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Entry #2 Bitcoin

 Like most people, I don't know much about Bitcoin, so I decided to look into it.


    Bitcoin is a cryptocurrency that has taken the world by storm for the last 5 or so years. The idea behind bitcoin is that transactions are between 2 people without a middle man, which reduces transaction fees. But if there is no middle man why are their fees to begin with, you might ask? Well, this is due to the unique nature of crypto and the blockchain. The "Blockchain" or system of computers that complete these transactions takes a small fee. But since it's a decentralized currency, these computers can be run by anyone. This creates a unique system of checking to ensure that no one can hack and steal bitcoin because every transaction is stored on every computer on the blockchain (Investopedia). https://www.investopedia.com/news/how-bitcoin-works/

 



So why is it so valuable? Bitcoin is valuable because of scarcity, there will never be any more bitcoin. Due to this, the price of bitcoin fluctuates directly because of demand. Similarly to gold, it is used as a store of value, so while money left in the bank is worth less and less each year because of inflation, bitcoin may keep or even exceed its value. However it's not without risk, crypto is extremely volatile and bitcoin has experienced dips of upwards of 80% in the past. If there's a winner than there's a loser, you don't want to be the one left holding the bag. Crypto investing is popular among young adults and can very easily lead into a gambling addiction. No one should invest more than there willing to lose. There's money to be made but I'll probably never be brave enough to take the plunge myself.








Comments

  1. Aiden--Your blog is looking pretty good so far. You have some interesting content and pretty good visual engagement. You are a bit brief in your development and analysis, so keep working to make connections to your audience.

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