Cryptoassets: The Innovative Investor's Guide to Bitcoin and Beyond 2017

Summary:

• Cryptoassets: The Innovative Investors Guide to Bitcoin and Beyond, written by Chris Burniske and Jack Tatar, is a comprehensive guide for investors looking to get involved in the world of cryptocurrency. It provides an overview of the history of cryptocurrencies, as well as detailed information on how to invest in them. The book also covers topics such as blockchain technology, digital asset valuation methods, security considerations when investing in cryptoassets, and more.

  The authors begin by providing an introduction to the concept of cryptoassets—digital assets that are secured using cryptography—and their potential applications. They then discuss the history of cryptocurrencies from their inception up until today's current state. This includes a discussion on Bitcoin’s rise from obscurity to becoming one of the most popular investments around.

  The authors then provide readers with an overview of blockchain technology and its implications for financial markets. They explain how it works and why it has become so important for businesses across many industries. Additionally, they cover various types of digital assets available today including tokens issued through initial coin offerings (ICOs).

  Burniske and Tatar go into detail about different strategies investors can use when investing in cryptoassets such as diversification techniques or hedging against market volatility. They also discuss various risks associated with investing in these assets such as regulatory uncertainty or cyber-security threats. Finally, they provide guidance on how investors should approach valuing digital assets.

  Overall Cryptoassets: The Innovative Investors Guide to Bitcoin and Beyond is a comprehensive guide for anyone interested in learning more about cryptocurrencies or getting started with investing in them. It provides readers with valuable insights into this rapidly evolving space while offering practical advice on how best to navigate it.

Main ideas:

• #1.     Bitcoin: Bitcoin is the first and most well-known cryptocurrency, and it is the foundation of the cryptoassets market. It is a decentralized digital currency that is not controlled by any government or central bank, and it is secured by cryptography.
  
  

  Bitcoin is a revolutionary form of digital currency that has been gaining traction in recent years. It was created in 2009 by an anonymous individual or group known as Satoshi Nakamoto, and it operates on a peer-to-peer network without the need for any central authority or bank. Bitcoin transactions are secured through cryptography, which makes them virtually impossible to counterfeit or double spend.

  Unlike traditional currencies, Bitcoin is not backed by any government or central bank and its value is determined solely by market forces. This means that its price can fluctuate significantly over time depending on supply and demand. As such, it carries more risk than other forms of currency but also offers potentially higher returns.

  The main advantage of using Bitcoin is that it allows users to make payments quickly and securely with low transaction fees compared to traditional payment methods like credit cards. Additionally, since there is no centralized control over the system, users have complete control over their funds at all times.

  Overall, Bitcoin has become increasingly popular due to its potential for fast and secure payments as well as its decentralized nature. While there are still some risks associated with investing in this new asset class, many investors believe that these risks are outweighed by the potential rewards.

• #2.     Blockchain: Blockchain is the technology that underpins Bitcoin and other cryptoassets. It is a distributed ledger system that records and verifies transactions, and it is secure and immutable.
  
  

  Blockchain is a revolutionary technology that has the potential to revolutionize many industries. It is a distributed ledger system, meaning it stores and verifies transactions across multiple computers in a network. This makes it secure and immutable, as any changes made to the data must be verified by all participants in the network before they can take effect.

  The blockchain works by creating blocks of data which are linked together using cryptography. Each block contains information about previous transactions, making it difficult for anyone to tamper with or alter the data without being detected. The blockchain also allows users to transfer value securely without having to rely on third-party intermediaries such as banks or payment processors.

  The implications of this technology are far reaching; from financial services and banking, through healthcare and government services, right up to supply chain management and digital identity verification. Blockchain could potentially reduce costs associated with these processes while increasing security and transparency.

• #3.     Investing in Cryptoassets: Investing in cryptoassets is a new and innovative way to diversify a portfolio and gain exposure to a new asset class. It is important to understand the risks and rewards associated with investing in cryptoassets.
  
  

  Investing in cryptoassets is a relatively new concept, and it can be difficult to understand the risks and rewards associated with this type of investment. Cryptoassets are digital assets that use cryptography to secure transactions, control the creation of additional units, and verify transfers. They are not backed by any government or central bank, so they carry more risk than traditional investments.

  Cryptoassets have been gaining popularity due to their potential for high returns as well as their ability to provide diversification benefits. However, investing in cryptoassets carries significant risks such as extreme price volatility, lack of liquidity, regulatory uncertainty and security threats. It is important for investors to do their own research before investing in any asset class.

  In addition to understanding the risks associated with investing in cryptoassets, investors should also consider how they plan on managing these investments over time. This includes deciding which exchanges or wallets will be used for trading purposes as well as setting up an appropriate portfolio allocation strategy based on individual goals and risk tolerance levels.

• #4.     Altcoins: Altcoins are alternative cryptocurrencies that are based on the Bitcoin protocol. They offer different features and use cases, and they can be used to diversify a cryptoassets portfolio.
  
  

  Altcoins are an exciting and innovative way to diversify a cryptoassets portfolio. They offer different features and use cases than Bitcoin, allowing investors to explore new opportunities in the cryptocurrency space. Altcoins can be used for a variety of purposes, such as trading, investing, or even just holding onto them as a store of value.

  Altcoins are based on the same underlying technology as Bitcoin – the blockchain – but they have been modified to provide additional features that may appeal to certain users. For example, some altcoins focus on privacy and anonymity while others emphasize speed or scalability. By exploring these different options available through altcoins, investors can gain exposure to various aspects of the cryptocurrency market.

  Investing in altcoins is not without risk; however it can be an effective way for savvy investors to diversify their portfolios and potentially reap rewards from emerging technologies. As with any investment decision, it’s important for investors to do their own research before committing funds into any asset class.

• #5.     ICOs: ICOs are initial coin offerings, which are a way for companies to raise capital by issuing their own digital tokens. They are a high-risk, high-reward investment opportunity, and investors should do their due diligence before investing.
  
  

  ICOs are a relatively new form of fundraising that has become increasingly popular in the past few years. They involve companies issuing their own digital tokens, which can be bought and sold on cryptocurrency exchanges. These tokens represent an investment opportunity for investors, who can potentially benefit from the success of the company they invest in.

  The potential rewards associated with ICOs are high, but so is the risk. Companies may not have a viable product or business model to back up their token offering, and there is no guarantee that these projects will succeed. Investors should do thorough research before investing in any ICO to ensure that it is legitimate and has good prospects for growth.

  Its also important to remember that ICOs are highly speculative investments and should only make up a small portion of your overall portfolio. Investing too much money into one project could lead to significant losses if it fails.

• #6.     Security Tokens: Security tokens are digital tokens that represent a security, such as a stock or bond. They are subject to the same regulations as traditional securities, and they offer investors a way to invest in digital assets.
  
  

  Security tokens are a new type of digital asset that offer investors the opportunity to invest in traditional securities, such as stocks and bonds, using blockchain technology. Security tokens are subject to the same regulations as traditional securities, meaning they must comply with all applicable laws and regulations. This provides investors with an additional layer of protection when investing in these assets.

  The use of security tokens also offers several advantages over traditional investments. For example, security tokens can be traded on decentralized exchanges which provide greater liquidity than centralized exchanges. Additionally, since security tokens are built on blockchain technology they can be programmed to include features such as dividend payments or voting rights for shareholders.

  Overall, security tokens represent a promising new way for investors to access the world of digital assets while still being protected by existing regulatory frameworks. As more companies begin issuing their own security token offerings (STOs), it is likely that this form of investment will become increasingly popular among both institutional and retail investors alike.

• #7.     Utility Tokens: Utility tokens are digital tokens that are used to access a product or service. They are not considered securities, and they are not subject to the same regulations as traditional securities.
  
  

  Utility tokens are a type of digital asset that can be used to access a product or service. They are not considered securities, and therefore they do not have the same regulations as traditional securities. Utility tokens provide users with access to specific products or services on a blockchain-based platform. For example, some utility tokens may give holders the right to use certain features of an application, such as voting rights in decentralized applications (dApps). Other utility tokens may grant holders discounts on goods and services offered by companies using blockchain technology.

  The value of these tokens is derived from their usefulness within the network rather than from any external factors like speculation or market forces. This means that if there is no demand for the product or service being provided by the token issuer, then its value will decrease significantly over time. Therefore, it’s important for investors to understand what kind of product or service is being offered before investing in any particular utility token.

• #8.     Mining: Mining is the process of verifying and recording transactions on the blockchain. It is done by miners, who are rewarded with newly created coins for their work.
  
  

  Mining is an essential part of the cryptocurrency ecosystem. It is a process that verifies and records transactions on the blockchain, ensuring that all participants in the network are following the same rules. Miners use specialized hardware to solve complex mathematical problems in order to validate blocks of transactions and add them to the blockchain. In return for their work, miners are rewarded with newly created coins.

  The mining process helps secure the network by making it difficult for malicious actors to manipulate or tamper with transaction data. As more miners join a given network, its security increases exponentially as it becomes harder for any one miner or group of miners to control more than 50% of total computing power (known as a 51% attack).

  In addition, mining also serves as an incentive mechanism for users who want to participate in maintaining and securing the network. By providing rewards in newly minted coins, miners have an economic incentive to continue contributing their computing resources towards verifying new blocks.

• #9.     Wallets: Wallets are software programs that store cryptoassets. They are used to send and receive payments, and they are essential for anyone who wants to use cryptoassets.
  
  

  Wallets are an essential part of the cryptoasset ecosystem. They provide a secure way to store, send, and receive payments in cryptoassets. Wallets come in many forms, from desktop applications to mobile apps and even hardware wallets that can be used offline. Each wallet has its own unique features and security measures that make it suitable for different types of users.

  When choosing a wallet, it is important to consider factors such as ease-of-use, security features, compatibility with other services or exchanges you may use, and whether or not the wallet supports multiple currencies. It is also important to remember that while most wallets offer some form of backup protection for your funds (such as seed phrases), these backups should always be stored securely offline.

  Using a wallet correctly will help ensure your funds remain safe and secure. This includes keeping your private keys safe at all times; never sharing them with anyone else; regularly backing up your data; using two-factor authentication when available; avoiding phishing scams by only downloading software from official sources; and being aware of any potential risks associated with specific wallets.

• #10.     Exchanges: Exchanges are online platforms that allow users to buy and sell cryptoassets. They are the primary way to access the cryptoassets market, and they offer a variety of services.
  
  

  Exchanges are an essential part of the cryptoassets market. They provide a platform for users to buy and sell digital assets, allowing them to access the global markets quickly and easily. Exchanges offer a variety of services, such as order books, trading tools, charting capabilities, and more. Many exchanges also offer margin trading options that allow traders to leverage their positions in order to increase their potential profits.

  In addition to providing access to the cryptoassets market, exchanges can also be used as wallets for storing digital assets securely. This allows users to store their funds without having to worry about security or other risks associated with holding large amounts of money online. Furthermore, many exchanges have built-in features that make it easier for users to track prices and manage their portfolios.

  Overall, exchanges are an important part of the cryptoassets ecosystem. They provide a secure way for investors and traders alike to access the global markets quickly and easily while offering additional features such as margin trading options and portfolio management tools.

• #11.     Trading Strategies: Trading strategies are methods used to buy and sell cryptoassets. They can be used to maximize profits and minimize losses, and they should be tailored to the individual investor’s risk tolerance and goals.
  
  

  Trading strategies are an important part of any cryptoasset investor’s toolkit. They can be used to maximize profits and minimize losses, while also helping investors stay within their risk tolerance levels. Different strategies may work better for different types of assets or market conditions, so it is important to tailor a strategy to the individual investor’s goals and preferences.

  One popular trading strategy is called “buy-and-hold” investing. This involves buying a cryptoasset at a low price and holding onto it until its value increases significantly. Another common approach is “scalping,” which involves taking advantage of small price movements in order to make quick profits.

  More advanced traders may use technical analysis tools such as chart patterns or indicators like moving averages in order to identify potential entry points into the market. Additionally, some traders employ algorithmic trading systems that automatically execute trades based on predetermined criteria.

  No matter what type of strategy you choose, it is important to remember that there are no guarantees when it comes to investing in cryptoassets. It is always wise to do your own research before making any investment decisions.

• #12.     Regulations: Regulations are laws and rules that govern the cryptoassets market. They vary from country to country, and investors should be aware of the regulations in their jurisdiction before investing.
  
  

  Regulations are an important factor to consider when investing in cryptoassets. Regulations vary from country to country, and investors should be aware of the regulations in their jurisdiction before investing. For example, some countries may have restrictions on who can invest in certain types of cryptoassets or how much they can invest. Other countries may require that all transactions involving cryptoassets be reported to the government for taxation purposes.

  It is also important to understand any potential legal implications associated with owning and trading cryptoassets. In some jurisdictions, there may be laws prohibiting certain activities related to cryptocurrencies such as money laundering or fraud. It is essential for investors to research the applicable laws and regulations before engaging in any activity related to cryptocurrencies.

  Finally, it is important for investors to stay up-to-date on changes in regulation as governments around the world continue to develop new rules and guidelines regarding cryptocurrency investments. By staying informed about regulatory developments, investors can ensure that their investments remain compliant with local laws.

• #13.     Taxation: Taxation is the process of paying taxes on cryptoassets. It is important to understand the tax implications of investing in cryptoassets, and investors should consult a tax professional for advice.
  
  

  Taxation is an important consideration for any investor, and cryptoassets are no exception. Cryptoassets are subject to taxation in many jurisdictions, and investors should be aware of the tax implications of their investments. Tax rates vary from country to country, so it is important to consult a qualified tax professional for advice on how best to structure your investments.

  In general, capital gains taxes apply when you sell or trade cryptoassets. Depending on where you live, these taxes may be applied at different rates depending on the length of time that you held the asset before selling it. Additionally, some countries have specific rules regarding cryptocurrency transactions such as VAT or GST which must also be taken into account.

  It is also important to note that certain activities related to cryptoassets may trigger other types of taxes such as income tax or payroll taxes if they involve providing services in exchange for payment in cryptocurrency. Therefore it is essential that investors understand all applicable laws and regulations before engaging in any activity involving cryptocurrencies.

• #14.     Security: Security is an important consideration when investing in cryptoassets. It is important to use secure wallets and exchanges, and to practice good security practices when using cryptoassets.
  
  

  Security is an essential factor to consider when investing in cryptoassets. It is important to use secure wallets and exchanges, as well as practice good security practices when using cryptoassets. This includes keeping your private keys safe, using two-factor authentication for accounts, and avoiding phishing scams. Additionally, it is important to research the security measures of any wallet or exchange you are considering before making a decision.

  When selecting a wallet or exchange, look for features such as multi-signature support (which requires multiple people to sign off on transactions), cold storage (where funds are stored offline), and encryption protocols that protect user data from being accessed by unauthorized parties. Additionally, make sure that the platform has been audited by third-party experts who can verify its security measures.

  Finally, be aware of potential risks associated with trading cryptoassets such as market volatility and liquidity risk. Make sure you understand how these factors could affect your investments before committing any capital.

• #15.     Scams: Scams are a common problem in the cryptoassets market. It is important to be aware of the common scams and to do research before investing in any cryptoassets.
  
  

  Scams are a pervasive problem in the cryptoassets market. They come in many forms, from fake ICOs to pump-and-dump schemes and more. It is important for investors to be aware of these scams and take steps to protect themselves. Researching any potential investment thoroughly before investing is essential; this includes reading up on the project, its team members, and its technology.

  Investors should also be wary of any offers that seem too good to be true or require them to act quickly without providing enough information about the asset they’re being asked to invest in. Additionally, it’s important not to trust anyone who claims they can guarantee returns or provide insider knowledge about an upcoming price movement.

  Finally, it’s always best practice for investors not to share their private keys with anyone else as this could lead to theft of funds. By taking these precautions and doing thorough research before investing in any cryptoassets, investors can help protect themselves from becoming victims of scams.

• #16.     Decentralized Applications: Decentralized applications are applications that are built on top of the blockchain. They offer a variety of use cases, and they are an important part of the cryptoassets ecosystem.
  
  

  Decentralized applications (dApps) are a type of software application that runs on a distributed computing system, such as the blockchain. Unlike traditional applications, dApps are not controlled by any single entity and instead rely on consensus mechanisms to ensure their security and reliability. This makes them more resilient to censorship or manipulation.

  DApps can be used for a variety of purposes, from financial services like payments and lending to social networks and gaming platforms. They also provide an opportunity for developers to create innovative new products without relying on centralized authorities or third-party intermediaries. By leveraging the power of the blockchain, dApps can offer users greater control over their data while providing enhanced privacy protections.

  The potential use cases for decentralized applications are vast, ranging from digital identity management systems to prediction markets and beyond. As the technology continues to evolve, we’ll likely see even more creative uses emerge in the near future.

• #17.     Smart Contracts: Smart contracts are computer programs that are stored on the blockchain. They are used to automate transactions and enforce agreements, and they are an important part of the cryptoassets ecosystem.
  
  

  Smart contracts are a revolutionary way to automate transactions and enforce agreements. They are computer programs that are stored on the blockchain, which is an immutable ledger of digital records. Smart contracts can be used for a variety of purposes, such as transferring money or assets between two parties, executing financial derivatives, and even creating decentralized autonomous organizations (DAOs).

  The beauty of smart contracts is that they allow for trustless transactions between two parties without the need for third-party intermediaries. This means that all terms and conditions agreed upon by both parties will be enforced automatically without any human intervention. Furthermore, since these contracts are stored on the blockchain, they cannot be altered or tampered with in any way.

  Smart contracts have become increasingly popular over recent years due to their ability to facilitate secure and efficient transactions while eliminating counterparty risk. As more people become aware of this technology’s potential applications, it is likely that its use will continue to grow in various industries.

• #18.     Stablecoins: Stablecoins are digital tokens that are designed to maintain a stable value. They are used to hedge against volatility, and they offer investors a way to protect their investments.
  
  

  Stablecoins are a relatively new type of cryptocurrency that offer investors an alternative to traditional fiat currencies. Unlike other cryptocurrencies, which can be highly volatile and unpredictable, stablecoins are designed to maintain a steady value over time. This makes them attractive for those looking to hedge against market volatility or protect their investments from price fluctuations.

  The concept behind stablecoins is simple: they are backed by real-world assets such as gold or fiat currency reserves. This means that the value of the coin will remain relatively constant regardless of what happens in the markets. Stablecoins also have low transaction fees compared to other cryptocurrencies, making them attractive for traders who want to move money quickly and cheaply.

  Stablecoins provide investors with an opportunity to diversify their portfolios without taking on too much risk. They can also be used as a medium of exchange between different digital currencies, allowing users to easily convert one asset into another without having to go through a third party exchange.

• #19.     Custody Solutions: Custody solutions are services that provide secure storage for cryptoassets. They are used to protect cryptoassets from theft and loss, and they are an important part of the cryptoassets ecosystem.
  
  

  Custody solutions are an essential part of the cryptoassets ecosystem. They provide a secure storage solution for cryptoassets, protecting them from theft and loss. Custody solutions can be provided by third-party custodians or self-custodial wallets, depending on the user’s needs and preferences. Third-party custodians offer a higher level of security than self-custodial wallets, as they have more robust infrastructure in place to protect assets from malicious actors.

  When selecting a custody solution, it is important to consider factors such as cost, security protocols, insurance coverage (if applicable), customer service availability and reputation. It is also important to understand how the provider stores private keys – whether they are stored offline or online – as this will affect the overall security of your assets.

  Overall, custody solutions play an important role in ensuring that cryptoassets remain safe and secure. By choosing a reliable provider with strong security protocols in place, users can rest assured that their investments are protected.

• #20.     Decentralized Finance: Decentralized finance is a new and emerging sector of the cryptoassets market. It is a way to access financial services without the need for a traditional financial institution, and it is an important part of the cryptoassets ecosystem.
  
  

  Decentralized finance (DeFi) is a new and emerging sector of the cryptoassets market. It is an innovative way to access financial services without relying on traditional financial institutions, such as banks or other centralized entities. DeFi allows users to interact with digital assets in a secure and trustless manner, using smart contracts that are executed on blockchain networks.

  The main benefit of DeFi is its ability to provide access to financial services for anyone with an internet connection. This means that people who may not have access to traditional banking systems can still participate in the global economy by taking advantage of these decentralized solutions. Additionally, since there are no intermediaries involved in transactions, users can enjoy lower fees than those associated with traditional banking.

  DeFi also offers greater transparency than traditional banking systems due to its use of public blockchains which allow all participants to view transaction data. Furthermore, it provides more control over funds since users do not need permission from any third-party entity before they can move their money around.

  Overall, DeFi has the potential to revolutionize how we think about finance and open up opportunities for individuals who may otherwise be excluded from participating in the global economy. As this technology continues to evolve and become more widely adopted, it could lead us towards a future where everyone has equal access to financial services regardless of their location or economic status.