GOOG vs GOOGL: What’s the Difference Between Alphabet’s Two Stocks? 1. Introduction Brief overview of Alphabet Inc. (Google’s parent company). Introduce the main question investors often ask: What’s the difference between GOOG and GOOGL? 2. GOOG vs GOOGL Stock Explained Both tickers represent Alphabet Inc. Explain the two different share classes: GOOGL (Class A shares): Comes with voting rights. GOOG (Class C shares): No voting rights. Mention the third class, Class B, owned only by insiders/founders (not publicly traded). 3. GOOG Stock vs GOOGL: Key Differences Feature GOOGL (Class A) GOOG (Class C) Voting Rights Yes No Typical Price Slightly higher Slightly lower Stock Symbol GOOGL GOOG Traded Since 2004 2014 (after stock split) 4. Why Does Alphabet Have Two Stocks? Explain that Alphabet created the dual-class structure to retain founder control (Larry Page & Sergey Brin). Prevents dilution of voting power while still allowing broad public investmentinvestment<img src="https://uploads.bydfi.in/events/cms/img/question/questions_new/BYD/1761453244024.1000080421.jpg" alt="img/question/questions_new/BYD/1761453244024.1000080421.jpg" data-href="https://uploads.bydfi.in/events/cms/img/question/questions_new/BYD/1761453244024.1000080421.jpg" style=""/>

goog vs googl stock

<h2 style="text-align: start; line-height: 1.5;">Why Yours Might Be Costing You Thousands in Lost Sales!</h2>Let me paint a picture for you. A customer from halfway across the world is on your website, their digital cart full. They’re ready to buy, but their international credit card is getting flagged, the fees are piling up, and the 3-day processing time feels like a relic from a bygone era. You see them hover over the "Complete Order" button, only to watch them abandon the cart and disappear. Now, imagine a different ending. That same customer simply opens their crypto wallet, scans a QR code on your checkout page, and confirms the transaction. Seconds later, the payment is settled. It’s borderless, secure, and final. The sale is yours, without the drama. This isn't a far-off fantasy; it's the daily reality for businesses who have embraced the right crypto payment processor. For years, I've worked with online merchants, from solo founders to growing teams, and I've seen the transformation firsthand. The shift isn't just about being trendy; it's about removing friction in a world that demands instant gratification. But here’s the catch that keeps many business owners up at night: the landscape of crypto payment gateways in 2025 is a jungle. Some platforms promise the moon but deliver complex code and hidden fees. Others are so simplistic they can’t handle the needs of a growing business. Choosing the wrong one doesn't just mean a missed sale; it means building your checkout on a foundation of sand. This guide is your map through that jungle. We’re going to move beyond the jargon and into the heart of what makes a payment processor not just functional, but fundamentally transformative for your business. <h2 style="text-align: start; line-height: 1.5;">What a Crypto Payment Processor Really Is (And Why It Feels Like Magic When It Works)</h2>At its simplest, a crypto payment processor is the bridge between the wild, wonderful world of blockchain and the steady, familiar ground of your business bank account. Think of it as a hyper-specialized translator. It takes a payment made in Bitcoin, Ethereum, or any number of digital currencies and translates it into a form you can understand and use—whether that's immediate conversion to your local currency (like USD or EUR) or a secure holding in crypto. But the magic isn't just in the translation; it's in the entire experience. A truly great processor does the heavy lifting silently in the background. It calculates the exact crypto amount in real-time, so you're not exposed to price swings in the sixty seconds it takes a customer to pay. It generates a unique QR code and wallet address for every transaction, creating an ironclad record. It seamlessly integrates with your existing storefront—be it Shopify, WooCommerce, or a custom-built site—so your customer never has to leave your page. For someone just starting out, this might look like the plug-and-play simplicity of Coinbase Commerce, letting you accept major coins with a few clicks. For the seasoned pro managing a global operation, it’s the robust, API-driven power of a platform like BitPay, which can handle high-volume settlements, generate detailed invoices, and even manage point-of-sale systems for a physical store. The core purpose remains the same: to make accepting crypto as effortless and secure as accepting a credit card, if not more so. <h2 style="text-align: start; line-height: 1.5;">The Silent Sales Killer: How Your Current Processor Might Be Undermining You</h2>I want to talk about the hidden costs, the ones that don't show up on a monthly statement but are etched into your analytics as lost opportunities and abandoned carts. This is the real danger of a mediocre or mismatched payment processor. The first and most painful issue is the death by a thousand fees. You might see a low 1% transaction fee advertised, but then discover network costs, withdrawal fees, and worst of all, &nbsp;volatility fees &nbsp;that sneak in when the market gets jumpy. I once spoke with a boutique owner in Toronto who was thrilled to be accepting crypto for her unique posters and prints. She quickly realized that by the time a payment in Bitcoin traveled through her processor and was converted to Canadian dollars, the combined fees were eating over 4% of her profit margin. Her &nbsp;innovation &nbsp;was actually costing her money. Then there’s the security anxiety. Entrusting your revenue to a platform that doesn’t employ enterprise-grade security like multi-signature wallets or cold storage is like leaving your store's cash register on the sidewalk overnight. The peace of mind that comes with a processor that has a proven track record and transparent security protocols is not a luxury; it's a non-negotiable for any serious business. And we can’t ignore the integration headache. If your developer has to spend forty hours wrestling with a clunky API just to get a &nbsp;Pay with Crypto &nbsp;button on your site, you’ve already lost before you’ve begun. The best processors understand that your time is money. They offer clean, documented plugins and APIs that respect your schedule and your sanity. Perhaps the most common fear is volatility. A customer in Brazil might be ready to pay, but if they’re using a coin that’s dipping in value and your processor doesn’t offer instant fiat conversion, they might hesitate, or the final amount you receive could be less than expected. This isn't a theoretical problem; it's a daily calculation for customers in economies with fluctuating local currencies. A good processor doesn't just accept crypto; it shields you from its inherent volatility. <h2 style="text-align: start; line-height: 1.5;">Navigating the 2025 Landscape: A Guide to Partners, Not Just Platforms</h2>So, who can you trust? The market is filled with options, but a few have consistently proven themselves as reliable partners for businesses. Let’s look at some of the standouts, not just as a list of features, but through the lens of the human and business needs they serve. Coinbase Commerce feels like the friendly neighbor who helps you get started. It’s incredibly straightforward, with a focus on letting you accept over a hundred different cryptocurrencies without charging any transaction fees on their end (you still pay the standard network fees). It’s perfect for a US-based creator or a small startup that wants to dip its toes in the water without a complex setup. The integration is often as simple as installing a plugin, and for many, that initial ease of use is the difference between trying something new and putting it off for another year. BitPay, on the other hand, is the seasoned professional you bring in to manage a complex operation. It’s built for scale and peace of mind. If your business is moving serious volume, especially across borders in Europe, BitPay’s robust system offers instant conversion into a dozen fiat currencies and direct bank deposits. Their tools for creating invoices, managing settlements, and handling the dreaded refund request are polished and professional. You choose <a href="https://www.bitpay.com/" target="_blank">BitPay</a> when crypto isn't an experiment anymore; it's a core part of your revenue strategy. For the business with a truly global and eclectic audience, NOWPayments is a fantastic choice. Its superpower is its incredible breadth, supporting over 300 altcoins and tokens. If your community is passionate about a specific coin that isn't Bitcoin or Ethereum, NOWPayments likely supports it. Based in Estonia, they have a keen understanding of serving a global customer base, with tools to easily convert to local fiat currencies across Asia and Latin America. They operate on a lean 0.5% fee, making them a cost-effective solution for testing and growth. Then there’s CoinGate, a favorite for many European businesses. They’ve been pioneers in integrating the Lightning Network for Bitcoin, which makes transactions incredibly fast and cheap. They also offer clever features like gift card systems and a strong focus on being carbon-neutral, which resonates deeply with a growing segment of eco-conscious consumers and traders. If your brand identity is tied to innovation and sustainability, CoinGate’s values might align perfectly with your own. <h2 style="text-align: start; line-height: 1.5;">Finding Your Perfect Match: A Heart-to-Heart on Making the Choice</h2>With all these options, how do you make a decision that feels right? It’s less about checking boxes and more about having an honest conversation with yourself about your business's needs, your team's capabilities, and your ambitions for the future.Start by looking inward. How much volume are you truly processing? A low-traffic blog selling digital guides has vastly different needs than an e-commerce store doing $100,000 a month in sales. Be realistic. There’s no shame in starting simple and upgrading later. Next, think about your customers. Where are they in the world? What currencies do they think in? A processor that excels at SEPA transfers for European customers might be a poor fit if your audience is primarily in the US using ACH wires. Listen to your customers. If you’re getting requests to pay with a specific coin, let that guide your search. Security should be a feeling, not just a feature. Don’t just skim the security page on a provider’s website. Dig a little deeper. Look for independent audits, insurance policies, and a clear explanation of how customer funds are stored. Your revenue is the lifeblood of your business; entrust it to someone who guards it as fiercely as you do. Finally, do the math with a clear head. Look beyond the headline transaction fee. Calculate the cost of withdrawals, the spread on currency conversions, and any monthly minimums. And just as importantly, gauge the quality of their support. Send a pre-sales question. See how long it takes to get a helpful, human response. That interaction is a tiny preview of what it will be like to partner with them when you have a real, urgent problem. <h2 style="text-align: start; line-height: 1.5;">Real Stories, Real Results: When the Right Choice Changes Everything</h2>This all might sound abstract until you see it in action. I remember Sarah, a jewelry designer based in Vancouver. Her intricate, nature-inspired pieces had a passionate following in Europe, but she was constantly battling foreign transaction fees and payment delays. She integrated CoinGate as a quiet experiment. Within two months, she wasn't just seeing a trickle of crypto payments; she discovered that over 30% of her international sales were choosing that option. The borderless nature of crypto perfectly matched the borderless appeal of her art. For her, the processor wasn't just a tool; it was the key that unlocked a global community. Or consider Raj, who runs an online tech tutorial platform from Mumbai. The volatility of the Indian Rupee was a constant challenge for his customers, and many were eager to use their crypto holdings. He chose NOWPayments for its low fees and robust support for the Indian market. The result was a 40% reduction in cart abandonment from his local audience, who finally had a payment method that felt modern, secure, and built for them. <h2 style="text-align: start; line-height: 1.5;">Your Next Step: Building a Business That’s Ready for Tomorrow</h2>The journey to finding the right crypto payment processor is a deeply personal one for your business. It’s not about chasing the shiniest new token or the trendiest platform. It’s about making a pragmatic, strategic decision to remove friction, open new markets, and build a business that is resilient, forward-looking, and truly global.The right partner will feel like an extension of your team—a silent, reliable engine that powers your sales without demanding your constant attention. It will give you the confidence to say yes &nbsp;to every customer, no matter where they are or how they prefer to pay.

How to Choose a Crypto Payment Gateway: Fees, Features, and Top Picks

Your Crypto Payments Are Broken.

Cointalk

In the United States or Europe, Bitcoin is often viewed as a speculative asset—something you buy in hopes of getting rich. But for millions of people in the "Global South" (developing nations), the narrative is completely different. In countries grappling with political instability and economic mismanagement, Bitcoin isn't a gambling chip; it is a survival tool. It is the only functioning bank account they have. While the West debates regulations, the developing world is leading the charge in actual, on-the-ground adoption. Here is how Bitcoin is countering inflation and reshaping economies in the third world. <h2 style="line-height: 2.5;"> The Trap of Hyperinflation</h2>The primary driver of crypto adoption in countries like Argentina, Turkey, Venezuela, and Nigeria is hyperinflation. When a government prints money recklessly to pay off debts, the value of the local currency collapses. Savings are wiped out overnight.<ul><li style="line-height: 1.5;">The Reality: Imagine working for a month, getting paid on Friday, and needing to spend 100% of your paycheck by Saturday morning because prices will double by Monday.</li><li style="line-height: 1.5;">The Bitcoin Fix: Bitcoin offers an exit strategy. Because its supply is fixed at 21 million, it cannot be debased by a central bank. Citizens convert their rapidly depreciating fiat currency into Bitcoin (or stablecoins) to preserve the purchasing power of their hard-earned labor.</li></ul> <h2 style="line-height: 2.5;">Banking the Unbanked</h2>According to the World Bank, nearly 1.4 billion adults worldwide are "unbanked." They have no access to a checking account, credit card, or loan. Traditional banks see these people as "too poor" or "too risky" to service. Bitcoin solves this through technology leapfrogging. Just as many African nations skipped building landlines and went straight to mobile phones, they are now skipping brick-and-mortar banks and going straight to mobile money.<ul><li style="line-height: 1.5;">No Permission Needed: You don't need a passport, a utility bill, or a minimum balance to open a Bitcoin wallet. You just need a smartphone and an internet connection.</li><li style="line-height: 1.5;">Global Access: A farmer in rural El Salvador can participate in the same global financial network as a hedge fund manager in New York.</li></ul> <h2 style="line-height: 2.5;">Killing the Remittance Tax</h2>One of the biggest industries in the developing world is remittances—money sent home by migrant workers to their families. Traditional services like Western Union or MoneyGram are notoriously predatory, often charging fees of 10% to 20% for cross-border transfers. They are also slow, taking days to settle.<ul><li style="line-height: 1.5;">The Crypto Solution: Using the Bitcoin Lightning Network or stablecoins, a worker in Dubai can send money to their family in the Philippines instantly for a fraction of a penny. This puts more money directly into the pockets of the people who need it most, boosting the local economy rather than lining the pockets of a middleman.</li></ul> <h2 style="line-height: 2.5;">Resisting Financial Censorship</h2>In many authoritarian regimes, the banking system is a weapon. Governments can freeze the accounts of protesters, political dissidents, or anyone they dislike. Bitcoin offers financial sovereignty. Because the network is decentralized, no dictator can freeze a Bitcoin wallet. It allows activists and citizens to transact freely, even in the face of government oppression. This was clearly demonstrated during protests in Nigeria and Belarus, where crypto became the primary funding method for resistance movements. <h2 style="line-height: 2.5;">Conclusion</h2>For the developing world, the debate over whether Bitcoin has "intrinsic value" is irrelevant. The utility is undeniable. It is protecting savings from inflation, connecting the unbanked to the global economy, and lowering the cost of moving money. Bitcoin is democratizing finance in a way that the traditional banking system never could. To participate in this global financial revolution, you need a trading platform that is accessible and secure. Join <a href="https://www.bydfi.com/server/ar/cointalk" target="_blank">BYDFi </a>today to buy and trade the digital assets that are changing the world.

How Developing Nations Are Using Bitcoin to Fight Inflation

<img src="https://uploads.bydfi.in/events/cms/BYD.1764588197572.image.png" alt="BYD.1764588197572.image.png" data-href="https://uploads.bydfi.in/events/cms/BYD.1764588197572.image.png" style=""> Bitcoin just dropped over 5% below $90,000 — is this the start of a deeper crypto bear cycle, or just a short-term correction triggered by broader market risk aversion?

Bitcoin Drops Below $90,000: Correction or Bear Market?

Don't Just Watch: 7 Cryptos to Act on Before the Next Bull Run

Cryptos Set to Explode

China, once the global center for Bitcoin mining and trading, has taken a strong stance against cryptocurrency. In 2021, the Chinese government fully banned all crypto transactions and mining, citing financial risks, high energy consumption, and illegal activities. This move forced many Bitcoin miners to relocate to countries like the United States, Kazakhstan, and Canada, reshaping the global crypto industry. The ban caused Bitcoin’s value to fall sharply as Chinese investors exited the market. However, the network soon recovered as new mining centers emerged abroad, proving Bitcoin’s resilience. Despite strict laws, underground trading continues in China through decentralized exchanges and VPNs. Meanwhile, China is focusing on developing the Digital Yuan (e-CNY), its official digital currency, to strengthen state control and challenge global cryptocurrencies. Even with the ban, China’s influence remains strong, showing that its actions can still affect global crypto trends and markets.

China vs Bitcoin: Ban and Global Market Impact

For years, the Bitcoin blockchain was seen as a fortress of stability, designed to do one thing perfectly: process Bitcoin transactions. Meanwhile, other blockchains like Ethereum became vibrant ecosystems for thousands of different "tokens." But a recent innovation has changed everything, bringing a new and experimental wave of assets directly onto the Bitcoin network. These are called BRC-20 tokens. If you're trying to understand this new frontier, this guide will explain what they are in the simplest terms possible. <h2 style="line-height: 2.5;">The Core Idea: Writing Data on Bitcoin</h2>To understand BRC-20s, you must first understand the Ordinals protocol. Think of a single Bitcoin, which is made up of 100 million smaller units called "satoshis" or "sats." The Ordinals protocol is a clever system that allows people to "inscribe" or write small pieces of data—like a piece of text or an image—onto individual satoshis. The BRC-20 standard is a specific type of text inscription. It is an experimental format that uses this inscription method to create and transfer fungible tokens on the Bitcoin blockchain. In essence, it's a creative workaround that mimics the functionality of a traditional token, but using the unique properties of Bitcoin's Ordinals.<h2 style="line-height: 1.5;"></h2><h2 style="line-height: 2.5;">How Are BRC-20s Different from Regular Tokens?</h2>This is the most crucial point to understand. Traditional tokens, like the ERC-20s on Ethereum, are powered by complex smart contracts. These are powerful, programmable pieces of code that govern the token's logic automatically. BRC-20 tokens do not use smart contracts. Their functionality is much simpler. The "token" is just a piece of text inscribed on a satoshi that says, for example, "Create 1 million 'ORDI' tokens." The "balance" of a user's tokens is not managed by a smart contract, but by tracking the movement of these specific inscribed satoshis across the network. This makes them less complex but also far less functional than their Ethereum-based counterparts. <h2 style="line-height: 2.5;">The Appeal and the Risks</h2>The primary appeal of BRC-20 tokens is the novelty and excitement of bringing new functionality to the world's oldest and most secure blockchain. It has unleashed a new wave of innovation and speculation within the Bitcoin ecosystem. However, as a responsible investor, you must understand that this is a highly experimental technology. The BRC-20 standard is new, the infrastructure is still being built, and many of these tokens have no underlying utility beyond speculation. The risk is significantly higher than with established token standards. <h2 style="line-height: 2.5;">The Gateway to a New Ecosystem</h2>The rise of BRC-20s has created a need for new tools and platforms to make them accessible. This is where a project like BeFi Labs comes in, aiming to provide a user-friendly environment for this new asset class. To learn more about the platforms being built for this ecosystem, you can read our main guide: [What Is the WlFi Token? A Guide to the BeFi Labs Crypto]. To explore the established and emerging token ecosystems, you can find a wide range of assets on the <a href="https://www.bydfi.com/en" target="_blank">BYDFi </a>spot market.

What Are BRC-20 Tokens? A Simple Guide to the Bitcoin Standard

<img src="https://uploads.bydfi.in/events/cms/BYD.1765973781131.image.png" alt="BYD.1765973781131.image.png" data-href="https://uploads.bydfi.in/events/cms/BYD.1765973781131.image.png" style=""> Hey crypto community — there’s a new wave of discussion around Bitcoin’s price trajectory for 2026. Some analysts now argue that the classic four-year halving cycle may no longer dictate market peaks, and that BTC could reach fresh all-time highs in 2026 instead of following past patterns. Grayscale and Bitwise both published research suggesting that the traditional four-year cycle might be less relevant, potentially ushering in a structural shift driven by institutional inflows, macro demand for scarce assets, and regulatory progress. These forecasts contradict the old model where BTC hits a peak shortly after a halving and then sharply retreats. So here’s the big question: Do you think Bitcoin’s next all-time high will happen in 2026 — even if it defies its historical pattern? Or is this just bullish speculation that might fall flat?

Will Bitcoin Hit New All-Time Highs in 2026? Cycle Theory & Forecasts

<img src="https://uploads.bydfi.in/events/cms/BYD.1764916138310.image.png" alt="BYD.1764916138310.image.png" data-href="https://uploads.bydfi.in/events/cms/BYD.1764916138310.image.png" style="width: 780.91px;height: 775.45px;"><h2 style="text-align: start; line-height: 1.5;">The January Mirage: Why Bitcoin’s Next Big Surge Faces a Brutal Reality Check</h2>The ghost of January past haunts the crypto markets. After a spectacular rally to a then-peak of $109,000 in January 2025, a chorus of investors now wonders: can the magic strike twice as the calendar turns? According to a leading voice in the ETF arena, the answer is a sobering no. Ophelia Snyder, co-founder of the crypto investment giant 21Shares, delivers a clear-eyed forecast that cuts through the bullish noise. In an exclusive discussion, she casts serious doubt on Bitcoin replicating its dramatic January surge as we approach 2026. &nbsp;It’s unlikely that the factors driving the current volatility will fully resolve in the short term, &nbsp;Snyder states, pointing to a market landscape fraught with uncertainty. “A repeat performance next January will depend heavily on broader market sentiment. <h2 style="text-align: start; line-height: 1.5;">Behind the Glitter: The Anatomy of a January Rally</h2>Snyder demystifies the typical January effect, attributing it to a predictable financial rhythm. The start of the year often brings &nbsp;renewed inflows &nbsp;into Bitcoin ETFs as institutional and retail investors alike rebalance portfolios, injecting fresh capital and optimism. This mechanical flow helped fuel last January’s historic run, supercharged by a unique political catalyst: the imminent inauguration of President Donald Trump and trader bets on his pro-crypto agenda. But that was then. The present tells a different story. Bitcoin, after scaling a staggering all-time high of $125,100 in October, has been locked in a pronounced downtrend. The trigger was the seismic $19 billion market liquidation event on October 10th—a shockwave that transformed year-end optimism into widespread caution. Today, trading around $92,150, Bitcoin reflects a market down nearly 10% in a month, grappling with a palpable absence of the positive sentiment that once propelled it. <h4 style="text-align: start; line-height: 1.5;">A Silver Lining in the Correction: Nothing Crypto Specific </h4>Yet, within this cooling period, Snyder finds a kernel of long-term conviction. Her analysis offers a crucial reframe for worried holders. &nbsp;I am feeling more bullish as I see this most recent correction as a response to a general risk-off sentiment to broader market conditions, rather than anything crypto specific, &nbsp;she reveals.This distinction is everything. It suggests Bitcoin’s current pains are not a terminal diagnosis of the asset itself, but a symptom of global economic anxieties. The digital gold narrative is being tested not by a flaw in its code, but by the old-world fears that drive investors away from risk. In this view, the downturn is less a collapse and more a correlation—a sign of Bitcoin’s maturation within the global financial system. <h2 style="text-align: start; line-height: 1.5;">The Twin Forces: Catalysts for Ascent and Abyss</h2>Looking ahead, Snyder maps a battlefield of opposing forces that will dictate Bitcoin’s 2026 trajectory. On the side of the bulls, she cites powerful potential catalysts:1- The expansion of crypto ETFs onto major mainstream financial platforms.2- Increased adoption and clarity from governments worldwide.3- A growing demand for digital stores of value beyond traditional gold. Arrayed against these are the bearish risks that could see Bitcoin underperform:1- A prolonged risk-off sentiment across all global markets.2- The continued surprising strength of gold, potentially diverting traditional capital.3- The unresolved macroeconomic volatility that currently clouds the horizon.This balanced perspective underscores that Bitcoin’s path is no longer a lonely moon mission but a complex journey navigated by the same tides that move all major markets. <h2 style="text-align: start; line-height: 1.5;">The Contrarian Whisper: A Bet Against the Odds</h2>Snyder’s tempered outlook does not stand unopposed. From another corner of Wall Street comes a defiant counter-narrative. Tom Lee, Chair of the prominent firm BitMine, recently projected that Bitcoin will indeed reach a new high before the end of January 2026. His bet leans on history: since 2013, Bitcoin has averaged a return of 3.81% each January, a pattern many hope will hold.This clash of titans sets the stage for a high-stakes opening to the new year. Will it be a story of sobering reality and interconnected global risk, or can Bitcoin once again defy gravity and convention?As the final weeks of the year tick away, the market holds its breath. The only certainty is that the ghost of January future will be shaped by far more than crypto alone. It will be a verdict on global sentiment, a test of institutional resolve, and proof of whether Bitcoin’s destiny is tied to the world’s fears—or destined to rise above them. Ready to Take Control of Your Crypto Journey? Start Trading Safely on BYDFiAs debates over privacy, innovation, and regulatory freedom continue to shape America’s crypto future, one truth remains: your ability to buy, trade, and build wealth in crypto shouldn’t depend on politics.Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned investor, <a href="https://www.bydfi.com/en" target="_blank">BYDFi </a>gives you the tools to trade with confidence — low fees, fast execution, copy trading for newcomers, and access to hundreds of digital assets in a secure, user-friendly environment.1- Safe. 2- Fast. 3- &nbsp;Low Fees. 4- Built for beginners and pros.Start your crypto journey today — Buy Bitcoin and top altcoins now on<a href="https://www.bydfi.com/en" target="_blank"> BYDFi.</a>

Beyond the Cycle: Why 21Shares Sees a Different 2026 for Bitcoin

Bitcoin’s January Rally Faces a New Reality

In the Web3 era, smart contracts are the engine of innovation. They replace middlemen with code, allowing for decentralized finance (DeFi), NFTs, and autonomous organizations. But for developers and investors, a critical question remains: Which blockchain should you use? Choosing a development platform is like choosing an operating system. If you pick the wrong one, you might end up with an application that is too slow, too expensive, or lacks a user base. The landscape is vast, ranging from the established giants to the high-speed challengers. Here is a guide to the top smart contract platforms defining the industry. <h2 style="line-height: 2.5;">Ethereum: The Undisputed King</h2>Ethereum is the original. It was the first blockchain to introduce smart contracts, and it remains the industry standard.<ul><li>The Tech: It uses the Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM) and the Solidity programming language.</li><li>The Pros: It has the largest developer community, the deepest liquidity, and the most "battle-tested" security. If you want to access the most capital and users, Ethereum is the default choice.</li><li>The Cons: It struggles with scalability. High gas fees and slower transaction speeds (on the main layer) have historically been a bottleneck, though Layer-2 solutions are rapidly fixing this.</li></ul> <h2 style="line-height: 2.5;"> Solana: The High-Speed Challenger</h2>If Ethereum is a heavy-duty freight train, Solana is a Formula 1 car. It was built with a singular focus: speed.<ul><li>The Tech: It uses a unique consensus mechanism called Proof of History (PoH) and the Rust programming language.</li><li>The Pros: It offers blazing-fast transaction speeds (65,000+ TPS) and costs a fraction of a penny to use. This makes it ideal for high-frequency trading apps, gaming, and consumer payments where low friction is essential.</li><li>The Cons: The network has faced stability issues in the past (outages), and the hardware requirements to run a node are expensive, leading to debates about its centralization.</li></ul> <h2 style="line-height: 2.5;">Cardano: The Academic Approach</h2>Cardano takes a "slow and steady" philosophy. Instead of "move fast and break things," Cardano relies on peer-reviewed academic research.<ul><li>The Tech: It uses the Ouroboros consensus protocol and the Plutus (Haskell-based) language.</li><li>The Pros: It prioritizes security and sustainability above all else. Its code is rigorously tested to prevent the hacks and exploits common in other ecosystems.</li><li>The Cons: Development moves slowly. Features that take months on other chains might take years on Cardano, which can frustrate users looking for the "next big thing."</li></ul> <h2 style="line-height: 2.5;">Polkadot and Cosmos: The Interoperability Hubs</h2>Some platforms don't want to be the blockchain; they want to be the internet of blockchains. Polkadot and Cosmos allow developers to build their own custom blockchains (App-Chains) that can talk to each other.<ul><li>The Pros: You don't have to compete for blockspace with other apps. You get your own sovereign chain with your own rules, connected to a wider network of security and liquidity.</li></ul> <h2 style="line-height: 2.5;">How to Choose the Right Platform</h2>When evaluating these platforms, three factors matter most:<ol><li>Cost: Can your users afford the gas fees? (Solana wins here).</li><li>Security: Is the network resistant to hacks? (Ethereum and Cardano lead here).</li><li>Ecosystem: Are there other apps to integrate with? (Ethereum has the massive network effect).</li></ol> <h2 style="line-height: 2.5;">Conclusion</h2>There is no "one size fits all" blockchain. Ethereum remains the safe bet for financial security, Solana is capturing the consumer and gaming market, and new contenders are constantly optimizing for specific niches. The future is likely multi-chain, where different platforms coexist to serve different needs. To invest in the tokens powering these massive digital ecosystems, you need a trading platform with access to them all. Join <a href="https://uploads.bydfi.in/cointalk/education.png" target="_blank">BYDFi </a>today to trade Ethereum, Solana, and the top infrastructure tokens building the future of Web3.

The Best Smart Contract Platforms: Where Should You Build?

<img src="https://uploads.bydfi.in/events/cms/BYD.1764915213390.image.png" alt="BYD.1764915213390.image.png" data-href="https://uploads.bydfi.in/events/cms/BYD.1764915213390.image.png" style="width: 756.94px;height: 755.63px;"><h2 style="text-align: start; line-height: 1.5;">The Code on Trial: A Nation’s Crypto Conscience Faces a January Deadline</h2>In a case that has become a lightning rod for the future of financial privacy and innovation in America, two software developers are scheduled to surrender to federal prison in early 2026. Their crime? Writing code. As a petition for their freedom surges past 3,200 signatures, a profound question echoes from the think tanks of Washington to the forums of the Bitcoin community: Will the United States criminalize the keyboard?Keonne Rodriguez and William Lonergan Hill, the creators behind the privacy-focused Samourai Wallet, were sentenced to five and four years respectively after a plea deal saw them admit to a single conspiracy charge of operating an unlicensed money-transmitting business. The more severe money laundering charge was dropped. Yet, their impending incarceration has ignited a firestorm, framing their sentencing not as a conclusion, but as the opening battle in a war over the soul of open-source development. <h2 style="text-align: start; line-height: 1.5;">The Heart of the Controversy: When is Software a Crime?</h2>At the center of the maelstrom is the Bitcoin Policy Institute (BPI), which has launched a forceful campaign for a full presidential pardon. Their argument strikes at the legal foundation of the case. They contend the Department of Justice has dangerously stretched the definition of a &nbsp;money transmitter &nbsp;beyond recognition. This prosecution misapplies federal law, argues BPI’s Zack Shapiro. &nbsp;Samourai Wallet is non-custodial software. The developers never held, controlled, or touched their users’ funds. They built a tool, not a bank. &nbsp;The Institute warns that erasing the critical legal line between publishing software and operating a financial intermediary sets a catastrophic precedent. It risks freezing the development of privacy-enhancing tools in the U.S., forcing innovation—and talent—overseas. A pardon, &nbsp;the BPI states, &nbsp;would restore legal clarity and reaffirm that publishing non-custodial software is not, and should never become, a criminal act. <h2 style="text-align: start; line-height: 1.5;">A Community Rallies: Voices from Bitcoin to the Ballot Box</h2>The call for clemency has united a diverse coalition. From veteran broadcaster and Bitcoin advocate Max Keiser to media entrepreneur Marty Bent, high-profile figures are applying pressure. Walker America, host of The Bitcoin Podcast, directly appealed to the Oval Office: “President Trump should pardon the Samourai Wallet developers. If he truly wants America to be the Bitcoin capital of the world, then our government must not unjustly incarcerate Bitcoin developers. The outreach has even reached Trump’s inner circle, with Keiser tagging Eric Trump to step it up. &nbsp;Beyond crypto, the Libertarian Party of Oregon has joined the fray, championing the cause as one of free expression with a simple, powerful declaration: Code IS speech! <h2 style="text-align: start; line-height: 1.5;">The Pardon Paradox: Billionaires vs. Developers</h2>This plea for mercy lands on a desk with a unique history. President Trump has already granted several high-profile pardons at the intersection of finance and technology, most notably to Silk Road founder Ross Ulbricht and, explosively, to former Binance CEO Changpeng &nbsp;CZ &nbsp;Zhao.This track record, however, has sharpened the scrutiny around the Samourai case, creating what some see as a damning paradox. Bitcoin researcher Kyle Torpey voiced a sentiment simmering within the community: &nbsp;The perceived corruption associated with the CZ pardon will look even worse if the Samourai Wallet devs aren’t pardoned for similar charges. How much of a financial contribution does one need to make to receive clemency? The contrast is stark: a billionaire exchange founder involved in a massive compliance failure receives a pardon, while two open-source developers face years behind bars for creating a non-custodial tool. This &nbsp;billionaire paradox &nbsp;has transformed the case into a potent symbol of perceived inequity in justice. <h2 style="text-align: start; line-height: 1.5;">The Ticking Clock: More Than Two Lives at Stake</h2>As January 2026 approaches, the stakes extend far beyond the fate of two individuals. Advocates argue that the coming weeks will define the regulatory and innovative landscape for years to come. Will the U.S. embrace its potential as a leader in cryptographic innovation, or will it signal to developers that building privacy-preserving tools is a path to prison?The petition continues to grow. The arguments are filed. The world is watching. The decision now rests in the realm of power, politics, and principle. The code has been written. The judgment on America’s crypto future is about to be delivered. <h2 style="line-height: 1.5;">Ready to Take Control of Your Crypto Journey? Start Trading Safely on BYDFi</h2>As debates over privacy, innovation, and regulatory freedom continue to shape America’s crypto future, one truth remains: your ability to buy, trade, and build wealth in crypto shouldn’t depend on politics.Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned investor, <a href="https://www.bydfi.com/en" target="_blank">BYDFi </a>gives you the tools to trade with confidence — low fees, fast execution, copy trading for newcomers, and access to hundreds of digital assets in a secure, user-friendly environment.1- Safe. 2- Fast. 3- Low Fees. 4- Built for beginners and pros.Start your crypto journey today — Buy Bitcoin and top altcoins now on <a href="https://www.bydfi.com/en" target="_blank">BYDFi.</a>

3,200 Strong: Growing Petition Fuels Demand for Samourai Wallet Developers’ Pardon

Petition Passes 3,200 as Push for Samourai Pardon

<img src="https://uploads.bydfi.in/events/cms/BYD.1764733899904.image.png" alt="BYD.1764733899904.image.png" data-href="https://uploads.bydfi.in/events/cms/BYD.1764733899904.image.png" style=""/>Kevin O’Leary thinks the Fed’s upcoming rate call won’t push Bitcoin up or down. He believes BTC has entered a zone where interest-rate headlines don’t move it much anymore. Some traders agree, saying Bitcoin now follows its own demand cycle driven by adoption and liquidity. Others argue this view ignores past reactions to inflation data, rate hikes, and policy shifts. So Is Bitcoin finally standing on its own, or is this confidence misplaced as soon as macro stress returns? Curious to hear how you see it.

Can Bitcoin Survive Fed Moves? O’Leary Thinks So

The cryptocurrency market is a rollercoaster, and staying updated with crypto market news today is crucial for investors worldwide. Whether you’re a beginner in the U.S. trading in USD or an experienced trader in the UK using GBP, understanding why crypto is down today or surging can guide your decisions. This article dives into the latest crypto trends, explores reasons behind market movements, and offers insights for navigating the volatility in 2025.<h2 style="line-height: 2.5;">Crypto Today: Whats Happening in the Market?</h2>Crypto markets are influenced by a mix of global events, regulations, and investor sentiment. As of 2025, the market remains dynamic, with Bitcoin, Ethereum, and altcoins experiencing frequent price swings. Whether you’re in Canada trading in CAD or Australia using AUD, here’s a snapshot of what’s driving crypto today:<ul><li style="line-height: 1.5;">Market Volatility: Crypto prices often react to macroeconomic factors like interest rate changes or inflation concerns. </li><li style="line-height: 1.5;">Regulatory News: Updates from the SEC (U.S.), FCA (UK), or other global regulators can impact prices. </li><li style="line-height: 1.5;">Adoption Trends: Institutional investments and blockchain advancements drive long-term growth.</li></ul><h2 style="line-height: 2.5;">Why Is Crypto Down Today?</h2>If youre wondering “why is crypto down today,” several factors could be at play. While specific events vary, common reasons include: <ul><li style="line-height: 1.5;">Economic Uncertainty: Rising interest rates in the U.S. or EU can reduce risk appetite, affecting crypto prices in USD or EUR. </li><li style="line-height: 1.5;">Regulatory Crackdowns: Stricter laws in countries like China or India can trigger sell-offs. </li><li style="line-height: 1.5;">Market Corrections: After rapid gains, profit-taking often leads to dips, impacting traders in GBP, CAD, or AUD. </li><li style="line-height: 1.5;">External Events: Global events, like geopolitical tensions or stock market declines, can spill over into crypto.</li></ul>For precise insights, platforms like X offer real-time discussions on why crypto is down, helping traders in Singapore, London, or New York stay informed. How to Navigate Crypto Market NewsWhether you’re a beginner or an experienced trader, here’s how to stay ahead of crypto market news today: <ul><li style="line-height: 1.5;">Follow Reliable Sources: Check platforms like X, CoinDesk, or CoinTelegraph for real-time updates. </li><li style="line-height: 1.5;">Understand Your Context: Beginners in the U.S. might focus on Bitcoin’s USD price, while experts in the EU could analyze altcoin trends in EUR. </li><li style="line-height: 1.5;">Monitor Sentiment: Social media and news reflect market mood, helping you anticipate price movements. </li><li style="line-height: 1.5;">Act Strategically: Use dips to buy or hold, depending on your risk tolerance and trading experience.</li></ul><h2 style="line-height: 2.5;">Tips for Staying Informed</h2><ul><li style="line-height: 1.5;">Set Alerts<s>:</s> Use apps to track price changes in your local currency (USD, GBP, CAD, etc.). </li><li style="line-height: 1.5;">Join Communities: Engage with crypto forums or X discussions to learn from global traders. </li><li style="line-height: 1.5;">Diversify Knowledge: Understand both technical (e.g., blockchain upgrades) and fundamental (e.g., regulatory news) factors. </li><li style="line-height: 1.5;">Trade Smart: Use trusted platforms like BYDFi to act on market insights with confidence.</li></ul><h2 style="line-height: 2.5;">Why 2025 Is Critical for Crypto Investors</h2>Crypto today is shaped by rapid innovation and global adoption. Whether you’re in Sydney, Toronto, or Berlin, staying updated on crypto market news today helps you seize opportunities during volatility. By understanding why crypto is down or up, you can make informed decisions to grow your portfolio.Stay Ahead with<a href="https://www.bydfi.com/en-gb" target="_blank"> BYDFi </a>Don’t miss out on the latest crypto market news. Sign up with BYDFi today to trade Bitcoin, Ethereum, and more, and turn market insights into profits in 2025!

Crypto Market News Today: Why Is Crypto Down Today in 2025?

<img src="https://uploads.bydfi.in/events/cms/BYD.1765278997829.image.png" alt="BYD.1765278997829.image.png" data-href="https://uploads.bydfi.in/events/cms/BYD.1765278997829.image.png" style="">Hey all — I saw someone offering to buy “old wallets with trading activity” for 5 SOL (or equivalent), claiming wallets that had previous memecoin trades are valuable. The pitch: these wallets might already have certain tokens or trading-history “credibility,” which the buyer hopes to leverage — maybe for eligibility, airdrops, or just access to tokens you can’t get freshly. Someone even said “Send me a DM with your wallet address to get payment when you deliver.” It got me thinking: is this legit credit to transaction history — or a scheme that disproportionately benefits the buyer while exposing the seller to huge risk? Could handing over wallet access or seed/private-key info ever be safe? If you were me, would you ever sell or buy an “active wallet,” or is this red-flag territory? What’s the real downside or danger here?

Is Buying Old Crypto Wallets a Smart Move or Hidden Trap?

For years, the narrative around crypto wallets has been simple: they are digital vaults for your Bitcoin, Ethereum, and NFTs. But that definition is rapidly becoming outdated. As Web3 matures, your wallet is evolving into something far more profound—it is becoming your digital passport. In the shifting landscape of the internet, we are moving away from centralized entities holding our data. Instead, we are entering an era of true self-custody, where your wallet doesn’t just hold your money; it holds your identity, your reputation, and your history. <h2 style="line-height: 2.5;">From Storage to Identity: The Evolution of the Wallet</h2>In the Web2 world (think Google, Facebook, and banks), your identity is fragmented. You have a login for your email, a profile for your social media, and a separate account for your finances. In every instance, a third party owns your data. If they shut down your account, you lose your digital existence on that platform. Web3 flips this script. A crypto wallet acts as a portable identity container. It allows you to carry your credentials with you across the internet, logging into apps, proving your age, or verifying your funds without ever handing over control to a centralized server. <h3 style="line-height: 1.5;">The Power of Zero-Knowledge Proofs</h3>One of the biggest hurdles to digital identity has always been privacy. How do you prove who you are without doxxing yourself? Enter Zero-Knowledge Proofs (ZK-proofs).ZK-proofs are the technological breakthrough making the "wallet as a passport" concept possible. They allow you to verify a piece of information—like your age, citizenship, or creditworthiness—without revealing the underlying data.<ul><li style="line-height: 1.5;">Verify Age: Prove you are over 18 to access a site without uploading a photo of your driver's license.</li><li style="line-height: 1.5;">prove Solvency: Show a lender you have enough collateral for a loan without revealing your total net worth or transaction history.</li></ul> This technology transforms your wallet into a privacy-preserving tool that verifies facts about you, rather than exposing your identity. <h2 style="line-height: 2.5;"> Bridging the Gap Between Web2 and Web3</h2>For this digital passport to go mainstream, the user experience needs to be seamless. Currently, there is a chasm between the ease of Web2 (one-click logins) and the complexity of Web3 (seed phrases and gas fees). The next generation of smart wallets is closing this gap. By integrating biometric security and account abstraction, these wallets offer the familiar ease of use we expect from modern apps while maintaining the security properties of blockchain technology. The goal is simple: users shouldn't need to know they are using a blockchain; they just need to know they own their data. <h2 style="line-height: 2.5;">Why Self-Custody Matters More Than Ever</h2>As AI agents and automated bots flood the internet, verifying "humanness" will become the most valuable currency online. Your crypto wallet will serve as the anchor for your digital reputation. It will store "attestations"—digital stamps of approval that prove you are a real person, that you have participated in certain communities, or that you have a verified credit history. This creates a portable trust layer that you take with you wherever you go online. <h2 style="line-height: 2.5;">Conclusion</h2>The crypto wallet is no longer just about finance; it is the foundational tool for digital sovereignty. By combining self-custody with privacy-preserving tech like ZK-proofs, we are building a future where you are the sole owner of your digital life. To build a robust digital portfolio, you need a reliable gateway to the crypto world. Start building your Web3 journey today with <a href="https://www.bydfi.com/en" target="_blank">BYDFi</a>, your trusted partner for secure trading and asset management. Sign up on BYDFi now to take control of your financial future. DisclaimerThis content is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial or investment advice. Cryptocurrency trading, especially with leverage or meme coins, involves a high level of risk and may result in the loss of your entire capital. Always perform your own research (DYOR) and consult a professional advisor before making any investment decisions. BYDFI is not responsible for trading losses.

Your crypto wallet is your digital passport

Hey there, just when you thought you had your head around Layer 1s like Ethereum and Layer 2s like Arbitrum, a new term starts popping up: Layer 3. If you're feeling a bit of whiplash, I completely understand. The crypto space moves incredibly fast, and it can feel like the goalposts are always shifting. You might be wondering, "Do we really need another layer? What does this one even do?" Let's break it down. Understanding Layer 3s is like getting a sneak peek at the next chapter of the crypto story, and it's actually a very exciting development. <h2 style="line-height: 2.5;">A Simple Analogy: From Highways to Private Roads</h2>To understand Layer 3, let's quickly recap the first two layers with an analogy:<ul><li style="line-height: 1.5;">Layer 1 (like Ethereum): This is a massive, highly secure global highway system. It's incredibly robust, but because everyone wants to use it, it can get congested and expensive.</li><li style="line-height: 1.5;">Layer 2 (like Arbitrum or Optimism): These are like high-speed express lanes built on top of the main highway. They take a huge amount of traffic, process it quickly and cheaply in batches, and then post a summary back to the Layer 1 highway for final security.</li></ul> So, what is a Layer 3? A Layer 3 is like a specialized, private road or even a dedicated racetrack that connects to one of the high-speed express lanes (the L2). It is a hyper-specialized chain built on top of a Layer 2. <h2 style="line-height: 2.5;">So, Why Do We Even Need Layer 3s?</h2>The purpose of a Layer 3 is hyper-customization. Think about it: a high-frequency trading application has completely different needs than a fantasy role-playing game. A general-purpose Layer 2 has to serve both of them. This is where L3s come in. A developer can create their own Layer 3 that is perfectly tailored for their specific application. This customization unlocks three incredible benefits:<ol><li style="line-height: 1.5;">Massive Scalability: A game might have millions of tiny, in-game actions (like picking up an item or casting a spell). These are not valuable financial transactions, and it would be far too expensive to put them all on a general L2. An L3 can be built to handle this massive volume of specific actions for next to nothing.</li><li style="line-height: 1.5;">Custom Features: The developer can design the L3 exactly how they want. They could decide that users don't need to pay gas fees at all inside their application. They could use a custom token for gas or even create their own specialized privacy features.</li><li style="line-height: 1.5;">Cheaper Costs: Because the L3 settles its transactions in big batches to the L2 (which then settles to the L1), the cost per individual L3 transaction can be driven down to a fraction of a fraction of a cent.</li></ol> <h2 style="line-height: 2.5;">Market Insights and Key Players</h2>The Layer 3 concept is still very new, but the groundwork is being laid by the biggest players in the Layer 2 space.<ul><li style="line-height: 1.5;">Arbitrum has "Orbit," a framework that allows anyone to easily create their own Layer 3 that settles to the Arbitrum network.</li><li style="line-height: 1.5;">zkSync has "Hyperchains," its vision for an ecosystem of interconnected L3s.</li><li style="line-height: 1.5;">StarkWare has long envisioned a future with a vibrant ecosystem of Layer 3s built on top of its Starknet L2.</li></ul> These projects aren't just building a faster highway; they are building the tools to let anyone create their own custom road systems. This is seen by many as the endgame for blockchain scalability—a future with thousands of interconnected, application-specific chains. <h2 style="line-height: 2.5;">What Does This Mean for You as an Investor?</h2>The Layer 3 revolution is still in its early days, and you likely won't be investing in an "L3 token" directly for a while. The real takeaway is understanding that the value will likely flow to the Layer 2s that can attract the most successful Layer 3s. The L2s that provide the best technology, the most security, and the easiest tools for developers will become the hubs of this new, hyper-scalable future. You are seeing the maturation of the industry, moving from general-purpose chains to a world of specialized applications. The future of crypto applications is being built on the Layer 2s of today. To position yourself for the coming L3 wave, you need to understand the dominant L2 players. Explore tokens like Arbitrum (ARB), Optimism (OP), and Polygon (MATIC) on <a href="https://www.bydfi.com/" target="_blank">BYDFi </a>and invest in the foundational layers of tomorrow's internet.

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