Cryptocurrencies and blockchains have given rise to a new constellation of “decentralized finance” or DeFi businesses and projects. Essentially the cryptocurrency version of Wall Street, DeFi aims to offer people access to financial services—borrowing, lending, and trading—without the need for legacy institutions such as banks and brokerages, which often take large commissions and other fees. Instead, “smart contracts” automatically execute transactions when certain conditions are met. Start cryptocurrency Cryptocurrencies and the global adoption of blockchain technology are still in their infancy with decades of growth yet to come. So remember to relax, dial down the FOMO and take a more measured approach to investing in the crypto market in order to ensure your best chance at long-term success.
Cryptocurrency investing should not be viewed as a ‘get rich quick’ scheme. Sure, some investors have done exceptionally well in this industry – especially those who were able to buy into projects like Bitcoin and Ethereum super-early. However, crypto is volatile, so investors need to consider the risks involved. Investing in Cryptocurrency vs Trading Cryptocurrency NerdWallet, Inc. is an independent publisher and comparison service, not an investment advisor. Its articles, interactive tools and other content are provided to you for free, as self-help tools and for informational purposes only. They are not intended to provide investment advice. NerdWallet does not and cannot guarantee the accuracy or applicability of any information in regard to your individual circumstances. Examples are hypothetical, and we encourage you to seek personalized advice from qualified professionals regarding specific investment issues. Our estimates are based on past market performance, and past performance is not a guarantee of future performance.