Learning the friendly way

From Bitcoin’s meteoric rise to the nonstop influx of new blockchain projects, digital currencies have captured the imagination (and wallets) of millions of people around the world. Crypto isn't just disrupting finance - it's rewriting the rules of money.

Unlike stocks or bonds that sleep when markets close, crypto never does. It’s borderless, always on, and untethered to any one country or institution, making it a magnet for those chasing new ways to diversify and bet on the future.

But it’s not all moonshots and memes. Volatility is real. Prices can rocket, or crash, within hours. And with rules still catching up, the landscape remains wild and unpredictable.

Here’s a guide to entering the market in 2025 - everything you need to know (and why it’s important). It’s not all high risk, high reward, so if you’re jumping in, make sure you know what’s going on.

What is cryptocurrency and how does it work?

Think of cryptocurrency as digital money that exists only online. Unlike the dollars in your bank account, which are controlled by banks and governments, cryptocurrencies run on networks of computers around the world.

The blockchain foundation

At its core, digital currency relies on something called blockchain technology. Imagine a ledger book that's copied across thousands of computers worldwide. Every time someone makes a transaction, it gets recorded in this ledger, and all the computers have to agree it's valid.

This system creates trust without needing a central authority like a bank: it's essentially having thousands of witnesses verify every transaction.

Types of cryptocurrency

There are plenty of different types of crypto on the market, each serving different purposes - from payment-focused currencies to utility tokens to memecoins.

Bitcoin (BTC) is the original and most well-known crypto, designed primarily as a decentralised digital alternative to traditional money. It's often referred to as "digital gold" due to its limited supply and store-of-value appeal.

Ethereum (ETH) introduced smart contracts (self-executing agreements), which opened the door to decentralised applications (dapps). This innovation gave rise to other development-focused platforms, like Solana (SOL) or Avalanche (AVAX), which power other smart contract ecosystems.

Then there are stablecoins, such as Tether (USDT) and USD Coin (USDC), which are pegged to fiat currencies like the U.S. dollar. These aim to reduce volatility and are often used for trading, lending, or cross-border transfers.

Utility tokens, like Chainlink (LINK) or Uniswap (UNI), serve specific functions within a platform, such as paying for services or governance participation. 

Meanwhile, security tokens represent ownership in real-world assets, like shares in a company or real estate. Examples include tZERO (TZROP), which offers tokenised equity in the tZERO platform, or INX (INX), a regulated token representing equity in the INX digital trading platform. These tokens are typically issued under securities regulations and grant holders rights like dividends or profit-sharing.

Lastly, memecoins (e.g., Dogecoin (DOGE) or Pepe (PEPE)) often start as jokes or community experiments but can gain traction through viral attention.

This is by no means a complete list, but it offers a sizable overview and a great place to start. 

Crypto vs stocks

When you buy a stock, you’re purchasing a share of ownership in a company. That ownership may entitle you to dividends (a portion of the company’s profits), voting rights, and access to company reports. These stocks are regulated by financial authorities, like the SEC in the U.S., and the value of a stock typically reflects the company’s performance, market conditions, and investor sentiment.

By contrast, when you buy crypto, you’re acquiring a digital asset - not a stake in a company. Most cryptocurrencies don’t grant ownership rights, dividends, or governance over a legal entity (unless structured as security tokens). Their value is driven by a combination of factors, including:

• Supply and demand: Many coins have a limited supply (like Bitcoin), which can affect price.
  
• Utility: Tokens may serve a specific function within a blockchain ecosystem, such as paying for network fees, accessing services, or participating in governance.
  
• Market sentiment and adoption: Speculation, media attention, and global events often play a large role in price fluctuations.
  

Crypto markets are also 24/7 and borderless, unlike stock markets, which operate during fixed hours and are tied to specific jurisdictions.

Is cryptocurrency a good investment?

This question doesn't have a simple answer: the answer depends on your individual financial situation and risk tolerance. Let’s take a look at some of the potential benefits and risks. 

Potential benefits

• Growth potential: Some cryptocurrencies have delivered extraordinary returns over the years
• Decentralisation: Not controlled by any single government or institution
• Accessibility: Markets operate 24/7, and you can start with small amounts
• Portfolio diversification: May behave differently from traditional assets

Significant risks

• Extreme volatility: Prices can dramatically drop in hours/days
• Regulatory uncertainty: Government actions can dramatically impact prices
• Security risks: Hacking, scams, and lost passwords can result in total loss
• Complexity: The technology can be difficult to understand
• Limited track record: Most cryptocurrencies haven't been around long enough to establish long-term patterns

If you're considering crypto as part of your broader financial strategy, it's worth consulting with a qualified advisor who understands digital assets.

Different ways to invest in cryptocurrency

The good news is that you don't have to buy a full Bitcoin to get exposure to the crypto market. Here are several approaches, each with different risk levels and complexity.

Buy crypto directly

This is the most straightforward approach - purchasing actual crypto through a regulated platform. Note that you can buy a fraction of a cryptocurrency, spending what you want instead of committing to buying a whole coin at market value (i.e. you can buy $100 worth of BTC as opposed to $100,000 for a full one).

What you need to buy crypto through Tap:

• Download the app
• Create and verify your account
• Load funds (bank transfer, debit cards accepted)
• Buy your chosen cryptocurrency

You can safely store your crypto in unique wallets created for you within the app. Utilising top security measures and fully regulated, Tap offers peace of mind alongside crypto endeavours. 

Crypto ETFs and ETPs

Exchange-traded funds (ETFs) let you invest in crypto through your regular brokerage account, just like buying stocks.

Examples include:

• Bitcoin ETFs (like IBIT, FBTC)
• Ethereum ETFs
• Broad crypto market ETFs

Benefits:

• No need to manage wallets or private keys
• Familiar investment process
• Potential tax advantages
• Professional management

Drawbacks:

• Management fees
• No direct ownership of crypto
• May not perfectly track crypto prices

Crypto-related stocks

You can gain indirect exposure through companies heavily involved in the crypto space.

Examples include:

• Strategy (MSTR): Company that holds significant Bitcoin reserves
• Riot Platforms (RIOT): Bitcoin mining company

These stocks often move with crypto prices but aren't direct replacements for owning crypto.

Blockchain investment funds

Some mutual funds and ETFs focus on companies developing blockchain technology, providing broader exposure to the ecosystem beyond just cryptocurrencies.

Advanced options (futures and options)

Experienced investors might consider crypto futures or options, but these are complex instruments with significant risks and aren't suitable for beginners.

How to choose the right investment strategy

Your approach to crypto should align with your overall financial goals and risk tolerance.

Consider your goals

• Growth seeking: Looking for potentially high returns over time
• Speculation: Short-term trading (highest risk)
• Diversification: Adding a small crypto allocation to a traditional portfolio
• Learning: Starting small to understand the technology

Time horizon matters

Crypto markets can be extremely volatile in the short term. If you might need the money within a few years, the high volatility could be problematic. As with any investment, never risk more than you’re willing to lose. 

Risk tolerance check

Some financial commentators say that because crypto can be so volatile, it's often kept as a small part of a larger investment portfolio, usually less than 10%. The right amount for you depends on your goals and how much risk you're comfortable taking.

Diversification within crypto

If you decide to invest in crypto, consider spreading your investment across different types rather than putting everything into one coin.

How to start investing in cryptocurrency: step-by-step

If you've decided to explore crypto investing, here's a systematic approach:

Step 1: Choose your platform

Research different exchanges and brokers. Look for:

• Strong security track record
• Good customer support
• Reasonable fees
• User-friendly interface
• Proper regulatory compliance

For the sake of this guide, we will continue by using Tap as an example. 

Step 2: Set up security

• Create and verify your account
• Enable two-factor authentication (2FA)
• Use a strong, unique password
• Consider using a dedicated email for crypto accounts

Step 3: Do your research

Before buying any crypto, understand:

• What problem it aims to solve
• How it works
• Who's behind the project
• Its track record and community

Step 4: Make your first purchase

Some people start by purchasing small amounts as a way to learn about the ecosystem without overcommitting financially. On the note of beginners, well-established cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin or Ethereum tend to receive more attention because of their track record and broader adoption.

Step 5: Monitor and learn

Track your investment's performance, but avoid making decisions based on daily price movements. Use this time to continue learning about the technology and market.

Top mistakes to avoid when investing in crypto

FOMO investing

Fear of missing out can lead to buying at peak prices. Avoid making investment decisions based on hype or social media buzz.

Skipping research

Each crypto is different. Don't assume they're all the same or that past performance predicts future results.

Ignoring security

Using weak passwords, falling for phishing scams, or keeping large amounts on unsecured exchanges can lead to total loss. Be vigilant, check that the platform is regulated. 

Misunderstanding costs

Crypto transactions often involve multiple fees - trading fees, network fees, and spread costs. These can add up quickly. Be sure to check the final transaction costs before confirming the trade so that you never get blindsided by hidden fees.

Tax neglect

Cryptocurrency is taxable in most jurisdictions. Be sure to know what the current rules are in your area, or consult a tax advisor who is clued up on cryptocurrencies. Keeping good records from the start is much easier than trying to reconstruct them later.

Is it safe to invest in cryptocurrency?

Safety in cryptocurrency investing involves multiple layers of consideration.

Platform security

Choose exchanges and brokers with strong security track records. Look for:

• Insurance on customer deposits
• Cold storage of customer funds
• Regular security audits
• Transparent communication about security practices

Personal security practices

• Never share your private keys or seed phrases
• Be wary of phishing attempts
• Use reputable wallets and software
• Keep software updated

Regulatory environment

The crypto regulatory landscape is still developing. Changes in government policy can significantly impact prices and accessibility. Stay informed and be aware.

Scam awareness

Be wary of anything that sounds too good to be true. Common cryptocurrency scams include:

• Fake exchanges or wallets
• Ponzi schemes promising guaranteed returns
• Social media manipulation
• Fake celebrity endorsements

Should I invest in crypto for retirement?

Some retirement account providers now offer crypto options, but this comes with additional considerations.

• Higher fees are common for crypto retirement accounts
• Limited cryptocurrency options compared to direct investing
• The extreme volatility may be inappropriate for retirement funds
• Regulatory changes could affect availability

So, should I invest in crypto?

Crypto markets can be volatile and unpredictable. While some early adopters have seen significant gains, many others have faced substantial losses. This isn’t a guaranteed path to wealth - it’s a volatile, evolving market that demands clarity and caution.

Before you dive in, make sure you:

• Understand the tech and the risks behind it
  
• Know your own limits (financially and emotionally)
  
• Start small - only with what you can afford to lose
  
• Diversify, don’t go all-in on any one asset
  
• Stay current: regulations shift fast, and ignorance isn’t bliss
  
  

This isn’t for everyone. Crypto’s wild swings and legal grey zones mean it’s best approached like any high-risk bet: informed, cautious, and never with more than you’re willing to lose.

Numeraire är ett banbrytande projekt som kombinerar dataanalys, AI och blockchain för att skapa vad som beskrivs som världens första AI-drivna och crowdsourcade hedgefond. Det grundades i oktober 2015 av Richard Craib, en sydafrikansk teknolog, och representerar ett helt nytt sätt att närma sig finansmarknaderna.

I stället för att förlita sig på traditionella analytiker, låter Numerai tusentals data scientists världen över tävla om att bygga de mest träffsäkra maskininlärningsmodellerna för börsprognoser – modeller som sedan styr hedgefondens faktiska investeringsbeslut.

TL;DR

AI-styrd hedgefond:
Numeraire (NMR) är en Ethereum-baserad token som används i Numerai – en hedgefond baserad i San Francisco som fattar beslut med hjälp av AI, utan mänskliga känslor.

Data science-tävling:
Numerai anordnar världens tuffaste datatävling, där deltagare belönas med NMR-tokens för modeller som förbättrar fondens resultat. Mer än 200 000 USD delas ut varje månad.

Crowdsourcade prognoser:
Deltagare använder Numerais krypterade data för att skapa maskininlärningsmodeller och skicka in sina prognoser, som sedan utvärderas och belönas.

Staking-mekanism:
För att delta måste användare hålla och satsa NMR-tokens – både för att visa förtroende för sina modeller och för att få tillgång till olika funktioner i ekosystemet.

Hur fungerar Numeraire?

Numerai använder ett unikt system där hedgefondens strategi formas av en global datatävling. Så här går det till:

1. Numerai släpper anonymiserad, krypterad finansiell data varje vecka.
2. Data scientists laddar ner datan och bygger modeller som förutspår hur aktier kommer prestera.
3. Prognoserna skickas in och utvärderas utifrån hur väl de stämmer med marknadsutfallet.

För att delta på riktigt måste deltagare satsa (stakea) NMR-tokens på sina inskickade modeller. Går det bra? Då får de mer NMR. Går det dåligt? Då förloras en del av insatsen. Den här mekanismen uppmuntrar till kvalitet framför kvantitet – du måste tro på dina egna modeller.

Till skillnad från många andra projekt använder Numerai inte en enskild vinnande modell. Istället kombineras de mest framgångsrika bidragen till en större “meta-modell” som fonden baserar sina investeringar på. Det gör systemet mer motståndskraftigt än om man bara litade på en enda förutsägelse.

Vem skapade Numeraire?

Richard Craib grundade Numerai 2015. Han studerade matematik och ekonomi vid University of Cape Town och senare på University of California, Berkeley. Innan Numerai arbetade han inom globala aktiemarknader, bland annat på Prudential (M&G).

Craib ville bygga en ny typ av hedgefond – en som drivs av kollektiv intelligens, transparenta incitament och teknik, snarare än traditionella analytiker. Numerai har sedan dess vuxit till att attrahera några av världens skarpaste data scientists.

Vad är NMR?

NMR är den inbyggda tokenen i Numerai-ekosystemet och används för flera viktiga funktioner:

• Tävlingar: Deltagare måste satsa NMR för att delta i tävlingarna och tjäna belöningar.
• Styrning: Tokeninnehavare kan delta i beslut kring plattformens framtid och förändringar.
• Incitament: Den staking-baserade modellen säkerställer att deltagarna bidrar med seriösa modeller.
• Belöningar: Numerai delar ut över 200 000 USD i NMR varje månad till framgångsrika modeller.

Tokenen är en ERC-20-token och fungerar smidigt inom hela Ethereum- och DeFi-ekosystemet.

Hur kan jag köpa och sälja NMR?

Du kan enkelt köpa, sälja och hantera NMR direkt i Tap-appen, tillsammans med dina övriga kryptotillgångar. Appen erbjuder ett enkelt gränssnitt och säker förvaring, vilket gör det lätt att komma igång.

Värt att nämna är att NMR:s utveckling är nära kopplad till Numerais hedgefonds framgång och tillväxten av dess globala nätverk av data scientists.

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Tap (XTP) är en banbrytande fintech-plattform lanserad 2019, som förändrar hur vi hanterar pengar genom att kombinera traditionell bank med kryptovalutor. Plattformen möjliggör omedelbara, avgiftsfria överföringar inom sitt nätverk, vilket gör det enklare att dela kostnader och skicka pengar – samtidigt som användarna belönas. Målet? Att demokratisera finans och ge alla tillgång till smarta, säkra och kraftfulla ekonomiska verktyg.

Vad är Tap (XTP)?

Att hantera flera appar, valutor och överföringar kan vara krångligt. Tap (XTP) är en helhetslösning som bygger en bro mellan klassisk ekonomi och kryptovalutor – allt i en och samma app.

Sedan lanseringen 2019 har Tap haft som mål att förenkla ekonomi för alla. Appen gör det möjligt att skicka och ta emot pengar eller krypto avgiftsfritt inom nätverket Tap2Tap, betala räkningar, samt köpa, sälja och växla ett brett utbud av kryptovalutor.

Med Tap kan du enkelt konvertera fiat till krypto – eller ta ut dina tillgångar med låga avgifter. Slipp valutaväxlingspåslag och onödiga appar när du är utomlands.

Nyckeln till det hela är Tap’s egna kryptovaluta, XTP-token, en ERC-20-token som ger tillgång till exklusiva funktioner som upp till 8 % cashback, belöningar och premiumförmåner i hela Tap-ekosystemet. Du kan också använda Tap Mastercard – fysiskt eller virtuellt – och handla med krypto var du än befinner dig i världen.

Tap i praktiken – hur fungerar det?

Tap är en allt-i-ett-plattform som samlar traditionell ekonomi och kryptohantering på ett ställe. Huvudgränssnittet är mobilappen – enkel, säker och byggd för att göra finans tillgängligt.

För att börja använda Tap krävs en verifieringsprocess enligt KYC- och AML-regler. När kontot är godkänt kan användare köpa, sälja och lagra upp till 50 olika kryptovalutor.

Plattformen accepterar flera betalningsmetoder, inklusive banköverföring och kortbetalning. Användare kan också överföra krypto från externa plånböcker till Tap, eller växla sina innehav till fiat och skicka direkt till sina bankkonton.

Med Tap Mastercard kan du dessutom förladda ditt kort direkt från din Tap-plånbok, ta ut kontanter i bankomater över hela världen och få cashback – upp till 8 % beroende på ditt medlemsnivå. Kortet erbjuder även konkurrenskraftiga växlingskurser.

Vad gör Tap unikt?

Slipp växla mellan appar. Tap kombinerar krypto och traditionell ekonomi i en och samma plattform. Växla digitala tillgångar till fiat direkt och använd dem i vardagen – eller bygg en kryptoportfölj med ett stort urval av tillgångar.

Det som verkligen särskiljer Tap är dess on-ramp och off-ramp-funktion. Växla mellan fiat och krypto – direkt, snabbt och utan krångel. Tap passar både nybörjare och erfarna användare som vill ha kontroll över sin ekonomi, oavsett om det gäller spenderande eller investering.

Vad ingår i Tap-ekosystemet?

Tap är mer än bara en app – det är ett komplett ekosystem för din ekonomi.

Flervaluta-plånbok

Säker och krypterad digital plånbok som stödjer över 50 olika kryptovalutor samt fiat. Lätt att hantera, växla och använda både för vardag och investering.

Kryptobörs

Tap erbjuder ett brett utbud av kryptovalutor att handla med – utan begränsningar i handelspar. Appen prioriterar snabbhet, flexibilitet och användarvänlighet.

Tap Mastercard

Tap’s förbetalda Mastercard låter dig handla globalt, både fysiskt och online. Finns som både fysisk och virtuell version.

Cashback

Alla som använder Tap-kortet får cashback. Genom att uppgradera din plan kan du tjäna upp till 8 % tillbaka på varje köp.

Tap2Tap-överföringar

Skicka pengar och krypto gratis till andra Tap-användare, direkt i appen – var du än är i världen.

Stöd för fiatvalutor

Tap stöder flera nationella valutor, så att du kan hantera både fiat och krypto smidigt i samma plattform.

Investerings- och handelsverktyg

Få tillgång till smarta funktioner som realtidsdata, prisnotiser, marknadsrapporter och nyhetsbrev – allt samlat på ett ställe.

Smart Trading Router

Tap’s egna router skannar flera börser och likviditetsleverantörer i realtid för att hitta bästa möjliga pris på din transaktion.

Vad är XTP-token?

XTP är den inhemska kryptovalutan i Tap-ekosystemet – och nyckeln till att låsa upp premiumfunktioner.

Du kan använda XTP för att:

• Få rabatt på handelsavgifter
• Låsa upp premiumplaner och funktioner
• Tjäna upp till 8 % cashback
• Sänka växlingsavgifter
• Öka kortets spendergränser
• Få tillgång till exklusivt innehåll som marknadsbrev och prioriterad support

XTP-token finns i flera handelspar och kan växlas mot ett flertal kryptovalutor direkt i appen, vilket gör det enkelt att diversifiera din portfölj.

Dessutom kan XTP skickas avgiftsfritt mellan Tap-konton – en snabb och kostnadseffektiv metod för internationella överföringar.

Alla XTP-innehav lagras säkert i appens integrerade plånbok, så att du kan fokusera på att växa din portfölj utan att oroa dig för säkerheten.

You may have heard of bear and bull markets; both referring to economic conditions within a market. Think about how a bull attacks, lifting you up with its horns. 

A bull  market or bullish market describes a condition within a financial market where the prices are rising or are expected to rise. The term "bull market" is most often used to refer to a financial market but refers as well to any asset that is tradable such as bonds, real estate, commodities, and currencies. Bull markets indicate investor confidence, optimism, and expectations that strong results will continue for an extended period of time.

There are two ways to What is a Bull Market?

A bull market refers to a financial market condition in which the prices of securities or assets are rising or expected to rise over an extended period. In a bull market, investors are optimistic about the future prospects of the market and are willing to buy securities, pushing prices higher.
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Bull markets are often associated with economic growth, strong corporate earnings, and low unemployment rates. In these conditions, investors are confident that businesses will continue to perform well and that the overall economy will continue to expand, leading to higher stock prices.
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Recognizing a Bull Market

To recognize a bull market, investors need to look for a sustained period of rising prices across the market or a specific asset class. This period can last anywhere from a few months to several years.
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Another way to recognize a bull market is through technical analysis. Technical analysts look at charts and other market indicators to identify patterns that signal a market trend. In a bull market, technical analysts may look for higher highs and higher lows in price movements over time.
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Impact of a Bull Market

A bull market can have a significant impact on the economy, businesses, and investors. When the stock market is performing well, businesses may have easier access to capital and credit, which can lead to increased investment and growth.
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A bull market can also lead to increased consumer confidence, as investors feel more optimistic about the economy and their financial futures. This can lead to higher consumer spending, which can, in turn, fuel economic growth.
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On the other hand, a prolonged bull market can lead to a market bubble, where prices become overinflated and unsustainable. This can lead to a market correction, where prices drop significantly, and investors may suffer losses.
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In conclusion

Bull markets can have a significant impact on the economy, businesses, and investors. Recognizing a bull market and understanding its impact can help investors make more informed investment decisions. However, it's essential to remain vigilant and avoid investing solely based on market trends, as market bubbles can lead to significant losses.

approach a bull market: selling stock for high profits or holding in hopes of rising prices in the future. Alternatively, you can also buy more assets, but most would not recommend buying on a high.

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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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Polkastarter represents one of the leading decentralised launchpad platforms in the blockchain ecosystem, focused on empowering early-stage crypto projects to raise funds and launch tokens. First launched in December 2020, it has established itself as a prominent player in the Initial DEX Offering (IDO) space, providing a secure and efficient environment for project launches.

The platform has facilitated the launch of over 100 projects, demonstrating its significant impact on the crypto funding landscape. Polkastarter also features a dedicated marketing team, including video production and design, providing support beyond just the technical infrastructure.

TLDR

Multi-chain launchpad: Polkastarter is a decentralised platform that enables crypto projects to conduct token sales and fundraising campaigns across multiple blockchain networks.

Fixed-price swaps: The platform's main offering is its fixed-swap smart contract, which allows projects to easily launch liquidity pools that execute orders at a fixed price, rather than using traditional AMM models.

Cross-chain support: Polkastarter currently supports Ethereum, BNB Chain, Polygon, Celo, and Avalanche, providing flexibility for projects across different ecosystems.

Native token (POLS): POLS serves as the platform's utility token, providing access to IDO participation, governance rights, and various platform benefits.

What is Polkastarter (POLS)?

Polkastarter is a decentralised launchpad platform designed to democratise access to early-stage crypto investments through Initial DEX Offerings (IDOs). The platform serves as a bridge between innovative blockchain projects seeking funding and investors looking for early access to promising tokens.

The platform's core innovation lies in its fixed-swap mechanism, which provides predictable pricing for token sales rather than the variable pricing models used by automated market makers. This approach offers greater transparency and certainty for both projects and investors during token launch events.

Beyond the launchpad functionality, Polkastarter runs an internal incubation and advisory program, bringing together experience and lessons learned from 100+ project launches to nurture and grow Web3 projects, helping to ensure that projects launched on the platform receive proper guidance and support.

The platform takes security seriously by carefully reviewing each project before allowing it to launch. This screening process helps ensure that only legitimate, high-quality projects reach investors, protecting users from scams and poorly developed tokens.

Who created Polkastarter?

Polkastarter was founded in 2020 by Daniel Stockhaus, Tiago Martins, and Miguel Leite. The founding team brought together diverse expertise in business development, technology, and product management to address the growing need for reliable fundraising infrastructure in the decentralised finance space.

Daniel Stockhaus serves as CEO and Co-founder, leading the platform's strategic direction and business development efforts. Under his leadership, the platform has grown from a startup concept to one of the most recognised launchpad platforms in the crypto industry.

The founding team recognised the challenges faced by early-stage crypto projects in accessing capital and the difficulties investors encountered in finding legitimate investment opportunities. Their solution was to create a platform that could serve both sides of this equation while maintaining high standards for security and project quality.

How does Polkastarter work?

Launchpad mechanism

To participate in token launches, users need to hold POLS tokens, with different amounts unlocking various access levels. The more POLS you hold, the better your chances of getting into popular launches and the more you can invest.

Projects set fixed prices for their tokens rather than using changing market prices. This means investors know exactly what they're paying and how many tokens they'll get before they invest.

Multi-chain infrastructure

Polkastarter works across several different blockchains, so projects can pick the one that best fits their needs. Some chains have lower fees, others are faster, and some have different user communities.

Project curation and support

As mentioned above, before any project can launch on Polkastarter, it goes through a thorough review process. The team checks the technology, verifies who's behind the project, and evaluates whether the business makes sense.

Projects also get help with marketing, strategy advice, and technical support to give them the best chance of success both during their launch and afterwards.

What Is POLS?

POLS is the native utility token of the Polkastarter ecosystem, serving a range of functions within the ecosystem:

• Tier access: Users must hold and stake POLS tokens to access different participation tiers in IDO launches, with higher holdings providing better benefits and guaranteed allocations.
• Governance rights: POLS holders can participate in platform governance decisions, voting on proposals that affect the platform's future development and policies.
• Staking rewards: Token holders can stake their POLS to earn rewards while maintaining their tier status for IDO participation.
• Platform fees: POLS can be used to pay for various platform services and may provide discounts on transaction fees.

How can I buy and sell POLS?

POLS tokens are available on Tap, allowing verified users to easily buy, sell, and trade the token. Before investing in POLS, we encourage you to consider how useful the token is on the Polkastarter platform and how much the launchpad space is growing. The token’s value depends largely on the platform’s success and how widely IDO fundraising is adopted.

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