Nigeria’s eNaira Struggles for Adoption Amidst Cash Shortages and Limited Infrastructure
The adoption of national digital currencies has the potential to transform the financial landscape and create a more equitable financial system. Yet, as demonstrated with the eNaira in Nigeria, adoption can be slow due to a lack of infrastructure and knowledge.
Lack of infrastructure to support the ecosystem
The insufficient infrastructure to support the eNaira is one of the key reasons for its sluggish acceptance in Nigeria. Users must have a smartphone and internet connectivity to use the digital money, which can be difficult in a country where only 25 to 40 million people own a smartphone. This is worsened by the absence of reliable internet connectivity, particularly in rural regions. To achieve widespread use of digital currencies, there must be a concerted push to expand internet connectivity and smartphone usage, particularly in disadvantaged areas.
Barriers to Adoption
In addition to technical issues, there is a major dearth of education in Nigeria on the benefits of digital currencies. Many individuals are still wary of digital currencies’ security and trustworthiness, and there is a widespread lack of understanding about how they work. Governments and institutions must invest in education initiatives to raise knowledge about the benefits of digital currencies and how to successfully use them.
Another barrier to adoption is the absence of transaction options and retailers ready to take digital currency. Despite efforts by the Central Bank of Nigeria to encourage banks to promote the use of eNaira, merchant acceptance remains low. This limits digital currencies’ utility, particularly for ordinary retail transactions. Governments and organizations must collaborate to encourage merchant adoption by providing incentives like as cheaper transaction fees or tax advantages.
Furthermore, Nigeria is currently experiencing acute cash shortages, which has resulted in riots and protests across the country. While the eNaira has the potential to be a solution to the issue, its low adoption and infrastructure challenges have limited its utility. Governments and organizations must move quickly to address these concerns and make digital currencies widely available as a cash substitute.
Digitalization
As the world grows more digital, the advantages of national digital currencies cannot be overlooked. Digital currencies provide several benefits, such as speedier transactions, improved security, and lower expenses. They can also help people gain financial inclusion, especially those who are underserved by traditional banking institutions.
But, in order for digital currencies to become a viable alternative to cash, governments and institutions must take meaningful actions to overcome adoption barriers. This involves infrastructure investments, education efforts, and incentives for merchant adoption. Furthermore, there must be a concerted effort to resolve public concerns about security and reliability, as well as to create public trust in digital currencies
The Central Bank of Nigeria’s attempts to promote the eNaira have been well-intentioned, but more has to be done to remove the barriers to acceptance. This includes collaborating with mobile network providers to promote internet access and smartphone penetration, collaborating with retailers to incentivize eNaira use, and investing in public awareness education programs.
Another possibility is to use blockchain technology to develop a decentralized digital currency. Because blockchain technology is known for its security features, this could help alleviate concerns about security and reliability. Furthermore, because it does not require a centralized body to oversee its use, a decentralized digital currency may be more accessible and inclusive than a centralized one.
Final thoughts
To conclude, while the adoption of national digital currencies such as the eNaira has been delayed in Nigeria, the potential benefits cannot be overlooked. Adoption problems must be solved immediately to ensure that digital currencies can deliver on their promise of building a more egalitarian financial system. To promote the use of digital currencies, governments and organizations must collaborate to invest in infrastructure, education, and incentives. This will necessitate considerable effort and collaboration on the part of several parties, including regulators, financial institutions, mobile network carriers, and merchants.
As the world moves toward a more digital economy, we must embrace the promise of digital currencies to establish a more inclusive financial system. The difficulties encountered in Nigeria’s adoption of the eNaira show the necessity for a concerted effort to overcome the infrastructure and education issues that can stymie adoption. Governments and institutions can collaborate to create an environment that supports the widespread adoption of digital currencies, resulting in a more inclusive and accessible financial system for all.
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Blockchain Technology to Revolutionize the Gaming Industry in 2023
Introduction to the Potential of Blockchain Technology
Blockchain, the technology behind Bitcoin, is a decentralized digital ledger that records transactions across a network of computers. It offers transparency, security, and immutability, making it perfect for the gaming industry. One of the most significant ways blockchain is set to revolutionize gaming is through the use of non-fungible tokens (NFTs). NFTs are unique digital assets stored on a blockchain, and they can be used to represent in-game items such as weapons, armor, and collectibles. This allows for true ownership of in-game assets, and players can trade, sell, or even hold on to them as investments. This new level of ownership and control over in-game assets is set to change the way we play and interact with our favorite games.
Utilization of Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs) for True Ownership and Control of In-Game Assets
NFTs are unique digital assets stored on a blockchain, and they can be used to represent in-game items such as weapons, armor, and collectibles. This allows for true ownership of in-game assets, and players can trade, sell, or even hold on to them as investments. This new level of ownership and control over in-game assets is set to change the way we play and interact with our favorite games.With blockchain, game developers can create and distribute their games without the need for centralised platforms such as Steam or the App Store. This allows for a more decentralised distribution model, giving game developers more control over their creations and a direct connection with their players.
New Monetization Opportunities
Blockchain technology also has the potential to change the way players are rewarded for their in-game activities. In traditional games, players are often rewarded with in-game currency or items that have no real-world value. With blockchain, players can be rewarded with digital assets that have real-world value, such as cryptocurrency or NFTs. This can change the way players view in-game rewards and create new monetisation opportunities for game developers.Online gaming is also set to benefit from blockchain technology. In traditional online games, players rely on centralized servers to host and run the game, which can lead to issues such as lag and downtime. With blockchain, online games can be run on a decentralised network, eliminating the need for centralised servers and making online gaming more reliable and efficient.
Conclusion: The Exciting New Era of Blockchain Gaming and its Impact on the Crypto Community
In conclusion, the gaming industry is on the cusp of a revolution thanks to the introduction of blockchain technology. The use of non-fungible tokens, decentralized game development and distribution, and the ability to reward players with digital assets of real-world value are just a few of the ways that blockchain is set to change the way we play and interact with our favorite games. As a HolyTransaction, we believe that this integration of blockchain technology into the gaming industry is an exciting development for the crypto community. Not only does it open up new opportunities for monetization and investment, but it also helps to further mainstream the use of digital assets like Bitcoin. In the coming years, we expect to see more and more games incorporating blockchain technology and new blockchain-based games being created. This new era of blockchain gaming is not only a win for players and game developers, but also for the crypto community as a whole. As the technology continues to evolve, we can’t wait to see the innovative ways that blockchain will change the gaming industry for the better. So, let’s gear up for the blockchain revolution in gaming and the possibilities it holds for Bitcoin and the broader cryptocurrency ecosystem.
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Heating Your Home with Bitcoin Mining Rigs: Pros, Cons and Real-Life Cases
Bitcoin mining is the process of using specialized computer hardware to validate transactions on the Bitcoin blockchain and earn rewards in the form of newly minted Bitcoins. This process requires a significant amount of energy and generates a lot of heat as a byproduct. In recent years, some individuals have started using their Bitcoin mining rigs to heat their homes as an alternative to traditional heating methods.
Advantages of using a Bitcoin mining rig for heating
Cost savings
One of the main advantages of using a Bitcoin mining rig for heating is the cost savings. Bitcoin mining can be a profitable endeavor, and the heat generated by the rig can be used to offset the cost of heating the home. Additionally, using a mining rig for heat can also help to reduce the overall carbon footprint of the home, as it eliminates the need for fossil fuels or other non-renewable sources of heat.
Flexibility
Another advantage of using a mining rig for heat is the flexibility it offers. Many mining rigs can be easily moved from room to room or even from house to house, allowing individuals to easily adjust the heating in their home as needed. Additionally, some mining rigs can be controlled remotely, allowing individuals to turn the heat on or off and adjust the temperature from anywhere using a smartphone or computer.
Real-life examples of using a Bitcoin mining rig for heating
Qarnot Computing’s QH-80 heating system
One real-life example of using a Bitcoin mining rig for heating is a company based in the United States called Qarnot Computing. They have created a heating system called “QH-80” that is specifically designed for this purpose, it’s a small, plug-and-play device that can be used to heat a room or small apartment. The device is equipped with several high-performance computing chips that can be used for both mining and heating, with the heat being distributed through a series of built-in radiators. The company claims that the device can heat a room of about 150 square feet for roughly $30 per month, which is significantly less than the cost of traditional heating methods.
Kristoffer Koch’s home in Norway
A third example is a man from Norway named “Kristoffer Koch” who became a millionaire by investing in Bitcoin early on. He invested 150 kroner ($26.60) in 5,000 bitcoins in 2009 and forgot about it. When he rediscovered his investment in 2013, the value of his bitcoins had grown to $886,000, he decided to use a part of his fortune to install a heating system in his house that runs on Bitcoin mining. He claims that it’s cheaper and more environmentally friendly than the traditional heating methods.
Heat4Mine: Bitcoin Mining for Heating in the Netherlands
Heat4Mine is a Dutch company that provides a solution for using the heat generated by Bitcoin mining rigs to heat homes. They have developed a system that captures the heat generated by mining rigs and uses it to heat water, which is then distributed through a building’s heating system. This allows homeowners to offset the cost of heating their home with the profits generated from mining Bitcoin. The company claims that their system is a more sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to traditional heating methods, as it reduces the need for fossil fuels. According to their website, they have been providing this service since 2017.
Disadvantages of using a Bitcoin mining rig for heating
Initial cost of setting up the rig
Despite these advantages, using a Bitcoin mining rig for heating does have some drawbacks. One of the main disadvantages is the initial cost of setting up the rig. Mining rigs can be quite expensive, and the cost may not be worth it for those who only plan to use it for heating. Additionally, the noise and heat generated by the rig can be quite substantial, which may not be suitable for some individuals.
Regular maintenance and reliability issues
Another potential drawback is the fact that the mining rig will require regular maintenance, which can be time-consuming and costly. Additionally, mining rigs are not always reliable and may break down or malfunction, which can be a major inconvenience for those who rely on them for heat.
Conclusion
Despite these drawbacks, using a Bitcoin mining rig for heating is becoming an increasingly popular option for those looking for an alternative to traditional heating methods. As the price of Bitcoin continues to rise, the profitability of mining also increases, making it a more viable option for those looking to offset the cost of heating their home. Additionally, as the world continues to focus on reducing carbon emissions and becoming more energy efficient, using a mining rig for heat may become a more appealing option for those looking to reduce their environmental impact.
It’s important to note that the profitability and cost-effectiveness of using a mining rig for heat will depend on several factors, including the cost of electricity, the current price of Bitcoin, and the efficiency of the rig itself. Additionally, it’s also important to consider the noise and heat generated, and maintenance requirements before making a decision. It’s also important to note that while this is a potential use case, it’s not yet widely adopted or popular. It’s still a niche application of the technology.
In conclusion, using a Bitcoin mining rig for heating can be a cost-effective and energy-efficient alternative to traditional heating methods. It can also help reduce carbon footprint and offer flexibility to adjust heating as per need. However, it’s important to weigh in the initial costs, maintenance requirements, noise and heat generated and the overall profitability before making a decision. As with any technology, it’s important to keep in mind that it may not be suitable for everyone, but for those who it does work for, it can be a great way to save money and reduce their environmental impact.
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Understanding the Basics of Zero-Knowledge Proofs (ZKPs) Before Examining zk-STARKs and zk-SNARKs
Ethereum now has privacy thanks to zero-knowledge proof technologies, specifically zk-STARKs. But before we can assess zk-STARKs, it is important to define a zero-knowledge proof (ZKP).
Understanding the Basics of Zero-Knowledge Proofs (ZKPs)
A ZKP is a cryptographic technique that enables a prover to confirm another person’s assertion without disclosing any supporting data. zk-STARKs and zk-SNARKs are two of the most compelling zero-knowledge technologies available today, standing for zero-knowledge succinct non-interactive argument of knowledge and zero-knowledge scalable transparent argument of knowledge, respectively. These technologies allow one party to demonstrate their knowledge to another without actually revealing the knowledge, making them both scaling technologies, as they can enable faster proof verification, and privacy-enhancing technologies, as they reduce the amount of information shared between users.
zk-STARKs, specifically, enable users to communicate validated data or carry out computations with a third party without the other party knowing the data or results of the analysis. They are an advancement over zk-SNARKs because of their reduced algorithmic complexity, making them easier for even crypto experts to find mistakes in. These types of knowledge testing tools are primarily used to build highly private and secure systems that are decentralized and can only be accessed under specific, difficult-to-obtain conditions, such as those found in cryptocurrencies. These systems not only secure the network but also protect and anonymize users.
Comparing zk-SNARKs and zk-STARKs
There are a few main differences between zk-SNARKs and zk-STARKs. Firstly, zk-SNARKs require a reliable configuration phase, while zk-STARKs create verifiable computing systems without trust using publicly verifiable randomness. Secondly, zk-STARKs are more scalable in terms of speed and computational size when compared to zk-SNARKs. And thirdly, zk-SNARKs are vulnerable to attack by quantum computers, while zk-STARKs are currently immune. However, it is important to note that STARKs have larger proof sizes than SNARKs, meaning they take longer to verify and require more gas. In addition, the STARKs developer community is smaller and has less documentation compared to SNARKs.
Support from the Developer Community
Despite these differences, both the SNARKs and STARKs communities have support from developers. The Ethereum Foundation, in particular, has shown support for Starkware, a company using STARKs, by awarding them a $12 million grant. While documentation for STARKs is currently less comprehensive than that for SNARKs, the technical community has recently created more resources for those interested in the technology.
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Hal Finney’s Family Launches ‘Running Bitcoin Challenge’ to Support ALS Research
The Running Bitcoin Challenge: Honoring Hal Finney’s Memory and Supporting the Fight Against ALS
Hal Finney was a renowned computer scientist and cryptocurrency developer known for his contributions to the development of Bitcoin. In 2008, he received the first-ever Bitcoin transaction from Satoshi Nakamoto, the pseudonymous creator of Bitcoin. Tragically, Finney passed away in 2014 due to complications from Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease.
A Half Marathon Fundraiser for a Good Cause
In honor of Finney’s legacy, his spouse Fran Finney has organized the Running Bitcoin Challenge, a half marathon fundraiser that takes place between January 1 and January 10 each year. Finney was an avid runner before being diagnosed with ALS in August 2009. Despite a long battle with the disease, he was cryonically preserved in 2014. The Running Bitcoin event serves as a way to honor his memory and raise funds for an important cause. Those who donate at least $100 will receive an official Running Bitcoin T-shirt, and the top 25 fundraisers will receive a rare Hal Finney collectible.
The First Bitcoin Transaction and a Tweet That Changed the World
This timing coincides with the anniversary of Hal Finney’s famous “Running Bitcoin” tweet, in which he announced that he was contributing to the code to the Bitcoin codebase in 2008 and early 2009, and he was the recipient of the first-ever Bitcoin transaction, in which Satoshi Nakamoto sent him 10 BTC. Finney was a pioneer in the field of computer science and a strong advocate for privacy and civil liberties. His work in these areas continues to inspire others to fight for these values.
A Decentralized Event That Can Be Participated in From Anywhere
Participants in the Running Bitcoin Challenge can run, walk, roll, or hike the equivalent of a half marathon (Finney’s favorite distance) either in one go or over the entire 10-day period. There is no set location for the challenge, so participants can join from anywhere they wish. Those who donate at least $100 will receive an official shirt with the half marathon’s logo, and the top 25 fundraisers will receive a Hal Finney collectible signed by his wife. The Running Bitcoin Challenge serves as a way to honor Finney’s memory and raise funds for the important cause of finding a cure for ALS.
The Running Bitcoin Challenge has been a successful fundraiser, raising hundreds of thousands of dollars for ALS research. In addition to supporting research, the challenge also serves as a way for people to honor Finney’s memory and pay tribute to his contributions to the world of cryptocurrency.
Support the Cause and Honor Hal Finney’s Memory
By participating in the Running Bitcoin Challenge and raising funds for ALS research, individuals can help make a difference in the fight against this devastating disease and honor Finney’s memory at the same time. The event is being held in cooperation with the ALS Association Golden West Chapter, which provides equipment loans and educational materials to people living with ALS.
One of the unique aspects of the Running Bitcoin Challenge is that it is a decentralized event, meaning that it can be participated in from anywhere in the world. This makes it accessible to people from all walks of life and allows for a diverse group of participants to come together in support of the cause.
Overall, the Running Bitcoin Challenge is a unique and meaningful way to honor the memory of Hal Finney and support the fight against ALS. It is an opportunity for the cryptocurrency community to come together and make a difference in the world.
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Central Africa Embraces Bitcoin and Cryptocurrency Adoption for Economic and Political Stability
Bitcoin, the world’s first decentralized digital currency, has seen growing adoption in Central Africa in recent years. This trend is driven by a number of factors, including the region’s high inflation rates, political instability, and lack of access to traditional banking services.
One of the main reasons for the adoption of Bitcoin in Central Africa is the high inflation rates that many countries in the region face. Inflation erodes the purchasing power of a currency, making it difficult for people to save and plan for the future. By using Bitcoin, which is not subject to inflation, individuals and businesses in Central Africa can protect their wealth and preserve its value over time.
Political instability is another factor driving the adoption of Bitcoin in Central Africa. Many countries in the region have a history of coups, civil wars, and political unrest, which can lead to the confiscation of assets and bank accounts. By using Bitcoin, which is decentralized and not controlled by any government or institution, individuals and businesses in Central Africa can protect their assets from seizure and avoid the risks associated with political instability.
In addition to high inflation and political instability, many people in Central Africa lack access to traditional banking services. In some rural areas, there are no banks or financial institutions, making it difficult for individuals and businesses to access credit, save money, and make payments. By using Bitcoin, which can be easily accessed and used with a smartphone and internet connection, people in Central Africa can enjoy many of the same benefits of traditional banking without the need for physical infrastructure.
The adoption of Bitcoin in Central Africa is also supported by a growing ecosystem of businesses and services that accept the cryptocurrency. This includes merchants who accept Bitcoin for goods and services, as well as exchanges and wallet providers that facilitate the buying and selling of Bitcoin. This ecosystem is helping to drive the adoption of Bitcoin and is making it easier for people in Central Africa to use the cryptocurrency in their daily lives.
In addition to the factors mentioned above, there are several other reasons why Bitcoin is gaining popularity in Central Africa. The increasing use of mobile phones and internet access in the region has made it easier for people to use Bitcoin and other digital currencies. The growing awareness of the benefits of Bitcoin, such as its decentralized nature, low transaction fees, and fast transaction times, has also contributed to its increasing popularity in the region. The growing adoption of Bitcoin in other parts of the world has also played a role in its acceptance in Central Africa.
Furthermore, the Central African Republic has recently unveiled its own cryptocurrency, Sango Coin, which will be the second cryptocurrency, after Bitcoin, to be recognized as legal tender in the country. The President of the Central African Republic has voiced support for blockchain, cryptocurrencies, and Bitcoin, further demonstrating the increasing interest and involvement in the cryptocurrency space in the region.
Overall, the adoption of Bitcoin in Central Africa is driven by a combination of economic, political, and technological factors. As the ecosystem of businesses and services that accept Bitcoin continues to grow, it is likely that the adoption of the cryptocurrency will continue to increase in Central Africa.
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The Benefits of Using Bitcoin for Online Transactions
Bitcoin is a decentralized digital currency that has gained popularity in recent years for conducting online transactions. Unlike traditional currencies that are controlled by central banks, Bitcoin is not subject to the whims of any one entity, making it an attractive option for those looking to conduct transactions online.
One of the key benefits of using Bitcoin for online transactions is its security. Because it is decentralized, there is no central point of failure that attackers can target. In addition, each transaction is verified by the network of computers that run the Bitcoin software, making it virtually impossible to forge or counterfeit.
Another benefit of using Bitcoin for online transactions is its low transaction fees. Because there are no intermediaries such as banks or credit card companies involved in the process, transaction fees are typically much lower than they would be with traditional forms of payment. This can be especially beneficial for those who conduct a large number of transactions, such as small business owners or online merchants.
In addition to these benefits, using Bitcoin for online transactions can also offer users more control over their own money. Because it is decentralized and not controlled by any one entity, users are free to store, send, and receive Bitcoin without third parties.
Some other potential benefits of using Bitcoin for online transactions include:
Faster transaction times: Because Bitcoin transactions are processed on a decentralized network, they can be completed much more quickly than traditional bank transfers or credit card payments. This can be especially useful for people who need to make or receive payments quickly, such as when making an emergency purchase or receiving payment for a time-sensitive project.
Immutability: This means that once a transaction is recorded on the Bitcoin blockchain, it cannot be altered or deleted. This provides a high level of security, as it ensures that transactions cannot be tampered with or reversed without the consensus of the network. This feature also helps to prevent fraud, as it makes it difficult for someone to modify or falsify records. Overall, the immutability of the Bitcoin blockchain provides a level of trust and security for users of the network.
Greater global accessibility: Because it is decentralized and not tied to any specific country or currency, Bitcoin can be used for online transactions anywhere in the world. This can be especially helpful for individuals and businesses in countries with unstable economies or limited access to traditional financial institutions.
Overall, the use of Bitcoin for online transactions offers a number of potential benefits, including security, low transaction fees, and greater control over one’s own currency. As more businesses and individuals begin to recognize the potential of this cryptocurrency, its use is likely to continue to grow. In fact, the use of Bitcoin is already starting to become more widespread, with many online merchants and small business owners choosing to accept it as a form of payment.
One final note about using Bitcoin for online transactions is its potential environmental benefits. Because it uses a decentralized network of computers to verify transactions, it does not require the same energy-intensive processes as traditional money transfer services. In fact, many of the computers that run the Bitcoin network are powered by renewable energy sources, which can help to reduce its carbon footprint. This is in contrast to traditional financial systems, which often rely on fossil fuels and other sources of pollution. In this way, using Bitcoin for online transactions can not only provide security and convenience, but also contribute to a cleaner and more sustainable world.
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El Salvador’s “Adopting Bitcoin” Conference as a Key Moment for the Bitcoin Industry
Emerging at the forefront of Bitcoin innovation, El Salvador is working toward achieving a level of financial independence and openness independent from a centralised banking system. El Salvador has paved the way for other nations to follow in its footsteps by becoming the first nation in the world to recognise Bitcoin as a legitimate currency.
To encourage worldwide collaboration and proliferate networking avenues for Bitcoin enthusiasts, El Salvador hosted the “Adopting Bitcoin” Conference over 3 days, between November 15 and 17. The event took place in San Salvador and at Bitcoin Beach and brought together members of the Bitcoin ecosystem from a multitude of states.
Uncovering the Objectives of the “Adopting Bitcoin” Conference
More than 110 speakers from over 30 countries discussed the most recent breakthroughs throughout the whole range of Bitcoin-related disciplines, including those pertaining to technology as well as economics.
In this setting, the presentation of the Bitcoin core engineer Jon Atack was a significant highlight, focused on technology and development, while the presentation of Mexican senator Indira Kempis will be the most famous name in the track focused on economics. The multi-stage event will be held in English, with Spanish translations provided in real-time for the most critical phases.
Bitfinex Pledges to Support El Salvador in Future Bitcoin Ventures
Paolo Ardoino, the Chief Technical Officer of Bitfinex, is one of the attendees at the crypto conference in El Salvador who gained the greatest notoriety. Arduino said in his statement that his company “would redouble its efforts to establish a free, unstoppable, robust, and open Bitcoin and technological infrastructure for El Salvador.”
Overall, Bitfinex has committed to working closely with the government of El Salvador, which is currently mired in debt and is governed by President Nayib Bukele, to devise an appropriate regulatory framework for the cryptocurrency market and other digital assets in the nation. Ifinex, the parent company of Bitfinex, has agreed with the government of El Salvador to work together on developing a regulatory framework for digital assets and securities.
Adverse Circumstances are Met with Further Commitments by Bitcoin Supporters
While adverse market dynamics hindered the optimism around the event, there is a suite of conclusions that indicate the ongoing commitment of Bitcoin leaders and pioneering nations like El Salvador to still pursue the broader adoption of Bitcoin as a payment medium.
As the blockchain industry, as well as all the other financial sectors, witnessed in 2022, the price of Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies declined primarily due to the Federal Reserve’s strategy of dramatically raising interest rates to curb rising inflation in the United States, which caused the cost of money to increase. Subsequently, the remainder of the decline was caused by a succession of events, including the bankruptcy of organisations involved in cryptocurrency trading and the collapse of currencies such as Terra USD. Large investors sold out these high-risk assets, precipitating a precipitous value decline.
“One Bitcoin Per Day” Plan Proposed by El Salvador’s President
El Salvador’s President, Nayib Bukele, announced that the nation would begin buying one Bitcoin each day starting with November 17, 2022. The use of dollar-cost-averaging (DCA) in Bitcoin transactions is widespread among the community, yet it is unprecedented for a nation-state. When Bukele’s proclamation was made, the nation possessed a Bitcoin treasury that included 2,381 BTC and had a worth of more than $39 million.
So far, Bukele has made it a pattern in the past to acquire a significant quantity of Bitcoin during periods of market instability and to “buy the dip.” This action would signal the end of a nearly five-month pause amid severe bear market circumstances and the collapse of Sam Bankman-massive Fried’s $32 billion FTX enterprise.
According to NayibTracker, Bukele made his most recent purchase of Bitcoin on June 30, 2022. At that time, he paid $1.52 million for 80 Bitcoins (worth around $1.33 million), which works out to an average price of $19,000 per coin.
Bottom Line
Overall, El Salvador’s “Adopting Bitcoin” conference serves as a reminder of the ongoing commitment of crypto pioneers and their belief in the long-term potential of this cutting-edge technological revolution.
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Cryptocurrency and the Future of Business
Cryptocurrency and the Future of Business
Cryptocurrency users are still a small minority. The total number of users was at 106 million as of January 2021. That sounds like a lot, but when you consider a global population that is nearing 8 billion, you can see that it is just a tiny fraction of people using crypto.
Whether you are in crypto or not, it is going to have an increasing effect on business. You can see Bitcoin mining operations selling shares on stock exchanges, large businesses looking into uses for crypto coins, and more people taking an interest in buying and using cryptocurrency.
At the current trend, crypto coins are becoming more common every year. If it holds, it might not be a matter of if people start using different cryptocurrencies, it could just be a question of when.
Crypto for International Transactions
In the digital age, businesses are now connected internationally like they never before. Beyond the large multinationals, it is increasingly becoming common for smaller businesses to have significant international connections. This is not only true as it concerns deals with other companies, but businesses now have employees or contractors they work with from around the world.
Using cryptocurrency as a medium of exchange for international transactions could solve a lot of problems for these businesses. First, cryptocurrency could ease the burden of having to convert currency for several different countries. Beyond that, it could also make transactions faster, cheaper and more convenient by cutting out the traditional middlemen that would typically be in the middle of these transactions.
Adoption by Mainstream Institutions
One of the factors that have held back many cryptocurrency markets is the lack of support from mainstream institutions. Banks wouldn’t let you make transactions with crypto exchanges, and it was hard to find businesses that would allow you to use your cryptocurrency. This is changing rapidly.
Beyond the ability of investors to use an ultra fast trading app to make trades, we now see a range of big institutional investors buying cryptocurrency. Along with that, some of the world’s largest financial businesses are starting to work with crypto. As an example, PayPal started offering a range of cryptocurrency services earlier this year. You also have major credit card companies that are starting to work with crypto on a limited level.
Crypto as a Real Store of Value
One of the main claims of many crypto skeptics is that the coins have no inherent value. This is true in a sense. The value of most crypto coins is solely based on the perception of people in the market. While that might be true, you could make the same argument for most fiat currencies. The value is based on the fact that people will accept it in exchange for goods and services.
Crypto has an advantage over many fiat currencies: the fact that many crypto coins have a limited supply. As inflation acts on fiat currencies, crypto could grow in popularity as a hedge. In the future, many investors will hold crypto in the way that they hold gold as a protection against inflation.
Tokens as Business Equity
Raising or distributing equity usually means creating conventional shares of the business. While this could be a way to raise money or provide value to employees, it does come with a range of hurdles. One way to get around many of these hurdles would be to create crypto coins that represent shares in the company.
Instead of jumping through all of the regulatory hoops to issue shares, the business could give people crypto coins as equity. Instead of holding an IPO, the business could do an ICO as a way to raise capital from investors.
Crypto for Crowdfunding
With the rise in crowdfunding platforms, the ability to raise money is easier than it ever has been. These platforms not only make it easy to raise money from the public, but they also offer a level of transparency that is popular among those looking to donate or invest. With that said, these platforms often take a significant portion of the funds in fees.
Using a blockchain wallet for crowdfunding could be a way to get the transparency of a crowdfunding platform while avoiding the fees. This would allow those looking to raise funds to do so off a platform, but with the blockchain ledger, potential donors or investors could still see the donations coming in.
Crypto is a field that is always evolving. As businesses see the benefits and new applications become available, it will become more common. With that said, the markets are unpredictable. The only thing that we can be sure of is that there will be ups and downs along the way.
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Impact of DeFi on the Cryptocurrency market of 2021
Short for decentralized finance, DeFi is a new wave taking over the world’s financial market; the cryptocurrency world. DeFi is the conception that entrepreneurs can provide traditional financial institutions functions through a decentralized medium. There are cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum, the former of which has been causing significant ripples in the crypto-world since the last quarter of 2020 and the beginning of this year.
Although Bitcoin and Ethereum are the forerunners of DeFi, newer and somewhat better altcoins are coming into view. An example is Dai, a bitcoin-resembling digital token that hopes to remain independent of the world’s central banks’ influence. Unlike centralized finance and traditional banks, DeFi takes away all the cumbersome operations, go-betweens, and high costs often involved. This it does via smart contracts and to the benefit of the end-user. The closure of many industries during this era of the COVID-19 pandemic has served as a wake-up call to consumers of fiat currencies on the futility and loss of value of such coins.
This wake-up call has been occurring in places where the government has been pumping more money into their economies even though they have taxes to be paid. Such practices make the value of such currencies questionable. As a result of such act, fiat currencies’ values have been seen to fluctuate and fall considerably, often leading to inflation. An example is in Venezuela’s economy where inflation has risen by more than 1,000,000% due to the influx and pumping of more bills into the economy.
Often, the influx of newly minted bills into the economy does not mean these bills will get to such currencies’ end-users. These often serve as injections into the banking sector. But when they come as benefit checks and government aids, this inflation in money supply results in taxes. Also, they help boost the stock market and the stocks of the top 1%, rather than help the thousands and millions of individuals and businesses that need such aids.
The Impact of DeFi in the cryptocurrency market
The increasing dissatisfaction and discontent with traditional banks and centralized financial systems are momentous. The high availability of information about the growing offers in the crypto sector is finally providing people with better alternatives to traditional banks. These alternatives come in the form of DeFi (decentralized finance) where people can now take part in a mode of operation that will work for them. This means that people’s money will now work for them instead of the other way round.
Investing in the cryptocurrency market is becoming more comfortable and more widespread than when it first emerged with Bitcoin as its forerunner. As the first DeFi system, this paved the way for other altcoins, including Ethereum, Tether, Polkadot, XRP, and Cardano. These cryptocurrencies have come a long way and have become potential collaterals when taking out traditional bank loans. These loans can be collected regardless of what your credit score is. They serve as a way of getting cash when you need it irrespective of the availability of physical collateral.
The influence of cryptocurrency is rising steadily in developing countries where inflations often caused by government policies and central bank cash injections result in the loss of value of people’s savings and business capitals. Buying and investing in DeFi systems has provided a remedy to that, whereby the value of fiat currencies that have been converted to cryptocurrencies experience growth and provide means of decentralized financial transactions with relatively low costs from traditional banks.
Opportunities and Growth
The opportunities created by cryptos seem even better in developed countries. Large amounts of money are readily available and can be invested in trusted cryptosystems where stable profit and immense gain are assured. This steady return has been made evident in Bitcoin and Bitcoin price prediction, which has been steadily increasing more than fiat currencies. Its independence from centralized financial systems has served as a contributing factor rather than a deterring factor.
Amidst the use of DeFi systems by individuals and some businesses, there is a need to increase its development and efficiency to encourage its adoption by institutions. Through this, the DeFi industry will rise from the position now as a Billion-dollar transaction pathway to a trillion-dollar one, where the costs of transactions go down while profits and investment increase. This aim of getting institutions into the DeFi industry is already in motion. Individuals and groups are coming together to develop decentralized financial apps that are better and more decentralized than their forerunner. Such a better DeFi system could come in the form of large and small security circles where a single user cannot overturn the currency’s stability, and a central body cannot determine a price change.
With this growth in the use of DeFi systems and the coming in of institutions into the crypto market, real-world assets can be brought into the blockchain, which will help and promote the growth of DeFi. This would include transferring trillions of fiat currencies and precious stones such as gold or silver onto the blockchain. And their movement can be done at the cost of no more than a nickel and no intermediary fees and liquidity limits. With DeFi as an alternative to centralized financial systems, governments will have little to no control over the wealth that cannot be generated by individuals that make use of the system.
Conclusion
With the growth of decentralized financial systems in the last two decades, the move from fiat currencies to cryptocurrencies seems irreversible. And that’s a good thing since, through DeFi systems, the distribution of wealth among crypto-users can be regularized and stabilized. This would ensure equal wealth distribution on the platform, which can only be influenced by cryptocurrency owners when they invest more fiat currency into the platform.
BIO John Edwards
John Edwards is a writing specialist who works at The Writing Judge. He is looking for ways of self-development in the field of writing and blogging. New horizons in his beloved business always attract with their varieties of opportunities. Therefore, it is so important for him to do the writing.
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