Cryptocurrency is the new beginning in the financial world. Its growth and global acceptance have forced lawmakers, governments, and central banks to take it seriously as the alternative to traditional paper-based currency.

What is cryptocurrency?

Cryptocurrency is a digital currency that is decentralized and is not controlled by any government or banks. The transactions use blockchain technology to execute, and the records are verified and recorded on an unchangeable ledger. The technology and encryption make it most secure and unique in nature.

The Basics of Blockchain Technology

Blockchain technology is a chain of cryptographic blocks, where complex computer programming is used to aid block to a blockchain so that a transaction can be completed. Each block contains the transaction records, which are decentralized and unique, also known as the ledger. Because of its unique features, it’s highly secure and safe.

Some popular cryptocurrencies in the world

1. 1. Bitcoin (BTC)

              2. Ethereum (ETH)

              3. Ripple (XRP)

              4. Litecoin (LTC)

1. Bitcoin (BTC)

Bitcoin is the most popular and oldest cryptocurrency. It was launched in 2009 by an anonymous entity known as Satoshi Nakamoto. Since its inception, it has gone through various ups and downs, but now these days bitcoin is the most valuable cryptocurrency, priced at around $68,000. It has generated more than 700% returns over the past 5 years.

2. Ethereum (ETH)

Ethereum is a digital currency like Bitcoin that uses the same blockchain technology, but the vision and long-term perspective are different from bitcoin. Came into being in 2015, founded by Buterin and Joe Lubin. It’s the 2nd most valued digital currency after Bitcoin, priced at $3,768 these days. It has generated 1,442% returns over the last 5 years and is expected to grow even faster in the next 5 years.

3. Ripple (XRP)

Ripple is a digital payment solution that uses blockchain technology to work as an intermediary between two currencies for money and security transactions. It’s faster than Bitcoin and uses less energy for computing. Ripple first came into existence in 2012, confounded by Chris Larsen and Jed McCaleb. The XRP token is presently priced at $0.52.

4. Litecoin (LTC)

Litecoin was developed as an alternative to bitcoin by an ex-engineer of Google in 2011. It is an open-source global payment network like Bitcoin, but with some differences, like its faster block generation mechanism and different algorithms. Litecoin is presently priced at USD 82.

Investing in cryptocurrency

With the evolution of new-age fintech companies, now it’s very easy to invest in cryptocurrencies. To invest in cryptocurrencies, you have to go to a crypto exchange. Before investing, you should be sure about how much you want to invest in which currency you want to invest, etc.

Some popular cryptocurrency exchanges

There are many crypto exchanges available for investment in cryptos, such as Mudrex, Coindcx, CoinSwitch, WazirX, Zebpay, etc. You should see their number of coin holdings, platform fees, user interface experience, and security features before choosing any crypto exchange.

In all of these applications, you need to submit the KYC first, then the second step is to add your money to your account. Now you are good to go for buying any currency you want to invest.

How to Secure Your Crypto Investment?

After you invest in cryptocurrency, it’s time to make sure that it is safe and secure. Ideally, you can keep your cryptocurrencies in the exchange, but you should keep your investment in a secure crypto wallet. Only a minimum amount, less than 20 percent, you can keep in exchange.

What is a crypto wallet?

A crypto wallet is a secure way to keep your cryptos. However, technically, it doesn’t store the cryptos. Your cryptos are stored in the blockchain; it only holds the key to access those cryptos.

Future of cryptocurrency?

No doubt the future looks optimistic for these digital coins, but it will be interesting to see the growth story of this new-age technology-driven coin. As an intelligent investor, you should keep an eye on all the developments happening in this domain and plan your investments accordingly.

Conclusion

Cryptocurrency is a new and latest development; it will take time for countries to accept this. However, those who are futuristic and