Understanding the Basics of Cryptocurrencies: Security, Staking, and Regulatory Changes
Cryptocurrency is a decentralized payment method that has been embraced by many countries worldwide, although some have banned it.[0] As the market is flooded with the best cryptocurrencies to invest in, from Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Litecoin to the Dogecoin meme currency, it is important for investors to understand the basics of cryptocurrencies as the prices are volatile. The global cryptocurrency industry is driven by the rising demand for remittances in developing nations, operational efficiency and transparency in financial payment systems, and the improvement of data security.[1] Additionally, the use of blockchain distributed technology protocols allows for greater supply chain openness and makes it easier to eradicate environmental crimes and other transgressions.[1]
Cryptocurrency is created through a complex process called mining which requires significant resources in the form of computing power. Security is a major concern for crypto traders, and platforms must have advanced security measures in place, including two-factor authentication, encrypted data storage, and secure SSL connections.[2] Furthermore, users must also have a cryptocurrency wallet to store, send, and receive coins.[3]
However, the cryptocurrency market is unpredictable, with prices of assets rising or falling in price dramatically over a short span.[3] Bitcoin’s supply and demand, investor and user sentiment, government regulation, and media hype all play a role in its ever-changing price.[0]
The act of staking involves committing tokens to a validator, who then takes responsibility for the security and operational capacity of a blockchain network.[4] Ethereum is more than just a cryptocurrency, as it is used to carry out smart contracts, formalizing the conditions of an agreement between a buyer and seller.[0]
The Pennsylvania Department of Banking and Securities recently announced its involvement in a $45 million settlement with Nexo Capital Inc. (Nexo).[5] According to NASAA, Nexo is a Cayman Islands corporation that provides virtual currency-related financial services to retail and institutional borrowers in the United States.[5] As part of the settlement, Nexo must notify all its remaining U.S. investors to remove their virtual assets from Nexo’s platform by April 1, 2023 and pay $22.5 million to the settle SEC charges and $22.5 million in fines to settle similar charges by state regulatory authorities.[5]
Cryptocurrency is an ever-growing and evolving industry, with new challenges arising such as security, privacy, and control, and regulation tightening.
0. “Exploring Cryptocurrency Technology: 8 Facts to Learn About …” www.tekedia.com, 16 Feb. 2023, https://www.tekedia.com/exploring-cryptocurrency-technology-8-facts-to-learn-about/
1. “Cryptocurrency Market is likely to reach $12.10 billion by” www.globenewswire.com, 16 Feb. 2023, https://www.globenewswire.com/en/news-release/2023/02/07/2603472/0/en/Cryptocurrency-Market-is-likely-to-reach-12-10-billion-by-2030-Globally-at-a-CAGR-of-11-9.html
2. “Cryptomus : The All-In-One Solution for Accepting Cryptocurrency …” www.morningstar.com, 16 Feb. 2023, https://www.morningstar.com/news/globe-newswire/8750246/cryptomus-the-all-in-one-solution-for-accepting-cryptocurrency-payments
3. “This Is How To Make Money With Cryptocurrency In 2023” theislandnow.com, 16 Feb. 2023, https://theislandnow.com/how-to-make-money-with-cryptocurrency/
4. “Coinbase Global Inc chief warns of potential cryptocurrency staking …” www.proactiveinvestors.com.au, 16 Feb. 2023, https://www.proactiveinvestors.com.au/companies/news/1005709/coinbase-global-inc-chief-warns-of-potential-cryptocurrency-staking-ban-1005709.html
5. “Pennsylvania to Receive Money in Multi-State Cryptocurrency …” pennwatch.org, 16 Feb. 2023, https://pennwatch.org/pennsylvania-to-receive-money-in-multi-state-cryptocurrency-settlement/
