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altcoins

The Advantages of Investing in Altcoins

Diversification is a key strategy for any investor looking to mitigate risks and maximize potential returns. While traditional investment avenues have long been the go-to options for diversification, the rise of cryptocurrencies has opened up new opportunities. In this article, we will delve into the world of investing in altcoins and explore the advantages of including them in your investment portfolio. By understanding the benefits of diversification and the role altcoins play, you can make informed decisions that have the potential to enhance your investment portfolio. 

Understanding altcoins and their role in diversification 

Altcoins, or alternative cryptocurrencies, are digital assets that serve as an alternative to Bitcoin. While Bitcoin remains the most well-known and widely adopted cryptocurrency, altcoins offer investors a diverse range of options to consider. These alternative cryptocurrencies differ from Bitcoin in various ways, including their underlying technology, features, and utility. 

Altcoins can play a crucial role in diversifying your investment portfolio. By including altcoins in your portfolio, you can gain exposure to different sectors and industries within the cryptocurrency market. Each altcoin may have unique properties and potential for growth, allowing investors to tap into emerging trends and technologies. This diversification can help to reduce the risk associated with investing solely in Bitcoin, as altcoins may have different price movements and correlations with other assets. 

Examples of crypto portfolio allocation strategies 

When it comes to diversifying your crypto portfolio, there are several allocation strategies you can consider. One common approach is to allocate a certain percentage of your portfolio to Bitcoin, the most established cryptocurrency, and distribute the remainder across various altcoins. This strategy allows you to benefit from the potential growth of Bitcoin while also capturing the potential upside of other promising altcoins. 

Another strategy is to allocate your portfolio based on market capitalization. This approach involves investing a larger portion of your portfolio in cryptocurrencies with higher market capitalization, as they are generally considered more established and less volatile. The remaining portion can be allocated to smaller altcoins with high growth potential but higher associated risks. 

A third strategy is to allocate your portfolio based on different sectors or industries. By investing in altcoins that cater to specific industries, such as finance, gaming, or healthcare, you can spread your investments across different sectors and potentially capitalize on emerging trends within those industries. 

How to diversify your crypto portfolio 

Diversifying your crypto portfolio requires careful consideration and research. Here are some steps to guide you in the process: 

  • Assess your risk tolerance: Understand your risk appetite and investment goals. This will help you determine the level of diversification you are comfortable with.
  • Research different cryptocurrencies: Explore the various altcoins available in the market. Consider their underlying technology, the team behind the project, and their potential for growth. 
  • Allocate your investments: Determine the percentage of your portfolio you want to allocate to Bitcoin and altcoins. Consider the different allocation strategies mentioned earlier and choose the one that aligns with your investment objectives. 
  • Monitor your portfolio: Regularly review and rebalance your portfolio to ensure it remains diversified. Keep track of the performance of your investments and make adjustments as necessary. 

Factors to consider when diversifying your crypto portfolio 

When diversifying your crypto portfolio, it is important to consider a few key factors: 

  • Liquidity: Consider the liquidity of the altcoins you are considering. Higher liquidity ensures that you can easily buy and sell your investments without significant price impact. 
  • Market trends and analysis: Stay informed about the latest market trends and analysis. This will help you identify potential opportunities and make informed decisions when diversifying your portfolio. 
  • Security: Ensure that you prioritize the security of your investments. Research the platforms and wallets you will be using to store your altcoins and choose reliable options with robust security measures. 

Exploring different altcoins for diversification 

There are numerous altcoins available in the market, each with its own unique features and potential for growth. Here are a few popular altcoins worth considering for diversification: 

1.Ethereum (ETH):

As the second-largest cryptocurrency by market capitalization, Ethereum offers a platform for decentralized applications (dApps) and smart contracts. Its widespread adoption and active development community make it an attractive option for diversification.

Ethereum IRAs allows for tax-advantaged growth, any growth in the value of Ethereum is tax-deferred until the funds are withdrawn during retirement.  

2. Ripple (XRP):

Ripple aims to revolutionize cross-border payments by enabling fast and low-cost transactions. Its partnerships with major financial institutions make it an intriguing choice for investors seeking exposure to the fintech sector.

Ripple (XRP) is one of the most prominent digital assets and you can incorporate XRP in your retirement savings as an investor through a self-directed Individual Retirement Account (IRA).   

3. Litecoin (LTC):

Created as a “lite” version of Bitcoin, Litecoin offers faster transaction confirmation times and a different hashing algorithm. Its longevity and strong community support make it an interesting altcoin to consider.  

Investing in Litecoin through a Crypto IRA provides individuals with a unique opportunity to combine the potential for high returns with the tax advantages of a retirement account.   

 4. Cardano (ADA):

Cardano is a blockchain platform that aims to provide a secure and scalable infrastructure for the development of decentralized applications. Its focus on academic research and peer-reviewed development make it a unique altcoin in the market.  

To maximize your Crypto IRA with Cardano it is important to keep up to date with the latest developments and news surrounding Cardano and the cryptocurrency market.  

The importance of diversifying your crypto portfolio 

Diversifying your investment portfolio is crucial for managing risks and maximizing potential returns. Altcoins offer a unique opportunity to diversify within the cryptocurrency market, providing exposure to different sectors and potential growth areas. By understanding the benefits of diversification, exploring various altcoins, and considering the associated risks, you can make informed decisions that align with your investment goals. 

Remember, the key to successful diversification is thorough research and regular portfolio monitoring. By taking these steps, you can navigate the world of altcoins and potentially enhance your investment portfolio. 

By incorporating alternative coins into your crypto IRA, you can take advantage of the potential growth of these digital currencies while enjoying the tax benefits and security offered by an IRA.   

Discover our coins portfolio and start diversifying your investment today by opening an account at BitcoinIRA.com. 

 

1. Bitcoin IRA is a platform that connects consumers to qualified custodians, digital wallets and cryptocurrency exchanges. The company is not a custodian, is not a digital wallet and is not an exchange. The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only. We encourage you to consult an adviser or professional to determine whether Bitcoin IRA makes sense for you. 

alternative coins

Beyond Bitcoin: Alternative Coins for Your Crypto IRA

In today’s fast-paced world, the cryptocurrency market has taken the financial industry by storm. While Bitcoin has been the pioneer in this digital revolution, alternative coins, also known as altcoins, have emerged as potential investment options for individuals looking to diversify their crypto Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs). In this article, we will delve into the world of alternative coins and explore the top contenders that you should consider adding to your crypto IRA portfolio. 

The rise of altcoins 

Since the inception of Bitcoin in 2009, the cryptocurrency market has experienced exponential growth. As Bitcoin gained popularity, several other alternative coins were introduced, each with their unique features and objectives. This rise of altcoins can be attributed to the increasing demand for a decentralized financial system and the desire for more secure and efficient transactions. 

Altcoins are digital currencies that aim to improve upon the limitations of Bitcoin. They offer innovative solutions to various challenges faced by traditional financial systems, such as scalability, transaction speed, and privacy. With over 10,000 altcoins available today, it is essential to carefully evaluate their potential before investing in them with  

Introduction to altcoins and crypto IRAs 

Alternative coins refer to all cryptocurrencies other than Bitcoin. They include popular options such as Ethereum, Ripple, Litecoin, and many others. These altcoins have gained significant traction due to their unique features and potential for high returns on investment. 

A crypto IRA, also known as a Bitcoin IRA or cryptocurrency IRA, is a self-directed retirement account that allows individuals to invest in digital assets. Unlike regular IRAs, which are limited to stocks, bonds, and other conventional investments, a crypto IRA enables investors to diversify their portfolio by including cryptocurrencies. 

By incorporating alternative coins into your crypto IRA, you can take advantage of the potential growth of these digital currencies while enjoying the tax benefits and security offered by an IRA.  

Understanding the potential of altcoins 

While Bitcoin remains the most well-known cryptocurrency, alternative coins have gained momentum due to their unique features and potential for significant returns. One such altcoin is Ethereum, which not only functions as a digital currency but also supports the development of decentralized applications (dApps). This versatility has made Ethereum a favorite among developers and investors alike. 

Ripple, another prominent altcoin, focuses on facilitating fast and low-cost international money transfers. Its technology, known as XRP, aims to revolutionize cross-border transactions and improve the efficiency of the global financial system. The adoption of Ripple by major financial institutions further highlights its potential for widespread use. 

Litecoin, often referred to as the silver to Bitcoin’s gold, offers faster transaction confirmation times and a different cryptographic algorithm. Its creator, Charlie Lee, designed Litecoin to complement Bitcoin and provide a more accessible and efficient payment option. 

These examples represent just a fraction of the alternative coins available in the market today. Each altcoin offers its unique value proposition, and it is essential to conduct thorough research and analysis before investing in them with your crypto IRA. 

Benefits of investing in altcoins for your crypto IRA 

Investing in alternative coins with your crypto IRA can provide several advantages over traditional investments. One significant benefit is the potential for higher returns. While Bitcoin has undoubtedly proven its worth over the years, alternative coins often have a higher growth potential due to their innovative technologies and lower market capitalization. 

Moreover, altcoins allow for diversification within your crypto IRA portfolio and offer the opportunity to participate in the growth of emerging technologies. Many altcoins focus on specific sectors, such as cybersecurity, healthcare, or renewable energy. By investing in these coins, you not only have the potential for financial gains but also contribute to the advancement of these industries. 

Lastly, investing in alternative coins with your crypto IRA can provide a hedge against traditional investments. Cryptocurrencies have demonstrated a relatively low correlation with traditional assets, making them an attractive option for diversification and risk management. 

Unlocking the potential of altcoins for your crypto IRA 

As the cryptocurrency market continues to evolve, alternative coins have emerged as promising investment options for individuals seeking to diversify their crypto IRAs. By exploring the various altcoins available, understanding their potential, and consulting with professionals in the field, you can unlock the opportunities presented by these digital assets. 

However, it is crucial to consider your financial goals before making any investment decisions. By doing so, you can navigate the world of altcoins and potentially capitalize on the next big thing in the cryptocurrency market. 

To get started on your journey towards building a diversified crypto IRA, sign up now at BitcoinIRA. Take control of your financial future and explore the potential of alternative coins within  a crypto IRA. 

cryptocurrencies in your IRA

Maximizing Your IRA Portfolio: A Guide to Selecting Cryptocurrencies for Your Crypto IRA

Investing in an Individual Retirement Account (IRA) is a smart move to secure your financial future. With the rise of digital assets, including cryptocurrencies in your IRA portfolio can offer great potential for growth. In this guide, we will explore the benefits of including cryptocurrencies in your IRA and provide a comprehensive roadmap to help you select cryptocurrencies 

What are Cryptocurrencies and Why Include them in your IRA Portfolio? 

Cryptocurrencies are digital or virtual currencies that use cryptography for secure financial transactions. They operate independently of any central authority, such as a government or financial institution. The inclusion of cryptocurrencies in your IRA portfolio can provide diversification, potential for high returns, and a hedge against traditional market volatility. 

By including cryptocurrencies in your IRA, you can tap into the exponential growth of this emerging asset class. Cryptocurrencies offer unique advantages, such as decentralization, transparency, and global accessibility. As the world increasingly adopts digital currencies, their value is expected to rise, making them an attractive addition to your retirement portfolio. 

Factors to Consider when Selecting Cryptocurrencies for your Crypto IRA 

When selecting cryptocurrencies for your Crypto IRA, it is crucial to consider several factors to ensure you make informed investment decisions. Here are some key factors to consider: 

  • Market Capitalization: Evaluate the market capitalization of a cryptocurrency to understand its size and potential for growth. Larger market cap cryptocurrencies, such as Bitcoin and Ethereum, are often considered more stable and less volatile.
  • Technology and Use Case: Assess the technology behind a cryptocurrency and its potential use cases. Look for cryptocurrencies that have innovative technology and solve real-world problems. Understanding the utility and demand for a cryptocurrency is essential for long-term growth.
  • Team and Community: Research the team behind the cryptocurrency project and their track record. A strong development team with relevant expertise increases the chances of success. Additionally, a vibrant and engaged community can contribute to the adoption and growth of the cryptocurrency. 

Top Cryptocurrencies for IRA Portfolios – Bitcoin, Ethereum, Ripple 

When it comes to selecting cryptocurrencies for your IRA portfolio, certain cryptocurrencies have proven themselves as reliable and promising investments. Here are three of the top cryptocurrencies you could consider including in your Crypto IRA: 

Bitcoin 

Bitcoin is the pioneer and most well-known cryptocurrency. It has the largest market capitalization among all cryptocurrencies, making it a staple in any Crypto IRA portfolio. Bitcoin’s decentralized nature, scarcity, and widespread adoption give it significant potential for long-term growth. 

Ethereum 

Ethereum is more than just a cryptocurrency; it is a decentralized platform that enables the development of smart contracts and decentralized applications (DApps). Ethereum’s native cryptocurrency, Ether, has gained popularity due to its utility within the Ethereum ecosystem. With its robust technology and active developer community, Ethereum is a valuable addition to a Crypto IRA portfolio. 

Ripple 

Ripple is a digital payment protocol that aims to enable fast and low-cost international money transfers. Ripple’s cryptocurrency, XRP, serves as a bridge currency for facilitating these transactions. With partnerships with various financial institutions, Ripple has the potential to revolutionize cross-border payments. Including Ripple in your Crypto IRA can provide exposure to the growing demand for efficient global remittance solutions. 

Steps to Maximize your IRA Portfolio with Cryptocurrencies 

To maximize your IRA portfolio with cryptocurrencies, follow these steps: 

  1. Diversification: Diversification allows you to benefit from the potential growth of multiple cryptocurrencies. 
  2. Regular Monitoring: Keep a close eye on the performance of your Crypto IRA portfolio. Monitor market trends, news, and regulatory developments that may impact the value of your investments. Regularly reassess and rebalance your portfolio as needed. 
  3. Long-Term Perspective: Approach your Crypto IRA investments with a long-term perspective. Cryptocurrency markets have shown strong growth over the long term. Patience and a long-term mindset are key to maximizing your IRA portfolio. 

Tips for Managing and Monitoring Your Crypto IRA 

To effectively manage and monitor your Crypto IRA, consider the following tips: 

  • Stay Informed: Keep up with the latest news and developments in the cryptocurrency industry. Stay informed about market trends, technological advancements, and regulatory changes that may impact your Crypto IRA investments. 
  • Set Realistic Goals: Define your investment goals and align them with your investment horizon. Setting realistic goals helps you make better investment decisions and stay focused on your long-term objectives. 
  • Seek Professional Guidance: If you are new to cryptocurrencies or unsure about managing your Crypto IRA, consider seeking guidance from a qualified financial advisor with expertise in digital assets. They can provide valuable insights and help you navigate the world of the crypto market. 

Experts’ Recommendations for Crypto IRA Investments 

Experts recommend the following strategies when it comes to Crypto IRA investments: 

  • Diversify Across Cryptocurrencies: Spread your investments across a mix of established cryptocurrencies and promising up-and-coming projects. Diversification reduces risk while capturing potential growth opportunities.
  • Consider Dollar-Cost Averaging: Instead of investing a lump sum, consider dollar-cost averaging. This strategy involves investing a fixed amount at regular intervals, regardless of market conditions. It helps mitigate the impact of short-term price fluctuations. 
  • Stay Focused on Fundamentals: While short-term market trends and price movements can be enticing, experts advise focusing on the fundamental value of cryptocurrencies. Evaluate the technology, use case, and long-term potential before making investment decisions. 

The Future of Crypto IRAs and the Importance of Diversification 

The inclusion of cryptocurrencies in your IRA portfolio can unlock significant potential for growth and diversification. As the world embraces digital currencies, their value is expected to rise, making them an attractive investment option.  

Diversification across different cryptocurrencies is essential to capture the potential growth of multiple assets. Regular monitoring, staying informed, and seeking professional guidance can help you effectively manage your Crypto IRA. By taking a strategic and informed approach, you can maximize your IRA portfolio and secure a bright financial future.  

Ready to start? Create your Crypto IRA with BitcoinIRA.com, for questions contact our customer support, call us at 866-570-1947 , send us an email to [email protected] or schedule a call with a Bitcoin IRA Specialist. 

 

Seize the Opportunity: Invest in XRP for Retirement

Catch the Wave: XRP Opens a New Era of Crypto Retirement Investing

In the dynamic landscape of cryptocurrency, it’s time to consider a fresh opportunity: you can once again invest in XRP for retirement. A significant legal ruling paved the way for this exciting development. The verdict is a “landmark win” for Ripple Labs, Inc. in their lawsuit against the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

Implications of the SEC Lawsuit Ruling on XRP

The SEC’s legal contention aimed to categorize XRP as a security, which would drastically limit its trading and investment potential. However, the recent victory for Ripple Labs dismissed such classification, creating waves in the cryptocurrency realm. This decision could have a profound impact on those who are eager to invest in XRP for their retirement portfolio.

Why XRP is a Valuable Addition to Your Retirement Portfolio

Renowned for its speed, scalability, and versatility, XRP is a potent digital asset that has been gaining popularity and recognition worldwide. The recent court ruling allows you to include XRP in your BitcoinIRA crypto retirement account, providing a chance to diversify your investment portfolio and potentially augment your retirement savings.

The BitcoinIRA Advantage with XRP

Investing in XRP through BitcoinIRA enables you to explore the potential of this increasingly adopted digital currency. As XRP continues to forge ahead, it represents a compelling choice for many crypto-savvy investors looking to strengthen their retirement savings.

How to Open a BitcoinIRA Account

Opening a BitcoinIRA account is a straightforward process that grants you the power to buy, sell, and swap a range of cryptocurrencies, including XRP. The platform features intuitive services, a wealth of educational resources, and superior customer support to guide you through your crypto investment journey. So, why wait? Open an account to invest in XRP for retirement today.

Bitcoin IRA Supports Flare

Spark Token Airdrop Support for Ripple (XRP) Investors

UPDATE (12/8/20): For security purposes, XRP self-trading will be paused from 12am EST Thursday, December 10th, until we can determine the upcoming Spark airdrop event for XRP holders has safely ended.

On Saturday, December 12, 2020, at 00:00 UTC, the Flare network will be taking a snapshot of XRP addresses for a potential airdrop of their Spark token (FLR).

*All Bitcoin IRA clients that hold XRP tokens at that time will receive additional Spark tokens in their Bitcoin IRA account as soon as they are made available*.

The quantity of Spark tokens that XRP investors will receive is based on the network’s calculations, which will be determined at the time of the snapshot. Also, the Flare network is implementing a vesting period where each account will receive 15% of their total Spark for which they’re eligible with the remaining Spark claimable will be distributed between 25 to 34 months.

Read more about the Spark distribution here.

We’ve supported each of the major forks and airdrops since 2017, ensuring our clients receive their rewards and maximize their financial opportunity.

Bitcoin IRA Forks and Airdrops

We will continue to keep you updated on the Spark distribution as details become available. Feel free to contact us anytime at 8666425950.

 

Recommended article: How Bitcoin IRA works

 

*Important Disclaimer: Bitcoin IRA is a technology platform and not a wallet or liquidity provider. Reliability around forks, airdrops, and other blockchain events remain highly uncertain. While Bitcoin IRA will make reasonable efforts to work with partners that support the Flare airdrop and your Spark token distribution, we cannot guarantee its success or viability. Bitcoin IRA cannot guarantee Spark token liquidity and cannot guarantee the number of tokens you may or may not receive or their value. Bitcoin IRA reserves the right to change how it supports forks, airdrops and other blockchain events, and resulting tokens, for any reason. For additional information see your Customer Transaction Agreement.

Ripple Price Prediction

Crypto Price Prediction: Can XRP Hit $3 Price Again?

Ripple’s XRP is a popular cryptocurrency due to its use case, in that the asset allows users to transfer value anywhere in the world with next to no fees or transaction times. XRP is a utility token, but isn’t exactly one designed for investing in and trading like Bitcoin. At least, not at first glance. 

Back in January 2018, XRP was worth just under $4 per coin. Those who invested earlier, when it was at less than $0.50, certainly enjoyed the profits. However, the asset and currently around an impressive price of $0.53 as of November 23, 2020. Many have wondered if the asset will ever recover, and there appears to be some hope. Let’s get into why. 

 

What Makes Ripple Valuable? 

As mentioned, Ripple’s cross-border technology means XRP is a valuable asset for banks and other financial groups that transact internationally. In fact, considering XRP takes 3-5 seconds to transact compared to the days it takes to verify an international fiat transaction, banks are already using it in place of the traditional SWIFT system. 

2019 was a strong year for Ripple in terms of partnerships. The company united with efforts like global money transfer company MoneyGram, and raised $200 million from groups like SBI Holdings and Tetragon. Groups are vying for its On-Demand Liquidity (ODL) tech that allows for instantaneous transfers. But if all of these companies are invested in Ripple, why is XRP’s price still so low? 

The answer isn’t that the technology isn’t valuable – it’s because of inflation. As of now, XRP has the highest inflation rate of every top cryptocurrency, hitting 20.5% a year. Ripple owns over half of the XRP in existence and sells it off each quarter to pay for advancements. Due to the hundreds of millions of XRP going into the ecosystem every quarter, its value is diluting, similar to how inflation damages the United States dollar value. 

This inflation problem is the most likely reason it’s keeping the value of XRP low, despite its continued use and various new partnerships. However, there’s still a chance for the price to rise, even if it takes a few years. 

 

Ripple XRP is Still Under $0.55; Can It Hit $3 Again?

Keep in mind that with all of these partnerships and developments, most associates are only testing the use of XRP in their financial systems. Very few are utilizing XRP full time, which means it could be a while before the price goes up due to use case. 

However, one must remember that XRP’s use case is a global one. Eventually, banks and financial institutions worldwide may start to use it, increasing the price as they buy into the network. On top of this, once all of these networks are established, Ripple won’t have to sell as much XRP as it does every quarter, so they won’t be diluting the value as much. 

Of course, this is assuming XRP becomes the international currency of choice for financial institutions. Part of the appeal of Ripple over other cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin is that it’s stable. There’s less volatility to deal with, making it an ideal way to move money internationally. 

One popular XRP enthusiast and trader, Robert Art, has tweeted a Ripple price prediction in which he says XRP will go above $10 in a matter of time. 

Basically, Art believes in the inherent value of XRP and that as companies take it on, the price may rise in due time. 

 

 

Recommended article: Why Invest in Ripple? 

Is Ripple About to Partner with SWIFT?

Cryptocurrency analysts have been contemplating a Ripple/SWIFT partnership for the better part of two years. While some are committed to the idea that both platforms remain serious rivals, others are confident the two will eventually join hands and expand on each other’s technological capabilities.

What Put These Ideas in People’s Heads?

Last October, Ripple announced plans to attend the Sibos Conference. The event occurred in Sydney, Australia, and was hosted by representatives of SWIFT. Sibos features some of the biggest leaders in finance discussing technology and strategies for expanding the globe’s digital economy. The event spawned further rumors that both companies were brewing something big in secret.

However, neither venture has officiated plans to work with the other party. In fact, Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse recently denied to Bloomberg that his company has any intention of partnering with SWIFT in the future, citing SWIFT’s inability to remain focused and up-to-date regarding the latest technology. He claimed SWIFT is not blockchain ready, which could ultimately get in the way of product development…

Working Behind the Curtains

Once again, there are whispers this could change. In late January, SWIFT took one step closer towards blockchain adoption by announcing that it would launch a proof-of-concept (PoC) gateway known as GPI Link that could allow the blockchain software firm R3 to connect SWIFT payments. The news came by way of the company’s CEO Gottfried Leibbrandt, who sat right next to Brad Garlinghouse on a joint panel at the Paris Fintech Forum.

Garlinghouse has commented that Ripple executes cross-border payments – just like SWIFT – but on a blockchain basis, which makes them a direct competitor. In addition, Garlinghouse claims that Ripple’s cross-border system xRapid is considerably faster than SWIFT, sometimes requiring only two minutes or less to initiate payments. He was also critical of SWIFT for being too “centralized,” and it sounds like a joint effort between both ventures is not meant to be.

Connecting the Dots

However, R3 has confirmed that SWIFT’s GPI is integrating Corda Settler, an open-source application designed to help users settle transactions with cryptographic proof. Traditional monies can be exchanged for cryptocurrency and vice versa, though at press time, the only virtual currency available for payment settlement through Corda is XRP, the official asset of Ripple.

This is again leading observers to speculate on whether Ripple and SWIFT will ever set aside their differences and work with each other, though it has not yet been confirmed whether SWIFT will utilize the crypto-based abilities of Corda. Leibbrandt has commented that problems often stem between banks and organizations that work in crypto due to ongoing volatility in the market, and thus he remains wary of XRP.

We’re Just Too Fast!

Garlinghouse fired back at these statements, claiming there was no risk of volatility considering how fast Ripple can initiate payments.

“I hear people talk about volatility, and I feel like they’re propagating misinformation,” he stated boldly. “Mathematically, there’s less volatility risk in an XRP transaction than there is in a fiat transaction.”

Adding even more fuel to the “rumors fire,” Garlinghouse has mentioned he is open to hiring Leibbbrandt – who is retiring from his position with SWIFT this summer – as a future member of Ripple’s growing team.

white house-ripple

Trump Administration is in Talks with Ripple

In a recent interview, Ripple’s Chief Market Strategist Cory Johnson revealed that Ripple had been in regular talks with the Trump administration, meeting with both regulators and politicians.

“There’s clearly a lot of homework going on. The White House in particular seems to be thinking about what it means to have 80% of bitcoin mining taking place in China and the majority of ether mining taking place in China, “ Johnson said. “When you look at XRP, there is no mining, so from a foreign-control aspect or from an environmental aspect, XRP is a very different beast. And in conversations we’ve had with the administration, they seem to get that and think it might matter.”

While it is not perfectly clear what this means for Ripple’s trajectory in the short and long term, it suggests, along with other recent announcements, rising momentum for both the the XRP currency as well as for the real-time digital payment platform.

 

swell-ripple-conference
Ripple.com

Recent SWELL Conference Generated Excitement

Former US President Bill Clinton delivered the keynote speech at Ripple’s two-day SWELL conference in San Francisco earlier this month, where he praised the possibilities of the blockchain. “This whole blockchain deal has the potential it does only because it’s applicable across national borders and income groups, the permutations and possibilities are staggeringly great,” Clinton said.

The SWELL conference also brought announcements that three companies — Mercury FX, Cuallix, and Catalyst Corporate Federal Credit Union are now using xRapid, which enables XRP to carry out transactions in “a matter of minutes.” This marks the first time XRP will will be used in commercial application by financial services firms.

“I’m really excited to bring the product into the market at a time when there is a lot of skepticism about digital assets and their real use case,” said Asheesh Birla, Ripple’s senior vice president of product. “Here’s something where we’re finding a ton of value and providing a ton of value to our customers to move money more efficiently.”

Upcoming Bakkt Launch Could Have Major Impact

Amidst all of the excitement surrounding Ripple, there is a larger launch scheduled in a few weeks that is projected to be the biggest crypto event to happen this year: Bakkt. 

The International Continental Exchange (ICE), which is the driving force launching Bakkt, describes the cryptocurrency startup’s mission “to serve as a scalable on-ramp for institutional, merchant, and consumer participation in digital assets by promoting greater efficiency, security, and utility.” With a timeline to begin testing and onboarding in November, and trading and warehousing in December, Bakkt, too, could help drive the momentum for Ripple and other cryptocurrencies as 2018 comes to a close.

ripple-take-over-SWIFT

Three Reasons Ripple Could Reach the $10 Mark By the End of 2018

July was been a big month for Bitcoin, not least of which included Bitcoin reaching a two-month high as well as increased excitement surrounding the possibility of an upcoming Bitcoin ETF.

Similarly, Ripple has also experienced a lot of momentum last month. It was just announced that former US president Bill Clinton will headline Ripple’s Swell conference later this year, while Australia’s first regulated cryptocurrency exchange Independent Reserve also announced that it would be launching Ripple (XRP) trading.

Ripple is continuing to build its reputation as an innovative cross-border payments platform, and many crypto experts are bullish about its long-term price predictions. In fact, some pundits think the possibility of Ripple reaching near the $10 mark by the end of 2018 is very attainable. Here are a few reasons why.

Ripple Has a Growing Client Base

As of June 2018, Ripple has a reported 120 customers on its network including Bank of America, Credit Agricole, Mizuho Financial Group and Santander, and the Q2 report revealed that the customer base has continued to grow.

“We’re seeing customers like Western Union, Moneygram – they’re leaning in and using our tools to solve a payment problem. And this payments problem is truly measured in the trillions of dollars,” Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse said.

Ripple’s Global Head of Strategic Accounts Marcus Treacher also has a lot to say about the growing institutional interest in Ripple. “Blockchain technology is being adopted by the mainstream, including the biggest financial institutions in the world. They see value in our solution not only because it can increase their bottom line, but because it enables them to offer their customers an enhanced payments service, ultimately helping them to gain market share and free-up capital for other investments and business activities.”

Ripple Network is Scalable

One of Bitcoin’s biggest challenges is its lack of scalability. One Bitcoin block is mined every ten minutes, and the legacy Bitcoin blockchain only process 4-7 transactions per second. While the Lightning Network’s off-chain solution presents a powerful alternative, the technology is still in development.

Ripple, meanwhile, has already established itself as a platform that can support 1,500 transactions per second, ultimately scaling to handle the same throughput as Visa. In addition, Ripple transactions are far cheaper than Bitcoin: one Ripple transaction is a fraction of a cent, while Bitcoin transaction fees can range to nearly $30.

Financial institutions value quick and affordable settlement of transactions. Currently, international movement of funds can sometimes take  as long as 8 to 14 days. Ripple’s enterprise software solution xCurrent offers a critical advantage in that it enables banks to instantly settle cross-border payments with end-to-end tracking. With a reputation as the most demonstrably scalable blockchain, and an ever-growing list of clients, it seems very likely that Ripple’s price point will continue to rise.

Ripple Serves Many Practical Uses

Ripple has many use cases beyond the cryptocurrency XRP.

As discussed, there is the xCurrent cross-border payments solution, but there is also xRapid, which is for payment providers and other financial institutions who want to minimize liquidity costs while improving their customer experience, and xVia, which is for corporates, payment providers, and banks who want to send payments across various networks using a standard interface.

Perhaps one of the biggest biggest indicators that Ripple is headed for a price increase is the startup’s underlying belief about the importance of working with mainstream financial institutions, rather than against them. “Ripple has a grand vision of enabling an internet of value. For us, it’s how to catalyze that vision and connecting the repositories of value – those repositories are the banks. Those who are in the crypto community who view them as the enemy are an obstacle to their success,” Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse said.

cryptocurrency-guide-infographic

[Infographic] Cryptocurrency Guide Brought to You by BitcoinIRA.com

UPDATE June 11, 2019: Image updated with the latest coin stats and our newest tokens.

 

If you’re looking to invest in cryptocurrency for your IRA or 401(K) with BitcoinIRA.com, you probably want to know more of the specifics about each digital currency we support. That’s why we created this comprehensive cryptocurrency guide, which breaks down the definitions, key characteristics, and price projections for Bitcoin, Ethereum, Ripple, Litecoin, Bitcoin Cash, and Ethereum Classic.

 

It’s an exciting time to plan for retirement. Thought leaders in the crypto space are predicting price increases for each of these six currencies by the end of year. To get started with purchasing digital currencies in your IRA or 401(k), contact BitcoinIRA.com at (877) 936-7175.

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