Our Vision
We believe that cryptocurrency has the potential to fundamentally reshape money, the global financial system, the internet, and society at large. Ultimately, its core contribution lies in enhancing individual freedom and dignity for people everywhere.
Our Mission
Our mission is threefold: to support and care for our global team, to actively promote and advance the adoption of cryptocurrency technology worldwide, and to empower every individual with the tools and opportunities this new ecosystem provides.
An Introduction to Cryptocurrency
Cryptocurrencies are digital forms of money secured by advanced cryptography. Unlike physical currencies such as the US dollar, they have no tangible form. Popular examples like Bitcoin and Ethereum are powered by a foundational technology known as blockchain.
A blockchain is a decentralized digital ledger that records every transaction across a network of computers. Once a transaction is confirmed and validated by this network, it is added to the ledger and becomes immutable, meaning it cannot be altered or erased.
This structure stands in contrast to traditional financial systems, which rely on centralized authorities like banks. Cryptocurrency transactions occur on a public blockchain that is transparent and accessible to anyone. Furthermore, depending on the specific consensus mechanism used, anyone may participate in the process of validating transactions and securing the network, making these systems truly decentralized.
Mainstream Perspectives on Bitcoin and Blockchain
The global mainstream is gradually forming a consensus around Bitcoin and blockchain technology, with five predominant viewpoints emerging:
- Digital Investment Asset: Bitcoin is widely regarded as a virtual commodity or good, sharing many characteristics with traditional investment vehicles.
- Peer-to-Peer Payment System: It functions as a direct payment method between parties and is seen as a potential challenger to the market dominance of established networks like Visa.
- Foundational Consensus Layer: The Bitcoin blockchain itself can provide security and consensus solutions for other blockchain networks, with its native token (BTC) acting as the fee for this service. This positions it to potentially become the foundational infrastructure for future decentralized applications.
- Internet Native Currency: Within digital communities, Bitcoin acts as a virtual currency. It possesses some attributes of traditional fiat money and some attributes of classic payment systems, uniquely suited for the online world.
- Digital Gold Reserve: Many view Bitcoin as a reserve asset akin to gold. Due to its standardization, high divisibility, and ease of online transfer, it holds significant advantages in payment efficiency and cost of preservation. This has led to its potential recognition as a form of "digital gold" and a possible successor to gold in the emerging internet of value.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary difference between cryptocurrency and traditional money?
The key difference is decentralization. Traditional money is issued and controlled by central banks, while cryptocurrencies operate on a decentralized network of computers, removing the need for a central authority.
How does a blockchain ensure security?
Blockchain security comes from cryptography and consensus mechanisms. Transactions are cryptographically sealed and recorded across a distributed network, making them extremely difficult to alter fraudulently.
Can Bitcoin really be used for everyday purchases?
While its primary use case is often seen as a store of value, Bitcoin can be used for purchases where it is accepted. Its functionality as a day-to-day payment method continues to evolve alongside scaling solutions.
What does 'decentralized' mean in crypto?
Decentralization means no single entity has control over the network. It is maintained by a distributed community of users, which enhances its security, resilience, and censorship-resistance.
Is cryptocurrency a good investment?
Like any asset, cryptocurrency carries risk and can be volatile. It's essential to conduct thorough research, understand the technology, and only invest what you can afford to lose as part of a diversified portfolio. For those looking to delve deeper into market analysis, you can explore advanced trading tools to aid your research.
What is the 'internet of value'?
The internet of value is a concept where value (like money, assets, or property) can be transferred as instantly and easily as information is shared on the internet today, largely enabled by blockchain technology.