Ready to get started in the world of crypto? The future of finance is exhilarating and we’re making it easy for you to be a part of it. You’ve got the power, we want to share some of the knowledge and tools you need to dive into this new financial landscape.
1. Get the lay of the land
What is crypto?
Cryptocurrencies are forms of digital money that are created and transacted using blockchain technology. Each different blockchain has its own network of nodes (computers) run by validators (people) who keep the network honest by verifying and keeping track of network user transactions. Basically, if Pat sends Kate crypto on the network, validators confirm that the transaction happened and the transaction becomes a part of the digital ledger.
Each network uses its own way of validating transactions, known as consensus protocols, that dictate who gets to validate transactions on the network and how. Some networks use mining, others use staking or time stamping.
How do people buy/sell it?
Originally, you could only invest in crypto through cryptocurrency exchanges or DEX’s that require hot or cold wallets, public and private keys, and extensive knowledge of crypto to access. In our more mainstream crypto market, you can use crypto trading apps, like Voyager, to trade crypto easily without having to store or keep track of private keys. Voyager also has access to several different liquidity providers to achieve best execution on your trades and automatically search the market to find you better prices for your crypto.
What kinds of crypto are there?
Crypto can be looked at in two different segments: Bitcoin and altcoins. Basically, because Bitcoin dominates the market, it has its own category. The title altcoin refers to any cryptocurrency that isn’t Bitcoin. There are many types of altcoins available on the market today, but here are some of the most popular:
Smart Contracts
Smart contracts are just like tangible, everyday contracts, but they are completely algorithmic and programmed to execute automatically on a blockchain. In the world of crypto, smart contract assets run on their own networks which operate as foundations for people to perform transactions, build independent networks, and exchange a wide variety of assets.
Decentralized finance (DeFi)
DeFi, short for decentralized finance, represents a segment of the crypto sphere that focuses on peer-to-peer transactions and digital finance. By harnessing the efficiency and power of smart contracts, DeFi platforms create a space for lending, borrowing, trading, saving, and earning interest that doesn't require all of the usual bureaucracy and paperwork.
Stablecoins
Stablecoins are cryptocurrencies that are static in value and pegged to a fiat currency (normal money, like dollars). Stablecoins are usually backed by fiat currencies and have sister assets that experience normal market volatility to keep the stability balanced.
2. Speak the language
While the crypto market might resemble the stock market in some ways, crypto has its own terminology, and knowing the terms will help you navigate the market with ease:
Blockchain
Blockchain is a shared digital ledger that acts as a foundation for a peer-to-peer network, enabling free trade worldwide without the need for banks or middlemen. On the blockchain, you can create, trade, and value digital assets (such as cryptocurrencies, or crypto for short). Importantly, cryptocurrencies are built using blockchain technology, but they’re not the only usage of this new tech. You’ve probably heard of some cryptocurrencies that use blockchain, such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Dogecoin.
Decentralized apps (dApps)
Decentralized applications (dApps) and exchanges are built and run on the DeFi (Decentralized Finance) network.
Layer 1
The foundational platform for crypto assets. For example, Ethereum and Bitcoin are both Layer 1 protocols. DApps and Layer 2 scaling solutions are built on top of Layer 1 platforms, similar to how webpages and web applications are built on top of the Internet’s core architecture.
Protocol
A set of rules that enables data to be shared between computers. For cryptocurrencies, a series of protocols enable the structure of the blockchain; a decentralized database that allows digital money to exist and be securely transferred all around the world using the internet.
Public address (or wallet)
Sometimes known as a wallet address, the address to which people send each other crypto. It usually looks like a long string of randomly generated numbers. It’s okay for someone to know your public address, and sharing it won’t endanger your funds.
Public key
A numerical code, also known as a wallet address, that serves as a means to identify transactions and send or receive crypto through open channels that are less secure. You’ll use these on Voyager if you ever send or receive crypto from someone else.
Private key
A numerical code that decrypts data in transactions, allowing for the safe transfer of crypto funds. You should never share your private key with anyone because it will give them direct access to your funds. Keep your private key private because this is essentially the password to your wallet.
Proof of Work (PoW) and Proof of Stake (PoS)
Consensus protocols allow users to act as validators on the network by either ‘mining’ or ‘staking’ their crypto on the network. Both Proof of Work and Proof of Stake networks issue rewards for nodes (computers) contributing to secure the network, but Proof of Stake is quickly becoming favored as it uses far less energy. Depending on the exchange you use, you may receive a portion of the rewards.
These are just some of the more common terms you’ll come across in the world of crypto. Continue learning the lingo and you’ll easily be able to uncomplicate crypto and unlock the open financial system.
3. Understand the history and progress
The past decade of mainstream adoption and asset expansion has managed to both increase and polish out the kinks of the crypto market. The advent of newer coins brought competition and therefore more solutions, more ideas, and more ways to improve upon blockchain technology.
More diverse
Bitcoin started the crypto market in 2009. Now, there are over 8,000 cryptocurrencies available on the market. With so many choices, it is impossible not to find a crypto that suits your needs or interests, including but not limited to sports, art, education, philanthropy, and gaming.
More sustainable
New proof of stake consensus protocols are making validating on blockchains an altogether greener process. Proof of work protocols require constantly running machines that are tailored to the task and highly energy consumptive.
Now, developers are creating new protocols that eliminate the need for mining and make network validation more environmentally sustainable, such as proof of stake (staking assets on the network) and proof of history (using timestamps to verify transactions).
More secure
With regulation comes more security and more ways to protect your assets. Horror stories abound of people who lost private keys in the old days due to poor storage or phishing scams. Now, you can buy crypto through apps that offer built-in technology and 2-Factor Authentication for added layers of security.
How do you get started?
We’re here to help you kick start your crypto journey. With over 70 assets available to trade and an unmatched number of altcoins on the app, you can dive into the world of crypto with the security, knowledge, and investment tools you need to feel confident in every step.
Head to the app to get started, you’re ready.
