Reid McCrabb, Author at Benzinga

How to Buy Bittensor (TAO)

Reid McCrabb — Fri, 06 Sep 2024 16:37:30 +0000

The post How to Buy Bittensor (TAO) by Reid McCrabb appeared first on Benzinga. Visit Benzinga to get more great content like this.

Looking to add TAO to your crypto portfolio? You can buy Bittensor on Kraken or Crypto.com.

Bittensor

192.49

Buy Bittensor

MOON

BUST

Bittensor is a project that combines artificial intelligence (AI) and blockchain technology to create a decentralized network where users can earn cryptocurrency by contributing computing power and AI models. This approach fosters advanced AI applications while ensuring transparency and security through blockchain. Bittensor seems to be one of the most promising crypto AI projects. How can you get exposure to Bittensor’s TAO token? This guide will explain more about the project, and how to buy Bittensor today.

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How to Buy Bittensor (TAO)

Bittensor (TAO) is a new cryptocurrency that can be trickier to purchase than blue chips like Ethereum (ETH) or Bitcoin (BTC). Below is a guide on how to get your hands on Bittensor TAO.

1. Open an Online Account

To start, you’ll need to create an account on a cryptocurrency exchange that supports Bittensor (TAO). This step is crucial as it’s where you’ll conduct your transactions. Choose a trading platform that aligns with your security needs, use requirements and transaction fees.

To create an account, visit the official website or app and click “Sign Up” or “Register” Enter your email and create a password, then verify your identity by providing personal information and uploading identification documents. This process ensures compliance with regulations and enhances account security.

2. Make a Deposit to Fund Your Account

To fund your trading account, you can use various payment methods, including existing crypto, bank transfers or credit cards, depending on the platform. Follow the instructions for your chosen method, enter the deposit amount, and confirm any transaction fees.

If you choose to deposit crypto, generate a wallet address from the exchange and copy it accurately. Send funds from your personal wallet using the wallet address.

Step 3: Make Your Purchase

Once your account is set up and funded, you’re all set to buy TAO. If you chose the cryptocurrency exchange route, navigate to the trading section, select Bittensor (TAO) and proceed with the purchase.

If you are using a software wallet, you can connect to a decentralized exchange (DEX) – like Uniswap. To buy Bittensor (TAO) on Uniswap, you need a compatible cryptocurrency wallet like MetaMask with Ethereum. After connecting your wallet on the Uniswap website, select or paste the Bittensor contract address, enter the amount of ETH to exchange, and confirm the trade. Ensure you have enough ETH for gas fees, and once completed, you will see your TAO tokens in your wallet.

What Is Bittensor (TAO)?

Bittensor is a project integrating blockchain with machine learning in a decentralized network. This open-source protocol rewards collaborative training of machine learning models with TAO tokens based on the value they add. On Apr. 11, 2024, Bittensor (TAO) hit a new all-time high market price of $767.68. Favorable market conditions and decentralized AI have put wind in the sails of its token price.

Brief History of Bittensor (TAO)

TAO’s launch, significant in blockchain and AI circles, included no Initial Coin Offering (ICO) or airdrop. TAO tokens are generated through mining and validation in the Bittensor network. Miners, who provide intelligence using specialized hardware or unique neural networks, and validators, who ensure adherence to consensus rules, are both rewarded. Each block distributes a reward of one TAO for miners and validators.

Bittensor envisions more than just a cryptocurrency role, aspiring to be a global open-source repository for machine intelligence. This goal promotes permission-less innovation in AI, with rewards and ownership within its network proportionally distributed. Bittensor’s approach intertwines blockchain, AI and open-source innovation.

Where to Buy Bittensor (TAO)

Kraken, Crypto.com, Gate.io and Bitget are some of the top crypto exchanges to buy TAO from. You could also opt for the software wallet approach and purchase through a decentralized exchange (DEX).

Best For

Security

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Get Started securely through Kraken’s website

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Disclosure: Terms apply. US only, may not be available in all states. Securities and brokerage services offered by Kraken Securities LLC, member FINRA/SIPC. Digital asset services offered by Payward Interactive Inc., (NMLS ID:1843762) a FINCEN registered money services business, not a member of FINRA/SIPC and not FDIC insured. Bonus rates are determined and paid out by Payward Interactive, Inc. in its sole discretion and are subject to change. See www.kraken.com/legal for more info.

Best For

Security

N/A

1 Minute Review

Kraken is one of the oldest cryptocurrency platforms in the crypto market, catering to both new and expert cryptocurrency traders. By supporting over 200 cryptocurrencies, including altcoins and meme coins, Kraken gives investors more choices along with deep liquidity. The platform ranks No. 1 in Europe in large order executions with over 35% market share. In February, the platform launched an institutional offering to provide solutions like spot and over-the-counter (OTC) trading, custody and staking.

Best For

Traders looking for advanced features and analytics
Investors seeking access to a wide range of cryptocurrencies

Pros

Provides access to a broad range of major cryptocurrencies and altcoins
Customizable order types, charts and leveraged futures trading
Strong commitment to security and regulatory compliance
Trusted by over 9 million clients in 190 countries

Cons

Not available in all U.S. states — no services to New York and Washington residents
You pay higher fees if you are not on Kraken Pro
Multiple apps may be confusing to beginners
Staking and rewards not available in the U.S.

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get started securely through crypto.com’s website

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1 Minute Review

Crypto.com strives to make cryptocurrency a part of everyday life by offering a full suite of services for crypto users. The company offers a Crypto.com App, Exchange, Visa Card, DeFi swap, DeFi Wallet, DeFi Earn, Crypto.com Price, staking, crypto lending, and many other services. What really sets them apart, however, is the combination of super low fees and incredibly generous rewards programs for their users.

Best For

Traders who want access to a secure, low-cost cryptocurrency exchange
Passive investors who want to earn interest on their balance without frequent trading
Mobile investors who prefer to handle all their crypto needs via their phone or tablet

Pros

Low fees
High security
One-stop shop for all your crypto needs (wallet, trading, spending, and more)
Lots of ways to earn interest, rewards, and rebates

Cons

Low privacy
Customer service response time could be improved

Best For

Professionals

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get started

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Professionals

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1 Minute Review

Gate.io aims to be your one-stop shop for cryptocurrency trading. The platform carries nearly 200 different currencies spread across over 350 markets. Traders can buy and sell cryptocurrency, with spot and margin trading being the most commonly used markets. The platform also allows traders to use peer-to-peer transactions through its “push transaction” function.

Multiple security protocols ensure your safety while using mobile or desktop browsers. Plus, a trading guide explains how to use the system for your first few trades. Not sure if you can trade your preferred currency? There’s a “Coin List” at the bottom of the homepage.

Best For

Beginners and professionals hoping to trade cryptocurrency across multiple markets
Anyone concerned with security
Traders needing additional information for their investments
Consumers looking for an expansive rewards program

Pros

Many cryptocurrencies from which to choose
Multiple trading styles
Enhanced, industry-leading security
Low fees
Quality mobile app

Cons

Almost too much functionality
A busy customer support system

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A Reliable Crypto Wallet

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Get started securely through Bitget’s website

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A Reliable Crypto Wallet

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1 Minute Review

Bitget is an advanced cryptocurrency trading platform with spot, futures, NFT, and swapping features. The platform is a bit daunting for novice traders, but if you have experience and a high risk tolerance, Bitget could open up a world of new strategies and techniques for your trading operation.

Best For

Advanced cryptocurrency traders
Crypto futures traders
Copy traders

Pros

Robust suite of tools for advanced traders
Over 800 supported tokens, plus other digital assets
Terrific mobile app for smartphones

Cons

Not available in the United States
Advanced platform not meant for beginners

How to Store Bittensor (TAO) Safely

While holding your TAO in an exchange account is an option, using a cryptocurrency wallet offers added security. There are two main types of crypto wallets: hardware and software wallets.

Best Hardware Wallet: Ledger Nano S

Best For

ERC-20 tokens

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buy now securely through Ledger Hardware Wallet’s website

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Best For

ERC-20 tokens

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1 Minute Review

Launched in 2014, Ledger has transformed into a fast-paced, growing company developing infrastructure and security solutions for cryptocurrencies as well as blockchain applications for companies and individuals. Born in Paris, the company has since expanded to more than 130 employees in France and San Francisco.

With 1,500,000 Ledger wallets already sold in 165 countries, the company aims at securing the new disruptive class of crypto assets. Ledger has developed a distinctive operating system called BOLOS, which it integrates to a secure chip for its line of wallets. So far, Ledger takes pride in being the only market player to provide this technology.

Best For

ERC-20 tokens
All experience levels

Pros

Easy to set up and use
Supports more than 1,500 different digital assets
Tamper proof
Portable
Long-lasting battery
Bluetooth connectivity features

Cons

Can be quite pricey

The Ledger Nano S is a renowned hardware wallet, known for its robust security features and ease of use. It stores your TAO offline, making it nearly impervious to online hacking attempts. Ledger is a top choice for those prioritizing security in their crypto holdings.

Best Software Wallet: Coinbase Wallet

Best For

Active Crypto Traders

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earn free crypto securely through Coinbase’s website

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Disclosure: Sum of median estimated savings and rewards earned, per user in 2021 across multiple Coinbase programs (excluding sweepstakes). This amount includes fee waivers from Coinbase One (excluding the subscription cost), rewards from Coinbase Card, and staking rewards. ³Crypto rewards is an optional Coinbase offer. Upon purchase of USDC, you will be automatically opted in to rewards. If you’d like to opt out or learn more about rewards, you can click here. The rewards rate is subject to change and can vary by region. Customers will be able to see the latest applicable rates directly within their accounts.

Best For

Active Crypto Traders

N/A

1 Minute Review

Coinbase is one of the largest cryptocurrency exchanges by trading volume, serving customers in over 100 countries and supporting hundreds of crypto coins and tokens. The platform features a user-friendly interface with options like staking and earning, as well as a “learn and earn” feature where users watch educational videos and answer questions to earn crypto assets. Trading fees can be high on the basic platform, but users can access the advanced platform for free.

Best For

Coinbase is best for beginners because of its user-friendly interface.
The availability of over 30 products caters to the needs of traders of every mindset.

Pros

Coinbase offers a learn and earn program.
You can earn coins and tokens by watching tutorials and answering crypto-related questions. This platform lets you earn crypto just by spending your fiat via a debit card as you normally would when you use Coinbase’s Visa debit card.
Offer a wide variety of altcoins.
Ideal for new investors.

Cons

Complicated fee structure
Does not support margin trading (only 3x on Pro version)

For those who prefer an online option, the Coinbase Wallet is a leading software wallet. It offers a user-friendly interface and seamless integration with the Coinbase exchange, making it a convenient choice for managing and trading your TAO.

Trade, Sell or Convert Your Bittensor (TAO)

Trading, selling or converting your TAO depends on market conditions and your investment strategy. Trading involves exchanging TAO for other cryptocurrencies or fiat currencies, often done to capitalize on market movements. Selling is converting your TAO back into fiat currency. Converting refers to swapping TAO for other cryptocurrencies, most often a stablecoin (crypto pegged to a dollar). Each cryptocurrency exchange has its own set of supported currencies for conversion, so it’s important to check what’s available on your platform.

Current Crypto Prices

Monitoring cryptocurrency prices is essential for making informed buy decisions. Our chart below provides insights into the movement of some of the top cryptocurrencies today, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana and Dogecoin. Use this information to guide your investment strategy.

Is Bittensor (TAO) a Good Investment?

Birrensor (TAO) is a risky investment. It is playing at the intersection of two technologies, and experts are unsure where either will go in the future. The payoff is potentially massive, especially if centralized AI becomes mainstream. It is best to assess your risk tolerance and only invest money you are okay with losing when deciding to invest in Bittensor (TAO).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I buy Bittensor on Coinbase?

No, Bittensor (TAO) cannot be purchased directly on Coinbase, as it primarily lists larger cryptocurrencies. To acquire Bittensor, you may need to create an account on a different exchange, buy Bitcoin or Ethereum on Coinbase, and then transfer those funds to trade for TAO. It’s important to research the reputation and security of any exchange you use.

The post How to Buy Bittensor (TAO) by Reid McCrabb appeared first on Benzinga. Visit Benzinga to get more great content like this.

How to Earn the Highest ETH Staking Rewards

Reid McCrabb — Mon, 15 Apr 2024 21:14:19 +0000

The post How to Earn the Highest ETH Staking Rewards by Reid McCrabb appeared first on Benzinga. Visit Benzinga to get more great content like this.

Ethereum staking provides a way for long-term crypto investors to earn income on their ETH. With little additional risk to holding Ethereum, thousands of ETH holders are staking their tokens to earn rewards. Currently, over $90 billion worth of Ethereum is staked to the Ethereum Beacon Chain.

Nearly two years since Ethereum’s merge to proof of stake, there are various options for staking Ethereum. Users can earn higher yield through a plethora of DeFi and LST-Fi opportunities, such as yield trading on Pendle and restaking on EigenLayer.

In the article below, we’ll delve into how you can earn the highest ETH staking rewards, highlighting opportunities for you to maximize your yield.

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Finding the Highest Ethereum (ETH) Staking Rewards

Investors are faced with various options for Ethereum (ETH) staking, each presenting their own unique balance of risk and reward. It’s important to understand that higher rewards often come with higher risk (although not always the case). For example, now bankrupt platform Celsius offered above average returns in 2021, and the platform now out of business due to the additional risk it took on to earn that yield.

Additionally, there are maintenance considerations you should take into account before staking your Ethereum. While solo staking can offer some of the highest risk-adjusted returns on your ETH, it requires investment in hardware and a minimum of 32 ether ($96,000 at the time of writing).

On the other hand, liquid staking tokens (LSTs) allow for greater liquidity of staked assets. Users can stake their ETH by swapping for an LST, with no minimum investment, maintenance, or lockup periods. Simply hold the LST and staking rewards will accrue to your crypto wallet.

Once you own an LST, you can use the token in DeFi to earn extra rewards. EigenLayer, a restaking protocol with $10B+ in deposits, allows users to earn EigenLayer Points with their LSTs. These points are currently valued at $0.18 each, representing over 20% annualized APY.

What Are Ethereum Staking Rewards?

Ethereum staking rewards are given to stakers who secure Ethereum’s blockchain. These rewards are paid for by miners, as well as through token emissions, to incentivize stakers to verify blocks on Ethereum’s blockchain.

This process is integral to the functioning of Ethereum and offers a passive income stream to stakers.

Highest ETH Staking Rewards from Liquid Staking

Liquid staking platforms typically offer less than solo staking, but it’s far more convenient for most investors. Lido’s stETH and Frax’s sfrxETH are two options for ETH staking, both providing rewards between 3% and 4%.

Many investors earn passive rewards by simply holding a liquid staking token. However, DeFi users often earn the highest ETH staking rewards. This is achieved by farming airdrops, providing liquidity, or trading yield tokens.

Highest ETH Staking Rewards from DeFi

As the liquid staking space matures, more options have become available for those looking to earn extra yield on their staked ETH. Two of the most prominent examples are Pendle and EigenLayer. Pendle is a yield trading protocol that allows investors to lock in yield, long yield, and provide liquidity to earn some of the highest ETH staking rewards.

Investors can currently earn up to 40% APY on their ETH via Pendle, largely thanks to its integrations with LSTs in EigenLayer’s ecosystem. EigenLayer is seen by many as the best opportunity to earn the highest ETH staking rewards. This is achieved through an innovative approach called restaking.

Restaking on EigenLayer, using LSTs such as stETH and OETH, provides users with the underlying LST yield plus EigenLayer Restaked Points. Restaked Points will likely result in an airdrop of EIGEN tokens, with the market pricing these Restaked Points at $0.18 each. This implies over 30% APY on restaked ETH, one of the highest available rewards currently on offer.

Solo Ethereum Staking: Best Risk-Adjusted Returns

For those with the necessary expertise and resources, solo staking can offer the best risk-adjusted returns. It requires a minimum of 32 ETH, adequate hardware and ongoing maintenance but can provide higher rewards (5% – 7%) than LSTs and mitigates certain risks associated with third-party platforms. However, the barriers to entry and technical demands are significant. But, if you have experience in the Ethereum ecosystem and have some technical skills, this could be a route for you to explore.

How to Buy Ethereum

Before staking, acquiring Ethereum (ETH) is a prerequisite. Platforms like Kraken offer a secure and user-friendly way to purchase Ethereum. They provide a gateway for both beginners and experienced traders into the world of cryptocurrency investment, including ETH. To explore the more nuanced versions of staking, you will need to hold a non-custodial wallet like MetaMask and transfer your ETH there.

Is Staking Ethereum Safe?

While Ethereum staking presents lucrative opportunities, it’s not devoid of risks. These include smart contract vulnerabilities, market volatility and the potential of staking rewards being less than expected because of network changes. However, when approached with due diligence and a robust understanding of the ecosystem, staking Ethereum can be a relatively safe and profitable venture, just make sure to do your homework.

The post How to Earn the Highest ETH Staking Rewards by Reid McCrabb appeared first on Benzinga. Visit Benzinga to get more great content like this.

Best AI Crypto Coins for 2024

Reid McCrabb — Mon, 11 Mar 2024 14:58:10 +0000

The post Best AI Crypto Coins for 2024 by Reid McCrabb appeared first on Benzinga. Visit Benzinga to get more great content like this.

SHORT ANSWER: Benzinga’s picks for the top AI crypto coins are NEAR, TAO and OLAS. Read below to learn how to buy AI tokens from top exchanges such as Coinbase.

Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) are two of the most discussed topics anywhere, not just in the tech community. With the use of blockchain, the capabilities of AI can be further enhanced and more value can be created. Many projects combine these two technologies to create a wide variety of projects with interesting applications.

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Top 10 Artificial Intelligence (AI) Crypto Coins

Let’s take a look at the top 10 AI tokens in March 2024.

1. NEAR Protocol (NEAR)

NEAR has risen in the ranks and cemented itself as one of the top crypto projects by market cap. It is a Layer 1 blockchain that has its own consensus mechanism called Doomslug and other features to increase speeds and lower costs. The project supports developers, who can employ a variety of AI projects onto the chain.

2. Render (RNDR)

RNDR tries to solve the issue of computing shortages. The project allows everyone to contribute GPU computing power, which can be sold to anyone who needs it. RNDR is the currency used to transact between the holders of GPUs and its users to create a more on-demand and cheaper alternative for developers and others who need lots of computing power.

3. Bittensor (TAO)

One of the major issues with AI is secrecy. Many are creating their own models behind closed doors and not allowing the technology to diffuse throughout society, where its true value can be recognized. TAO hopes to solve this problem by creating a blockchain-based machine learning network. The model is trained collaboratively and is available for experimentation.

4. The Graph (GRT)

Collecting data is often the most difficult part of any project. The Graph seeks to make the process simpler by allowing users to request and collect data without a third party. Because the blockchain is publicly available, the breadth of data can be used in many applications. Some of the more prominent users are Uniswap and Decentraland.

5. Fetch.ai (FETCH)

Fetch.ai aims to use the huge amounts of data provided by the blockchain to create an AI network that helps automate tasks. The project has lofty goals in terms of use cases, looking beyond blockchain. The project hopes to tap into everyday data collectors to build a network of information that can be manipulated with AI. For example, it could tap into dashcams to analyze traffic patterns and help optimize transportation.

6. SingularityNET (AGIX)

SingularityNET provides an AI marketplace where users can buy, sell and trade AI services using the project’s utility token, AGIX. The project is one of the first of its kind, hoping to bring AI services to the masses and help users with unique issues. The marketplace allows users to test services before making a payment and is secured using the blockchain.

7. Theta Network (THETA)

Streaming services have seen a huge growth in popularity, but third-party holders of videos can make for expensive monthly fees and the potential for hacks. Theta Network is hoping to solve these issues by creating a platform that allows users to stream content without third-party intermediaries. The project is advised by the co-founders of YouTube and Twitch.

8. Autonolas (OLAS)

Autonolas (OLAS) provides an all-in-one platform for a variety of services from automation and AI to staking and software development. The OLAS token is a utility token that powers the project, allowing users to participate in governance and providing developer incentives and staking.

9. Oasis Network (ROSE)

The Oasis Network is a Layer 1 blockchain hoping to solve issues relating to throughput and scalability. The project tries to create a solid foundation for a variety of uses, such as DAOs, non-fungible tokens (NFTs) and DeFi. Created by a UC Berkeley professor, the project uses complex technologies to power smart contracts on the chain.

10. Ocean Protocol (OCEAN)

Ocean Protocol hopes to solve some of the major issues related to data sharing and privacy by creating data marketplaces where users can buy and sell data through tokenization and on the blockchain to provide better access to reliable data sets. The major applications are in the realms of science, academia and data analytics.

What is AI Crypto?

AI crypto is a broad term that encompasses projects that combine blockchain technology with cryptocurrency to provide value for its users. Its value comes in a variety of forms, so it is hard to define the term. Most projects tend to advertise their use of AI because it is such a big deal in the tech space.

How to Buy AI Cryptocurrencies

If you are looking to buy AI crypto tokens, Kraken and Coinbase are some of the best crypto brokerages to do so. They offer low fees, enhanced security and lots of token offerings. It is usually easy to create, verify and fund an account on these platforms.

For Coinbase, some tokens are not available directly on the exchange. In this case, buy Ethereum (ETH), send it to a wallet and swap it on Uniswap. You may face geographic restrictions on crypto transfers for some exchanges, so make sure you can send crypto before moving forward.

How to Store AI Cryptocurrencies

Though centralized exchanges offer several security measures to maintain the safety of your assets, you may be looking for an even more secure way to store your funds. Wallets are a great way to add an extra level of security to your assets. While wallets are not needed, they can offer peace of mind.

Best hardware wallet – Ledger Nano S Plus: The Nano S Plus is the basic hardware wallet that should serve all the needs of a beginner investor. It allows users to send crypto only with a physical device present, which virtually eliminates the potential for a hack.
Best software wallet – MetaMask: MetaMask is easy to set up and use. The application is a Chrome extension that allows you to access Web3 applications with just a web browser.

Are AI Cryptocurrencies Safe?

Most AI tokens have legitimate founders and teams of developers helping build out the applications. These people are usually well-known within the community, so they are unlikely to scam their investors. Additionally, crypto is built on blockchain technology, which makes it nearly impossible to manipulate or hack. However, an AI project could be a scam. Because of this, it is important to do the necessary research before investing.

The post Best AI Crypto Coins for 2024 by Reid McCrabb appeared first on Benzinga. Visit Benzinga to get more great content like this.

Solana Airdrop Guide

Reid McCrabb — Wed, 20 Dec 2023 13:50:42 +0000

The post Solana Airdrop Guide by Reid McCrabb appeared first on Benzinga. Visit Benzinga to get more great content like this.

The Solana network has emerged as a groundbreaking platform, gaining significant attention for its smart contract capability. Like Ethereum, users can build innovative and decentralized use cases on the network. The network was under a lot of selling pressure in 2021, as the Fed hiked rates and the FTX collapse worked its way through the crypto ecosystem, but it has since recovered aggressively. Some analysts are calling for a bull market and predicting Solana to be a clear winner. An emergent trend in the Solana ecosystem has been its unique approach to airdrops. But what are airdrops, and why should you care? Let’s dig a bit deeper and get a clear perspective on why they are more than just a fleeting trend in crypto.

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What Are Airdrops on Solana?

Airdrops on Solana are a method used by protocols to distribute tokens directly to the wallets of users, typically for free. This strategy is adopted for several reasons, including to incentivize users to participate in the ecosystem and create a more vibrant and engaged community. Airdrops are also used as a tool for decentralization, distributing tokens widely to avoid concentration in the hands of a few. Additionally, they serve as a marketing technique, attracting new users and retaining existing ones by offering tangible rewards. Solana, known for its high-speed and low-cost transactions, makes airdropping an efficient and appealing option for projects looking to boost their visibility and user base in the competitive crypto market.

Examples of Solana Airdrops

Solana’s ecosystem has witnessed several notable airdrops, each unique in its offering and value. For instance, the JTO airdrop, linked with the Jito protocol, provided users with tokens on Dec. 7, 2023. Jito is a project that enables users to validate, search and stake on the Solana blockchain. Another significant example is the PYTH airdrop, associated with the Pyth Network, known for its real-time market data.

The value of these airdropped tokens varied widely post-distribution, influenced by market trends and the overall performance of the Solana network. These examples illustrate the diverse nature of airdrops on Solana, where the value of received tokens can range from modest sums to potentially substantial amounts, depending on the project’s success and market conditions.

Upcoming Solana Projects that Could Issue Airdrops

The Solana blockchain is poised for exciting developments with several upcoming projects potentially planning airdrops.

Tensor

One project is Tensor, a decentralized finance (DeFi) platform. To qualify for potential Tensor airdrops, users may need to engage with the platform by providing liquidity or participating in governance voting.

Kamino Finance

Another anticipated project is Kamino Finance, known for its automated liquidity provision. To stand a chance at its airdrops, users should consider becoming liquidity providers or actively trading on the platform.

MarginFi

MarginFi, another emerging project, focuses on integrated margin trading. Users interested in MarginFi’s airdrops should look into participating in trading activities or contributing to the protocol’s development.

Drift Protocol

Drift Protocol specializes in decentralized derivatives. Potential qualification for Drift’s airdrops could involve trading its derivatives or holding specific tokens.

How to Buy Solana

To farm airdrops on Solana, you first need to buy SOL, its native token. On Kraken, a well-known crypto exchange, this is easily done. Create and verify your Kraken account, then deposit funds — either fiat or another cryptocurrency. In the Trade section, select SOL and your preferred trading pair, like SOL/USD. Enter the amount of SOL you want and complete the trade. Your Kraken wallet will then hold your SOL, ready for airdrop participation and other Solana ecosystem activities. Remember, investing in crypto carries risks, so it’s wise to research and plan your investment strategy.

Trade, Sell or Convert your SOL Airdrops

Trading your SOL airdrops means exchanging them for other cryptocurrencies while selling converts them into fiat currency like USD or EUR. Both actions can be performed on crypto exchanges. When to sell or trade depends on market conditions and your investment strategy. To convert, find an exchange that supports SOL and your desired currency, checking for the appropriate trading pairs. Timing is key, influenced by market trends and SOL’s price. Stay informed on market news to make wise decisions, keeping in mind the crypto market’s volatility.

Is it Worth Airdrop Farming on Solana?

Airdrop farming on Solana can be worthwhile, particularly for those who actively engage with the ecosystem and understand the market’s dynamics. The value of airdrops varies, offering potential gains for informed participants. However, it requires careful market analysis and a strategic approach to maximize benefits while minimizing risks. The worth of airdrop farming on Solana hinges on individual investment goals and the ability to navigate the volatile crypto landscape.

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How to Buy Kujira (KUJI)

Reid McCrabb — Thu, 07 Dec 2023 20:22:38 +0000

The post How to Buy Kujira (KUJI) by Reid McCrabb appeared first on Benzinga. Visit Benzinga to get more great content like this.

Kujira is a project gaining traction in the decentralized finance (DeFi) space. Its token KUJI has had its TVL increase over 600% in 2023. Its appeal lies in its user-friendly DeFi tools and community-driven governance, but like any crypto investment, it comes with risks and high volatility. Take a look at Kujira, how to buy KUJI, and its roadmap.

What Is Kujira?

Kujira focuses on creating user-friendly DeFi tools that were once only accessible to whales, now accessible to the average retail trader. Several projects have grown in the Kujira community, including FIN, a crypto order book, and GHOST, Kujira’s money market.

With its native token KUJI, Kujira facilitates various ecosystem functions like transaction fee payments and participation in governance decisions. Its commitment to accessibility in the DeFi space, coupled with a suite of innovative financial services, makes Kujira a noteworthy project in the rapidly evolving landscape of DeFi.

Brief History of Kujira (KUJI)

Kujira emerged in the cryptocurrency landscape relatively recently, officially launching in November 2021, but it was largely an afterthought. The project originated on the Terra blockchain but has since migrated to Cosmos following the crash of Terra’s stablecoin LUNA in May 2022.

The project has a set supply of 122.4 million tokens. Investment in Kujira has attracted a diverse range of stakeholders, from individual crypto enthusiasts to larger institutional investors. Kujira’s token KUJI hit its all-time high of $3.90 in November 2023. The token, which has been in a slump for the past year and a half, was triggered by adoption in multiple chains like Solana, true value adds in innovative projects and overall market sentiment improving.

How to Buy Kujira (KUJI)

If you’d like to buy Kujira (KUJI) there are a couple of basic steps involved in its purchase. The following guide outlines the steps, ensuring a smooth and informed process.

Step 1: Open an Online Account

To start, you’ll need an account on a cryptocurrency trading platform that supports Kujira (KUJI). Consider platforms like Coinbase Global Inc., which offers a range of options for buying and trading cryptocurrencies. Note: You will need to then access a wallet, as KUJI is not tradeable directly on the platform.

Step 2: Buy a Wallet (Optional)

For enhanced security, consider storing your KUJI in a cryptocurrency wallet. The Ledger Nano S is a reliable hardware wallet, while the Coinbase Wallet is a popular software wallet. Each offers distinct advantages in terms of security and accessibility. KUJI is supported on Cosmos network, so many users opt into the Keplr wallet.

Best Hardware Wallet: Ledger Nano S

Best For

ERC-20 tokens

Overall Rating

buy now securely through Ledger Hardware Wallet’s website

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Best For

ERC-20 tokens

N/A

1 Minute Review

Best For

ERC-20 tokens
All experience levels

Pros

Easy to set up and use
Supports more than 1,500 different digital assets
Tamper proof
Portable
Long-lasting battery
Bluetooth connectivity features

Cons

Can be quite pricey

The Ledger Nano S has become a bit of an industry standard for crypto holders using a hardware wallet. The simplicity of the Nano S model has been a great way for new hardware users to get acclimated.

Best Software Wallet: Coinbase Wallet

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Active Crypto Traders

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earn free crypto securely through Coinbase’s website

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Active Crypto Traders

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1 Minute Review

Best For

Coinbase is best for beginners because of its user-friendly interface.
The availability of over 30 products caters to the needs of traders of every mindset.

Pros

Coinbase offers a learn and earn program.
You can earn coins and tokens by watching tutorials and answering crypto-related questions. This platform lets you earn crypto just by spending your fiat via a debit card as you normally would when you use Coinbase’s Visa debit card.
Offer a wide variety of altcoins.
Ideal for new investors.

Cons

Complicated fee structure
Does not support margin trading (only 3x on Pro version)

As top exchanges around the world keep going down, Coinbase has remained consistent in its pledge to play by the rules and provide a safe place for users to store their crypto. While its innovation has been slower than other companies and projects, its reliability is top-notch.

Step 3: Make Your Purchase

The final step is to purchase some ETH which can be swapped for KUJI. If you elect to go the Coinbase Wallet route, you should be able to purchase this directly in the wallet. If you elect to use a different wallet, you will need to connect to a decentralized exchange to swap your ETH for KUJI, the most popular decentralized exchange is Uniswap. You could also always use one of Kujira’s decentralized exchanges because you are showing faith in the project.

Trade, Sell or Convert Your Kujira (KUJI)

Understanding the dynamics of trading, selling or converting Kujira (KUJI) is essential for managing your crypto portfolio effectively. To trade KUJI, engage in buying and selling on exchanges to capitalize on market fluctuations.

Selling involves converting KUJI into fiat currency or another cryptocurrency when you achieve your investment targets or wish to realize profits. Conversion is straightforward — exchange KUJI directly for another crypto. Always check available trading pairs for KUJI on your chosen platform and consider factors like market trends, transaction fees and your investment strategy for informed decisions.

Current Crypto Prices

While the majority of cryptocurrencies remained well below their all-time highs, many of these assets showed great returns in 2023. Starting the year at $16,000, Bitcoin returned investors over 100% in 2023.

Is Kujira (KUJI) a Good Investment?

Kujira (KUJI) is likely to follow the rest of the crypto market in price fluctuations. It is a much riskier bet than blue-chip cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin or Ethereum, but there may be more upside if Kujira succeeds in its mission. If you are a believer in both the project and crypto space, it could be a bet you are willing to make.

The post How to Buy Kujira (KUJI) by Reid McCrabb appeared first on Benzinga. Visit Benzinga to get more great content like this.

Can Ethereum Hit $10,000 in 2024?

Reid McCrabb — Wed, 06 Dec 2023 16:10:27 +0000

The post Can Ethereum Hit $10,000 in 2024? by Reid McCrabb appeared first on Benzinga. Visit Benzinga to get more great content like this.

Ethereum has become the most used blockchain and the largest in size, with a TVL of $57.23 billion. The currency used to process transactions on the Ethereum blockchain, ETH, has become the second most valuable cryptocurrency in the world, trailing only Bitcoin. As the market begins to stabilize, ambitious price predictions are being made. Could the price of ETH hit $10,000 in 2024?

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Can Ethereum Hit $10,000?

The question of whether Ethereum can reach a price point of $10,000 is not just a matter of market speculation; it hinges on the underlying technology, the evolution of the platform and its role in the broader digital economy. To forecast Ethereum’s potential to hit this target, let’s examine its technological infrastructure and historical market performance.

Ethereum stands apart from other cryptocurrencies through its foundational technology – it’s a decentralized platform, built for decentralized applications dApps). At its core, Ethereum operates on a blockchain that supports smart contracts – self-executing contracts with the terms of the agreement directly written into code.

This functionality has opened a wide range of possibilities, from decentralized finance (DeFi) to non-fungible tokens (NFTs) to decentralized autonomous organizations (DAOs). Acronyms aside, there’s a ton of potential in these innovative new products, the key being decentralization. This quality makes Ethereum the backbone of the current crypto-ecosystem, as the most popular applications in crypto are built on Ethereum.

Why Did Ethereum Crash?

Ethereum, like many cryptocurrencies, experiences intense market cycles characterized by rapid price increases followed by sharp declines. For instance, during the 2018-2019 period, Ethereum witnessed a significant crash following the 2017 crypto boom. After reaching a peak price of $1400, ether crashed below $100 in the subsequent years.

This pattern reflects a typical boom and bust cycle where the initial excitement and overinvestment (often fueled by FOMO) leads to inflated prices, which are unsustainable in the long run. The COVID black swan event in 2020, followed by increased money printing and record-low interest rates, demonstrates this trend.

When Will Ethereum Hit All-time Highs?

For Ethereum to hit all-time highs depends on its technical progression and user adoption, as well as large macro trends. Two upcoming events could play a big role in moving the price of ETH upwards, which are slated to happen in 2024.

The Fed may pivot to risk-off with looser monetary policies in 2024. When money flows back into the economy, crypto historically acts like a sponge for the excess liquidity, benefiting Ethereum.

The second key event is the Bitcoin halving next year, which decreases the amount of BTC rewarded to Bitcoin miners by 50%, an action that has historically caused the crypto market to rally.

History of Ethereum Prices

Ethereum’s (ETH) price shows a pattern of volatility with significant peaks and troughs. For instance, after its launch in 2015, Ethereum saw a surge in 2017 during the ICO boom followed by a sharp decline in 2018.

However, its recovery and subsequent growth, especially with the rise of DeFi and NFTs, indicates a growing confidence in its utility and value. Despite the crash in 2022, these trends may justify a price target of $10,000. While ambitious, it does not seem implausible in the next few years.

Could Ethereum Hit $20,000?

The likelihood of Ethereum hitting $20,000 in 2024 is quite low, although some people believe in its potential and are willing to bet it will hit this mark next year. More realistically, ETH bulls who believe in the technology are holding for the long term.

The $20,000 mark is more believable if you are willing to hold for many years. If you zoom out on the ETH chart, you can see a 10x in ETH price has happened before, so you shouldn’t rule it out of happening again.

Where to Buy Ethereum (ETH)

You can buy ETH on most trading platforms. One popular platform is Kraken, which offers many other cryptocurrencies, including Ethereum layer 2s. The alternative to a trading platform is to use a non-custodial wallet and purchase from a decentralized exchange (DEX).

Is Ethereum a Good Investment?

Investment in crypto is almost certain to be volatile. Many altcoins (cryptocurrencies that are not Bitcoin) have crashed to $0. However, Ethereum has shown staying power and has begun to provide enough utility that a lot of the speculatory risk has been lifted.

Individuals looking to get exposure to crypto outside of Bitcoin tend to hold ETH. The best way to understand if this is a good investment for you is to use the blockchain and get a better understanding of the decentralization philosophy. Then, you can decide for yourself whether this is something you want to trade or hold.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will Ethereum reach all-time highs in 2024?

It’s possible that Ethereum could reach all-time highs in 2024 if the Fed pivots to risk-off.

When will Ethereum hit $10,000?

Ethereum could hit $10,000 by 2025, according to many analyst predictions. While some predict ETH will reach $10,000 in 2024, this may be an ambitious goal.

Is the cryptocurrency bull market back?

Several signs point to the cryptocurrency bull market coming back, including rising prices, more attention and higher volatility to the upside.

The post Can Ethereum Hit $10,000 in 2024? by Reid McCrabb appeared first on Benzinga. Visit Benzinga to get more great content like this.

Is Bitcoin a Security?

Reid McCrabb — Mon, 27 Mar 2023 21:08:48 +0000

The post Is Bitcoin a Security? by Reid McCrabb appeared first on Benzinga. Visit Benzinga to get more great content like this.

One of the hottest debates in the cryptocurrency market today is the definition of an investment security and whether cryptocurrencies should be included. As the first and largest cryptocurrency, Bitcoin’s regulatory classification is important. At the moment it is in a bit of a gray area where it could be considered a security in the future, but it isn’t being treated as one in March 2023.

The debate has been slow-moving among U.S. regulatory agencies, but it may soon come to a head in 2023. Ripple (XRP), a popular cryptocurrency designed to replace traditional payment infrastructures like SWIFT, has been fighting the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) since 2020. The SEC alleges that XRP is a security and that the team illegally sold the token without submitting to required government regulation. This case will set a regulatory precedent. If the courts decide that XRP is a security, Bitcoin might also be classified as a security.

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Is Bitcoin a Security?

Whether Bitcoin is a security is a matter of opinion because of its vague legal definition. A security represents ownership of an underlying asset and is tradeable between parties. The most common securities are stocks and bonds. Bitcoin is a decentralized digital currency, purchased for trading and price speculation and as a hedge against government overprinting of dollars. It can be traded on cryptocurrency exchanges like Coinbase and Uphold.

While the SEC has yet to issue a definitive ruling on Bitcoin’s classification as a security, it has acknowledged that cryptocurrencies could fall under this category and be subject to federal security laws. The SEC clarified its position by stating that crypto regulation will be case by case for cryptocurrencies and will depend on the different circumstances surrounding the coin.

The Howey Test Applied to Bitcoin

The Howey Test determines whether a transaction is an investment contract — and a security — under U.S. law. This test is based on the U.S. Supreme Court case SEC vs. W.J. Howey Co. The ruling enacted four key requirements that each investment contract must meet to be ruled a security:

An investment of money
A common enterprise
Reasonable expectation of profits
Derived solely from the efforts of others

While it appears that Bitcoin does not fall under this category, other cryptocurrencies may be more closely aligned with this guideline.

For example, unlike Bitcoin, Ethereum has a public organization that is working on its protocol. It is continually being upgraded, and as it improves, ETH holders benefit. Ethereum is not classified as a security in March 2023, but that could change in the future.

The Argument for Bitcoin Being a Security

An argument could be made that Bitcoin holds enough similarity to a security that it should be classified as one. However, ruling Bitcoin a security would be a huge blow to the crypto sector. Experts who believe that Bitcoin should be categorized as a security cite the manipulation of the coin, the people profiting from it and the fraud going on because of the lack of regulation. The recent FTX collapse was a massive blow to the crypto ecosystem, highlighting the scams, collapses and Ponzi schemes rumbling throughout the crypto sector. If these events continue, Congress could vote to regulate the industry, and ruling Bitcoin as a security is one plausible act if this scenario takes place.

Why Bitcoin Isn’t a Security

Bitcoin somewhat fits into the Howey test, but it doesn’t meet all four points. While a large reason people purchase Bitcoin is to profit, its use and basis differ from that of the stock of a human-run company that you hope will hit its quarterly marks, ship great products and maximize its profitability. Bitcoin exists as a decentralized digital currency, not a company run by a CEO and other paid employees.

What Happens if the SEC Says Bitcoin is a Security?

If the SEC rules Bitcoin as a security, the entire crypto ecosystem will be impacted. The move would increase regulation over cryptocurrency issuers and be a burden to many. Bitcoin would be subject to oversight from the SEC, which would increase costs and decrease control of the investors and exchanges. If Bitcoin is ruled a security, all cryptocurrencies would likely see a stunt in growth.

How to Buy Bitcoin

In the early days of Bitcoin investors had to contend with shady sites and exchanges to get their coins. Now there are a myriad of reputable crypto exchanges that offer Bitcoin with low fees. Some of the best are Uphold, Coinbase, Robinhood and eToro. It only takes a few minutes with these platforms for most people to sign-up, verify your identity, deposit funds and start trading.

Best For

A Fast Trading Experience

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get started securely through Uphold’s website

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Disclosure: Terms Apply. Cryptoassets are highly volatile. Your capital is at risk.

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A Fast Trading Experience

N/A

1 Minute Review

Uphold is a unique broker that makes it easier than ever for you to trade on the crypto market, with quite a lot of information and access to cryptocurrencies that will help diversify your portfolio.

Uniquely, Uphold just released the option for a Trailing Stop Order. Unlike a Stop Order, which only protects you from losses based on purchase price, a Trailing Stop Order readjusts to the highest price after you buy. Therefore, you will follow the market up while the “going’s good” and get out if the price starts falling further than you’d like.

Also, ATOM is now a Tier 3 token, meaning that you can make deposits and withdrawals to and from the Cosmos Network.

Best For

Pros

Cons

Best For

Buying & selling Dogecoin

Overall Rating

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get started securely through Robinhood’s website

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Buying & selling Dogecoin

N/A

1 Minute Review

Robinhood is the broker for traders who want a simple, easy-to-understand layout without all the bells and whistles other brokers offer. Though its trading options and account types are limited, even an absolute beginner can quickly master Robinhood’s intuitive and streamlined platform. On the other hand, more advanced traders might be frustrated by Robinhood’s lack of technical analysis tools, a feature that’s now nearly universal across other platforms.

Best For

Fee-free trading
Beginner crypto investors
Doge day traders

Pros

Commision-free trading
Access to Dogecoin

Cons

Limited altcoin selection
No wallet capabilities

Best For

Active Crypto Traders

Overall Rating

Read Review

earn free crypto securely through Coinbase’s website

More Details

Best For

Active Crypto Traders

N/A

1 Minute Review

Best For

Coinbase is best for beginners because of its user-friendly interface.
The availability of over 30 products caters to the needs of traders of every mindset.

Pros

Coinbase offers a learn and earn program.
You can earn coins and tokens by watching tutorials and answering crypto-related questions. This platform lets you earn crypto just by spending your fiat via a debit card as you normally would when you use Coinbase’s Visa debit card.
Offer a wide variety of altcoins.
Ideal for new investors.

Cons

Complicated fee structure
Does not support margin trading (only 3x on Pro version)

Best For

Social Investing

Overall Rating

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Discover eToro securely through eToro’s website

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Disclosure: Take 2 mins to learn more at https://etoro.tw/44JRWLY. Don’t invest unless you’re prepared to lose all the money you invest. This is a high-risk investment and you should not expect to be protected if something goes wrong. Cryptocurrency is offered by eToro USA LLC (“the MSB”) (NMLS: 1769299) and is not FDIC or SIPC insured. Investing involves risk

Best For

Social Investing

N/A

1 Minute Review

eToro crypto offers access to wide range of tokens, investment opportunities and educational tools for investors of all styles and levels of experience.

Best For

Investors looking to CopyTrade other traders
Simple user interface

Pros

Several major cryptocurrencies and altcoins
Expansive network of social trading features
Large client base for new traders to imitate
100+ coins available

Cons

PayPal and Credit Card are not available for UK and FCA users

What Are Security Tokens?

A security token is a cryptocurrency that represents ownership over an underlying asset, such as shares in a company, debt, property or other rights. They are the cryptocurrency version of traditional securities like stocks and bonds. Tokens offer key advantages over traditional securities, such as fractionalized shares, increased liquidity and lower transaction fees. The SEC approves security tokens under security regulations, making them more difficult to create. However, security tokens avoid the regulatory gray area that cryptos fall into. They could be a vital step in bringing institutions into the crypto ecosystem.

What Is Bitcoin Considered, If Not a Security?

Bitcoin is a digital currency. While speculation over the price of Bitcoin is similar to securities, no underlying value exists for Bitcoin and no one company works on it. It is used as a form of currency and is subject to the basic economic principle of supply and demand. Satoshi Nakamoto, the founder or founders of Bitcoin, created Bitcoin with the intention that it would be difficult to change the protocol. The inability to transform Bitcoin and the lack of a controlling entity behind the coin mean less of a chance that Congress will rule Bitcoin as a security.

The post Is Bitcoin a Security? by Reid McCrabb appeared first on Benzinga. Visit Benzinga to get more great content like this.

Iota (MIOTA) Price Prediction

Reid McCrabb — Tue, 21 Feb 2023 23:36:59 +0000

The post Iota (MIOTA) Price Prediction by Reid McCrabb appeared first on Benzinga. Visit Benzinga to get more great content like this.

Don’t even need an Iota (MIOTA) price prediction and just want to invest? You can buy Iota on Uphold, OKX and Binance (or Binance.US for U.S. users).

Iota has gained attention as it continues to be used in different internet of things (IoT) applications. Iota has three functioning parts – a decentralized ledger, a global foundation and a cryptocurrency. One Iota is the smallest fraction of the coin someone can trade. The larger and more common unit is MIOTA (1 MIOTA = 1,000,000 IOTA). This relationship is similar to the relationship between a Bitcoin and a Satoshi (1 Bitcoin = 100,000,000 Satoshi). The decentralized ledger is similar to Ethereum, with smart contract capability. The global foundation is based in Berlin, Germany, and is responsible for improving the Iota network.

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What is Iota (MIOTA)?

Iota’s key differentiating factor from other protocols is that it does not refer to itself as a blockchain. Rather, Iota is referred to as a “tangle.” For blockchains, consensus comes through a proof-of-stake or proof-of-work mechanism. In a tangle, a confirmation process is used where each transaction verifies two previous transactions. The advantages are twofold. First, a tangle confirms transactions faster than a typical blockchain. It also requires zero fees or miners. This gives Iota the potential to be very scalable and energy efficient.

Iota (MIOTA) Market Position

Iota is the 69th-ranked cryptocurrency in terms of market capitalization, valued at just over $675,000,000. The total circulating supply today is the maximum total supply, so there is no more Iota issuance to potentially dilute the holders. Iota’s main competition is with other Layer 1 blockchains possessing smart contract capabilities.

Specifically, Iota is competing with blockchains focused on IoT, which refers to more items being connected to the internet. Things like smartphones, televisions and refrigerators are growing increasingly connected through cloud computing. This transformation affects many industries. Iota’s decentralized ledger technology can help companies better track this supply chain of items through an open and immutable database.

CryptoNewsZ Bullish Long-Term Iota (MIOTA) Price Prediction

Writers on CryptoNewsz shared bullish sentiment in regard to the Iota (MIOTA) price prediction. With its decentralized ledger technology holding no transaction fees, the network could prove very scaleable. This benefit could also emerge as an alternative in comparison to blockchains with expensive transaction fees. Iota (MIOTA) has all of its coins in circulation. Some protocols do not mint all their tokens and keep some in reserves. Minting all the coins at the start tends to be positive for investors since no potential dilution will occur down the road.

2023 Iota (MIOTA) Price Prediction

The following price prediction was conducted by CryptoNewsZ. The site uses technical analysis to make predictions on the price action for different cryptocurrencies. There is certainly no guarantee that the price predictions will be accurate. That said, CryptoNewsZ is calling for Iota (MIOTA) to stay rather flat and slightly bearish through 2023. The site calls for an average price of $0.20 by end of the year.

2024 Iota (MIOTA) Price Prediction

CryptoNewsZ calls for an average price of $0.35 in 2024. The prediction cites the decentralized ledger technology continuing to develop, as well as becoming more common in its use. While technological development is important, it will also depend on the state of the crypto market. If Bitcoin is rallying by 2024, altcoins are more likely to be positive as well.

2025 Iota (MIOTA) Price Prediction

In 2025, CryptoNewsZ predicts an average price of $0.47, which is nearly 2x today’s price, so the analysis is bullish over the next two years. While this type of price movement is not uncommon in crypto, these volatile swings can also go in the complete opposite direction. High-risk assets like cryptocurrencies can go to zero and do so much more often than stocks, real estate and commodities.

2026 Iota (MIOTA) Price Prediction

Another site that does long-term price predictions is Changelly. In 2026, Changelly is calling for an average price of $1.06 for Iota (MIOTA). For this price level to be reached, the rest of the crypto market likely would be in a bull run. Also, Iota (MIOTA) would need to maintain its relevance as a top 75 cryptocurrency by market cap and continue growing its ecosystem and user base. This type of prediction is incredibly bullish, and it is important to keep in mind that the predictions are not always accurate and coins can go to 0.

2027 Iota (MIOTA) Price Prediction

Changelly continues in its bullish predictions with a call for a $1.59 average trading price for Iota (MIOTA) in 2027. If the price does reach this level, investors will likely have gone through a number of ups and downs. Gains in crypto are rarely a smooth ride, so be prepared for volatile price swings, especially in the coming months, if you are looking to have exposure in the crypto market.

2030 Iota (MIOTA) Price Prediction

In 2030, Changelly calls for an average price of $3.48 for Iota (MIOTA). This price level would surpass its 2021 price of $2.35 and then some. For this price level, much more adoption would need to occur rather than just speculative trading. This situation would be brought on by Iota’s feeless transactions and scalability, as well as growth in the IoT sector. Iota (MIOTA) is certainly a coin to watch, but investors should definitely be cautious in this high-risk market.

IOTA Price Prediction: IOTA vs. Ethereum

The biggest threat to Iota (MIOTA) is Ethereum’s continued improvement in scalability. The Ethereum network is relatively slow and expensive today; however, it is the most used Layer 1 blockchain in the world. It is also still being built. The Ethereum roadmap has plans for the blockchain to become faster and cheaper. Furthermore, Layer 2s are making that a reality today. If the price of Ethereum transactions is driven close to zero, it could be difficult for IOTA to remain relevant.

Where to Buy Iota (MIOTA)

Luckily,. Iota is available for purchase on a few of the best crypto exchanges including Uphold, OKX and Binance (or Binance.US for U.S. users). Alternatively, you can buy Iota on a decentralized exchange (DEX). For this, you will need a wallet and can use one such as Coinbase wallet or Iota’s native Firefly wallet. The tradeoff here is that users who use their own wallets will be responsible for password protection and security. While there are no centralized failures as with FTX, there are risks of forgetting your password and phishing scams. So users must pick their poison if they are looking to get their hands on Iota (MIOTA).

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A Fast Trading Experience

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get started securely through Uphold’s website

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Disclosure: Terms Apply. Cryptoassets are highly volatile. Your capital is at risk.

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A Fast Trading Experience

N/A

1 Minute Review

Uphold is a unique broker that makes it easier than ever for you to trade on the crypto market, with quite a lot of information and access to cryptocurrencies that will help diversify your portfolio.

Also, ATOM is now a Tier 3 token, meaning that you can make deposits and withdrawals to and from the Cosmos Network.

Best For

Pros

Cons

Best For

Variety of Tokens

Overall Rating

Get started securely through OKX’s website

Best For

Altcoin Trading

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get started securely through Binance’s website

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Altcoin Trading

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1 Minute Review

Binance is the largest cryptocurrency exchange in the world by trading volume. In fact, it tops the ranks of cryptocurrency exchanges maintained by CoinMarketCap, which are ranked based on 24-hour trading volumes, exchange score and average liquidity. Binance triumphs over exchanges like Huobi Global and Coinbase, which follow closely in 2nd and 3rd places, respectively.

Previously based in Malta, the Binance Group is now based in the Cayman Islands. Binance has several locations and entities registered across the globe. In the United States, it’s known as Binance.US. The exchange in the U.S. uses the same cutting-edge technology and trading services as its global counterparts with the difference being U.S. regulatory compliance. It is operated by San Francisco-based BAM Trading Services.

Binance.US ranks 9th on CoinMarketCap’s list of the top 10 exchanges based on metrics like 24-hour trading volume, exchange score and average liquidity. Binance could be a good platform for you to invest in cryptocurrencies if you are a U.S.-based trader who trades frequently, doesn’t intend to pay high trading fees and needs access to a large number of cryptocurrencies.

Best For

US Citizens
Frequent day traders
Users interested in Binance Smart Chain (BSC) and Binance Coin (BNB)

Pros

Low trading fees
Easy-to-use platform
Wide selection of altcoins — it offers 51 cryptocurrencies apart from Bitcoin (BTC)
Good customer service
High liquidity because of large trading volumes

Cons

Only residents of 43 states in the U.S. can trade on Binance.US. You cannot trade on this platform in New York, Connecticut, Hawaii, Texas, Vermont, Idaho and Louisiana
Despite the wide selection of altcoins, the number of tokens offered on the U.S. platform is not comparable to the hundreds of choices available on the Binance global platform
There is no option for telephonic customer support

How Long Will It Take for Iota (MIOTA) to Reach $1.00?

Iota (MIOTA) traded for north of $2.50 at its peak in 2021, so a return to $1.00 is within reason. This price level would require a 4x from today’s price of $0.25 so it is still a lofty goal. For this to happen, the crypto market would need to sustain a bull run. In today’s economic conditions, there are a lot of volatile swings. Markets are in a bear market, and risk-on assets like cryptocurrencies get hit the hardest from bear markets. For Iota (MIOTA) to reach $1.00, a broader market rally would need to occur, as well as have IOTA (MIOTA) stay in the top 100 cryptocurrencies.

Where to Store Iota (MIOTA) Safely

Investors who purchase Iota (MIOTA) with a wallet and want to make sure it is secure should probably pair it with a hardware wallet, which gives users an extra layer of security by keeping their private keys off of the internet and therefore invulnerable to cyberattacks. Hardware wallets are also referred to as cold storage. While they are safer than software wallets, they lack some of the utility that software wallets have. So, it is often best to pair the two.

Best Hardware Wallet: Ledger Nano S Plus

One of the most popular hardware wallets is the Ledger Nano S Plus. This hardware wallet looks a lot like a flash drive and is one of the cheapest and easiest ways to give investors an extra layer of security. Ledger also just opened preorders for its new Ledger STAX model. All Ledger wallets support a ton of different cryptos (more than 1,800) including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Dogecoin, MIOTA and all ERC-20 tokens.

Best For

ERC-20 tokens

Account Minimum

N/A

buy now securely through Ledger Hardware Wallet’s website

More Details

Pricing

Starts at $59

Account Minimum

N/A

1 Minute Review

Best For

ERC-20 tokens
All experience levels

Pros

Easy to set up and use
Supports more than 1,500 different digital assets
Tamper proof
Portable
Long-lasting battery
Bluetooth connectivity features

Cons

Can be quite pricey

Best Software Wallet: Coinbase Wallet

While Coinbase is known for its centralized exchange, it also has the Coinbase wallet product. This wallet allows users to connect to different decentralized applications and trade cryptocurrencies. Many more cryptocurrencies are available for trading by using the Coinbase wallet rather than the exchange.

Current Crypto Prices

While crypto has been under pressure over the past 12 months, the market has begun to see some relief. Bitcoin has led the charge, with altcoins following in a swift swing upward. While many are calling for more pain to come in 2023, there is also the possibility that the worst of the bear market is in the rearview mirror.

So, is Iota (MIOTA) a Good Investment?

The crypto market is in a bit of a dicey situation, with the Federal Reserve continuing to raise interest rates. If you are a believer in crypto, Iota (MIOTA) could be an attractive investment for you. As long as it is able to stay relevant, it will likely trade in cohesion with the rest of the crypto market. Investors with a belief in the underlying technology and a willingness to ride volatile price movements may be enticed to get some exposure to Iota (MIOTA).

The post Iota (MIOTA) Price Prediction by Reid McCrabb appeared first on Benzinga. Visit Benzinga to get more great content like this.

What Is Toncoin (TON)?

Reid McCrabb — Mon, 13 Feb 2023 22:37:00 +0000

The post What Is Toncoin (TON)? by Reid McCrabb appeared first on Benzinga. Visit Benzinga to get more great content like this.

Toncoin (TON) is an open-source network that has received much attention and speculative investment over the past five years. Its innovative sharding system speeds the network up, with a transaction-per-second (TPS) rate much faster than Ethereum (ETH). While Toncoin is a big name in crypto today, its origins are surprising. The network operated under a different name for its first two years.

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Overview of Toncoin (TON)

Toncoin (TON) is a Layer 1 blockchain developed in 2018 by developers at Telegram, the encrypted messaging company. The blockchain was initially called Gram and saw rapid growth in 2020. As more attention was brought to Gram, eventually, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) caught wind of the network and ruled that Gram was a security. In response to this ruling, Telegram CEO Pavel Durov separated from the blockchain and handed it over to an independent group of crypto enthusiasts. The network’s name was changed to “The Open Network.” Today, TON is developed by the TON foundation, is a top 25 cryptocurrency by market capitalization and holds a number of different use cases.

Why Do People Use Toncoin (TON)?

The TON network has smart-contract capability, so the use cases are whatever developers can dream up. The network is open source, and the TON community is actively creating new use cases. Today the most common applications built on the TON network include:

Non-custodial wallets: Tonkeeper
Decentralized exchanges (DEXes) – STON.fi, Tonswap
Explorers – Tonscan, TonAPI
Non-fungible tokens (NFTs) – Getgems.io, TON Diamonds

Toncoin (TON) History

Toncoin (TON) was first founded as Gram by brothers Nikolai and Pavel Durov. The Telegram team was responsible for developing the Gram network up until 2020. The aim of Gram was to be a network where decentralized applications (dApps) could be created. Since its beginning, the project was open source. The Telegram team did much of the heavy lifting in creating the original product.

While Telegram may seem like an odd company to develop a blockchain and cryptocurrency, it actually makes a lot of sense. Telegram uses similar technologies as cryptocurrencies in securing its messaging application. Telegram uses end-to-end encryption to protect users from hackers and to give a higher level of privacy. Even governments are unable to read messages on Telegram. This ethos falls right in line with crypto.

Where to Buy Toncoin (TON)

Purchasing Toncoin (TON) could be difficult for U.S. investors as it isn’t offered on any major U.S. exchanges. OKX and KuCoin offer TON, so you could create an account there, but neither exchange is available in the U.S. Another way to buy TON is by opening a non-custodial wallet like Tonkeeper, connecting to a decentralized exchange such as Tonswap and purchasing TON without any sort of intermediary.

Both purchasing routes hold risks. Purchasing from a centralized exchange is not entirely safe. Failures happen, and users can lose their money when they trust someone else to protect it. The FTX collapse was a wake-up call for crypto users.

You also face risks by holding your own crypto. With no intermediary, users have to be responsible for their own assets. You are more susceptible to scams, as well as responsible for your own passwords. If a decentralized wallet user loses a password or private key, that crypto is lost forever. Keep these trade-offs in mind you buy crypto.

Best For

Variety of Tokens

Overall Rating

Get started securely through OKX’s website

Best For

Experimenting Investors

Overall Rating

Use Code rJYAWN7 securely through KuCoin’s website

More Details

Best For

Experimenting Investors

N/A

1 Minute Review

KuCoin is an exchange that appeals to traders and investors of all levels of experience and risk appetite. The platform has a simple interface that allows users to navigate through the various features of the platform on desktop, Android and iOS. KuCoin helps users gradually learn how to use the different instruments by offering beginner settings and gamified applications like Futures Brawl. Overall, it’s a strong platform for anyone looking to explore the variety of trading products that aren’t offered by other exchanges.

Best For

Beginners and experienced traders
Investors seeking a wide selection of tokens, including newer, smaller projects
Investors experimenting with tools like trading bots, lending and futures trading

Pros

Competitive trading and withdrawal fee structure
Over 770+ trading pairs available
No KYC required to begin trading but needed for credit or debit card use
Engaging features like lending, customizable trading bots, futures and margin trading
Ample security features like 2-factor authentication (2FA) and email notifications

Cons

Because of the high level of functionality, new users may experience some difficulty interacting with certain features, but this can be avoided through proper research

Toncoin (TON) Blockchain vs. Other Blockchains

Toncoin’s main marketing spiel is that it is faster than most other blockchains. The benchmark for Layer 1 blockchains tends to be Ethereum (ETH). There typically needs to be some sort of advantage over Ethereum for a chance to stay relevant. TON has a block time of 5 seconds, while Ethereum has a block time of 12 seconds. When comparing blockchain speeds, Solana must be mentioned since it has a block time of just 1 second.

The other key statistic is transaction fees, where Toncoin excels. TON sellers are subject to a 0.9% fee, while buyers are subject to no fee. Lower fees offer a comparative advantage to Ethereum, where gas fees can get pricy when the network is crowded. However, Layer 2 solutions are coming to Ethereum for speed and fees, so these benefits may become less advantageous.

How to Store Toncoin (TON) Safely

If you choose to purchase Toncoin with a wallet, you’ll need to pair a software wallet with a hardware wallet. This extra security measure prevents your private keys from being in danger of phishing scams. The most popular hardware wallet is the Ledger Nano S (along with its updated version, the Nano S Plus). Ledger is also preparing to release a much more functional wallet with a full smartphone-sized color screen called the Ledger Stax. Preorders are already open on Ledger’s website. All Ledger wallets support pretty much all of the top cryptos including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Dogecoin, Shiba Inu, all ERC-20 tokens and over 1,800 more.

Best For

ERC-20 tokens

Overall Rating

buy now securely through Ledger Hardware Wallet’s website

More Details

Best For

ERC-20 tokens

N/A

1 Minute Review

Best For

ERC-20 tokens
All experience levels

Pros

Easy to set up and use
Supports more than 1,500 different digital assets
Tamper proof
Portable
Long-lasting battery
Bluetooth connectivity features

Cons

Can be quite pricey

Toncoin Will Need More Applications to Compete

For a blockchain to be successful, the project needs to demonstrate real value. Toncoin lacks high-quality applications at this time. While it may be able to survive on crypto speculation for a while, the network needs to attract developers to build out the network, which will attract more users and value. The most robust networks will attract the best developers. A richer environment of applications will attract wealthy users. Developers want to build products where there are users, and Toncoin needs more projects to make it competitive.

The post What Is Toncoin (TON)? by Reid McCrabb appeared first on Benzinga. Visit Benzinga to get more great content like this.

How to Buy Aptos (APT)

Reid McCrabb — Wed, 01 Feb 2023 23:36:01 +0000

The post How to Buy Aptos (APT) by Reid McCrabb appeared first on Benzinga. Visit Benzinga to get more great content like this.

Want to jump straight to how to buy Aptos? You can buy Aptos (APT) on Binance (or Binance.US for U.S. investors), OKX, and Crypto.com.

Aptos received a lot of buzz because of its well-known development team, potential transaction speed and strong funding. The Layer 1 altcoin is working to prove that it is worth the hype and colossal valuation. Aptos is sitting at an $18 billion market cap. To put this in perspective, Coinbase holds just a $12 billion market cap and is one of the largest crypto exchanges in the world.

While speculation and high valuations are nothing new in crypto, Aptos (APT) takes the cake. The blockchain is still waiting for the users to justify its valuation. The plan appears to be that by dumping enough money and resources into building the network, the users will come.

Table of contents [Show]

What is Aptos?

Aptos is a Layer 1 blockchain with smart contract capability, similar to Ethereum. Aptos also uses the same consensus mechanism as Ethereum, proof of stake (POS). It likely it has some of the best tech in the Web3 world because the team and the base concept came from Meta Platforms Inc. (NASDAQ: META), Facebook’s parent company. One key technical difference lies in Aptos’ programming language, Move. The Move language is based off Rust, and it intentionally helps to shorten the learning curve for developers already familiar with Rust development.

Also unique is Aptos’ parallel execution system, which theoretically makes it much faster than Ethereum. The Aptos team aims to bring Web3 to the mainstream by creating an easy-to-use development ecosystem and blazing-fast speed.

Brief History of Aptos

Aptos was released in late 2022 and had a lot of hype circulating around its transaction speed. It offered promise in its development team, which was an experienced group coming from Meta. Its release led to a seed round worth $200 million from Andreessen Horowitz (a16z). More investors piled in, including Tiger Global, Multicoin Capital and FTX, to name a few. Massive funding rounds are usually great for a project; however, this may not be entirely true for Aptos as one of its investors is Sam Bankman-Fried.

Aptos also missed on many expectations — most importantly, its actual speed was nowhere close to its theoretical transaction throughput of 150,000 transactions per second (TPS). Even with these shortfalls, Aptos is one of the most hyped projects in the history of the crypto market. Only time will tell if it can live up to the initial excitement.

How to Buy Aptos (APT)

You can buy APT through a crypto exchange or a non-custodial wallet and decentralized exchange (DEX). The latter has become increasingly popular in light of the FTX collapse. The native wallet for Aptos is Petra.

Option 1: Use a Centralized Exchange

To purchase APT on a centralized exchange like Binance (or Binance.US for U.S. investors) or OKX, you first open an account. The signup process is simple and much easier than going through the process of using a wallet. Fill out the information, connect your bank and provide a form of identity to begin trading. Centralized exchanges offer most of the top cryptocurrencies. They also have a number of services that help users learn about the technology and often have a learn-to-earn feature, which lets users earn crypto by completing lessons.

While this process offers great features, keep in mind the risks. A centralized exchange is in control of your private keys, which means that you ultimately must trust the exchange. This factor goes directly against the original ethos of crypto. Bitcoin was created to give users rights over their money, blocking banks and the government from control over your assets. A centralized exchange gives this control back to an intermediary, alerts your bank and lets the government track your assets. If the exchange fails, you lose your assets. FTX, the second largest exchange in the world, filed for bankruptcy in December, and all user assets are frozen.

Best For

Altcoin Trading

Overall Rating

get started securely through Binance’s website

More Details

Best For

Altcoin Trading

N/A

1 Minute Review

Best For

US Citizens
Frequent day traders
Users interested in Binance Smart Chain (BSC) and Binance Coin (BNB)

Pros

Low trading fees
Easy-to-use platform
Wide selection of altcoins — it offers 51 cryptocurrencies apart from Bitcoin (BTC)
Good customer service
High liquidity because of large trading volumes

Cons

Only residents of 43 states in the U.S. can trade on Binance.US. You cannot trade on this platform in New York, Connecticut, Hawaii, Texas, Vermont, Idaho and Louisiana
Despite the wide selection of altcoins, the number of tokens offered on the U.S. platform is not comparable to the hundreds of choices available on the Binance global platform
There is no option for telephonic customer support

Best For

Variety of Tokens

Overall Rating

Get started securely through OKX’s website

Option 2: Use a Wallet

By using a wallet, you ensure that you are in control of your crypto. No centralized failures can cause you to lose your crypto, as the code is immutable. However, you still face risks. Without an intermediary, wallet users must protect themselves from scammers. Users also must remember their password. A substantial amount of crypto has been lost by users forgetting their passwords. When this happens, you have no bank to call to recover your password.

To best use non-custodial wallets, it is important to write down your password and seed phrase and keep it in a safe location. It is also important to pair a software wallet and hardware wallet for the best security and usability.

Best Hardware Wallet: Ledger Nano S

Ledger is the leading hardware wallet brand on the market with top-tier products. The Ledger Nano S Plus is among the most popular hardware wallets. It’s built similarly to a flash drive and keeps private keys out of harm’s way from malicious attacks. It is important to use this wallet with a good software wallet.

Best For

ERC-20 tokens

Overall Rating

buy now securely through Ledger Hardware Wallet’s website

More Details

Best For

ERC-20 tokens

N/A

1 Minute Review

Best For

ERC-20 tokens
All experience levels

Pros

Easy to set up and use
Supports more than 1,500 different digital assets
Tamper proof
Portable
Long-lasting battery
Bluetooth connectivity features

Cons

Can be quite pricey

Best Software Wallet: Petra

The best wallet tends to be the native version built by the same development team. In this case, that is the Petra wallet. The Coinbase version of a software wallet also supports APT. With a software wallet, you can connect to different decentralized applications (dApps), such as a DEX. For long-term storage, it is best to send your assets to an offline wallet (hardware wallet).

Step 3: Make your purchase

Centralized exchange purchase: As soon as your identity is approved and funds are wired to your exchange, you can begin purchasing crypto by selecting buy. You may need to search for Aptos, as it is still a relatively unknown coin.

Wallet or DEX purchase: After sending funds to your wallet, you can connect to a DEX. You swap your USD for crypto stablecoins such as USDC or DAI and then swap for APT. You may need to add the Aptos contract to your wallet to track the amount you hold.

Buy, Sell or Convert Aptos (APT)

You can buy or sell APT with USDC or DAI. You can convert APT into other cryptocurrencies. For example, if you want more Ethereum (ETH) and are operating on a centralized exchange, you can convert APT to ETH.

Current Crypto Prices

After a rapid selloff in 2022, the past couple of months have been positive for the crypto market. Bitcoin led the charge, breaking $22,000 per coin. Altcoins tend to follow Bitcoin’s price action, so APT has seen a rally in price as well. Altcoins are trading with higher volatility than Bitcoin. In a down market, altcoins crash further, and in bull markets, they tend to see larger gains.

Is Aptos (APT) a Good Investment?

Aptos is a risky investment but holds upside. The crypto market has experienced strong volatility and is likely to remain this way for some time. If you are willing to go through price swings in the coming months and believe in Aptos’ technology, it could be a good long-term hold. Alternate Layer 1s have struggled to carve out much of a user base, as Ethereum has proven dominant. If Aptos proves to be much more scalable, it could be a great bet.

The post How to Buy Aptos (APT) by Reid McCrabb appeared first on Benzinga. Visit Benzinga to get more great content like this.

Reid McCrabb, Author at Benzinga

How to Buy Bittensor (TAO)

JOIN THE MOON OR BUST EMAIL LIST

Table of contents [Show]

How to Buy Bittensor (TAO)

1. Open an Online Account

2. Make a Deposit to Fund Your Account

Step 3: Make Your Purchase

What Is Bittensor (TAO)?

Brief History of Bittensor (TAO)

Where to Buy Bittensor (TAO)

How to Store Bittensor (TAO) Safely

Trade, Sell or Convert Your Bittensor (TAO)

Current Crypto Prices

Is Bittensor (TAO) a Good Investment?

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I buy Bittensor on Coinbase?

How to Earn the Highest ETH Staking Rewards

Table of contents [Show]

Finding the Highest Ethereum (ETH) Staking Rewards

What Are Ethereum Staking Rewards?

Highest ETH Staking Rewards from Liquid Staking

Highest ETH Staking Rewards from DeFi

Solo Ethereum Staking: Best Risk-Adjusted Returns

How to Buy Ethereum

Is Staking Ethereum Safe?

Best AI Crypto Coins for 2024

Table of contents [Show]

Top 10 Artificial Intelligence (AI) Crypto Coins

1. NEAR Protocol (NEAR)

2. Render (RNDR)

3. Bittensor (TAO)

4. The Graph (GRT)

5. Fetch.ai (FETCH)

6. SingularityNET (AGIX)

7. Theta Network (THETA)

8. Autonolas (OLAS)

9. Oasis Network (ROSE)

10. Ocean Protocol (OCEAN)

What is AI Crypto?

How to Buy AI Cryptocurrencies

How to Store AI Cryptocurrencies

Are AI Cryptocurrencies Safe?

Solana Airdrop Guide

Table of contents [Show]

What Are Airdrops on Solana?

Examples of Solana Airdrops

Upcoming Solana Projects that Could Issue Airdrops

Tensor

Kamino Finance

MarginFi

Drift Protocol

How to Buy Solana

Trade, Sell or Convert your SOL Airdrops

Is it Worth Airdrop Farming on Solana?

How to Buy Kujira (KUJI)

What Is Kujira?

Brief History of Kujira (KUJI)

How to Buy Kujira (KUJI)

Step 1: Open an Online Account

Step 2: Buy a Wallet (Optional)

Best Hardware Wallet: Ledger Nano S

Best Software Wallet: Coinbase Wallet

Step 3: Make Your Purchase

Trade, Sell or Convert Your Kujira (KUJI)

Current Crypto Prices

Is Kujira (KUJI) a Good Investment?

Can Ethereum Hit $10,000 in 2024?

Table of contents [Show]

Can Ethereum Hit $10,000?

Why Did Ethereum Crash?

When Will Ethereum Hit All-time Highs?

History of Ethereum Prices

Could Ethereum Hit $20,000?

Where to Buy Ethereum (ETH)

Is Ethereum a Good Investment?

Frequently Asked Questions

Will Ethereum reach all-time highs in 2024?

When will Ethereum hit $10,000?

Is the cryptocurrency bull market back?