Learn about digital assets. All examples are educational, no real crypto is traded here.
A blockchain is a shared digital ledger that records transactions across many computers. Once data is recorded, it cannot be changed without changing every copy, making it nearly tamper-proof.
Think of it like a shared document that everyone can see, but nobody can secretly edit past entries.
A stablecoin maintains a stable value, usually pegged 1:1 to the US dollar. Some use stablecoins as a high-yield savings alternative through DeFi protocols. However, stablecoins are NOT FDIC insured.
Stablecoins can lose their peg. TerraUST collapsed in 2022, losing nearly all value. Always research the backing mechanism.
• The IRS treats crypto as property, not currency.
• Selling, swapping, or spending crypto triggers a capital gains event.
• Held over 1 year = long-term capital gains (lower rate). Under 1 year = short-term (taxed as income).
• The SEC regulates many tokens as securities. Some platforms have faced enforcement actions.
• Report all crypto activity on Form 8949 and Schedule D.
$1,000 paper trading account. Not real money.
The original cryptocurrency. Digital gold. Limited supply of 21 million.
Programmable blockchain. Powers DeFi, NFTs, and smart contracts.
Stablecoin pegged to US dollar. Used for savings and payments.
High-speed blockchain. Lower fees than Ethereum.
Crypto is highly volatile and speculative.
• Prices can drop 50%+ in days
• Not FDIC insured, you can lose everything
• Exchanges can be hacked or go bankrupt (FTX, Mt. Gox)
• Never invest more than you can afford to lose
• Tax obligations apply to crypto gains in United States