Altcoins are a class of cryptocurrency that refers to everything other than Bitcoin. There are tens of thousands of altcoins that meet this definition, the most popular of which is Ethereum.

How does crypto staking work?

Staking cryptocurrency is a way to earn passive income on your crypto holdings. Staking allows you to earn cryptocurrency as a reward for using your existing holdings to vouch for the accuracy of transactions on an underlying blockchain network.

The term fiat currency is commonly used to distinguish regular money from cryptocurrency.

Decentralized finance helps users buy and sell assets without a go-between, long wait times or high exchange fees.

What is proof-of-stake cryptocurrency?

Proof-of-stake (PoS) is a method designed to prevent cryptocurrency fraud by paying users to vouch for the legitimacy of transactions. When a cryptocurrency uses proof of stake, that means it relies on a method known as staking rather than mining. Staking is a way to earn passive income by helping run a blockchain network.

Cryptocurrency

Cryptocurrency is a class of digital assets created using cryptographic techniques that enable investors to buy, sell or trade them securely.

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Getting started with cryptocurrency

What is cryptocurrency?

Cryptocurrency (or “crypto”) is a class of digital assets created using cryptographic techniques that enable people to buy, sell or trade them securely. Unlike traditional fiat currencies controlled by national governments, cryptocurrencies can circulate without a monetary authority such as a central bank.

What is a crypto wallet?

Crypto wallets store access to your digital cash.

What are NFTs?

An NFT, or non-fungible token, essentially allows its buyer to say they own the original copy of a digital file.

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How to choose a crypto exchange

The world of crypto currency is still relatively new for most investors. So, how can you feel confident in the crypto exchange you choose? What are the factors to consider when choosing a crypto exchange? NerdWallet Investing writer Andy Rosen breaks it all down in this video.

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Cryptocurrency platform reviews

Coinbase Review 2024: Pros, Cons and How It Compares

4.8

NerdWallet rating

Coinbase is the largest U.S.-based exchange. It has a wide variety of options for users, from beginners to advanced traders.

Binance.US Review 2024: Pros, Cons and How It Compares

3.7

NerdWallet rating

Binance.US has some competitive products, but you can no longer trade crypto with U.S. dollars.

Gemini Review 2024: Pros, Cons and How It Compares

4.3

NerdWallet rating

Gemini offers more than 70 cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin and Ether, as well as a limited selection of crypto-to-crypto trading pairs.

eToro Review 2024: Pros, Cons and How it Compares

3.4

NerdWallet rating

A pioneer in social investing, eToro offers investors the ability to copy the cryptocurrency trades of pros. In addition to cryptocurrency, the broker offers access to stocks, options and ETFs.

Crypto.com Review 2024: Pros, Cons and How It Compares

4.6

NerdWallet rating

Crypto.com could appeal to customers who are looking for a wide variety of cryptocurrencies, and who are comfortable carrying out transactions on a mobile device.