Cryptocurrencies have taken the financial industry by storm, and the fast-moving and volatile crypto space keeps investors, observers, and regulators on their toes. Keep up with the latest cryptocurrency news with CNBC’s dedicated coverage of bitcoin, blockchain, and other digital assets. Get the news, insights, and high-profile interviews you need to stay ahead in this dynamic industry.
While Bitcoin and Ethereum dominate headlines, there are many other cryptocurrencies on the market. Some are focused on mining, some are stablecoins, and others have other uses. Keeping up with all of them is challenging, but understanding the potential impact of each can help you build a well-rounded portfolio.
As the world becomes more familiar with cryptocurrency, more businesses are likely to explore using it as a payment method. It’s important to monitor the latest developments in this space so you can stay abreast of any regulatory changes that might impact your business.
A cryptocurrency is a medium of exchange that is secure, private, and decentralized. It is built on a cryptographic system and has a built-in mechanism for verifying transactions, called a blockchain.
Mining popular cryptocurrencies can consume huge amounts of energy, making it inefficient for individuals to mine them. As a result, mining is increasingly concentrated among large companies that can afford the infrastructure and technology required to be competitive. These companies purchase cryptocurrencies in order to profit from their price appreciation and also to hold them as part of their investment funds.