current resources (like time or money) for an asset that has the potential to grow in value. Ideally, if you choose to invest in the right asset at the right time, your investment could gain value. As an example, when you trade on the stock market, you are buying stock with capital in the hope that in time the asset will grow in value and sell for more money than the initial capital investment. 

There are plenty of different types of investments one could use to grow their money, from stocks and bonds to commodities and cryptocurrencies, as well as mutual funds and real estate properties. The concept behind every investment is that it will make more money for the investor in the long term.

A smart investment allows an individual to not only make money but increase their total net worth. However, it's crucial to remember that every type of investment is speculative and there is always a possibility you will lose some or all the money you put in. For example, if you purchase stock shares or a piece of property, the value could decrease soon after you buy it. For this reason it is imperative that one assesses their risk tolerance before investing in something so as not to lose money.

The definition of an investment is not constant and can change depending on the situation. For instance, in macroeconomics, investing refers to purchasing items now that will be used later to generate income. While a company or individual from one nation might invest in business properties located in another country, such as building a factory which is known as foreign direct investments.

What are the different types of investments?

With a variety of options available, each investment type carries its own potential for returns, risks, and other factors such as tax implications and management fees. Below we highlight several options available to the everyday trader that can be used individually or together as part of an investment strategy to contribute to their financial goals.

Stock Market

By investing in stocks on the stock market, you are purchasing fractional ownership of a public listed company. People generally invest in stocks with the aspiration that their value will have gone up by the time they sell them. In order to make a profit from selling stock, the price will need to have grown enough to cover any trading costs and transaction fees associated with the trade. 

Investing in certain stocks might also make you liable to dividend payouts, where a company distributes profits to shareholders (holders of stock) based on the company's performance. 

Read more about investing in stocks in our What Are Stocks article. 

Mutual funds

Mutual funds are investment vehicles that pool the money of many investors and invest in a variety of different assets such as stocks, bonds, and other securities. A mutual fund is managed by an investment professional who makes all the decisions about where to put the money within the fund.

These professionals seek to maximize returns for investors while maintaining a certain level of risk. Mutual funds are a great way for investors to diversify their portfolios, as the fund’s holdings may include stocks from many different companies and sectors. Additionally, mutual funds reduce the amount of research required to make an informed investment decision since all decisions are made by the fund manager. Investing in a mutual fund may come with higher fees than other investments.

Bonds

By purchasing a bond, you are essentially loaning money to a government, company, or other borrowing entity. In return for your loan, the debtor (the bond issuer) is required to repay both the debt and any associated interest payments. 

However, it's worth noting that on occasion companies and countries default on their bonds, meaning that they can't make scheduled payments to the bondholders which will result in the investor losing money. This is almost always a last resort option as these establishments know that defaulting will scare off investors going forward.

A bond is a fixed-income instrument that pays periodic interest payments until the agreed-upon end date when the final payment is made and the loan's original amount is repaid.

Commodities

Commodities are raw materials that can be traded for one another, such as gold, beef, and gas, expanding to foreign currencies and indexes. Funds that invest money in commodities will typically invest in resources such as precious metals (silver, gold), energy resources (natural gas, oil), and primary agricultural products (wheat). 

Cryptocurrencies

Cryptocurrencies are digital assets that are operated on decentralized networks free from government or financial institutional control. While considered high-risk, several cryptocurrencies (such as Bitcoin) have shown incredible gains over the last decade. Various investment accounts in mainstream firms are starting to incorporate cryptocurrencies into their portfolio.

Other investment options (real estate investments, etc)

Other investment options include real estate, options, futures, and certificates of deposit. 

Before investing in any of the asset classes mentioned above it is imperative that one understands the financial instruments and their own risk tolerance entirely, as well as the terms involved in the investment, the fees or transaction costs and the risks involved. 

It is also important for savvy investors to understand the tax implications of their investments and the capital gains tax they might be required to pay on any investment returns.

How do investments work?

While each asset class might differ slightly, they all require an upfront investment of capital. The intention is that this will later create a return in a monetary form of higher value. 

When investing in financial products such as bonds, stocks, or a mutual fund, investors will typically have to set up an investment account with a professional such as a brokerage firm or money manager. This person can then advise on which products to invest in and manage your portfolio.

Investing in real estate will involve buying a house, usually done by making a down payment or investing in real estate investment trusts. These properties can either be used to live in or rent out and generate future income. The intention here is that the house appreciates in value over a certain period of time and can later be sold at a higher price. Depending on the property and area these types of investments can range from high risk to low risk.

How investments drive economic growth

Investments are not just for personal or corporate benefits, they play a big role in driving the broader economy. Through factors like building consumer demand and job creation, investing can play a direct role in economic growth. 

For instance, a company might decide to sell stocks and issue corporate bonds in order to raise capital. This capital can then be used to build a factory, create a new product line and hire new employees. This then drives the greater economy while also building the company's and investors' wealth. 

In another example, governments might use the funds raised from corporate bonds to fund public projects, fix the roads, or build social programs in communities. Or individuals might use gains made from investments to further their education or save for retirement. With more income comes more consumerism, in turn contributing to economic growth.

How to start investing

If you're ready to start investing, you will first need to determine your risk tolerance and which asset class you wish to pursue. If you're just starting out, start small and grow instead of taking on too many things at once. Gaining an understanding of your risk tolerance will help you to navigate where start investing.

Research

Before you begin, ensure that you have a thorough understanding of the market you wish to invest in, and understand all the associated risks. Always do your own research, and don't rely on one outlet or individual to be the sole source of information. If the option is available, consider hiring a professional to assist you. 

Understand market movements

Another important aspect to understand before investing is that markets will always have fluctuations. Even if they grow over long periods of time, they will still go through periods of increases and declines. Don't rely on past performances to dictate future outcomes. 

Open an account

To get started in investing you will need to open an investment account that allows you to both buy and sell the financial instrument. Looking at investing in stock, some investors will open a brokerage account that will execute trades on their behalf, while others might use a portfolio manager who oversees all their investments. Always do your research before parting ways with your money.

Have your financial affairs in order first

While investing is designed to create wealth, it is important to have a grasp on your personal finance beforehand, and ideally have an emergency fund set up for any unforeseen expences (so that you won't have to tap into your investment accounts).

Conclusion

An investment is the act of buying an asset with the intention that it appreciates in value over time. Before people invest it is imperative that one establishes their risk tolerance to establish how much risk one has to navigate.

Investments can be managed by professionals or individually, depending on the investors preference. It is also important to note that return on investments will typically be imposed by capital gains taxes, depending on the jurisdiction. 

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Cryptography is the process of converting messages into unreadable text so that only the intended recipient will be able to read them. Cryptography is responsible for the security, anonymity, and trust less transactions of digital currency. – entirely without the services of a financial institution.

We'll define cryptography as the study of methods to exchange sensitive information over an insecure channel in such away that only authorized parties can access it. In our case, this will be exchanging ownership of cryptocurrencies (which is represented digitally), or transferring ownership by signing digital messages.

A bit of history:

Cryptography dates back to the time when people began exchanging messages in forms other than face-to-face conversations(e.g., via written letters). The first known use of cryptography can be traced to Egypt, about 2000 years ago, during the reign of Pharaoh Thutmose III. Other known historical uses of cryptography are in the works of Julius Caesar, who used a simple cipher for messages between him and his generals.

The purpose of cryptography in crypto

A blockchain-based cryptocurrency needs some form of encryption to secure its money supply from being stolen by hackers or malicious software. It also allows for the anonymous transfer of funds between individuals without requiring a trusted third party, such as a bank or government institution. Cryptocurrencies are entirely based on cryptographic ideas.

Compared to cash transfers, cryptocurrencies do have another layer of security built into the blockchain: cryptography. The purpose of which is to validate transactions and prevent unauthorized access to the ledger by keeping all information inside a digital file that only authorized people can see. It's kind of like a physical vault (or safe) where you can keep all your money. But, unlike a physical vault, there's also no way to access the safe without a private key or password.

Usage of cryptography in Cryptocurrency

Cryptography is used in several different components of Bitcoin's security model, as well as in other cryptocurrencies.

Bitcoin addresses, which are used to receive and send funds between people on the blockchain, have both public keys and private keys. Only the owner of an address's private key can spend funds sent to the address, and only the owner of an address's public key will be able to receive them.

Every time you send or receive bitcoins, your transaction is signed with the appropriate digital signature using your private key. Since you can't share your private key with the person receiving your bitcoins, they verify that the signature is correct using your public key. The process of sending and receiving bitcoins between addresses is entirely anonymous and doesn't require any personal information (although there are ways to link transactions to identities).

Cryptocurrencies use public-key cryptography in order to prove ownership of addresses and transactions. This is done with a piece of data known as a digital signature, which is obtained using the sender's private key, and attached to the end of every transaction block along with other information about that block. Each new transaction has its own signature, verifying that the sender owns the address that is being used to send the funds. Since only the owner of a private key can create a digital signature for it, this provides a very strong guarantee that nobody else has sent their cryptocurrency to an address other than the one currently being spent from.

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Cryptocurrencies have been revolutionary in their pursuit of merging decentralization with the finance sector. The industry has grown to provide many alternative options to the traditional financial products available, with most of them at a fraction of the cost. Cryptocurrencies have digitized the way we view, use and manage our funds, and it's only the beginning of the digital assets revolution.

What is cryptocurrency?

Cryptocurrency is the blanket term used to describe any digital asset that utilizes blockchain technology or distributed ledger technology to operate. The first cryptocurrency that came into existence was the Bitcoin network, created in 2009 by the mysterious Satoshi Nakamoto.

The cryptocurrency was designed to provide an alternative monetary system to the traditional banking sector, free from politics. Instead of a central authority, Bitcoin operates using a decentralized network of computers that work together to transact and verify any financial transactions using the Bitcoin protocol. For the first time ever people could manage their money without having to rely on a centralized institution.

Since Bitcoin's success, many other cryptocurrencies have emerged, some providing a revised solution to the digital cash system Bitcoin created, while others have brought innovation to the crypto space.

The Ethereum blockchain, as an example, provides the industry with a platform on which developers can create decentralized apps (dapps) merging the app concept with the decentralized nature of blockchain technology.

Cryptocurrency vs traditional currencies

Traditional currencies, also known as fiat currencies, are operated by government institutions while cryptocurrencies are maintained through a network of computers following a specific protocol. While a Federal Reserve typically sits behind a fiat currency, the key players in a cryptocurrency's existence typically involve:

• Core developers, responsible for updating a network's protocol
• Miners, responsible for validating and executing transactions
• Users, the people using the cryptocurrency
• Exchanges and trading platforms, facilitating the trade of these cryptocurrencies.

While governments have free control over printing new money, most cryptocurrencies are created with a hard cap. For instance, Bitcoin was designed with a maximum limit of 21 million coins, meaning that there will only ever be that number in existence. Not all cryptocurrencies have this hard cap though, Ethereum has an infinite supply due to the nature of the platform and the cryptocurrency.

Unlike fiat currencies, Bitcoin and many other cryptocurrencies were designed to be deflationary, with the necessary factors in place to ensure that the value of the currency increases over time (based on simple supply-demand economics).

Another pressing difference between cryptocurrencies and fiat currencies is that cryptocurrencies are still undergoing regulatory processes. While they are not illegal to trade (in most countries), they are not yet considered to be legal tenders (again, in most countries). Regulators around the world are working on a legal framework in which cryptocurrencies can operate in mainstream markets.

How do cryptocurrencies work?

Now that we've covered the basics on what is cryptocurrency, let's take a look at how these digital currencies actually function. First and foremost, through the use of blockchain technology. While not all cryptocurrencies use this technology, most do and we will use it as an example (as the concept is roughly the same).

Blockchain technology explained

Blockchain is best explained as a digital record-keeping system, or a distributed database. All transactions made on the network are stored in a transparent manner for anyone to see, with no way to edit or omit any of the information. All data is stored in blocks, which are added chronologically to a chain, hence the name.

A block will contain information relating to every cryptocurrency transaction, like timestamps of when it took place, the sending and receiving wallet addresses, transactional hash, and amounts. Depending on their size, blocks typically store data for a few hundred to a few thousand transactions. Blocks will then also hold a block hash, a unique identifying number associated with the block, and the hash of the previous block to prove its order.

When companies incorporate blockchain technology into their businesses they will typically use a private network where the information is only transparent to certain users. This is referred to as a "permissioned" blockchain, different from a "permissionless" blockchain used for Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies.

Cryptocurrency transactions explained

While blockchain forms the backbone of a cryptocurrency network, miners facilitate the transactions. In a process called mining, cryptocurrency transactions are validated and executed, and through cryptocurrency mining new coins are minted. To make this easier to understand, we're going to use an example of Lucy sending Bitcoin to Jane.

From her Bitcoin wallet, Lucy will initiate a transaction to Jane, sending 1 BTC. After entering Jane's wallet address, she will confirm the network fees presented (these are paid directly to the miner for their time and effort), and execute the transaction.

The transaction will then enter a pool of transactions waiting to be executed called a mempool. Miners then compete to be the first to solve a computational puzzle, the winner of which will be rewarded with verifying and executing the next batch of transactions (cryptocurrency mining).

Confirming that each wallet address exists and each sender has the available funds, the miners will collect each of the network fees that the senders paid. The data from the confirmed transactions will then be added to a block and added to the blockchain right after the last published one. For adding a new block to the blockchain, the miner receives a block reward.

This block reward is based on the current rate, which is halved every 210,000 blocks (roughly every 4 years). This is how new Bitcoin enters circulation and the currency is able to maintain a deflationary status.

Jane will then receive a notification to say that she has received 1 BTC, and depending on her wallet will need to wait for 3 - 6 confirmations before being able to access the funds. Each confirmation is when a new block is added to the blockchain, which typically takes 10 minutes.

This process is typical of a proof of work network, used on networks like Bitcoin. This process is also the same whether you are buying crypto from crypto exchanges or sending to a friend.

The only time this differs is when using a cryptocurrency blockchain that utilizes a proof of stake consensus. In this case, instead of miners competing to solve the puzzle (requiring a lot of energy), validators will be selected by the network to conduct the verification process afterwhich this information will be verified and added to the relevant blockchain ledger.

The different types of cryptocurrencies

With tens of thousands of virtual currencies on the market, a number of subcategories have been created. While Bitcoin is a digital cash system providing a store of value and a medium of exchange, not all cryptocurrencies follow this structure.

Cryptocurrencies that are not Bitcoin are referred to as altcoins, (alternative coins), a term coined in the early days when new coins started emerging. Some altcoins are focused on providing heightened privacy, security, or speed while others are created for entertainment and leisure.

There are nine main types of cryptocurrencies, which we'll briefly highlight below:

• Utility, provide access to the platform service
• Payment, used to pay for goods and services within and outside of its network
• Exchange, native to cryptocurrency exchange platforms
• Security, where its usage and issuance are governed by financial regulations
• Stablecoins, digital currencies with prices pegged to fiat currencies
• DeFi tokens, digital currencies used on DeFi (decentralized finance) exchanges
• NFTs, non-fungible tokens representing unique identities that cannot be replicated
• Asset-backed tokens, where their underlying value is backed by a real-world asset

Another category that is gaining popularity around the world is Central Bank Digital Currencies, CBDCs. These digital currencies are operated and maintained by a central bank with the price pegged to the local currency.

What are the benefits of digital currency?

Cryptocurrencies are known for their fast and secure transactions, not limited by borders or government intervention. Below are several highlights that cryptocurrencies bring to the financial sector.

• Decentralized. Eliminating third parties and centralized authority, cryptocurrencies make the transfer of assets possible while reducing costs and time constraints.
• Security. Blockchain provides a transparent and immutable means of storing transactional data ensuring smooth and accountable operations.
• Deflationary. Most cryptocurrencies with a limited supply are designed to be deflationary in nature due to the decreasing supply mechanisms set in place. With basic supply-demand economics, a reduced supply and increased demand drive the price up.
• Reduced transaction fees. Cryptocurrencies provide a much cheaper alternative to sending fiat currencies across borders. With no need to exchange currencies and bypass several middlemen, cryptocurrencies are able to be sent on a peer-to-peer basis in a matter of minutes.
• Diversification. When it comes to investing, cryptocurrencies present a measure of diversification. Considering your risk tolerance and asset allocation, cryptocurrencies could be a part of your investment portfolio.

What are the risks associated with cryptocurrencies?

While there are plenty of benefits, as with any "new" asset class, there are risks to be considered too.

• Market volatility. Cryptocurrencies are prone to bouts of volatility with prices rising and falling dramatically in various frames of time.
• Market manipulation. Some cryptocurrencies might fall victim to a pump-and-dump scheme through no fault of the networks'. These are typically orchestrated by third parties.
• Theft. While blockchains can't typically be hacked, many cryptocurrency exchanges and wallets that don't utilize the necessary security measures can fall prey to hackers. To avoid this ensure that you always stick to a regulated platform with high-security measures.

How does one store cryptocurrency?

Cryptocurrency is stored in a digital wallet, similar to how one would store money at financial institutions only with cryptocurrency you are entirely in control of your funds. From the wallet you can make crypto transactions, store a wide range of cryptocurrency assets and hold your cryptocurrency investments long term.

Each cryptocurrency wallet is specifically designed to hold a certain type of cryptocurrency. For example, you cannot accept Bitcoin in an Ethereum wallet or send Bitcoin Cash to a Bitcoin wallet. Each wallet also comes with a set of public and private keys, the latter of which gives the holder access to the funds.

How to trade cryptocurrencies on cryptocurrency exchanges

Now that you understand what is cryptocurrency, let's cover how to enter the world of crypto assets. Entering the world of cryptocurrencies can be both exciting and rewarding. While we encourage every single person to conduct their own research prior to getting involved, once you're ready to start your journey into the cryptocurrency space, we're here for you.

Crypto exchanges

In order to buy any digital currency, traders will need to utilize cryptocurrency exchanges. These exchanges facilitate the buying and selling of crypto assets, and depending on the structure, often require users to offer some proof of identification before conducting any cryptocurrency transactions.

Decentralized vs centralized

The cryptocurrency market is made up of decentralized exchanges and centralized exchanges. The difference between the two is how they are operated, with centralized exchanges have a central authority. Typically, the centralized ones are more reliable and trustworthy as they require licenses which hold them accountable to certain standards within the financial sector. When looking to trade any digital currency, find an exchange that is regulated and licensed by a financial body.

The Tap app is a mobile app that allows users to buy, sell, trade, store and even earn crypto through a secure wallet infrastructure. Supporting a number of popular cryptocurrencies, users gain access to a wide range of markets. Fully regulated by the Gibraltar Financial Services Commission, the app uses top-of-the-range security technology to ensure that all data and funds are secured at all times.

Open an account

To engage in the cryptocurrency market all one needs to do is create an account. To open an account on Tap simply download the app from the App or Google Play store, enter the details required and complete the KYC process, an international requirement on all reputable digital currency platforms. Users will then gain access to a number of crypto and fiat wallets, with the ability to accumulate a wide range of cryptocurrencies.

From there, users can make cryptocurrency transactions, whether to friends also using the platform, external wallets or even external bank accounts for online payments, such as municipalities. The app offers a modern approach to banking services where funds can be used for real world payments. 

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As all things “metaverse” continue to dominate headlines, the virtual world has established itself as front and centre of mainstream media. Decentraland provides a virtual world where users can buy, sell and trade unique assets and engage in interactive apps and peer-to-peer communication alongside in-world payments. The world of Decentraland has seen impressive growth, and it’s about time you learnt about it. 

At its core, Decentraland is a virtual reality platform that allows users to create, experience, and monetize in-house content and applications. Built on the Ethereum blockchain, Decentraland utilizes two main tokens on the platform, LAND and MANA. 

LAND arenon-fungible (NFT) tokens that provide ownership rights to the digital real estate (land parcels) while MANA is the in-house currency that facilitates the sale of LAND and other goods and services available on the platform, like customising one's avatar, for instance. MANA also allows holders to vote on policy updates, subsidies for new developments, and land auctions. 

Decentraland was designed to provide users access to ​​”new artistic medium, business opportunity, or source of entertainment.” The virtual space is made up of 90,601 individual land parcels, each measuring 16m x 16m (256 square meters), and assigned to particular co-ordinates in its “metaverse”.  Each space is assigned to a LAND NFT which records the ownership. 

LAND owners can then develop the land as they please, with several marked districts varying in size and theme. Holders can then lease out the land or provide paid experiences through the creation of animation and interactions experienced on their particular virtual real estate.

Who Created Decentraland?

Decentraland was created by the Decentraland Foundation, founded by ​​Esteban Ordano and Ariel Meilich in 2015, and holds the intellectual property rights as well as maintaining the platform. Before launching, the foundation, which still holds 20% of the total MANA supply, created a decentralized autonomous organization (DAO) allowing the users to make governance decisions. 

In 2017 the project underwent a successful ICO, raising the equivalent of $26 million at the time. These funds were used to drive future operations. 

How Does Decentraland Work?

The core function of the Decentraland network is to track ownership of land parcels, while users engaging in the platform are required to hold MANA in order to participate. 

Through a system of smart contracts each land parcel is tracked on the consensus layer, with each parcel’s own coordinates, owner, and a reference to the content within the parcel. 

The content layer then holds the specifics for each parcel, including the all static audio and visuals, the placement and behavior of items, as well as P2P interactions such as gesturing, voice chat, and messaging. There is then a real-time layer that facilitates all the social interactions of the user avatars.

Decentraland also hosts a marketplace where users can create scenes and wearables and manage and exchange LAND tokens, priced in MANA. 

What Is MANA?

MANA is the governance and in-house currency for the Decentraland ecosystem. With a total supply of of 2.19 billion MANA, roughly 600 million MANA have been burned in LAND transactions bringing the previous total supply down substantially. 

MANA facilitates the platform’s aim of providing a customizable and shared virtual reality space that connects users around the world.

How Can I Buy MANA?

If you’d like to join the metaverse and become a part of the Decentraland virtual community, you can simply buy MANA directly from your Tap account. As part of a string of newly supported cryptocurrencies, MANA is now available for trade on the Tap app, allowing users to buy, sell and spend MANA as they please. 

What started off as a joke has become an international phenomenon with a market cap that ranks it among the top 10 cryptocurrencies (not to mention price gains). As we explore what Dogecoin is, let's take a look at where the digital cash network came from, why the cryptocurrency became such a sensation and how it compares to Bitcoin.

Leading the way in the meme-based movement, Dogecoin has become the most unlikely of leaders in its field as it trades at a very attractive price. Everyone from investors to run-of-the-mill Internet users has followed the hype and invested in this meme-inspired altcoin.

Did you know that Dogecoin has more DOGE in circulation than Ethereum and Litecoin combined? Let's dive in to understand the true value behind this Internet meme-inspired cryptocurrency

Who created Dogecoin?

Dogecoin was created as a joke cryptocurrency in 2013 and is based on a Shiba Inu dog meme circulating at the time. Two developers, Billy Marcus and Jackson Palmer got together to create the cryptocurrency to poke fun at Bitcoin, which turned out to be a lot more than that almost a decade later.

What is Dogecoin?

Dogecoin is a peer to peer payment system with its native cryptocurrency, DOGE, acting as the medium of exchange. The cryptocurrency was created in December 2013 through a hard fork off of the Litecoin network. The cryptocurrency has no limit on the maximum amount of coins and currently has over 131 billion DOGE in circulation.

While a popular option as a digital cash payment method, the cryptocurrency is most commonly used as a tipping system to reward quality content on social media platforms like Twitter and Reddit. Working in a similar way as cash would in a financial transaction.

What's triggered Dogecoin's surge?

The self-proclaimed "Dogefather" and Tesla CEO Elon Musk has contributed to Dogecoin's recent success with his tweets about the cryptocurrency making news headlines around the planet. His tweets have had a significant effect on the cryptocurrency's price as published on the CoinMarketCap website.

With a similar mining style to Litecoin, Dogecoin is a popular option when it comes to trading cryptocurrencies.

How does Dogecoin work?

Using blockchain technology, Dogecoin facilitates digital transactions in a transparent and mutable way. Hard forked off of the Litecoin network, Dogecoin uses the same Scrypt technology in the Proof-of-Work protocol. Unlike Litecoin, however, the cryptocurrency can execute transactions in 1 minute.

Users simply need to create a wallet in order to store DOGE, from where they can either send and receive the cryptocurrency or simply store it. DOGE works similarly to other cryptocurrencies in this regard.

In the last year, investors have seen high gains as the celebrity-endorsed hype surrounding the cryptocurrency increased its value. As interest grew in the Shiba-meme token, so too did its market cap, pushing Litecoin out of the top 10 biggest cryptocurrencies and edging closer to Ethereum (currently in second place).

The Dogecoin foundation

In 2014 members of the Dogecoin team created a not-for-profit foundation to oversee project development and direction. This dissipated over the years and was recently relaunched in 2021 with several key new members and an inflated market capitalisation.

While co-founder Billy Markus and Dogecoin's core developer Max Keller remain on the board, two new additions have been made with the likes of Ethereum founder Vitalik Buterin as well as Jared Birchall, the manager of Elon Musk's family office. 

The team meets on a monthly basis to discuss issues relating to the virtual currency, with each member taking responsibility for various aspects. Markus is responsible for overseeing the community and memes while Keller will function as the cryptocurrency technical advisor.

Buterin will serve as the blockchain and crypto advisor and Birchall as the financial and legal advisor (representing Elon Musk).

Dogecoin's following

From its initial launch, Dogecoin has had a spirited and loyal following. In its early days, the community raised funds for high profile events, like sponsoring a NASCAR driver and sending the Jamaican bobsleigh team to the 2014 Olympics.

To date, a number of high profile celebrities have put their name behind the coin, most notably Elon Musk and billionaire Mark Cuban. Musk was responsible for several waves in the crypto market in 2021, causing substantial boosts and dips in the capitalisation of the market. Most notably in May, after a tweet from Musk stating only "How much is that Doge in the window?" The DOGE price increased by 11% in mere hours. 

While Dogecoin was not created to be a store of value, the Dogecoin price increases certainly brought about tons of media attention and healthy returns for investors.

Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban is also a huge fan, celebrating the cryptocurrency for being "the one" when it comes to a digital medium of exchange. In 2021, the NBA team started accepting Dogecoin as a payment option for merchandise and ticket sales, incorporating blockchain into the main league.

What is the difference between Dogecoin and Bitcoin?

While both cryptocurrencies are designed to provide a medium of exchange, they differ in a number of ways. For starters, they both use the same Proof-of-Work mining concept which is based on miners solving complex mathematical problems in order to mine new blocks and control the supply.

Different from each other, the Dogecoin network can process transactions 10x faster than Bitcoin (1 minute vs 10 minutes for BTC). They also have varying inflationary statuses, with Bitcoin being deflationary in nature due to its 21 million coin cap while Dogecoin is highly inflationary as it has an unlimited supply. 

While Bitcoin can be held as a store of value, Dogecoin is less supported in this area due to its lack of maximum supply and the fact that millions of DOGE are entering circulation each day. DOGE however, is better suited to being a medium of exchange.

While Bitcoin has a strong following around the world, there is a significant Twitter and Reddit community punting the coin and encouraging traders to buy the cryptocurrency. From internet meme to international top 10 traded cryptocurrency, Dogecoin has an impressive history when it comes to market value.

How do I buy Dogecoin?

In just nine months the cryptocurrency has become a legend of sorts in the crypto community (including Reddit), moved into the top 10 cryptocurrencies based on market cap, and grown 5,000% in value.

Should I immediately pour my life savings into it? Probably not. But if you're looking to add the cryptocurrency to your cryptocurrency investment portfolio, look no further than the Tap Global platform. DOGE is one of the latest cryptocurrencies to be onboarded on the mobile app. 

We have all heard older generations complain about the price of products "nowadays", talking about how $1 used to buy them a movie ticket and popcorn, compared to the average cost of $10 for just a ticket today. They aren't complaining about nothing, this is a very real issue the world is currently facing and it's known as inflation.

Although, with the way the economy has been going lately, hyperinflation may feel like a more fitting term. In basic terms, hyperinflation is referring to a very high and accelerating inflation rate. Let's cover what inflation is, and how this differs from hyperinflation.

What is inflation?

Inflation refers to a decrease in purchasing power related to a specific currency. This means a progressive increase in the price of goods and services results in a certain amount of money being able to buy less over time.

As already stated above, what $1 used to buy back in the day is merely a fraction of what the product or service now costs. Usually, inflation occurs at a gradual rate, however, there have been instances where inflation rates have accelerated at much faster speeds. This rapid acceleration rate leads to the value of a country's currency being diminished at an alarming rate. This is then referred to as hyperinflation.

Hyperinflation is measured when the inflation rate increases by 50% or more in one month.

What causes hyperinflation?

You may be wondering how hyperinflation occurs, and that's a great question. From an economic standpoint, there are two main causes, although external factors can also come into play. External factors might include war, natural disasters, a pandemic, and more, however, here we will be covering the two main causes.

Number one is an increased money supply. Most think that an excess supply of money sounds great, but it can have colossal impacts on a currency if not backed by economic growth. Countries usually grow through trading, businesses, and bringing money into the country from outside the borders.

This issue comes into play when countries print money at an accelerated rate, increasing government debt with central banks which they then have to pay back with interest. This additional interest and debt gets placed on citizens, who are then expected to pay more tax and pay more for products. 

The second is demand-pull inflation. This can also be described as supply vs demand. While some small businesses see this as a benefit, being able to increase prices due to their unique products, the same can not be said for common household items. This inflation occurs when the demand for products goes up, especially as capitalism rises, yet the production of said products can not contend. 

This creates a gap within the supply, making it hard for businesses and economies to make money unless they raise their prices. So again, we see product prices rising thus reducing the purchasing power of a currency. 

The effects of hyperinflation 

One of the most common effects of hyperinflation is the devaluation of currencies, moving those who hold them to switch to more valuable assets. Whether it is investing in the stock market or another currency, this takes additional money out of the currencies' economy and proceeds to make hyperinflation worse. Luckily those who have invested in other means of value are not as affected by this additional pressure.

Previously, inflation in Zimbabwe reached such dire levels that the country ultimately wrote off its national currency and switched over to the US dollar. At one point, their currency was so hyperinflated that their $100 trillion Zimbabwe dollar banknote could only buy a few loaves of bread. This impact affected banks, foreign trading, and basic government services, creating another ripple effect leading to further inflation. It's a problem that continues to occur, ravaging countries and livelihoods around the world.

Hyperinflation and monetary policies

Central banks play a vital role in preventing hyperinflation through the implementation of monetary policies.. As they control the money supply, regulate interest rates, and oversee the stability of the currency, central banks are responsible for maintaining a balance between growth and inflation. Done so by carefully monitoring economic indicators to manage and prevent potential risks of excessive growth and inflation.

In order to keep hyperinflation at bay, governments need to practise responsible fiscal policies, avoiding excessive borrowing and uncontrolled spending. Maintaining a stable exchange rate and encouraging foreign investments can also strengthen economic stability.

How to combat hyperinflation

In an attempt to curb the devastating effects of hyperinflation, below are four measures that governments and central banks could implement.

Tightening money supply

An obvious one, central banks can reduce hyperinflation risks by curbing the rapid increase in the money supply. This involves limiting the printing of new money and implementing stringent monetary policies.

Interest rate adjustments

By raising interest rates, central banks can discourage excessive borrowing and spending, which acts as a means of stabilising the currency's value and mitigating hyperinflationary pressures.

Currency controls

Implementing currency controls can be a smart move to stop money from leaving the country and prevent risky speculation, all while keeping the currency strong during uncertain economic times.

Currency reforms

In extreme cases, currency reforms, such as introducing a new, more stable currency or adopting a foreign currency as legal tender, can be considered to tackle hyperinflation and restore economic confidence, as was the case with Zimbabwe mentioned above.

Examples of hyperinflation in history

These instances from the past where hyperinflation wreaked havoc serve as a clear indication of the devastating economic impact it can have on countries.

Germany (Weimar Republic):

During the early 1920s, Germany experienced one of the most infamous hyperinflation episodes. Printing money to cover war reparations led to the German Mark's catastrophic devaluation, resulting in absurd price increases and widespread economic collapse.

Zimbabwe:

Mentioned above, in the late 2000s, Zimbabwe endured a severe hyperinflationary crisis, reaching unimaginable levels. Rampant money printing and political instability eroded the Zimbabwean dollar's value, rendering it practically worthless and forcing the country to abandon its currency.

Venezuela:

Starting in the 2010s, Venezuela suffered a hyperinflationary spiral driven by a combination of political mismanagement, plummeting oil prices, and economic turmoil. This ongoing crisis has caused immense hardships for the Venezuelan population.

Yugoslavia:

In the 1990s, Yugoslavia grappled with hyperinflation as a result of political fragmentation and war. Spiralling prices led to the eventual replacement of the Yugoslav dinar with new currencies in several successor states.

Hungary:

Post-World War II, Hungary faced hyperinflation of unprecedented proportions. Skyrocketing prices and economic instability plagued the country until it eventually switched to a new currency.

These history lessons serve as cautionary tales, showing us just how terrible hyperinflation can be and why it's crucial to have solid monetary policies in place to protect against these economic disasters.

In conclusion

Hyperinflation, rapidly increasing inflation rates, is a serious economic problem with disastrous effects, as seen in historical examples like Germany, Zimbabwe, Venezuela, Yugoslavia, and Hungary. While central banks play a crucial role in preventing hyperinflation through monetary policies, governments must too play their part and practice responsible fiscal policies.

While inflation rates might feel dire, hyperinflation is highly unlikely to ever take effect in the United Kingdom as The Bank of England and government have many tools at their disposal to identify and prevent the onset.

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Overexposure is a common pitfall in trading, which occurs when a trader invests too heavily in a single asset, exposing themselves to a significant amount of risk. If the asset does not perform as expected, the trader's entire portfolio can suffer significant losses.
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To mitigate the risks of overexposure, traders can employ a strategy known as diversification. This involves investing in a range of assets across various industries and sectors, spreading out the risk and increasing the likelihood of positive returns. By diversifying their portfolio, traders can reduce the impact of a single asset's poor performance, as losses in one area can be offset by gains in others.
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Avoiding overexposure is an essential aspect of risk management, as it helps traders balance potential gains against potential losses. While it may be tempting to invest heavily in a single asset that appears to be performing well, this strategy can be risky, as even the most successful assets can experience significant losses due to unforeseen events or changes in the market.
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In addition to diversification, there are several other strategies traders can use to avoid overexposure. These include setting stop-loss orders, which automatically sell an asset if its price falls below a specified threshold, and regularly reviewing and adjusting investment strategies based on market conditions and performance.
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It is also important for traders to conduct thorough research before investing in any asset to ensure they fully understand the potential risks and rewards. By being informed and educated, traders can make more informed decisions about their investments and minimize the risks of overexposure.
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In conclusion, overexposure is a common risk in trading that can have significant consequences for a trader's portfolio. Diversification is an effective way to mitigate the risks of overexposure, and traders can also use other strategies such as setting stop-loss orders and regularly reviewing their investments.

Litecoin is part of the first generation of altcoins to emerge after Bitcoin ignited the crypto revolution. This peer-to-peer cryptocurrency is a popular option when it comes to transacting in the real world and investors' portfolios, and has been a permanent feature in the top 15 biggest cryptocurrencies by market cap for years. 

What Is Litecoin?

Litecoin was launched in 2011 as an alternative to Bitcoin, providing users with a faster means of transacting money over the internet. While it was never designed to replace Bitcoin, Litecoin was created to complement the original digital money. Litecoin is often referred to as "digital silver" compared to Bitcoin being referred to as "digital gold".

Litecoin is widely considered to be one of the most successful altcoins. Created as a hard fork off of Bitcoin's blockchain, Litecoin holds many similarities in the way it functions, however, the team behind the open-source cryptocurrency incorporated several features to ensure that the network operated in a faster manner.

These include changing the amount of time it takes to process transactions, the maximum total supply, the hashing algorithm, and charging very low transaction fees. Compared to Bitcoin's 21 million total supply and 10-minute transaction processing time, Litecoin has a maximum supply of 84 million LTC and can process transactions in 2.5 minutes. It also opted to use a Scrypt hashing algorithm over the SHA-256 one.

The network is known for pioneering advanced crypto features like the Lightning Network and Segregated Witness, both of which have since been implemented by the Bitcoin network. 

How Does Litecoin Work?

As Litecoin is based on Bitcoin's software, they function in very similar ways. Through the Proof-of-Work consensus, all transactions are executed through mining. When a transaction enters the mempool (pool of pending transactions) it is soon picked up by a miner who will then ensure that all the details are accurate (including valid wallet addresses and available balances).

The first miner to solve a cryptographic puzzle is awarded the task of executing the transactions and in turn, earns a reward. At the time of writing the reward was 12.5 LTC, however, after every 840,000 blocks mined the reward halves in what is known as a halving reward. This mechanism is in place to manage the supply of new tokens entering circulation as each block mined releases minted new tokens.

As mentioned above, transactions are executed in 2.5 minutes, provided there is no congestion on the network, making it attractive to merchants and other service providers. The cost of making a transaction on the Litecoin network ranges from $0.03 or $.04 US cents.

Litecoin vs blockchain technology

Litecoin, like many other cryptocurrencies, is built on blockchain technology. It relies on the blockchain as the underlying technology to facilitate secure and decentralized transactions.

Litecoin transactions are facilitated by the blockchain through a decentralized ledger. When a transaction occurs, it is grouped with other transactions into a block. Miners then validate the transactions and add the block to the Litecoin blockchain. This process ensures the transparency and integrity of Litecoin transactions.

Blockchain plays a crucial role in securing Litecoin transactions by providing a decentralized and immutable record of all transactional activity. Each block is linked to the previous block, forming a chain, making it extremely difficult for malicious actors to alter past transactions. The distributed nature of the blockchain network ensures that no single entity has control over Litecoin transactions, enhancing security and trust in the system.

What gives Litecoin its value?

The value of Litecoin is determined by supply and demand, often determined by trade activity on exchanges. Due to its global liquidity and finite supply, Litecoin is a deflationary currency and has witnessed price gains over the years, making it an attractive option for investors in the global financial landscape over the years. 

What is Litecoin used for?

Litecoin is a peer-to-peer payment system providing both a medium of exchange and a store of value. Due to its fast transaction times and secure network, Litecoin is often favored when making transactions that are time-sensitive, i.e. paying for a coffee or at a restaurant. LTC is widely used by merchants and service providers around the world and has experienced increased crypto adoption and investment over the last decade.  

Who created Litecoin?

The Litecoin project is the creation of a former Google engineer and MIT graduate named Charlie Lee. Two years after creating Litecoin, Lee would go on to become the Director of Engineering at a large cryptocurrency exchange. In 2017, Lee rejoined the team as managing director of the Litecoin Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to the development of the blockchain platform and its technology.

Litecoin development and community

Litecoin's development process involves a dedicated team of developers who work on improving the Litecoin software and its functionalities. It follows a transparent and open-source approach, allowing anyone to contribute to its development and propose changes.

The Litecoin software undergoes regular updates and enhancements to ensure it remains secure, efficient, and compatible with emerging technologies. These updates often introduce new features, improve performance, and address any identified vulnerabilities.

Litecoin has a vibrant and active community that actively participates in its evolution. Community members provide feedback, report bugs, and contribute to discussions on Litecoin's future development. Their contributions range from code contributions from developers to community-driven initiatives, fostering a collaborative environment and shaping the direction of Litecoin's growth.

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Stocks are essentially shares in a company that the company sells to shareholders in order to raise money. Shareholders are then entitled to dividends if the company succeeds, and might also receive voting rights when the company makes big decisions (depending on the company).

What are stocks?

Stocks play an important role in the global economy, assisting both companies (in raising capital) and individuals (in potentially earning returns). Traders can buy and sell stocks through stock trades facilitated by various stock exchanges. The stock price is determined by supply and demand, largely influenced by the company's success and media representation.

These "units of ownership" are sold through exchanges, like Nasdaq or the London Stock Exchange, under the guidance of regulatory bodies, such as the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) in the United States. These regulatory bodies set specific regulations on how companies can distribute and manage their stocks.

What are the different types of stocks?

There are two types of stocks, common stocks and preferred stocks, as outlined below.

Common Stock

Shareholders of common stock typically have voting rights, where each shareholder has one vote per share. This might grant them access to attending annual general meetings and being able to vote on corporate issues like electing people to the board, stock splits, or general company strategy.

Preferred Stock

For investors more interested in stability and receiving regular payments rather than voting on corporate issues, preferred stocks are often the security of choice. Preferred stock are shares that provide dividends but without the voting rights. Like bonds, there are a number of features that make them attractive investments. For example, many companies include clauses allowing them to repurchase shares at an agreed-upon price.

Stock vs bond

Although both stocks and bonds signify an investment, they vary in how they operate. With bonds, you're essentially lending money to the government or a company and collecting interest as a return while with stocks you're buying part-ownership of a company. Another key difference is that bondholders usually have more protection than stockholders do.

In contrast to stocks, bonds are not normally traded on an exchange, but rather over the counter (the investor has to deal straight with the issuing company, government, or other entity).

Stocks vs futures and options

Futures and Options contrast stocks in that they are derivatives; their value is reliant on other assets like commodities, shares, currencies, and so on. They are contracts established off the volatility of underlying assets instead of ownership of the asset itself.

Stocks vs cryptocurrencies

While stocks provide a unit of ownership in a company, cryptocurrencies are digital assets that operate on their own network. Cryptocurrencies are decentralised, meaning that no one entity is in charge, while stocks are shares in companies that are heavily centralised and held accountable for their price movements. Both the stock price and the price of cryptocurrencies are determined by supply and demand.

Another key difference is that stocks are regulated while, at present, cryptocurrencies are not.

Where did stock trading originate?

The first recorded instance of stock-like instruments being used was by the Romans as a way to involve their citizens in public works. Businesses contracted by the state would sell an instrument similar to a share to raise money for different ventures. This method was called 'lease holding.'

The 1600s gave rise to the East India Company (EIC), which is considered by many the first joint-stock company in history. The EIC increased its notoriety by trading various commodities in the Indian Ocean region. Today, we see the limited liability company (LLC) as a watered-down version of the joint-stock company.

How does the stock market work?

The 'stock market’ is an umbrella term that refers to the various exchanges where stocks in public companies are bought, sold, and traded.

The stock market is composed of similar yet different investment opportunities that allow investors to buy and sell stocks, these are called "stock exchanges." The best-known exchanges in the United States are the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE), Nasdaq, Better Alternative Trading System (BATS), and the Chicago Board Options Exchange (CBOE).

Together, these organisations form what we call the U.S. stock market. Other financial instruments like commodities, bonds, derivatives, and currencies are also traded on the stock market.

An example: the New York Stock Exchange

The New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) is the largest equity exchange in the world, and it has a long and rich history. Established in 1792, it was originally known as the "Buttonwood Agreement" between 24 stockbrokers who gathered at 68 Wall Street to sign an agreement that called for the trading of securities in an organised manner.

Since then, the NYSE has become a global leader in financial markets, with more than 2,400 companies listed and nearly $26.2 trillion in market capitalization. The exchange has an average daily trade volume of $123 billion.

Investing in common stock or preferred stock on the NYSE can be done through a broker or online stock trading platform. When trading on the NYSE, investors have access to a wide range of products and services, including stocks, bonds, mutual funds and ETFs (exchange-traded funds).

Investors can also take advantage of the numerous benefits that come with trading on the NYSE, such as access to real-time information and the ability to buy and sell quickly. The trading platform is regulated by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

How to navigate stock market volatility

Stock market volatility, characterised by rapid and unpredictable changes in stock prices, is influenced by economic indicators, geopolitical events, and investor sentiment. To manage this volatility, investors can diversify their portfolios, set clear investment goals, and maintain a long-term perspective.

Regular portfolio reviews and seeking guidance from financial advisors can also help when it comes to making informed decisions during volatile periods. Investors who stay informed about market trends and use strategic approaches can navigate market fluctuations more effectively, which better positions them for long-term success in stock investing.

The importance of diversification when investing

Diversification is key when investing, and the stock market is no exception. The "don't put all your eggs in one basket" approach offers benefits like risk reduction and the potential for higher returns. Strategies for diversification include investing across different sectors, industries, and asset classes.

By spreading investments, investors can manage risk effectively, ensuring their portfolio isn't overly exposed to any single asset or market sector. This helps cushion against market downturns and enhances the overall stability of the investment portfolio.

Terminology associated with the stock market

• Broker: A broker is someone who buys and sells assets on behalf of another person, charging a commission for their services.
• Stockholders equity: The value of a company's stock can be better understood by this metric, which is the company's assets remaining after all bills are covered (liabilities).
• Stock splits: Conducting a stock split is one way that companies make their stocks more accessible to investors. Although it won't change the market capitalisation or value of shares, it will increase the number available.
• Short selling: If an investor wants to bet on a stock's price going down, they can take a "short" position. To do this, they must borrow the stock from either a broker or a financial institution.
• Blue-chip stocks: Companies that are large and have a lot of capital typically fall into the blue-chip category. They usually trade on famous stock exchanges, like the NYSE or Nasdaq.
• Pink sheet stocks: 'Penny' or 'pink-sheet' stocks are those that trade below the $5 threshold and are typically OTC (over the counter). These can be high risk.
• Buying on margin: Buying on margin is using borrowed money to buy stocks, bonds, or other investments in the hopes of making big returns and paying off the loan.
• Market order: When placing an order for a trade, the investor needs to pick from several types of orders. A market order is executed at whatever the next price is, which can be risky if there's a big gap between what buyers and sellers are offering.
• Limit order: A limit order is an order to buy or sell a security at a specified price, with a maximum amount decided on before executing the trade.
• Stop order: A stop order, also referred to as a stop-loss order, is an order placed with a broker to buy or sell once the stock reaches a predetermined price.

In conclusion

Shares, or stock, are units of fractional ownership in a company that investors buy to gain capital appreciation and tap into a company's earnings if the company's stock pays dividends. Companies, through listing their stock on an exchange, can raise capital to further develop the business.

Stock is traded on an exchange, and the stock prices are determined by supply and demand. 

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Cryptocurrencies have gained a reputation for being largely volatile investments. While stock too can have their moments (what with Peloton stocks dropping 20% every other day) the crypto market carries the brunt of it. 

Thankfully, stablecoins have come to the rescue. While still functioning as digital currencies powered by blockchain technology, stablecoins are pegged to external assets such as fiat currencies or gold, thereby eradicating (most of) their volatility. 

A Short History Of Stablecoins

After the advent of Bitcoin in 2009, it was only a few years later that a stable digital asset entered the market. Stablecoins came into existence in 2014 when a Hong-Kong based company named Tether Limited released a coin of the same name. The Tether coins' value was pegged to the US dollar, meaning that 1 USDT would always be worth $1. 

In order to guarantee this value, the company held the dollar equivalent in bank accounts. Skip past the controversy surrounding their reserves and lack of financial analysis, and there are now plenty of other stablecoin options on the market. 

Seeing the infinite benefits of digital currency transactions and blockchain technology, like speed, transparency and low fees, many companies around the world have created their own version of the stablecoin, mostly improving on the previous release. These coins have proven to be invaluable with businesses and retail merchants around the world.

Today, the two biggest stablecoins on the market are Tether (USDT) and USD Coin (USDC). One can argue whether these are "safe haven" assets, but one cannot deny that these tokens hold most of the advantages that digital currencies hold while considerably diminishing the unpredictable market swings. 

In our attempt to better understand the concept, let's take a look at the two biggest stablecoins.

Tether (USDT) vs USD Coin (USDC)

Below we explore the two multi-billion-dollar market cap stablecoins, while they both provide the same service in terms of a digital currency, the companies behind them operate quite differently.

What Is Tether (USDT)?

As mentioned above, Tether is the first stablecoin to enter the market. Launched in 2014, the network was initially built on the Ethereum blockchain but is now compatible with a number of other networks. 

Note that the Ethereum-based USDT cannot be traded as a TRON-based token, coins need to stick to their respective blockchain networks as this is how the transactions are processed. 

It wasn't long before USDT was listed on the top exchanges, and included in dozens of trading pairs. 

Tether Limited have since released a Euro-based stablecoin as well as Tether crypto coin pegged to the price of gold. The downside to Tether falls on the company's reputation surrounding transparency and reserve funds. 

There have been several court cases where individuals and regulatory bodies have called for transparency surrounding the funds held in reserves. Tether has since provided access to this information but is yet to go through a third party audit. Regardless, Tether holds the third biggest market cap (at the time of writing). 

What Is USD Coin?

USD Coin is a stablecoin created by the Centre Consortium, an organisation made up of crypto trading platform Coinbase and Circle, a peer to peer payment platform. It launched in 2018 as an ERC-20 token and has since climbed the ranks to be in the top 5 biggest cryptocurrencies based on market cap. USD Coin is available on the Ethereum blockchain, as well as Solana, Polygon, Algorand and Binance Smart Chain networks. 

The significant bonus that USDC holds over its biggest competitor, USDT, is that the coin is regularly audited by a third-party institution. These audits are made public, allowing any user to verify the authenticity of their USDC value each month. Since launching USDC, Coinbase has removed USDT from its platform. 

Which Is Better: USDT vs USDC?

Due to the fact that these respective companies are holding the dollar-equivalent value in reserves, these two digital currencies are considered to be centralized, while the rest of the cryptocurrency market holds a decentralized nature. As the demand for digital currencies increases, it is likely that these two stablecoins will only continue to grow.

When looking for a stablecoin, these are two mos recognised options. When deciding which are the better of the two, consider what you will be using these for, and which networks you would ideally like to trade through.

Users can both buy and sell USDT and USDC directly through the Tap app. Simply create your account, complete the KYC process and deposit funds into your digital wallet. Manage your entire crypto (and fiat) portfolio from one convenient, secure location.

The study of token economics is known as tokenomics. It covers all elements of a cryptocurrency's creation, management, and sometimes removal from a blockchain network. The term "tokenomics" is formed by pairing up the two words "token" and "economics" and is largely used within the crypto ecosystem to project the potential of a cryptocurrency. Tokenomics, simply put, is how token value is determined and what affects its value. 

Tokenomics and cryptocurrencies

Tokenomics and cryptocurrencies are closely connected. Tokenomics refers to the set of rules and principles that govern how cryptocurrencies work. It includes important aspects like how many tokens exist, how they are distributed, and what they can be used for. These rules are crucial for designing and managing cryptocurrencies effectively.

Tokenomics plays a significant role in determining the value of cryptocurrencies. It influences how people perceive and evaluate a cryptocurrency's worth. Factors such as token scarcity (limited supply), the usefulness of tokens in various applications, and the level of demand for them can impact the price and acceptance of a cryptocurrency.

Well-designed tokenomics can foster trust and adoption, and increase the overall value of a digital currency. Conversely, poorly designed tokenomics can hinder adoption and limit the perceived value of a cryptocurrency when traded for fiat currencies or other cryptocurrencies. Therefore, creating a solid and thoughtful tokenomics model is essential for the success and widespread acceptance of cryptocurrencies.

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An example of tokenomics: Bitcoin

Bitcoin operates on a specific set of tokenomics. It has a maximum supply of 21 million coins that will ever enter circulation, ensuring scarcity and value appreciation over time. Ethereum, for example, has an unlimited amount of coins. The issuance of new Bitcoins through mining creates incentives for network security while halving events reduces the rate of new supply.

Additionally, Bitcoin's decentralised nature and widespread adoption contribute to its value, with market demand and utility driving its price in the open market. These tokenomics elements make Bitcoin a deflationary digital asset with a unique economic model within the cryptocurrency ecosystem.

Why is tokenomics important?

Tokenomics is especially important in the crypto space due to the lack of regulation. Since there are no laws governing cryptocurrencies, tokenomics provide an opportunity for cryptocurrencies to be evaluated according to their real-life merit, not just how they are traded on exchanges.

What are the benefits of tokenomics?

Tokenomics offers several benefits within the cryptocurrency ecosystem. Firstly, it establishes clear rules and incentives, ensuring a fair and transparent economic system for participants. Tokenomics can incentivise desirable behaviour, such as staking or contributing to network security, promoting overall network growth and sustainability.

Additionally, tokenomics enables the creation of utility and value for tokens, providing variable economic benefits to holders. It allows for the development of decentralised applications (dapps) and the creation of vibrant ecosystems around cryptocurrencies. Similarly, tokenomics facilitates liquidity and trading opportunities, enabling users to buy, sell, and exchange tokens in various markets.

Overall, tokenomics fosters innovation, incentivizes participation, and contributes to the overall growth and success of the cryptocurrency ecosystem.

What are the negatives of tokenomics?

While tokenomics has numerous advantages, there are some downsides to consider. One downside is the potential for market volatility, as token prices can be subject to rapid fluctuations influenced by various factors, including market speculation and investor sentiment.

Additionally, inadequate or poorly designed tokenomics models may result in economic inefficiencies, lack of token utility, or even vulnerability to manipulation. It's important to note that tokenomics may not guarantee long-term value stability, and investors should carefully assess the risks associated with specific tokens and projects before engaging in the cryptocurrency market.

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The different tokenomics terms explained

Asset valuation

The process of determining the value of a coin or token. This is especially useful for users who want to purchase new coins or tokens. If they can estimate how much a coin or token will be worth in the future, it might be easier to decide whether or not its price is worth tapping into. Coin and token valuation is also important for traders who have made a significant purchase of a coin or token, and want to assess if its price is likely going up or down.

Inflation

In the context of tokenomics, inflation refers to the increase in the token supply over time, resulting in a decrease in the token's purchasing power and value. Inflation can impact the economic stability of a cryptocurrency ecosystem, and its management is crucial to maintain the desired balance between supply, demand, and overall token value.

Deflation

In tokenomics, deflation refers to the decrease in the token supply, leading to a potential increase in the token's purchasing power and value over time. Deflationary tokenomics can promote scarcity, create incentives for holding tokens, and potentially drive price appreciation within the cryptocurrency ecosystem.

Supply and demand elasticity

If a coin has high supply-and-demand elasticity, its price will likely be more affected by changes in demand relative to its supply. This means that if demand for a particular coin rises, the coin will experience more positive price action ($$) than if demand for the same coin fell.

Supply and demand elasticity = (% change in quantity supplied) / (% change in quantity demanded).

Community rewards

When a coin or token has a substantial community surrounding it, it can play a role in contributing to improving the asset’s fundamentals. This is an example of market-based governance that has the potential to lead to a rise in the coin or token's value as it is considered an indicator of trust in the network.

Pump and dump schemes

A pump and dump scheme is a manipulative practice within tokenomics where a group artificially inflates the price of a token through coordinated buying, creating a "pump." This creates a false sense of value and attracts unsuspecting users. Once the price reaches a peak, the group sells off their holdings, causing a rapid price decline, or "dump," leaving other users at a loss. Pump and dump schemes are considered fraudulent and can lead to significant financial losses for those involved.

In conclusion

Tokenomics plays a vital role in the cryptocurrency ecosystem by establishing rules, incentives, and economic principles for cryptocurrencies. It influences the value and acceptance of cryptocurrencies by determining factors such as scarcity, utility, and demand.

Well-designed tokenomics can foster trust, adoption, and increase the overall value of cryptocurrencies. However, it's important to be aware of potential downsides, such as market volatility and poorly designed tokenomics models. Understanding tokenomics helps participants evaluate the real-life merit of cryptocurrencies and make informed decisions.

We are delighted to announce the listing and support of Ankr (ANKR) on Tap!

ANKR is now available for trading on the Tap mobile app. You can now Buy, Sell, Trade or hold ANKR for any of the other asset supported on the platform without any pair boundaries. Tap is pair agnostic, meaning you can trade any asset for any other asset without having to worries if a "trading pair" is available.

We believe supporting ANKR will provide value to our users. We are looking forward to continue supporting new crypto projects with the aim of providing access to financial power and freedom for all.

Ankr is playing an integral role in the adoption of Web3, providing growth and development opportunities for network stakers, app developers, and other participants in the DeFi space.

Ankr is a decentralized Web3 infrastructure provider that facilitates the swift and effortless connection between developers, dapps, stakers, and blockchains. With Ankr's APIs & RPCs you can quickly build blockchain-based applications with confidence, stake on Ankr Earn as well as access custom solutions for any blockchain enterprise needs.

ANKR is Ankr's native cryptocurrency fueling the platform and is used as a payment method within the ecosystem.

Get to know more about Ankr (ANKR) in our dedicated article here.

We're thrilled to share that our fintech company has just celebrated its third anniversary! It's been an incredible journey so far, and we're so grateful for the opportunity to serve our users every day.

When we first launched our platform three years ago, we had a clear mission in mind: to provide an innovative, user-friendly, and accessible way for people to manage their money, trade cryptocurrencies, and access financial services. It was a big goal, and we knew that we had a lot of hard work ahead of us.

But we were determined to succeed. Our small team of passionate and dedicated individuals worked tirelessly, day in and day out, to bring our vision to life. We poured our hearts and souls into this project, and we knew that we were onto something special.

Fast forward three years, and we're proud to say that we've come a long way. We've built a platform that we believe in, and we're constantly striving to improve it. We've listened to feedback from our users, and we've added new features and services that meet their needs. And we've built a community of passionate and engaged users who share our vision for a better way to manage their finance everyday.

One of the things that sets our company apart is our commitment to transparency and user experience. We believe that managing your finances should be easy, intuitive, and stress-free. That's why we've built our platform to be as user-friendly as possible, with clear and straightforward interfaces that make it easy to manage your money and digital assets.

But our success wouldn't be possible without our amazing users. We're so grateful for your continued support, feedback, and encouragement. You've helped us to shape our platform into something truly special, and we're committed to continuing to serve you and improve our platform to meet your needs.

As we celebrate our third anniversary, we're excited to look back on how far we've come and to look forward to all the exciting things that the future holds. We're proud of what we've accomplished, but we know that there's always more work to be done. We're committed to continuing to innovate and improve, and we're grateful to have you along for the ride.

Thank you for being part of our journey. Here's to many more years of growth, success, and innovation!

You might be familiar with buying and selling cryptocurrencies, but have you tapped into the world of crypto airdrops? Airdrops are essentially marketing strategies that are designed to build awareness and interest in a blockchain-based crypto project. As we set out to provide more information and explain what these are we will also touch on the powerful benefits that airdrops can bring to investors. 

What Is A Crypto Airdrop?

A crypto airdrop is when a project gives out its native coins for free as a marketing tool to generate hype, grow its network and gain wider adoption, essentially providing free money. On occasion, the coins require small tasks such as following social media pages, and other times they are entirely free of engagements. 

These coins are then transferred to current or potential users' wallets for free in the hopes of drawing in more business. Airdrops rose to fame in the ICO boom of 2017 and are still used today. While handed out for free, airdrops can increase in value over time, becoming potentially lucrative to the receivers.

Through distributing coins, projects increase their number of holders (a positive metric for up and coming projects) as well as increase their decentralisation (due to increased token ownership). 

How Do Cryptocurrency Airdrops Work?

An airdrop is typically outlined in a project's roadmap and will commence once certain criteria have been met. While airdrops can range from project to project, they typically involve small amounts of cryptocurrencies, often built on Ethereum or other smart chain, being distributed to several wallets.

These coins are usually distributed for free, however, on occasion users will need to perform small tasks related to marketing (like engaging on social media or subscribing to a newsletter) or hold a certain number of coins in their wallet. A successful airdrop will see its recipients promoting the project and generating hype before being listed on an exchange.

What Is The Difference Between An ICO And An Airdrop?

While both are related to new digital currency projects, the major difference between the two is that airdrops are when tokens are distributed for free while ICOs require participants to purchase the project's tokens with an outlined purchase price. ICOs are a source of crowdfunding while airdrops are marketing strategies.

What Are The Different Types Of Airdrops?

As mentioned above there are several different types of airdrops; exclusive, bounty and holder. 

Exclusive Airdrops

These airdrops are centered around active members of the community or early adopters. In exclusive airdrops, coins are only sent to designated wallets. Uniswap is a classic example of this, distributing 400 UNI to each wallet that had engaged in the platform before a certain date. The governance token allowed holders to vote on the project's future developments.

Bounty Airdrops

Bounty airdrops are when users need to engage in the platform in order to claim their tokens. This typically involves activities related to social media (liking a post, joining a Telegram channel, tagging friends, etc.) and the project might ask to see proof before distributing the coins. 

Holder Airdrops

This type of airdrop is for users already holding the project's token to thank them for their loyalty. Typically the project's team will take a snapshot of the wallet balances at a certain time and reward all the wallets that meet the minimum criteria. 

When creating holder airdrops, projects might use other more established cryptocurrencies in the hopes of tapping into their networks. For example, in 2016 Stellar (XLM) airdropped 3 billion XLM to users on the Bitcoin network, granting them free access to the Stellar network. 

The Downside To Airdrops

Naturally, there are ill actors out there who take advantage and have created airdrop scams. These scams might involve a "project" airdropping tokens into a wallet but when the holder attempts to move these tokens their wallet is drained. 

Another example of an airdrop scam is a project enticing you to sign up for the airdrop by connecting your wallet only to take your wallet details and gain access to your account. These are typically conducted through websites and fake Twitter and Telegram accounts that look very similar to the real deal but are in fact phishing scams. 

It's important to DYOR ( do your own research ) when engaging in an airdrop, and know that a project will never require you to send funds in order to "unlock" tokens or require you to provide a seed phrase or private key. 

Another downside to airdrops is that projects can create an incorrect impression of growth. If thousands of coins are distributed to thousands of wallets this might cause the project to look busier and more adopted than it actually is. When judging a project by this metric ensure that it has an active trading volume that reflects the number of wallet holders, if there are plenty holders and minimal activity consider this a big red flag. 

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It's no secret that trading any financial market is hard work. Traders need to keep calm, level-headed, and observant at all times while staying on top of the market's ever-changing movements.

While making mistakes is part of the game, we've outlined 5 of the biggest common mistakes you can avoid while you navigate the often turbulent waters of any trading system and technical analysis.

What is technical analysis?

Technical analysis (TA) is one of the most popular methods for analyzing financial markets. At its core, it uses previous price action and volume data to predict future market behavior by identifying trends and favorable trading opportunities.

It can be applied to the chart patterns of any kind of market, including stocks, forex, commodities, and cryptocurrencies. While the basics are not too difficult to understand it takes a lot of practice to become an expert technical analyst.

This form of analysis typically looks at historical price action, while fundamental analysis (FA) looks at multiple factors affecting the price of an asset.

5 common mistakes made when it comes to using technical analysis

1. Know when to cut your losses

No matter how big or small, always prioritize protecting your investment. In the world of trading and investing, this is non-negotiable if you want to see any returns. A great way to approach trading is to start out with the following mindset: you're not here to win, you're here not to lose.

Start with small positions, set up a stop-loss, and know when to cut your losses.

2. Don't ignore extreme market conditions

While the markets are typically governed by supply and demand, there are cases where extreme conditions like black swan events can throw your carefully curated technical analysis to the curb. Sometimes emotion and mass psychology can cause periods of extreme market conditions, and you will need to adjust your trading strategy accordingly.

If you make decisions based solely on readings from technical tools, you run the risk of losing money, especially during black swan events when it can be tough to understand what's happening. Keep in mind that market conditions can change rapidly and without warning, so it's always important to consider other factors before making any decisions and risking real funds.

3. Avoid revenge trading

Revenge trading is a term used to describe when a trader tries to immediately recover a significant loss through making alternative trades. Infringing the golden rule of not making trades based off emotions, revenge trading is a no-no.

Harness your inner zen and attempt to stay calm through both big and small mishaps. Sticking to your trading plan will be the best thing you can do, and make adjustments as need be based off of logical thinking and an analytical approach.

Immediate trading after a severe loss often leads to more losses. Therefore, some traders take a break from trading altogether for a while after they lose big. By taking this breather, they can come back with fresh mindsets and restart their trading journey.

4. Remind yourself (constantly) that TA is a game of probabilities

Technical analysis is all about probabilities and not absolutes. This means that no matter what technical approach you’re using, there’s never a 100% guarantee that the market will behave as you expect. Even if your analysis suggests that there’s a very high probability of the market moving up or down, it's still not set in stone.

As you're getting your trading strategies together, there's one aspect you always need to keep in mind: don't think the market will go how your analysis predicts. This is a mistake even experienced traders make, and it leads to bad decisions like betting too much money on one outcome instead of spreading it out. That puts you at risk of losing a lot financially if things don't go your way.

5. Don't blindly follow anyone's trading strategies

A great way to learn how to trade the financial markets is by observing experienced technical analysts and traders. However, in order to master your own skills you will need to establish what your own strengths are and how to leverage them.

Observing other traders doesn't present a fool-proof trading strategy as something that works for one trader might not work for another. With countless ways to make money off of the markets, find your own trading style that is best suited to you.

Initially, you might get lucky by making trades based off of another person's opinion. However, if you continue down this road without comprehending why they made that choice, it will only lead to detrimental consequences in the future.

Learning from others is key, but it is more important that you think for yourself and agree with the trade before moving forward. Do not let anyone else make decisions for you blindly, no matter their experience level.

In conclusion

While trading isn't easy and there is certainly no quick fix to success, the above are some helpful starting points to consider when entering the world of technical analysis.

Remember that it takes practice, and while approaching trading with a longer-term mindset is a great way to start, ideally, you want to build habits that allow you to be in control of your trading decisions and avoid common mistakes.

Constantly manage your risks and learn from your mistakes when you make them in order to capitalize on your strengths and improve. This advice serves both professional traders and newbies.

The process of investing involves putting your money or capital into something with the aim of earning more money and making a profit. Investment strategies are sets of principles, rules, and approaches that an investor follows to manage their investment portfolio. A sound investment strategy can help an investor achieve their financial goals, manage risk, and maximize returns.

In this article, we will provide a beginner's guide to investment strategies, including its definition, benefits, types, and key principles. We will also discuss various investment terms and jargon that a new investor should know.

What are investment strategies? 

Investment strategies are plans of action that an investor follows to manage their investment portfolio. It involves selecting investments that align with their financial goals, risk tolerance, and time horizon. Good investment strategies takes into account market conditions, diversification, and risk management techniques. 

The primary goal of investment strategies is to help investors maximize their returns while minimizing potential losses. These strategies can be created by the investor themselves or by a financial advisor and used across varying markets, from the stock market to the crypto market.

The benefits of having an investment strategy

Having an investment strategy can help you achieve various financial goals, whether they be generating income, building wealth, or funding retirement. It also helps you manage risk, reduce potential losses, and maximize returns. Strong investment strategies consider each investor's specific investment objectives, time horizon, risk tolerance, and market conditions.

Various types of investment strategies

There are several types of investment strategies that investors can implement during the investing process depending on their unique circumstances (risk tolerance, capital, financial goals, etc.). From value investing to income investing, we cover the most popular investment strategies below.

Value investing

Value investing is a strategy that involves buying stocks that are undervalued compared to their intrinsic value. This approach seeks to identify companies that are trading on the stock market at a discount price and have strong fundamentals.

Growth investing

The growth investment strategy is one of the best investment strategies as it focuses on investing in companies with high growth potential, even if they are currently trading at a premium. This growth investing strategy is designed around identifying companies with strong earnings growth, innovative products, or dominant market positions. Growth stocks will typically encompass both mature and emerging companies.

Income investing

The income investing strategy focuses on generating regular income from investments, such as dividend stocks, bonds, or real estate investment trusts (REITs). Here the aim is to provide a steady stream of income for investors, especially those who are retired or seeking passive income.

Index investing

Index investing is also one of the more common investment strategies that seeks to replicate the performance of a particular market index, such as the S&P 500 or the NASDAQ. This approach offers investors broad exposure to the market at a low cost.

Momentum investing

Momentum investing is a strategy that involves buying stocks that have shown strong performance in the past and continue to outperform the market. The aim here is to capitalize on the trend of rising prices and momentum in the market.

Contrarian investing

Contrarian investing is a stock market focused strategy that involves buying stocks that are out of favor with the market or have fallen out of favor. This strategy centers around identifying companies that are undervalued by the market and have the potential for a turnaround.

Active investing 

Active investing is a strategy that involves actively managing a portfolio, often through the frequent buying and selling of assets. This strategy generates higher returns than passive investing but requires more time, research, and expertise.

The key principles of investment strategies

Regardless of which of the different investment strategies one chooses, here are some key principles that every investor should follow.

Set investment goals

Before you start investing, you should have clear investment goals and a plan to achieve them. Your investment goals should be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound.

Diversify your portfolio

Diversification is the process of spreading your investments across different asset classes, sectors, and regions. Diversification helps reduce risk by minimizing the impact of any single investment or market event on your portfolio.

Manage risk

Remember that all investments carry some level of risk, and it is important to manage risk to avoid potential losses. You should assess your risk tolerance and invest accordingly. You can also use risk management techniques, such as stop-loss orders, to limit your potential losses.

The long-term investment strategy

Investing is a long-term game, and you should be patient and disciplined in your investment approach. Playing the long game and investing in long term investments is more likely to deliver financial independence.

Control your emotions

Emotions can cloud your judgment and lead to irrational investment decisions. It is important to control your emotions and stick to your investment strategy, even during market downturns or volatility.

Focus on fundamentals

When selecting investments, it is crucial to focus on the fundamentals of the underlying companies or assets. This includes factors such as revenue growth, earnings, valuation, and competitive advantage.

Stay informed

The investment landscape is constantly changing so ensure that you stay informed about market trends, economic indicators, and company news. This can help you make more informed investment decisions and adjust your strategy as needed.

Investment terms that every investor should know

As a new investor, you may encounter various investment terms and jargon that can be confusing. Here are some of the most common investment terms and their definitions:

Stock: A stock represents ownership in a company and gives the holder a claim on a portion of its assets and earnings.

Bond: A bond is a debt security that represents a loan made by an investor to a borrower, typically a corporation or government.

Mutual funds: mutual funds are a type of investment vehicle that pools money from multiple investors to invest in a diversified portfolio of stocks, bonds, or other assets.

ETF: An ETF, or exchange-traded funds, tracks a particular market index and can be bought and sold on an exchange like a stock.

Asset allocation: Asset allocation is the process of dividing your portfolio among different asset classes, such as stocks, bonds, and cash, to achieve your investment goals and manage risk.

Market capitalization: Market capitalization refers to the total value of a company's outstanding shares of stock, calculated by multiplying the number of shares by the current market price.

Dividend: A dividend is a distribution of a portion of a company's earnings to its shareholders, typically paid out in cash or additional shares of stock.

Expense ratio: The expense ratio is the annual fee charged by a mutual fund or ETF to cover its operating expenses, expressed as a percentage of the fund's assets.

P/E ratio: The price-to-earnings ratio compares a company's current stock price to its earnings per share, indicating how much investors are willing to pay for each dollar of earnings.

Yield: Yield refers to the income generated by an investment, typically expressed as a percentage of its price or face value.

Market order: A market order is an instruction to buy or sell a security at the current market price, regardless of the price level.

Limit order: A limit order is an instruction to buy or sell a security at a specific price level or better.

Stop-loss order: A stop-loss order is an instruction to sell a security if its price falls below a specified level, designed to limit potential losses.

Bull market: A bull market is a period of rising stock prices and optimistic investor sentiment.

Bear market: A bear market is a period of declining stock prices and pessimistic investor sentiment.

Conclusion

Investing can be a complex and challenging endeavor, especially for those new to it. While understanding the different types of investment strategies, key principles, and terms is important, it can be extremely beneficial to consult a qualified financial advisor. An experienced financial advisor can provide personalized guidance to help you build an investment strategy tailored to your specific financial goals, risk tolerance, and life situation.

They can offer professional expertise in areas like asset allocation, portfolio diversification, tax optimization, and risk management. Working with a financial advisor takes the guesswork out of investing and can increase your chances of achieving your long-term financial objectives. Remember, investing is a journey, and having the right professional partner can make a significant difference in navigating that path successfully.

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PAX Gold is the hybrid investment option bridging the gap between digital currencies and the gold market. This cryptocurrency provides the benefits of blockchain technology without the price volatility. The Pax Gold token also offers a more accessible way for traders to invest in physical gold assets. 

What is PAX Gold?

PAX Gold (PAXG) is the biggest digital asset backed by underlying gold and each PAXG token represents one fine troy ounce of a 400-ounce London Good Delivery gold bar. The price of PAX Gold mimics the current gold market prices of gold, making it a more stable crypto investment with less volatility. 

The crypto asset is issued by the Paxos Trust Company and the market value of the circulating supply is held in physical gold bars in vaults similar to how stablecoins hold reserves of the fiat currency they are pegged to.

To guarantee its integrity, the Paxos Trust Company undergoes and releases monthly audits to verify that its PAXG tokens are equal to the amount of allocated gold it holds. This process is regulated by the New York State Department of Financial Services.

Additionally, users have the option to redeem their PAXG tokens for allocated gold bullion bars whenever they desire, or for smaller amounts of unallocated gold bullion bars through a network of physical gold retailers around the world. 

PAXG tokens are based on the ERC-20 token standard and provide users with all of the benefits of owning physical gold bars without the drawbacks typically associated with the physical commodities. These include limited accessibility, challenges storing the physical gold, difficulties transporting it, etc.

Due to its tokenized nature, PAXG can be traded for other cryptocurrencies in the sector, or simply redeemed for physical gold. 

Who created the PAX Gold platform?

The Paxos Trust Company was co-founded by Charles Cascarilla and Rich Teo in 2012 with the aim to provide a more accessible and trustworthy means of moving assets. Cascarilla holds a degree in finance with experience in the capital management sector. He has also participated in multiple traditional and blockchain-based venture capital projects.

In 2018, the company released Paxos Standard (PAX), a stablecoin pegged to the US dollar, with reserves held in US bank accounts. In 2021, PAX rebranded to the Pax Dollar (USDP). The stablecoin remains one of the top 10 biggest asset-backed cryptocurrencies.

In 2019, PAX Gold (PAXG) was launched. The allocated gold-backed digital asset holds its reserves in vaults secured by Brinks. The company undergoes monthly audits which verify that the correct amount of reserves is held for each coin.

The company has achieved strong institutional support and secured more than $500 million in funding from reputable investors such as OakHC/FT, PayPal Ventures and Mithril Partners.

How does the PAX Gold work?

First and foremost, PAXG represents physical gold. PAX Gold (PAXG) is an ERC-20 token built on the Ethereum blockchain making it compatible with many dapps and decentralized exchanges within the DeFi space. When creating or destroying PAXG tokens, the company charges a small fee (0.02%) while the trader is liable for gas fees for any on-chain transactions. 

Increasing investment entry barriers, the token is divisible by 18 decimal places, allowing anyone access to fractional ownership of a physical gold bar without the associated burdens of owning physical gold (transport, storage, etc). 

Each PAXG token is allocated a unique serial number that matches that of an individual gold bar held in reserve. Holders are entitled to find the physical gold bar, its value, and other characteristics by using the PAXG lookup tool. Tokens can also be redeemed for gold, fiat currency, or other digital currencies as per the current market price of gold at that time. 

PAXG transactions are closely monitored and surveyed by Paxos using third-party analytical tools for the purpose of investigating any potential cases of fraud or money laundering. In addition, developers subject the code to regular smart contract audits in order to detect bugs and vulnerabilities.

What is the PAXG token

PAX Gold (PAXG) is an ERC-20 token built on the Ethereum blockchain. Each PAXG token represents one fine troy ounce of a 400-ounce London Good Delivery gold bar which can be traced using the unique serial number.

The cryptocurrency offers investors exposure to the price of gold as well as investment opportunities otherwise difficult to access. The advantage of investing in cryptocurrencies like Pax Gold PAXG is that one can bypass the physical challenges of investing in real gold reserves. Instead, one can manage their investments from the convenience of their home.

The Paxos Trust Company holds all PAXG token reserves in vaults and undergoes monthly audits which are published on the Paxos Trust Company’s website. 

How can I buy the PAX Gold token?

If you're looking to invest in the long-term value of high-quality gold without concerning yourself with physical gold bars, with the added benefits of blockchain technology Gold PAXG tokens might be the answer you're looking for.

Tap provides a seamless entryway to buying, storing and selling Pax Gold PAXG tokens. Users will simply need to download the Tap app, create an account and complete the quick verification process. From there they will gain access to a number of secure integrated crypto wallets and vetted cryptocurrency markets, including PAX Gold tokens.

The app not only allows users to buy, sell, trade and store cryptocurrencies, but also provides a payment service that allows users to make fiat payments directly from the app. Whether through an electronic payment or the Tap card, users can spend their crypto and fiat currencies anywhere, anytime. 

Generally when one mentions investing, one thinks of stocks. Forming the foundation of more investment journeys, stocks or equities provide a tried and tested option for using capital to gain profits. In this article, we’re guiding you through the most important concepts you need to know when it comes to investing in the stock market, from what stocks are exactly to how to stock market basics. 

What are stocks? 

Also referred to as equity or shares, individual stocks are securities that provide fractional ownership in a company. Units of stock are called shares and entitle holders to "own" a small part of the issuing corporation. This can also entitle the owner to receive dividends from any profits the company might earn.

Other terms one might hear are exchange-traded funds (ETFs) which are stocks based on pooled investments that mimic the price of the underlying asset allocation while mutual funds are professionally managed investment funds. An investment portfolio can be made up of a collection of the above, or individual stocks, depending on your financial goals.

Stock market vs stock exchange

Stocks are traded on stock exchanges around the world and their price is driven by supply and demand. The term stock market refers to the entire industry while the term stock exchange refers to the platforms on which stocks are traded. 

What is a stock exchange?

A stock exchange is an exchange platform where publicly-traded stocks can be purchased and sold through buyers and sellers, like the New York Stock Exchange for example. Initial Public Offerings (IPO's) are the primary mechanism of raising capital, where organizations sell shares to the general public in exchange for capital. This process allows the business to expand without incurring debt. 

In exchange for being allowed to offer shares to the public, companies are obliged by law to publish financial information about the company's performance and grant shareholders a voice in how the business operates.

Advantages of investing in stocks 

Before engaging in any stock market investing it is important to determine your risk tolerance. This pairs your current financial situation with the amount of risk you are willing to endure, anywhere from low risk to high risk. It's best to consult a financial planner should you be unsure. 

Once this has been determined, you can build a strategy for your stock investments and partake in the many advantages that the stock market has on offer. 

Profits

Should a company's share price increase, investors can make considerable profits by selling the shares at the right time. 

Ownership

Shares provide investors with ownership in the company relative to the number of shares they own. As a shareholder, you gain access to a portion of the profits and may also receive voting rights within the business. 

Dividends

Investors can earn passive income by receiving dividends from a company they have invested in when they pay out the profits made over a certain time period. Some companies offer quarterly dividends while others are annual. 

Income and growth

Stocks deliver an ideal investment opportunity that can provide both income and growth. Investors looking for a more risk-averse investment and stronger financial stability will benefit from engaging in the stock market. 

Experts can leverage your earnings

Skilled fund managers understand mutual funds inside and out, gaining skills that allow them to optimize investments to capitalize on market fluctuations. Constantly monitoring equity funds for opportunities to better position clients' portfolios, these experts continually revise their strategies as needed.

Disadvantages of investing in stocks

Requires time

If you are new to the industry and intend to invest on your own, you will need to undergo a considerable amount of research on each company before investing in it. You will also need to learn how to read financial statements and annual reports and keep an eye on the news when determining whether a company might be profitable in the near future. 

No guarantees

While considered one of the "safer" investment options, individual stocks can still be high risk as there is no guarantee of what might happen to a company on a year-to-year basis or that you won't lose money. Always determine your risk tolerance before investing in the stock market.

Fluctuating prices

All markets are subject to volatility and the stock market is no exception. Be sure not to fall into the trap of making trading decisions based on emotion and stick to the golden rule: buy low, sell high. 

How to invest in the stock market

Ready to start investing in the stock market? The process is probably simpler than you thought it would be. 

1. Find a brokerage account most suitable for your investment goals
   Consider your short and long-term goals and determine which account is best suited to you, from college savings accounts to an individual retirement account to everything in between. 
2. Find a brokerage company
   Next, you'll want to find a brokerage company. Consider their available investment options, reputation, and fees when looking for the right fit. If you're looking to invest in stock mutual funds, individual stocks, or index funds, be sure that the brokerage account (or brokerage firm) provides the relevant services.
3. Deposit funds
   Once you've opened your account you will need to deposit money to get started. This is generally in the form of a lump sum, however, monthly recurring payments can also be set up.  
4. Determine which investments you want to open
   After opening an account you can begin to purchase and sell stocks, as well as bonds, stock mutual funds or general mutual funds, index funds, and ETFs that are composed of hundreds of securities. Whether investing in various individual stocks or the investment options listed above, consider using a diversified, risk-friendly approach whereby you don't put all your eggs in one basket. 
5. Confirm your investments by purchasing them
   Once you've decided what to purchase, simply enter the ticker symbol in the buy field and specify how many shares you would like to acquire. And that's how you enter the stock market world.

Final thoughts

By their very nature, stock market investing can be volatile with numerous internal and external factors outside of the control of retail investors affecting stock prices. While exchange-traded funds and mutual funds might diversify this risk, it's best to assume that you are still susceptible to it.

During times of extreme price fluctuations within the stock market don't make emotional decisions and instead maintain patience. Consider writing down your goals beforehand and referring to this in times of market turbulence. Having a diversified portfolio of individual stocks will help mitigate risk. 

It's critical to understand your risk tolerance before investing in the stock market and make sure you get investment advice from an expert so that you can determine the best course of action for yourself. By analyzing your personal financial situation, they are able to advise you on the best route for your financial goals, from whether it's best to invest in individual stocks or index funds before you start investing.

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We are delighted to announce the listing and support of PAX Gold (PAXG) on Tap!

PAXG is now available for trading on the Tap mobile app. You can now Buy, Sell, Trade or hold PAXG for any of the other asset supported on the platform without any pair boundaries. Tap is pair agnostic, meaning you can trade any asset for any other asset without having to worries if a "trading pair" is available.

We believe supporting PAXG will provide value to our users. We are looking forward to continue supporting new crypto projects with the aim of providing access to financial power and freedom for all.

PAX Gold is the hybrid investment option bridging the gap between digital currencies and the gold market. This cryptocurrency provides the benefits of blockchain technology without the price volatility. The Pax Gold token also offers a more accessible way for traders to invest in physical gold assets. 

PAX Gold (PAXG) is the biggest digital asset backed by underlying gold and each PAXG token represents one fine troy ounce of a 400-ounce London Good Delivery gold bar. The price of PAX Gold mimics the current gold market prices of gold, making it a more stable crypto investment with less volatility.

PAX Gold (PAXG) is an ERC-20 token built on the Ethereum blockchain. Each PAXG token represents one fine troy ounce of a 400-ounce London Good Delivery gold bar which can be traced using the unique serial number.

The cryptocurrency offers investors exposure to the price of gold as well as investment opportunities otherwise difficult to access. The advantage of investing in cryptocurrencies like Pax Gold PAXG is that one can bypass the physical challenges of investing in real gold reserves. Instead, one can manage their investments from the convenience of their home.

Get to know more about PAX Gold (PAXG) in our dedicated article here.

Ethereum Naming Service is a branch from the original blockchain network which aims to make the crypto space, particularly within the DeFi and Web3 sectors, more user-friendly and accessible. Similar to how Domain Name Service made the internet more accessible, Ethereum Name Service aims to do the same and become a fundamental component of these sectors.

What is Ethereum Name Service (ENS)?

Ethereum Name Service (ENS) is a decentralized naming system that simplifies sending and receiving payments in the Ethereum network. It works like a domain name service (DNS) uses IP addresses, but instead for Ethereum crypto addresses, allowing users to register human-readable names that are mapped to their Ethereum addresses. This makes it easier to remember and share addresses, instead of having to remember long strings of characters.

For example, a user could register the domain name "myname.eth" and associate it with their Ethereum wallet address. Once registered, anyone can send payments to "myname.eth" instead of the complicated Ethereum address.

Users can register a name through various ENS domain registrars or directly through the ENS manager. Once registered, the name is added to the Ethereum Name Service Registry, and the user becomes the owner of that name. ENS uses a hierarchical system of domains similar to the DNS system used for the internet. 

Once registered, the user can then set the resolver, which is a smart contract that provides information about the Ethereum wallet address associated with the ENS name.

The resolver can be thought of as a mapping function between the name and the Ethereum wallet address. When someone sends a payment to an ENS name, the resolver is queried to retrieve the associated Ethereum address. Once the Ethereum wallet address is retrieved, the payment can be sent directly to the address.

ENS also allows users to add additional data to their domain names, such as an IPFS hash or a swarm hash, making it possible to associate decentralized content with a domain name. For example, a user could associate an IPFS hash with their domain name, making it possible to access decentralized content using a human-readable name.

Who created Ethereum Name Service?

Ethereum Name Service (ENS) was initially part of the Ethereum Foundation and proposed by Nick Johnson in 2016 as a way to simplify the process of sending and receiving payments in the Ethereum network. Nick Johnson is a software engineer that previously worked at Google and the Ethereum Foundation. 

The ENS system was launched as a separate entity in May 2017 as a decentralized naming service on the Ethereum blockchain. Since its launch, ENS has been widely adopted by the Ethereum community and has become an essential part of the Ethereum ecosystem.

How does Ethereum Name Service work?

The Ethereum Name Service (ENS) system is similar to the DNS (Domain Name System) used on the internet. Users can register an ENS domain name under the .eth top-level domain and associate them with their Ethereum addresses by using the platform's smart contracts.

This means that instead of sending payments to complicated and hard-to-remember Ethereum crypto addresses, users can simply send payments to easy-to-remember domain names. For example, instead of sending funds to 0x71C7656EC7ab88b098defB751B7401B5f6d89, users can instead send funds to tap.eth. 

The system uses two smart contracts to make this possible: the registry and the resolver. 

ENS Registry

To use ENS, users must first register a name through a registrar. Registrars are entities that facilitate the registration of domain names under the .eth top-level domain and store all the domains. Once a user has registered a name, it is added to the ENS Registry, and the user becomes the owner of that name.

ENS Resolver

The next step is to set the resolver, which is a smart contract that provides information about the Ethereum address associated with the ENS domain. Resolvers can be set by the user or they can use one of the default resolvers provided by ENS. Once the resolver is set, users can associate their Ethereum crypto address with their ENS name. This is done by adding a record to the resolver that maps the ENS name to the wallet address.

ENS allows users to add additional data to their ENS domains, such as an IPFS hash or a swarm hash. ENS also supports subdomains, which are domains that are associated with a parent domain name. This makes it possible to create a hierarchical naming system that is similar to the DNS system used on the internet.

What is the ENS token?

The Ethereum Name Service (ENS) did not have its own token until recently. In 2021, the ENS team announced the launch of a new governance token called ENS, which is separate from the old ERC-20 token with the same name. 

The new ENS token is used for governance and voting purposes and is not used to pay for the registration or renewal of ENS domain names. Instead, users need to pay in ETH to register their “.eth” domains, with an idea of the costs reflected below (subject to change due to market fluctuations, please review the ENS website for accurate costs):

$5 in ETH per year, for a five+ character .eth ENS domain;

$160 in ETH per year, for a four-character .eth ENS domain;

$640 in ETH per year, for a three-character .eth ENS domain.

The higher prices are due to the supply of three- and four-character .eth names being smaller. 

The total supply of the new ENS token is 100 million, and they were distributed through a community airdrop in 2021.

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What is the ENS DAO?

The ENS DAO (Decentralized Autonomous Organization) is a community-governed organization that oversees the development and management of the Ethereum Name Service (ENS) ecosystem. It is responsible for making decisions about the future direction of the ENS system, including upgrades, changes to policies, and new feature development. The organisation is governed by the ENS token holders, who have the right to vote on proposals and decisions related to the ENS ecosystem.

The organization is an important part of the ENS ecosystem, as it ensures that the system is developed and managed in a decentralized and community-driven manner. It allows stakeholders to have a voice in the decision-making process and ensures that the system remains responsive to the needs of the community.

What is the ENS Foundation?

The Ethereum Name Service (ENS) Foundation is a non-profit organization that supports the development and growth of the ENS ecosystem. It oversees the development of the ENS system, promotes its adoption, and provides support to users and developers.

The ENS Foundation is involved in a wide range of activities related to the ENS ecosystem, including organizing community events, providing guidance, and funding the ongoing development of the ENS system. It plays a critical role in supporting the growth and development of the ecosystem alongside the ENS DAO, which is responsible for making decisions about the future direction of the ENS system.

How can I buy ENS tokens?

Tap's mobile app enables users to easily acquire, trade and securely store Ethereum Name Service (ENS) in an integrated wallet. Users can buy and sell the ENS token using a variety of supported crypto or fiat currencies. The app also provides a reliable space to store ENS tokens and other digital assets. By downloading the Tap mobile app, users can unlock the potential of a range of cryptocurrencies and fiat wallets.

In a world where dreams often seem out of reach, we find ourselves humbled and elated to share a remarkable achievement with all of you: Tap has reached an incredible milestone of 150,000 users and counting! Today, we take a moment to pause, reflect, and appreciate the extraordinary journey that has brought us here.

As we trace our steps back to the beginning, we are reminded of the countless hours, late nights, and tireless efforts poured into building something meaningful— Tap, a financial app that would make a difference in people's lives.

Our dedicated team of talented individuals, driven by a shared vision, embarked on this magical journey with a humble determination to reshape the future of finance.

Together, we faced challenges, learned from our mistakes, and celebrated small victories along the way. It was a journey filled with passion, resilience, and unwavering belief in the transformative power of our app. But we couldn't have come this far without the unwavering support and trust of our incredible user community.

To every single user who embraced Tap, believed in our mission, and allowed us to be a part of their financial lives, we express our deepest gratitude. Your feedback, enthusiasm, and inspiring stories have fueled our motivation and guided us on the path to improvement.

From the stories of individuals triumphing over debt, saving for their first homes, or pursuing their entrepreneurial dreams, we have witnessed the impact of our app in transforming lives. It is your dedication, commitment, and unwavering belief in our shared journey that has brought us to this momentous milestone.

But let us not rest on our laurels. As we celebrate this remarkable achievement, we look to the future with eager anticipation.

The landscape of finance is ever-evolving, and together, we have the power to shape its course. It is our collective responsibility to continue building a future of finance that is inclusive, empowering, and accessible to all.

As we navigate the uncharted territories ahead, we remain committed to listening, learning, and evolving. We will continue to harness our team's collective knowledge, passion, and expertise to bring you even more groundbreaking features, enhanced user experiences, and financial solutions that inspire and uplift.

With hearts full of gratitude and excitement, we celebrate this moment. To our dedicated team, our invaluable user community, and all the individuals who believe in our mission, we extend our deepest appreciation.

Together, let us forge ahead and build the future of finance that transforms lives and paves the way for countless new dreams to be realized.

Investors looking to establish a passive income stream often turn to a dividend investing strategy as it provides regular payments from their investments. While dividend investing might sound intimidating to beginner investors, the truth is that with adequate research and understanding it is very simple to tap into.

Dividends are a portion of a company's earnings that are distributed to its shareholders and can provide a reliable source of income (also referred to as dividend income) over the long term. However, not all dividend-paying stocks are created equal, and investors need to carefully evaluate the companies they invest in to make sure that they are making sound financial decisions.

In this article, we will provide six tips for dividend investing that can help investors choose the right stocks and maximize their returns in terms of dividend payments.

Look to mature companies

When implementing a dividend investing strategy and looking at which stocks pay dividends, it is generally advisable to focus on established, mature companies rather than start-ups. Established companies have a proven track record of stability and success, which can provide investors with a sense of security and confidence. Investors will also often research a company's dividend yield to confirm their decision.

A dividend yield is a dividend per share divided by the price per share. It can also be calculated as a company's total annual dividend payments divided by its market capitalization if the number of shares is constant. A good dividend yield is anywhere from 2% - 6%, the higher the better. Lower dividend yields can make a stock appear less competitive relative to its industry.

Mature companies typically have a more predictable revenue stream, which makes it easier to forecast their future earnings and dividends. They also tend to have a history of paying dividends consistently, which is a crucial factor for dividend investors.

Ultimately, it is important for investors to carefully evaluate the financial health and stability of any company they are considering investing in, but for those seeking consistent dividends, established, mature companies are typically a safer and more reliable option.

Look at the company’s dividend payout ratio

The dividend payout ratio represents the proportion of the company's net income that is distributed to shareholders as dividends. This ratio is expressed as a percentage of the company's earnings that are paid out to its shareholders in the form of dividend income.

The payout ratio gives investors a look at how much income is being paid to investors and how much is being retained and used by the company. If a company with high-yield dividend stocks has a high payout ratio (i.e. paying out a large portion of its income to shareholders) this should raise red flags as if this income stream diminishes the dividend income will too. 

Stability pays out in the long run

When looking for dividend-paying stocks, it is important to prioritize stability over quantity. This means choosing companies with a proven track record of steady earnings and consistent dividend payments, rather than simply seeking out the highest dividend yield. 

By selecting quality investments, investors can minimize their risk exposure and reduce the likelihood of unexpected drops in dividend payouts or stock value. Additionally, companies with strong financial health are better positioned to weather market volatility and economic downturns, which can help to protect investors' portfolios in the long term. 

Ultimately, prioritizing stability over quantity is key for any dividend investing strategy.

Always establish your financial goals early on

When looking at buying dividend-paying stocks, first establish a few key goals, like whether growth investing or value investing is a priority for your investment strategy. This will help you determine which companies to seek out, and whether your portfolio can incorporate younger companies. While mature ones will offer consistent and steady payouts, newer ones might present impressive dividend yields in the short term.

By establishing your financial goals before investing you will be able to create a formula to follow that allows you to explore a potentially wider range of options. Always be sure to look at past and present returns and consider the company’s future potential. This will help to establish how profitable the company might be in the future from a dividend growth perspective. 

Know when to cut your losses

Investing in dividend stocks requires a balance between patience and knowing when to cut your losses. While waiting for an investment to pay off can be tempting, holding onto a failing stock can result in significant losses. Recognizing when a stock is underperforming and taking action is crucial to successful dividend investing. 

It's important to monitor the financial health and performance of a company and reevaluate the investment if it fails to meet expectations. Knowing when to cut your losses and sell a stock that is no longer viable can protect your portfolio and help to prevent significant financial losses. Being aware of market trends and the performance of the companies you invest in is key to making informed investment decisions.

Don’t put all your eggs in one basket

Diversifying your portfolio is crucial when investing in dividend stocks to minimize risk and maximize returns. Putting all your money into one or a few stocks exposes you to significant risk if any of them fail. 

By diversifying across multiple companies and sectors, you can spread your risk and minimize the impact of a single stock's performance on your portfolio. Investing in companies with varying levels of financial health and dividend yields can help to create a more balanced portfolio.

Diversification is a key strategy for long-term dividend investors who want to build a stable and sustainable source of passive income while mitigating the risk of significant financial losses.

Additionally, some investors opt to implement a dividend investment strategy that looks to increase dividend yields over time. This process centers around dividend reinvestment which essentially means reinvesting the dividend payout one received. This over time will contribute to dividend growth, in the same way as compound interest works.

In conclusion

Investing in dividend-paying stock is an excellent way of building passive income streams while still building an impressive investment portfolio. With the right approach and adequate research, this can contribute to significant gains for your greater financial goals. 

The golden key is to gauge which stocks, in this case, dividend stocks, provide the strongest returns with minimal risk, and which stocks have the highest dividend growth potential. Implement these 6 golden rules above to better position yourself for success.

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We are delighted to announce the listing and support of Kyber (KNC) on Tap!

KNC is now available for trading on the Tap mobile app. You can now Buy, Sell, Trade or hold KNC for any of the other asset supported on the platform without any pair boundaries. Tap is pair agnostic, meaning you can trade any asset for any other asset without having to worries if a "trading pair" is available.

We believe supporting KNC will provide value to our users. We are looking forward to continue supporting new crypto projects with the aim of providing access to financial power and freedom for all.

Kyber Network is a decentralized multi-chain liquidity hub that provides instant, secure transactions on any decentralized application (dapp). Its main goal is to provide deep liquidity pools that offer the best rates for DeFi dapps, decentralized exchanges (DEXs), and other users. Kyber Network is built on the Ethereum blockchain and makes use of intricate smart contracts.

Kyber Network seeks to solve the liquidity issue in the DeFi industry by allowing developers to build products and services using the platform's protocol, while KyberSwap acts as the trustless trading platform that also provides rewards for liquidity providers. With over $1 billion in total volume from over 1 million user transactions, Kyber Network is a growing player in the DeFi space.

Kyber Network Crystal (KNC) is the native coin for the platform and acts as both a utility and governance token. KNC holders can participate in the DAO and governance proposals by staking their assets or delegating their vote. Users can stake KNC to vote on upgrades and policies or delegate their tokens to other validators and earn a portion of the block reward.

Get to know more about Kyber (KNC) here in our dedicated article.

Online banking scams are becoming more prevalent these days, and it's crucial for you to be aware and stay vigilant.

At Tap, we take security seriously and work tirelessly to provide you with a safe experience. However, we also believe in educating our community about the various types of scams they might come across.

By learning how to identify online scammers, you can protect yourself and your hard-earned money effectively. So, let's explore some tips on recognizing these scams and ensuring your financial safety.

Stay Alert: Spotting the red flags for financial scams

If you happen to stumble upon any of these telltale signs while scrolling through your social media feed, chances are high that you're dealing with a scam:

- Mentions of "free money".

- The mention of “Airdrop”.

- Images flaunting large sums of cash or luxurious items.

- References to Tap "support" or "representative".

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Tap will never ask over the phone, chat, email, text, or social media for you to provide:

- Seed phrase / private key of your wallet.
- Personal Information. (name, credentials, email address/ phone number).
- Asking you to send in additional funds in order to release funds you hold on deposit.
- Advise you that in order for your transaction to be processed on chain, you need to send in additional funds.

Types of scams to look out for:

Phishing‍

Be on guard against phishing attacks! Scammers employ deceptive links, messages, or emails (often boasting a sense of urgency) to deceive you into divulging your passwords or private keys. Stay vigilant and never fall for their tricks! Protect your sensitive information and avoid replying to any message or email that was not solicited in the first place.

Impersonation

Watch out for impersonation scams. Scammers pretend to be someone they're not, like celebrities or trading experts, with the aim of convincing you to invest based on their reputation.
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Pump and Dump

Watch out for the infamous "Pump and Dump" hustle! These scammers go to great lengths to create a buzz around a completely worthless cryptocurrency. They manipulate unsuspecting investors into driving up the price ("pump") before the scammer makes a swift exit by selling off their own stash ("dumps"). Don't fall for their tricks and be sure to steer clear of these deceptive tactics!

Cash or money flipping 

Beware of "cash flipping" schemes on social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter. Look out for posts with images of cash or luxury items, and flooded with hashtags like #fastcash, #cashflip or #moneyflip.

These scammers claim to possess a "secret" investment strategy where if you send them money, they'll multiply it tenfold. Remember, these are too good to be true!

Fake Tap support websites and social media profiles 

Beware of fake Tap support websites and social media profiles. These cunning scammers go to great lengths, setting up deceptive "Tap Support" websites and social media accounts. Their ultimate aim is to trick unsuspecting members into revealing their login credentials and sensitive account information.

Remember, authentic Tap social media accounts are listed on the footer of our official website, www.withtap.com. To be absolutely certain you're engaging with genuine Tap channels, visit our homepage and click on the social media icons located at the bottom of the page (see the picture below). Additionally, please be aware that our team will never initiate contact with you first on social media. Stay vigilant!

‍Malware

Stay one step ahead of malware! Crafty scammers use malicious viruses or trojans to invade your computer or mobile device, snatching away your passwords or private keys and draining your hard-earned cryptocurrency from your wallet.

Tips for ensuring your safety and preventing scams

Scammers are incredibly resourceful and constantly come up with new and inventive ways to deceive unsuspecting individuals. While we have covered several popular scam techniques earlier, it is important to understand that this list is not exhaustive.

Given the vast array of scams out there, it is crucial to maintain a vigilant attitude. We want to emphasize that Tap will never initiate contact with you via phone, email, or text message to request personal information or passwords.

To further enhance your security, here are a few additional tips:

• Refrain from sharing personal details such as your account number, username, password, Social Security number, birthdate, or address with strangers or on unsecured websites.
  
  
• Enable push notifications in the Tap app so that you receive immediate alerts regarding suspicious activities.
  
  
• Avoid writing any identifying information, especially your PIN, directly on your debit card.
  
  
• Whenever you don't plan on using your card, you can safeguard yourself by blocking all debit card transactions through a quick swipe in the app. It freezes your card temporarily.
  
  
• If you suspect that your account has been compromised, it is imperative to change your password immediately. Additionally, if you believe you have fallen victim to a scam, please immediately reach out to Tap support and report the incident to the police without delay.

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By following these precautions, you can significantly reduce the risk of falling prey to scams and ensure your personal information remains secure.

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Tap’s approach to addressing scams and protecting users

At Tap, we are continuously working to combat the presence of fake accounts and take swift action to shut them down. However, despite our efforts, new fraudulent accounts may still surface.

Your personal information security is of paramount importance to us, and we strongly urge you to exercise caution in safeguarding it. If you come across any suspicious activity or encounter a scam, we appreciate your proactive assistance in bringing it to our attention as soon as possible.

To report a scam or share information regarding fraudulent incidents, you can reach out to us via our support live chat in the app, our support email (All the ways to contact us are available here : https://www.withtap.com/contact-us). Your input plays a crucial role in helping us combat scams effectively.

Rest assured we are committed to maintaining a secure environment for all Tap users, and your cooperation in reporting scams is greatly appreciated. Together, we can work towards a safer community and protect one another from fraudulent activities.

In the rapidly evolving landscape of cryptocurrencies, investors are always searching for dependable platforms that provide effortless trading experiences and a diverse array of features. Among the multitude of options available, distinguishing between Tap and traditional crypto exchanges can be challenging. Although both facilitate cryptocurrency trading, they exhibit notable disparities in their offerings and functionalities. In this article, we will delve into five fundamental distinctions that position Tap as a superior choice when compared to traditional crypto exchanges.

All-in-One Platform:

One of the most significant advantages of Tap over traditional crypto exchanges is its all-in-one platform. Tap is not solely a cryptocurrency exchange but a comprehensive financial platform that seamlessly integrates cryptocurrencies with traditional fiat financial services. Users can hold and exchange various cryptocurrencies alongside fiat currencies in a single account. This unique feature provides unparalleled convenience, allowing customers to manage their finances and investments in one place. On the other hand, traditional crypto exchanges usually only support cryptocurrency trading, requiring users to transfer funds back and forth between different accounts for fiat-related transactions.

User-Friendly Interface:

Tap prides itself on its user-friendly interface, designed to cater to both seasoned traders and newcomers to the crypto space. The platform's intuitive design makes it easy for users to navigate, monitor market trends, and execute trades efficiently. Additionally, Tap provides real-time market data, educational resources on its blog, and insights to help users make informed decisions. Conversely, many traditional crypto exchanges can be overwhelming, especially for beginners, with complex interfaces and limited educational support.

Instant Fiat-Crypto Conversion:

Another standout feature of Tap is its instant fiat-crypto conversion. Users can easily convert their fiat currency into a wide range of cryptocurrencies at competitive exchange rates, without the need for additional transactions or fees. This convenience streamlines the trading process and allows users to capitalize on market opportunities swiftly. In contrast, traditional crypto exchanges often require users to deposit funds, wait for approval, and then execute trades, which can take hours or even days to complete.

Broad Range of Cryptocurrencies:

Tap offers an extensive selection of 40+ cryptocurrencies, including popular options like Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Ripple (XRP), and many more. With Tap, users have the flexibility to diversify their crypto portfolio easily. Moreover, the platform regularly adds new cryptocurrencies to its offerings, ensuring users have access to the latest and most promising digital assets. In contrast, some traditional crypto exchanges have a limited selection of cryptocurrencies, restricting users' investment options.

Pair Agnostic Trading:

A key advantage that sets Tap apart from traditional crypto exchanges is its pair agnostic trading feature. With Tap, users can seamlessly exchange any crypto asset for any other crypto asset directly on the platform. This eliminates the need for multiple exchanges or restrictions on which assets can be traded against each other. Unlike traditional crypto exchanges that often impose limitations on trading pairs, Tap empowers its users with unmatched flexibility, allowing them to swiftly trade between a vast array of cryptocurrencies or fiat.

Enhanced Security and Regulation:

Tap sets a high standard for security and regulatory compliance. As a regulated financial institution, the platform follows stringent security measures to safeguard users' funds and personal data. Tap employs advanced encryption protocols and two-factor authentication to protect accounts from unauthorized access. Additionally, it complies with regulatory requirements, ensuring a safe and reliable trading environment. On the other hand, traditional crypto exchanges may not always adhere to the same level of regulatory scrutiny, leaving users potentially exposed to security risks and uncertainties.

In conclusion:

In conclusion, Tap stands out as a superior choice compared to traditional crypto exchanges due to its all-in-one platform, user-friendly interface, instant fiat-crypto conversion, broad range of cryptocurrencies, and enhanced security and regulation. Its seamless integration of cryptocurrencies with traditional financial fiat services makes it a one-stop solution for financial management and investment needs. With Tap, users can trade cryptocurrencies with ease and confidence, backed by a robust and secure platform. Whether you are a seasoned crypto investor or a newcomer to the world of digital assets, Tap offers a compelling and competitive solution for your trading and financial needs.

Do you often find yourself struggling to make ends meet and wondering how you can start saving money from your paycheck? You're not alone! 🙌 Many of us face the challenge of breaking bad spending habits and learning to save for the future. But fear not, because we're here to help you unlock the secrets to successfully saving. 

In this insightful blog post, we'll explore effective tips and recommendations to maximize your hard-earned cash. From practical strategies to smart saving habits and automating your savings, we've got you covered! Whether you're a financial novice or already on your way to fiscal greatness, these positive payday tips will set you on a path toward financial success, no matter what job you have.

So, if you're ready to take control of your finances and make every penny count, read on as we delve into the world of salary saving and provide you with useful tips to start making the most out of your paycheck. After all, you can't put a price on financial freedom.

Introducing the 50/30/20 Rule: Your budgeting cheat sheet 

If you've been staring at your bank balance, wondering where all your hard-earned money goes, fret not! We've got a simple and effective solution for you – the 50/30/20 rule.

Here's how it works: You allocate 50% of your income towards necessities like rent, groceries, debt, and bills. We're talking about those everyday items you just can't live without. Then, you've got 30% earmarked for discretionary spending – the fun stuff like dining out or treating yourself to a little retail therapy. Finally, be a money-savvy superstar by directing 20% of your income into savings. Cha-ching!

By embracing this rule and its benefits, you'll achieve balance in managing your finances, without feeling overwhelmed. Plus, it's a flexible guideline, which means you can adjust the percentages to suit your unique financial circumstances.

Pay your bills right away

Paying your bills promptly is key to staying on top of your finances. Many people make the mistake of waiting until the end of the month to pay their bills, which can lead to unnecessary costs and even having to dip into their savings.

To avoid this, it's best to prioritize your bills and schedule them for the beginning of the month. Start by arranging your bills in order of importance – rent/mortgage, utilities, internet, etc. Make sure the most critical bills, like rent and child support, are paid around payday when you have enough funds available.

By managing your bills in this way, you'll avoid the stress of running out of money before your next paycheck and the additional charges that come with late payments.

Set up auto-transfers to avoid temptations

Want to save money without even thinking about it? Well, we've got a neat trick for you! All you need to do is set up automatic transfers into your savings account on payday.

This powerful strategy allows you to effortlessly save a predetermined amount of money every month. The beauty of automatic transfers is that they happen instantly, with no time for second thoughts or impulse buys.

By making this helpful habit a part of your financial routine, you can take charge of your savings goals and steadily grow your funds. It's a simple yet effective way to credit your savings account.

Define your saving goals

Saving money is always a great idea, but it becomes even more powerful when you have specific goals in mind. Whether you're aiming to buy a house, plan your dream vacation, or save for retirement, setting targets can help you stay focused on what truly matters to you.

Having a clear savings goal, or even multiple ones, gives you a sense of purpose and helps you resist the temptation of impulsive purchases. Instead of getting distracted by small expenses, you'll keep your eye on the bigger picture every payday.

So take a moment to think about your goals and start setting up savings targets that will guide you on your financial journey.

Enjoy the occasional shopping splurge

Balance is essential when it comes to keeping your finances in shape. Just like the importance of occasional treats in a diet, it's important to give yourself permission to splurge every now and then. Yes, you can definitely occasionally treat yourself to that delicious cupcake, it’s important to give yourself permission to have a bit of fun with your money. 

By completely depriving yourself of enjoying life's pleasures, you may end up going overboard later on and creating bigger financial issues for yourself.

Think of it this way - even if you are diligently saving money, it won't matter much if you're not allowing yourself to have some fun. You don't want to miss out on life's little joys just because you're focused solely on saving.

That's why it's important to incorporate moderate splurges into your monthly budget. There's absolutely no need to feel guilty about it. After all, everyone deserves to treat themselves and enjoy life. As long as you're still practicing other good financial habits and sticking to your overall saving goals, indulging in occasional splurges won't derail your progress.

A quick note of effective debt management

Debt management is crucial for anyone looking to improve their financial health and save money. Paying off debts allows individuals to free up their income, reduce interest payments, and gain greater financial freedom. From credit cards to mortgage, the sooner these are paid off the less interest one has to pay.

Effective debt management techniques include the debt snowball and debt avalanche methods. The snowball method involves paying off smaller debts first and then moving on to larger debts, providing motivation from quick wins. The avalanche method prioritizes high-interest debts first to minimize interest payments over time. Both strategies can help individuals regain control of their finances and achieve long-term debt freedom.

In conclusion

Saving money from your paycheck doesn't have to be a daunting task. By implementing simple strategies like the 50/30/20 rule, paying bills promptly, setting up automatic transfers, defining saving goals, and allowing yourself the occasional splurge, you can take control of your finances and set yourself up for financial success. 

Remember, it's all about finding that balance between saving for the future and enjoying life's little pleasures. So go ahead, start implementing these tips, and watch your savings grow while still enjoying the journey. You've got this! ✨

In this article, we delve into the distinction between revenue and profit, essential for businesses aiming to thrive financially. In a nutshell, revenue represents the total income generated from core operations, while profit is what remains after deducting all expenses. Join us as we explore the nuances between these two crucial concepts and their significance in business success.

What is revenue?

Revenue represents the total income earned by a business through its core operations, such as sales of goods or services. It can also be referred to as the top line of an income statement. It's essential for covering expenses, investing in growth, and generating profits.

Revenue comes from various sources like product sales, service fees, subscriptions, licensing, and advertising. Understanding and managing revenue streams are crucial for sustaining operations, attracting investors, and ensuring long-term viability in competitive markets. Thus, revenue serves as a vital performance indicator for businesses of all sizes and industries.

What is profit?

Profit refers to the financial gain a business achieves after deducting all expenses from its total revenue. On an income statement, profit is typically known as net income, however, the term "bottom line" is more commonly used.  Profits appear on an organisation's income statement in a variety of ways and are used for various purposes and are a key metric indicating a company's financial health and efficiency.

There are two main types of profit:

Gross profit

Gross profit equals revenue minus the cost of goods sold, which consists of the direct material and labour expenses related to creating a company's products.

Operating profit

Operating profit equals gross profit minus other business expenses that are associated with running the company, such as rent, utilities, and payroll.

Essentially, profit is calculated by subtracting total expenses from total revenue. It's vital for business sustainability, expansion, and rewarding stakeholders and accurately measuring and maximising profit margins is essential for achieving long-term success and competitiveness in the market.

Revenue vs profit

When people refer to a company's profit, they are usually referring to the net income, which is what's left after expenses. It is possible for a company to make money but still have a net loss.

In an example below illustrating the importance of understanding revenue and profit, say a company producing light bulbs makes $10 million in the income generated. This sounds great, however, if the company's core business operations and debt add up to $12 million, the company is making a loss. Let's take a look at this example in greater detail below:

Business revenue or Total Net Sales: $10 million

Gross Profit: $4 million (total revenue of $10 million minus COGS of $6 million)

Operating Profit: $2 million (gross profit minus other business expenses such as rent, utilities, and payroll)

Profit or Net income: –$2 million (illustrating that the company is making a loss)

Profit will always be lower than revenue as this amount is determined after deducting all the operating and other costs. 

A look at expenses

Operating expenses, including salaries, rent, marketing, direct costs, and utilities, which are necessary for day-to-day operations, and non-operating expenses, like interest payments or one-time costs, can impact profitability differently. By adequately controlling all expenses, businesses can maximise profit margins, reinvest in growth initiatives, and provide returns to stakeholders.

Overspending on unnecessary costs or failing to budget properly can significantly reduce profit margins, hampering long-term success. Therefore, monitoring and optimising expenses are integral parts of financial management strategies aimed at ensuring profitability and competitiveness in the market. With an effective strategy in place to measure and manage expenses, the price of goods and total sales will hopefully increase. 

The importance of financial metrics

Financial metrics encompass a range of indicators used to assess a company's performance, including revenue growth rate, profit margin, and return on investment (ROI). These metrics provide insights into the effectiveness of business operations, helping organisations gauge their financial health and make informed decisions.

For instance, the revenue growth rate indicates the pace at which a company's sales are increasing over time, while the profit margin measures the proportion of revenue that translates into profit. Additionally, ROI assesses the efficiency of investments by comparing the gains or losses relative to the initial investment, aiding businesses in evaluating their investment strategies and maximising returns.

How to measure business performance

Measuring how well a business is doing means looking at both its revenue and profit. Revenue is all the money a business makes from selling things, while profit is what's left after taking away all the costs. By finding ways to make more money and spend less, a business can increase its financial health. Keeping an eye on important numbers like sales growth and profit margins helps a business see where it's doing well and where it can improve. This helps the business stay strong and competitive in the long run.

In conclusion

Companies base their success on two very important metrics: revenue and profit. While revenue is referred to as the top line, a company's profit is what really matters and is referred to as the bottom line.

It is crucial for investors to take both revenue and profit into account when making investment decisions, and to review the company's income statement in order to get a full view of the company's financial health.

In conclusion, revenue is the income a company makes without factoring in expenses such as debts, taxes, and other business costs. Profit, on the other hand, factors in all company expenses and operating costs.

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In line with our how-to-budget pieces, today we're looking at how to monitor your spending. There's no good in building an impressive budget without keeping track of whether you're sticking to it or not. Yes, it might sound tedious, but it is always worth it, especially during the festive season when things tend to get a little out of control.

Paving the road from good intentions to excellent outcomes, tracking your spending is imperative.

Why tracking expenses is important (use your bank account to save money)

Before we get started, let's first cover the bases of why this step is so vital. First and foremost, it's essential to hold yourself accountable to your proposed budget. There's no good assigning each dollar you earn to a specific function only to disregard the budget entirely and spend impulsively.

If you're not tracking your expenses you'll land up in square one where you started a month ago. Monitoring your spending habits will show you exactly where your money is really going, and help you to make more informed decisions. The best part is that after a month or two you will get the hang of it and the process will become a lot less tiresome and feel like more of a habit.

Keeping an inventory of your expenses (and income)

First, you'll need to create your budget. Once this is established and the time frame you've set it out for has started, it's time to get tracking. You can do this through a budgeting app, a spreadsheet, or a piece of paper if that makes you most comfortable.

Step 1: track your income

In your income section, confirm all income in the columns provided. If you make money in an unexpected avenue, be sure to add this in too. This step is particularly important for those that earn irregular income through freelancing or side hustles.

Ideally, you would have listed your income avenues as a low estimate, so revel in adding the higher amounts into the columns provided. You can then enjoy reallocating those funds to various items in your expenses column. Don't think you need to be a robot with your finances, you're allowed to enjoy them too.

Step 2: track your expenses

For this step you need to track every single time money leaves your account. For the entire month. From emergency fund allocations to debt payments to monthly expenses, and any payments on a separate spending account. Each time you spend money, record it in the relevant expense categories.

When you buy groceries, add this to your grocery expenses; when you eat out, add this to your entertainment expense. Make sure that your budget is updated to reflect the new total so that you and your checking account are always in the know.

For example, if your grocery budget is $100 and you spend $23, add the $23 as an expense item under the title and ensure that your new grocery total reflects as $77.

There are plenty of expense tracker apps out there if this helps you stay on track. If you are using a budgeting app be sure to check in and review how each category is doing so that you can make informed decisions on what you spend your money on.

Step 3: make it a habit

You might like to do this daily or biweekly at first until you get the hang of it. Make yourself a nice cup of tea and make it a pleasant habit, instead of something you resent and put off. Understanding your cash flow is imperative to understanding your spending patterns and to better manage money. This is where the magic happens (and how financial goals are achieved).

Different methods of tracking your expenses

Below we outline the four most common methods used to track expenses, looking at the advantages and disadvantages of each of them. Whether you prefer paper receipts or accounting software, settle for the expense-tracking method that works for you.

1. Handwritten

There's nothing wrong with the old-school pen and paper option, if this feels right to you then go for it! Make sure you store it in a safe space.

Advantage: studies suggest that writing things down increases your retention of the information and boosts your ability to make more informed decisions. While typing is probably the preferred method, writing is actually more efficient when it comes to learning.

Disadvantage: this option is more time-consuming and will require you to physically remember all your purchases and retain your slips. Alternatively, you could sit with a printout of your bank accounts and manually write out each expense.

2. The cash process

This step requires you to withdraw the cash outlined in each budgeted category and store it in an envelope. Every time you make a transaction, you use the cash from the relevant envelope and replace it with the receipt. For debit orders, you can use your imagination. While the envelope method might be considered an old-school option for money management, if it works for you then go with it.

Advantage: using this method of tracking monthly expenses you can physically see how well your budget is going and how much you have left to spend.

Disadvantage: in these modern times paying with cash isn't always very practical.

3. Spreadsheet

Probably the more common option when it comes to tracking your expenses, using a spreadsheet can be practical and it does the maths for you.

Advantage: with tons of templates, the ability to quickly customize or revise your budget and the automated calculator, spreadsheets are a great option.

Disadvantage: you'll need to physically sit down with your laptop when tracking all your transactions. This will become more challenging the longer you leave it so ideally you;ll need to make this a daily occurrence. Remember, without monitoring your expenses your budget is simply a plan.

4. Budgeting apps

There are several budgeting apps available (for free) that can link to your bank account and automatically track all your expenses.

Advantage: It's all done for you, in real-time. Some apps might require you to assign the transaction to a category while others might automatically categorize it for you, either way, it requires minimal effort and can be regularly updated.

Disadvantage: You still need to monitor your spending, even if you're not physically putting it in. If you've reached your grocery budget, you need to be aware as the app is not going to cut your spending for you.

In conclusion

Whichever method you opt for, tracking your expenses is imperative to sticking to your budget and getting you one step closer to your financial goals.

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What is the "Travel Rule"?

You might have heard of the "Travel Rule" before, but do you know what it actually mean? Well, let me break it down for you. The Travel Rule, also known as FATF Recommendation 16, is a set of measures aimed at combating money laundering and terrorism financing through financial transactions.

So, why is it called the Travel Rule? It's because the personal data of the transacting parties "travels" with the transfers, making it easier for authorities to monitor and regulate these transactions. See, now it all makes sense!

The Travel Rule applies to financial institutions engaged in virtual asset transfers and crypto companies, collectively referred to as virtual asset service providers (VASPs). These VASPs have to obtain and share "required and accurate originator information and required beneficiary information" with counterparty VASPs or financial institutions during or before the transaction.

To make things more practical, the FATF recommends that countries adopt a de minimis threshold of 1,000 USD/EUR for virtual asset transfers. This means that transactions below this threshold would have fewer requirements compared to those exceeding it.

For transfers of Virtual Assets falling below the de minimis threshold, Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs) are required to gather:

• The identities of the sender (originator) and receiver (beneficiary).
• Either the wallet address associated with each transaction involving Virtual Assets (VAs) or a unique reference number assigned to the transaction.
• Verification of this gathered data is not obligatory, unless any suspicious circumstances concerning money laundering or terrorism financing arise. In such instances, it becomes essential to verify customer information.
  

Conversely, for transfers surpassing the de minimis threshold, VASPs are obligated to collect more extensive particulars, encompassing:

• Full name of the sender (originator).
• The account number employed by the sender (originator) for processing the transaction, such as a wallet address.
• The physical (geographical) address of the sender (originator), national identity number, a customer identification number that uniquely distinguishes the sender to the ordering institution, or details like date and place of birth.
• Name of the receiver (beneficiary).
• Account number of the receiver (beneficiary) utilized for transaction processing, similar to a wallet address.

By following these guidelines, virtual asset service providers can contribute to a safer and more transparent virtual asset ecosystem while complying with international regulations on anti-money laundering and countering the financing of terrorism. It's all about ensuring the integrity of financial transactions and safeguarding against illicit activities.

Implementation of the Travel Rule in the United Kingdom

A notable shift is anticipated in the United Kingdom's oversight of the virtual asset sector, commencing September 1, 2023.

This seminal development comes in the form of the Travel Rule, which falls under Part 7A of the Money Laundering Regulations 2017. Designed to combat money laundering and terrorist financing within the virtual asset industry, this new regulation expands the information-sharing requirements for wire transfers to encompass virtual asset transfers.

The HM Treasury of the UK has meticulously customized the provisions of the revised Wire Transfer Regulations to cater to the unique demands of the virtual asset sector. This underscores the government's unwavering commitment to fostering a secure and transparent financial ecosystem. Concurrently, it signals their resolve to enable the virtual asset industry to flourish.

The Travel Rule itself originates from the updated version of the Financial Action Task Force's recommendation on information-sharing requirements for wire transfers. By extending these recommendations to cover virtual asset transfers, the UK aspires to significantly mitigate the risk of illicit activities within the sector.

Undoubtedly, the Travel Rule heralds a landmark stride forward in regulating the virtual asset industry in the UK. By extending the ambit of information-sharing requirements and fortifying oversight over virtual asset firms‍

Implementation of the Travel Rule in the European Union‍

Prepare yourself, as a new regulation called the Travel Rule is set to be introduced in the world of virtual assets within the European Union. Effective from December 30, 2024, this rule will take effect precisely 18 months after the initial enforcement of the Transfer of Funds Regulation.

Let's delve into the details of the Travel Rule. When it comes to information requirements, there will be no distinction made between cross-border transfers and transfers within the EU. The revised Transfer of Funds regulation recognizes all virtual asset transfers as cross-border, acknowledging the borderless nature and global reach of such transactions and services.

Now, let's discuss compliance obligations. To ensure adherence to these regulations, European Crypto Asset Service Providers (CASPs) must comply with certain measures. For transactions exceeding 1,000 EUR with self-hosted wallets, CASPs are obligated to collect crucial originator and beneficiary information. Additionally, CASPs are required to fulfill additional wallet verification obligations.

The implementation of these measures within the European Union aims to enhance transparency and mitigate potential risks associated with virtual asset transfers. For individuals involved in this domain, it is of utmost importance to stay informed and adhere to these new guidelines in order to ensure compliance.

‍What does the travel rules means to me as user? ‍

As a user in the virtual asset industry, the implementation of the Travel Rule brings some significant changes that are designed to enhance the security and transparency of financial transactions. This means that when you engage in virtual asset transfers, certain personal information will now be shared between the involved parties. While this might sound intrusive at first, it plays a crucial role in combating fraud, money laundering, and terrorist financing.

The Travel Rule aims to create a safer environment for individuals like you by reducing the risks associated with illicit activities. This means that you can have greater confidence in the legitimacy of the virtual asset transactions you engage in. The regulation aims to weed out illicit activities and promote a level playing field for legitimate users. This fosters trust and confidence among users, attracting more participants and further driving the growth and development of the industry.

However, it's important to note that complying with this rule may require you to provide additional information to virtual asset service providers. Your privacy and the protection of your personal data remain paramount, and service providers are bound by strict regulations to ensure the security of your information.

In summary, the Travel Rule is a positive development for digital asset users like yourself, as it contributes to a more secure and trustworthy virtual asset industry.

‍Unlocking Compliance and Seamless Experiences: Tap's Proactive Approach to Upcoming Regulations‍

Tap is fully committed to upholding regulatory compliance, while also prioritizing a seamless and enjoyable customer experience. In order to achieve this delicate balance, Tap has proactively sought out partnerships with trusted solution providers and is actively engaged in industry working groups. By collaborating with experts in the field, Tap ensures it remains on the cutting edge of best practices and innovative solutions.

These efforts not only demonstrate Tap's dedication to compliance, but also contribute to creating a secure and transparent environment for its users. By staying ahead of the curve, Tap can foster trust and confidence in the cryptocurrency ecosystem, reassuring customers that their financial transactions are safe and protected.

But Tap's commitment to compliance doesn't mean sacrificing user experience. On the contrary, Tap understands the importance of providing a seamless journey for its customers. This means that while regulatory requirements may be changing, Tap is working diligently to ensure that users can continue to enjoy a smooth and hassle-free experience.

By combining a proactive approach to compliance with a determination to maintain user satisfaction, Tap is setting itself apart as a trusted leader in the financial technology industry.  So rest assured, as Tap evolves in response to new regulations, your experience as a customer will remain top-notch and worry-free.

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Hey Tapper! 🎉

We've hit a milestone that we couldn't have dreamed of when we started this wild fintech adventure. We've reached the dizzying heights of 200,000 users, and we're still climbing!  To put this in perspective, that's roughly the population of a small city. If only we could host a city-wide party with virtual confetti and digital fireworks – that would be something, right?

This incredible journey hasn't been a solo expedition. It's been a collaborative and thrilling adventure filled with talented professionals, a supportive community, and a pinch of good old-fashioned fintech humor (yes, that's a thing). We wanted to take a moment to share our heartfelt gratitude and a peek behind the scenes of how we got here.

The Dream Team‍

To begin, let's shine a light on the incredible individuals who work tirelessly behind the scenes – our talented team. Think of us as the Avengers of the fintech world (minus the capes, of course). Our journey started with a small but mighty group of financial enthusiasts. Picture us gathered around a conference table, armed with laptops and spreadsheets, brainstorming ideas that would transform the financial landscape.

Our engineers are wizards with lines of code, turning dreams into reality faster than you can say "crypto." Our designers are artists, making your digital experience a masterpiece. And our customer support team? Well, they're the real superheroes, dealing with every question, concern, and the occasional squirrel jumping in the office (yes, it happened 🐿️) with grace and humor.

To our team, we say this: Thank you for your unwavering dedication, your late-night coding sessions, your creative genius, and your limitless passion for making our vision of managing finance come to life. We couldn't have done it without you – not even close!

Our Community: The Wind Beneath Our Digital Wings‍

As we embarked on this journey, we stumbled upon something incredible – a community of users who believed in our vision as much as we did. They were the wind beneath our digital wings, the driving force that kept us going when the spreadsheets threatened to overwhelm us. From the first user who trusted us with their financial transactions to our 200,000th user who just joined the party, you've made this adventure worthwhile. 🙌

We've seen you share your success stories, engage in lively discussions on our social platforms, and even send us the occasional meme that made us snort coffee through our noses. Your feedback has been priceless, and your support has been our fuel when the fintech rollercoaster took a wild turn🎢 (trust us, it's been quite the ride).
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But here's the deal about fintech: it's not all about numbers and algorithms. It's about people, dreams, and the shared pursuit of financial freedom. So, as we celebrate this milestone, we also want to raise a digital cup to you, our amazing community.

Thank you for your trust, your patience, your loyalty, and your sense of humor. You've made this journey feel like a joyful adventure with friends.  

The Future: Buckle Up, There's More to Come‍

As we celebrate this incredible milestone, we want you to know that we're just getting started. We've got big plans, crazy ideas, and enough determination to make Elon Musk jealous (just kidding, Elon, we love your rockets). We're committed to improving your financial lives, one digital transaction at a time.

So, what's next? More features, a fresh app design, more innovation, and more reasons for you to smile while managing your finances. Because, let's face it, finances can be stressful, but with a dash of humor and a supportive community by your side, it becomes a thrilling adventure.

In closing, thank you, dear users and supporters, for being the heart and soul of our fintech journey. Here's to 200,000 users and beyond – we can't wait to see where the next part of this adventure takes us. Until then, keep those financial dreams alive and your digital wallets handy. We're here to make it all a little bit easier, a lot more fun, and we'll always be just a click away.

With heartfelt thanks and a virtual high-five,

The Tap Team ✨

While everyone's wants and needs might be different, there is always a clear line in the sand between the two. When getting to grips with one's personal finance, distinguishing the key differences between the two becomes important.

Needs encompass basic needs like food while wants lean more toward things one desires, like luxury goods. Being able to distinguish between the two, and acting on this, is imperative to one's healthy financial standing. 

In this article, we take a look at these two categories and assist you in differentiating between the two.  

What falls under NEEDS?

The need category looks at living expenses that one needs to stay healthy in their day-to-day living. These include everything from rent to the utility bill, medication and healthcare needs as well as food, commuting, and any work-related expenses. 

These are the basics required by one in order to function, and these should make up the bulk of your expenses. These expenses are also used to determine the amount you'll need when establishing your emergency fund. It is generally accepted that emergency funds should cover six months living expenses.

What falls under WANTS?

‍The wants category is likened to goods we could live without but choose to buy. These are not required for day-to-day living, however, when funds allow they can provide a more enjoyable quality of life. These include vacations, buying a house or car, entertainment, memberships, streaming accounts, etc. 

How to determine needs from wants

While some needs will be glaringly obvious, it's often the case that some wants sneak into the needs category. Here are three simple tools to help you distinguish between the two. 

Form vs function

If in doubt, consider how a product or service will be used. Clothing for instance: if the clothing will be worn to work it falls into the need category, however, if it's a clothing item centered around going out or recreation use, this will fall into the want category. 

‍Embrace brand variety

Needs and wants will differ from person to person, so it's best to have a solid grounding on what falls into needs and wants specifically for you. For instance, if you were looking to upgrade your smartphone, someone working in the tech or digital marketing space might be required to have a certain product, while in other cases getting the latest and greatest will fall into the want category. In this case, it might be best to explore other devices that have a lower total value.

Should you split expenses?

Grocery shops will more often than not fall into the need category, as feeding yourself is essential to survival. However, if the grocery shop consists of wine, chocolate, and other treats, this will fall into the wants category. 

While we don't expect you to scour through each grocery bill, be mindful of what you're spending your money on and try to balance shops between the two. For instance, if you splurge on a grocery shop one week with wants but register it in the needs category, consider adding the next week's grocery bill to the wants category. 

Is saving a want or a need?

Saving for long-term financial objectives like settling debt, retirement plans, and emergency situations might be tough for someone who makes less money. Because these costs are not immediate, they are not always recognized as a necessity.

However, settling debt can be a necessity to ease the financial strain. Furthermore, an emergency may strike at any moment, and during that time, an emergency fund will save one from falling into further (if not crippling) debt. As a result, it's vital to understand that even if your earnings are low, saving is beneficial in the long run, therefore, savings fall into the need category. 

How to navigate spending between wants and needs

Here are two easy steps to help you navigate your spending habits:

Create a budget

Establish a realistic budget and decipher how much you can spend on wants, needs, and savings. By creating a framework you can stick to, you can easily avoid any financial problems and still enjoy a good quality of life. 

A common ratio used in the budgeting world is the 50:30:20 method. Use 50% of your income on needs (rent, food, bills), 30% on wants, and put the remaining 20% straight into your savings.

Be realistic about your wants

If you're looking to save more money or are working on building your emergency fund, consider adjusting your spending on wants. Being more strict with what you can and cannot buy or lowering your standards somewhat can assist you in saving money and rather allocating the funds to a retirement fund for example. Other ways to reduce spending habits are to get a roommate or use public transport. 

In conclusion

Spending intelligently is without a doubt one of the most important ways to make your money go further. The principles, on the other hand, are focused on saving more, spending moderately on necessities, and sparingly on wants. Paying more attention to desires might lead to issues and limit financial development.

Consider carefully what your needs and wants are and then gradually attempt to lower your standard of living. By focusing on your essential needs without disregarding the importance of saving, you'll be on the fast track to financial ease in no time.

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Tap partners with Total Processing to allow Visa debit deposits, improving its customer’s experience

Tap, the dynamic fintech platform can now offer its customers the ability to top up their accounts via Visa card deposit thanks to its new partnership with Total Processing, a leading payments specialist.

This strategic partnership offers Tap customers a new and improved way to effortlessly replenish their accounts, further enhancing the platform's reach, accessibility and convenience.

Renowned for its crypto-inclusive financial solutions, Tap provides a user-friendly platform to allow its customers worldwide to easily manage their crypto and fiat assets. The company is thrilled with its latest collaboration with Total Processing, an award-winning payment processing company that focuses on a customer-centric approach to offer a seamless payment solution.

By integrating Total Processing's innovative payment offering, Tap extends this enhanced service to hundreds of thousands of customers, allowing them to directly fund their Tap accounts using Visa cards. Moreover, Tap continues to provide the flexibility of Mastercard and bank transfer deposit options, serving users in over 40 countries.

The decision to partner with Total Processing aligns with Tap's dedication to delivering a superior user experience. In response to some users experiencing issues with Visa card deposits, the fintech platform has seamlessly transitioned to Total Processing as its new trusted payment processor for frictionless Visa card loading. This move underscores Tap's commitment to delivering high-quality financial services to its valued customer base.

This enhancement is effective immediately and extends across all the 40+ countries where Tap operates. The company remains dedicated to delivering professional and world-class financial solutions, ensuring its users have access to a seamless and efficient experience.

Kriya Patel, CEO of Tap, commented, "Tap is highly committed to providing a best-in-class offering for our customers, and Total Processing delivers the perfect partnership to help achieve this goal. Tap looks forward to working closely with Total Processing to further enhance our customer-focused, innovative payment solutions."    

Alex Leigh, Co-founder of Total Processing, added: "We are excited to join forces with Tap in this strategic partnership, as it aligns perfectly with our commitment to customer-centric payment solutions. This collaboration empowers Tap's users with seamless Visa card deposit options, reinforcing our dedication to a frictionless payment experiences."

-ENDS-

About Tap
Tap is a pioneering force in the convergence of the cryptocurrency economy and traditional financial systems, striving to establish an equitable, accessible, and transparent financial landscape. Since its inception in 2018, Tap has been guided by the bold vision that individuals worldwide should enjoy effortless and secure management of their fiat and cryptocurrency assets. Presently, Tap offers a reliable and user-friendly platform that harmoniously integrates various financial services into a single, convenient hub.

For more information on Tap, visit: www.withtap.com

About Total processing
Founded in 2015, Total Processing is a leading provider of intelligent payment solutions that enable businesses to streamline their payment workflows, reduce costs and boost revenue. The company offers a range of payment processing services, including recurring payments, 198+ alternative payment methods, an agnostic payment gateway, risk prevention tools and in-depth transaction data, all managed within a unified platform.
With a focus on its customers, it provides adaptable solutions and a user-friendly interface to ensure smooth payment processing for its merchants.

For more information on Total Processing, visit: www.totalprocessing.com

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If you're new to the fascinating world of finance, fear not, we're here to help. With plenty of new terms and concepts being thrown around, it's common to miss out on some of the basics. In this article, we're taking a look at some of the most frequently used acronyms and terms, making them accessible and relatable. Allow this trusty guide to help you navigate through the often perplexing world of financial jargon.

APR (Annual Percentage Rate)

Let's start with APR. This acronym stands for Annual Percentage Rate and represents the annualized interest rate you're charged for borrowing money. When you borrow funds, the APR includes not only the interest but also any additional fees associated with the loan or credit product. 

Understanding APR allows you to compare different borrowing options and evaluate the true cost of credit. So, next time you consider taking out a loan, pay attention to the APR to make an informed decision.

ATM (Automated Teller Machine)

ATM stands for Automated Teller Machine and is the nifty device that allows you to withdraw cash from your bank account. While ATMs are becoming less and less used in one’s daily life, their advantage lies in traveling. With your Tap card directly linked to multiple fiat and crypto options, simply hop over the border and withdraw the local currency.

BACS (Bankers Automated Clearing Services)

BACS stands for Bankers Automated Clearing Services. It may sound like a mouthful, but essentially, it's a system in the UK that enables electronic payments to be made from one bank account to another.

It simplifies transferring money between accounts, making transactions more efficient. Whether you're paying your bills, sending money to a friend, or making regular payments to the bank's head office, BACS ensures that your money moves smoothly and securely.

BIC (Business Identifier Code)

BIC stands for Business Identifier Code or Bank Identifier Code, and the purpose of BIC is to provide a reliable and internationally recognized identification system for banks and financial institutions, streamlining transactions and enhancing overall efficiency in the financial industry.

When you're conducting business with different banks, especially when dealing with the bank's head office, the BIC serves as a unique code that ensures accurate identification of the institutions involved. So, next time you're sending funds to the bank head office, rest assured that the BIC code helps facilitate a seamless and secure transaction.

Dividend

Now, let's dive into dividends. A dividend is a distribution of a company's earnings to its shareholders. When a company makes a profit, it may choose to share a portion of those profits with its shareholders as dividends. So, if you're a shareholder, dividends are a way for you to earn a little extra income from your investments. 

FCA (Financial Conduct Authority)

The FCA is like the financial watchdog of the UK. FCA stands for Financial Conduct Authority. These folks are the regulators who keep an eye on the financial industry to protect consumers like you. Their job is to ensure that financial institutions play by the rules, maintain industry stability, and promote healthy competition among financial services. They've got your back when it comes to financial matters.

The SEC is the American equivalent (see later). 

Equity

Equity refers to the ownership interest in a company or property. When it comes to stocks, it represents the shares of a company that you, as an investor, own. In the real estate world, equity is the difference between the market value of a property and the outstanding mortgage. So, think of equity as your stake in something valuable.

Exchange rate

Ah, the ever-fluctuating exchange rate. It's like a dance between currencies. An exchange rate refers to the value at which one currency can be converted into another. It's crucial to understand exchange rates, especially if you're dealing with international transactions. They can impact the cost of goods and services when you're using different currencies. 

IBAN (International Bank Account Number)

IBAN stands for International Bank Account Number. It's a unique identifier for bank accounts used internationally. Think of it as a special code that helps simplify international money transfers. With an IBAN, you can easily identify an account internationally, making those international payments a little smoother. 

The structure of an IBAN may vary slightly between countries, but it typically consists of a country code, two check digits, and a series of alphanumeric characters representing the bank and account details. The length of an IBAN can also vary, ranging from country to country.

ISA (Individual Savings Account)

The ISA is a tax-advantaged savings and investment account that allows individuals to save and invest money without paying income tax or capital gains tax on the returns generated within the account. This is the United Kingdom equivalent to a Roth IRA (see later). 

Inflation

Inflation occurs when the general price level of goods and services goes up over time. It means that your money can buy you less than it used to. So, keep an eye on inflation, my friends, as it affects your purchasing power and how much you get for your hard-earned cash.

Mutual Fund

Let's explore mutual funds. A mutual fund is like a financial potluck. It's an investment vehicle that pools money from multiple investors to create a diversified portfolio of stocks, bonds, or other securities. It's a way for investors like you to access a professionally managed portfolio without the hassle of selecting individual securities.

Net Income

Net income, also known as net profit or earnings, is a common financial term. It represents the amount of money left over after deducting all expenses from a company's total revenue or one's bank account. It's a key measure of financial performance and tells you how much money a company is making after all the bills are paid.

Remittance

Remittance is the art of sending money across borders. Remittance simply refers to the transfer of money from one country to another. Whether you're an individual sending money to family overseas or a business making international payments, remittance is the term that captures those cross-border transactions. Remittance is most commonly used to describe the funds that are sent from someone in a developed country to family members in an undeveloped country. 

Roth IRA

A Roth IRA is a retirement savings account that packs a tax-free punch. You contribute money to this account with after-tax dollars, and the beauty of it is that qualified withdrawals in retirement, including both your contributions and earnings, are tax-free. It's a popular choice for those seeking tax-free growth potential in their retirement savings. 

SEC (Securities and Exchange Commission)

The Securities and Exchange Commission is the regulatory agency in the United States responsible for enforcing federal securities laws. The SEC's primary mission is to protect investors, maintain fair and efficient markets, and facilitate capital formation. It regulates and supervises various entities, including securities exchanges, securities brokers and dealers, investment advisers, and mutual funds.

SEPA (Single Euro Payments Area)

SEPA, or Single Euro Payments Area, is a game-changer for euro transactions within the EU and EEA. It harmonises payment systems, making international transactions as easy as domestic ones.

With SEPA payments, you can send and receive payments in euros across participating countries without dealing with separate systems and extra fees. It promotes efficiency, speed, and cost-effectiveness, simplifying your financial life and fostering economic integration.

SWIFT code (Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunications)

SWIFT stands for the Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunication. It's like the secret communication network that banks use to send secure financial messages, including payment instructions, to one another. Swift codes ensure that these messages reach their destinations reliably and efficiently. Think of a SWIFT code as the superhighway of financial communication, connecting financial institutions worldwide.

Conclusion

Understanding financial terms is crucial because it empowers you to make informed decisions about your money. Whether you're planning for the future, managing investments, or simply striving for financial stability, grasping key terms is essential. Armed with knowledge, you can navigate the financial landscape with confidence and make wise choices that align with your goals.