Let’s get to the point. Crypto. It’s true, everyone is talking about crypto, from your tech-savvy relative to the barista at your favorite coffee shop. This is the internet’s version of Snakes and Ladders. Fortunes can be made or lost quicker than you can say, “blockchain.” Buckle up because this rollercoaster is not for the weak-hearted. Read full post.

You might be wondering where all this crypto-malarkey comes from. Imagine yourself sipping your latte in 2008 when an idea comes to you out of the chaos of the financial crisis. Bitcoin is like the new kid in the neighborhood wearing sunglasses inside. He was a little difficult to understand at first but he had a lot of potential. What started out as a simple digital experiment has now become a global phenomenon.

Things got hot as digital coins multiplied. Ethereum, Ripple and Litecoin strutted on the scene with their own brand of swagger. Each had their own flash and appeal. They were like rock stars. Soon, categories began to emerge. Ethereum became the digital Swiss Army knife, replacing Bitcoin as the gold standard.

Let’s pause for a moment and talk about crypto wallets, a vital aspect that no one should ignore. There are many names for hardware wallets and software wallets that promise to protect your digital treasure. Imagine them as a digital piggy-bank, with a 21st century twist. Choose carefully, or your coins could disappear into thin air.

Initial Coin Offerings (ICOs) are a quick stopover in the land of ICOs. Remember those carnival games with big prizes that are hard to win but promise huge rewards? ICOs are sometimes like those carnival games. You should always be on your guard. Do your research before you throw your savings into a dream written on a napkin.

Don’t forget the legal onions. Peeling layers and layers of onion is a must. You can be dancing in one country, which embraces crypto with open hearts, and then you could be reading the news about another place that has imposed strictest bans. You’re like a DJ trying to keep up with a constantly changing playlist. Stay informed. Regulations are subject to change at any time.

Do you have a relative who always says, “Nothing is certain in life except death and taxes?” Crypto seems to have missed that memo. Taxation is the bane of most people’s lives. It treats digital currencies like distant relatives. Some countries love it, others hate it, and still others can’t figure it out. Keep your calculators up-to-date and IRS proof, whether you’re trading, mining or holding.

Let’s look at something technical. It’s the blockchain technology, the Sherlock Holmes of digital ledgers. It’s one of those old-school principles–recording transactions, nothing new–only this time, no need for any middlemen. Distributed ledger? Yes, please. Transparency? Absolutely. It’s a rebel who challenges the status quo.

Are you considering investing in the cryptosphere? Volatility is high. You may find yourself laughing with joy one day, and pulling your hair out the next. Losses and profits have a tendency to play hide-and seek. Keep your life jacket close by and be aware of volatile traits.

Finally, a nod to crypto’s siblings–non-fungible tokens or NFTs, those digital cats and meme stamps taking the art world by storm. It’s part art, part technology, and it’s all fascinating. The whole thing is a little like Willy Wonka’s golden tickets, but with a modern twist. It’s possible to buy moments, art, music and more. The only limit is your imagination.

If you keep an open mind, you can find that crypto is a world of possibilities, and one in which you will often be on your toes. Remember, not every shiny coin is gold!