According to a report by Henley & Partners, the number of people holding crypto assets worth over USD 1 million has reached 172,300 globally. This is a 95% increase compared to 2023. The overall number of cryptocurrency users is also growing, confirming that digital assets are becoming an important part of the global financial system.
But for beginners just entering this space, it's important to understand where to start: how to choose a cryptocurrency, create a wallet, and make the first purchase.
Why cryptocurrency is needed
Cryptocurrency is not just a new form of money – it's a technology that is changing how financial transactions are carried out and how value is stored.
It offers unique opportunities in various real-life situations, such as:
International transfers without bank fees
Imagine you work abroad and want to send money to your family in Europe. Typically, this involves high fees and long processing times for bank transfers.
Funds are sent directly from your crypto wallet, and the recipient receives them as digital assets, which can then be exchanged into fiat currency.
Protection against inflation and economic crises
In countries where inflation rapidly devalues the national currency, cryptocurrency can serve as a lifeline.
Thanks to cryptocurrency, you can protect your money from depreciation and maintain its purchasing power even in times of economic instability.
Anonymous payments and personal data protection
Suppose you want to pay for an online course or subscription but prefer not to share your banking information. Cryptocurrency allows you to make transactions without revealing personal details, reducing the risk of data theft or fraud.
High-return investment opportunities
If you want to invest in assets with growth potential, cryptocurrency offers an excellent opportunity. Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other digital assets have already demonstrated price increases of tens or even hundreds of percent.
Access to financial services anywhere in the world
Imagine traveling or living in a region without access to traditional banking. Cryptocurrency allows you to store money and make transactions without relying on banks. All you need is a smartphone and a crypto wallet to maintain full control over your finances.
Top 10 most popular cryptocurrencies
Cryptocurrency emerged in 2009 with the launch of Bitcoin, created by an anonymous developer or group under the pseudonym Satoshi Nakamoto.
Since then, the crypto market has expanded significantly, and as of 2024, its total capitalization has reached approximately USD 2.3 trillion.
Here are the most popular cryptocurrencies:
- Bitcoin (BTC)
- Ethereum (ETH)
- USD Coin (USDC)
- Binance Coin (BNB)
- Cardano (ADA)
- Solana (SOL)
- Ripple (XRP)
- Polkadot (DOT)
- Dogecoin (DOGE)
- Litecoin (LTC)
Among them, special attention should be given to stablecoins like USDT and USDC. These cryptocurrencies maintain a stable value, pegged to the US dollar.
How to create a crypto wallet and start using cryptocurrency
A crypto wallet is a digital tool that allows you to store, send, and receive cryptocurrency. It’s similar to a traditional bank account, but instead of fiat currency, it holds digital assets.
There are several types of crypto wallets, each with its own features and intended use:
- Online wallets (web-based): store crypto in the cloud, offering easy access but lower protection against hacking.
- Mobile wallets: installed on your smartphone as an app, offering convenient and fast access to your assets from anywhere. These are ideal for everyday use.
- Hardware wallets: physical devices that provide the highest level of security. They are ideal for long-term storage but are more complex to use.
For convenience and security in daily use, many users choose mobile wallets like Trustee Plus. These wallets combine ease of use with strong protection, giving you access to your crypto at any time.
How to create a crypto wallet using Trustee Plus
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Download the Trustee Plus app from the App Store or Google Play.
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Open the app and register using your contact information.
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Verify your identity using one of the accepted ID documents.
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Set up security: enable two-factor authentication (2FA) and create a PIN code for added protection.
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Fund your wallet: you can buy cryptocurrency directly in the Trustee Plus app or receive it by using your crypto address from another wallet, exchange, or service.
How to buy cryptocurrency: step-by-step guide
Buying cryptocurrency takes just a few minutes and doesn’t require complex setups or special knowledge. All you need is a smartphone, internet access, and the Trustee Plus app.
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Open your Trustee Plus wallet.
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Select the cryptocurrency you want to receive (e.g., BTC, ETH, or USDC).
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Go to the "Receive" menu, where you'll find your unique wallet address and, if needed, the option to select a blockchain network.
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Copy the address or send it as a QR code to the seller.
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Wait for the transaction to complete: this usually takes just a few minutes, after which the purchased cryptocurrency will appear in your wallet.
Alternatively, you can buy crypto using a bank card. The process is simple: just go to the Exchange menu, choose your coin, select the method, and follow the on-screen instructions. A detailed guide with illustrations is available via the link.
Cryptocurrency is the future of finance
Cryptocurrency opens up new possibilities for paying for goods and services both online and in physical stores. More and more companies and service providers accept crypto as a payment method, giving users the ability to make fast and secure transactions.
Whether you're shopping online, paying for services, or sending money abroad, cryptocurrency ensures speed and convenience without unnecessary fees or delays.
