🕷️ Crawler Inspector

URL Lookup

Direct Parameter Lookup

Raw Queries and Responses

1. Shard Calculation

Query:

Response:

Calculated Shard: 156 (from laksa149)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:

curl -X POST \
  'http://laksa156.int.ahrefs:8124/' \
  -H 'Content-Type: text/plain' \
  -H 'X-ClickHouse-Database: crawler3' \
  -H 'Authorization: Basic YXBpOg==' \
  -d 'SELECT getAhrefsURLFromUnparsed(src_unparsed) AS found_url, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(download_stamp), 0) AS crawl_time, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(props_url_first_seen), 0) AS first_indexed_time, download_http_code AS http_code, src_unparsed AS src_unparsed, src_root_hash AS src_root_hash, history_drop_reason AS history_drop_reason, meta_title AS meta_title, meta_descriptions AS meta_descriptions, attrs_boilerpipe_text AS attrs_boilerpipe_text, attrs_markdown AS attrs_markdown, attrs_readable_markdown AS attrs_readable_markdown, meta_canonical AS meta_canonical, ml_categories_json AS ml_categories_json, ml_types_json AS ml_types_json, ml_intent_types_json AS ml_intent_types_json, meta_language AS meta_language, attrs_author AS attrs_author, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(attrs_publish_time), 0) AS attrs_publish_time, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(attrs_original_publish_time), 0) AS attrs_original_publish_time, ifNull(attrs_is_republished, 0) AS attrs_is_republished, ifNull(attrs_nr_words, 0) AS attrs_nr_words, ifNull(attrs_boilerpipe_nr_words, 0) AS attrs_boilerpipe_nr_words, ifNull(body_ext_links_number, 0) AS body_ext_links_number, ifNull(body_int_links_number, 0) AS body_int_links_number, ifNull(meta_nofollow, 0) AS meta_nofollow, ifNull(meta_noarchive, 0) AS meta_noarchive, ifNull(props_was_rendered, 0) AS props_was_rendered, ifNull(src_redirect, \'\') AS src_redirect, ifNull(download_time_msec, 0) AS download_time_msec, ifNull(download_ttfb_msec, 0) AS download_ttfb_msec, ifNull(download_size, 0) AS download_size FROM crawler3.page_info_local FINAL PREWHERE (src_root_hash, src_unparsed) IN ((getAhrefsRootHashFromUnparsed(getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.forbes.com/advisor/investing/cryptocurrency/what-is-bitcoin/\')), getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.forbes.com/advisor/investing/cryptocurrency/what-is-bitcoin/\'))) FORMAT JSONEachRow'

Response:

{"found_url":"https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/investing\/cryptocurrency\/what-is-bitcoin\/","crawl_time":1776772184,"first_indexed_time":1649771780,"http_code":200,"src_unparsed":"com,forbes!www,\/advisor\/investing\/cryptocurrency\/what-is-bitcoin\/ s443","src_root_hash":"7074450602188365556","history_drop_reason":null,"meta_title":"What Is Bitcoin? How Does It Work? – Forbes Advisor","meta_descriptions":["Bitcoin is a decentralized digital currency that you can buy, sell and exchange directly, without an intermediary like a bank."],"attrs_boilerpipe_text":"Bitcoin (BTC), launched in 2009, is by far the biggest cryptocurrency. Indeed, its size relative to other cryptos is of such that, collectively, others are known as “altcoins.”\nBut bitcoin’s size does not mean it is more likely to prove a good investment, or that it is less likely to lose value. Like all \ncryptocurrencies\n, it is a highly volatile digital asset whose worth is heavily influenced by market sentiment.\nBitcoin runs on a blockchain-based network that’s powered by global users. Bitcoin allows peer-to-peer financial transactions without the use of a centralized financial intermediary.\nCentralized government orders issue legal tender (fiat currency) like the U.S. dollar (USD) or the British pound (GBP). In contrast, bitcoin is a virtual currency that operates on a public distributed ledger called a blockchain. Bitcoin is often referred to as a decentralized currency, too.\nThe table below shows some key differences between fiat currency and bitcoin.\nFiat Currency vs. Bitcoin\nFiat currency\nBitcoin\nPhysical medium\nDigital medium\nGovernment can produce as needed\nLimited supply\nIssued by governments\nProduced by computers\nCentralized\nDecentralized\nWith bitcoin, transactions are verified by “network nodes.” Bitcoin miners bundle these verified transactions into blocks. Miners for BTC use high-powered computers to solve complex mathematical puzzles. This then creates new blocks of verified transactions on the blockchain.\nAs with most cryptocurrencies, bitcoin is created via cryptographic computer technology known as a blockchain. The blockchain, and bitcoin for that matter, was created by a person or group using the pseudonym Satoshi Nakamoto. Bitcoin’s creator said there was a need for “an electronic payment system based on cryptographic proof instead of trust, allowing any two willing parties to transact directly with each other without the need for a trusted third party.”\nThe first \nexchanged bitcoin\n with a recorded price was in late 2009. A user in a bitcoin online forum exchanged 5,050 BTC for $5.02, using PayPal. At the time, BTC was valued about one-tenth of a cent.\nFind The Best Crypto Exchanges\nWe've combed through the leading exchange offerings, and reams of data, to determine the best crypto exchanges.\nHow Does Bitcoin Work?\nBitcoin is built on a blockchain, which acts as a digital ledger. The blockchain is a linked body of data, comprised of units called blocks. These blocks contain information, including addresses (public keys), values and identifying codes. Entries are strung together in chronological order, creating a digital chain of blocks.\nFor transaction blocks to be added to the bitcoin blockchain, blocks must be verified. The process of adding new transactions to the bitcoin blockchain is bitcoin mining, using a proof-of-work construct. The proof-of-work method alongside the consensus rules and digital signatures helps to fight against fraud.\nHow Does Bitcoin Mining Work?\nBitcoin mining is one way to obtain BTC. With a proof-of-work method, bitcoin miners compete to validate blocks of bitcoin transactions and add them to the crypto’s blockchain—an indelible ledger of all bitcoin transactions since the beginning. If they are successful, they are rewarded with an amount of actual bitcoins.\nThe size of this reward has reduced over the years (it is currently 3.125 BTC per block) to control the supply of new bitcoins.\nFor every 210,000 blocks mined, the network undergoes a “halving” process. With a halving, the BTC reward is cut in half. The next halving event is expected to occur in 2028 with block number 1,050,000. The BTC reward will then be halved from 3.125 BTC per block to 1.5625 BTC.\nHalving Event\nDate\nBlock\nReward Before Halving\nPost-Halving Reward\n1st halving\nNov. 28, 2012\n210,000\n50 BTC\n25 BTC\n2nd halving\nJuly 9, 2016\n420,000\n25 BTC\n12.5 BTC\n3rd halving\nMay 11, 2020\n630,000\n12.5 BTC\n6.25 BTC\n4th halving\nApril 19, 2024\n840,000\n6.25 BTC\n3.125 BTC\n5th halving (expected)\nApril 2028\n1,050,000\n3.125 BTC\n1.5625 BTC\nThe founders of the currency set a finite limit on the total supply of bitcoins of 21 million. In February 2026, the number in circulation was nearly 20 million, meaning there is something over a million yet to be mined. Experts forecast that this won’t happen until around 2140.\nHow to Buy Bitcoin\nThere are four stages to \nbuying bitcoin\n if you are a beginner: selecting a \ncrypto exchange\n,deciding on your payment method, placing an order and choosing your method of storage.\nSelect a Crypto Exchange\nCryptocurrency is bought and sold on crypto exchanges and also on \ntrading platforms\n and apps. It is important for beginners to research the market thoroughly and find the combination of ease of use, competitive fees and high security that suits your preferences and objectives.\nYou’ll need to create an account, which will involve providing your personal information and a form of identification, such as your driving license. All this will be handled online via your chosen website or app.\nBest Crypto Exchanges\nDecide on a Payment Method\nOnce you have created an account, you’ll need to seed it with funds, usually by transferring money from your bank, although it may be possible to use a credit or debit card or payment provider.\nPlace Your Order\nOnce you’ve got cash in your account, you can click as instructed to place an order and become a bitcoin owner. Only the very wealthy can afford to buy even one bitcoin (1 BTC) outright at current prices, but at the moment, you can buy a fraction of one, called a satoshi, for less than a penny. (A bitcoin is comprised of 100 million satoshis.)\nChoose Your Storage Method\nIt’s worth noting that bitcoin has no physical form—it is represented by crypto keys, and it is these that need to be stored and used as proof of ownership.\nMany exchanges and platforms offer wallets where you can store your crypto keys, but there is an element of risk here as hackers will prey on exchanges looking for easy loot. That’s why security is such an important issue.\nSome exchanges have insurance schemes designed to reimburse customers if the exchange is a victim of theft or fraud, and an increasing number of hold users’ keys in cold storage, which means it is offline and further out of reach of the crooks.\nYou also have the option to transfer your bitcoin keys from an exchange to your own \ncrypto wallet\n, which may be offline (cold) or managed by a third-party custodian.\nHot Wallets vs. Cold Wallets\nHot wallets are connected to the internet and protected by a password. The beauty of them is that they can be accessed immediately from anywhere you can connect your device to the internet, but the downside is the risk of hacking and theft.\nThe hot wallet provider, such as a crypto exchange, will be engaged in a constant battle to outwit criminals and keep the wallet content safe.\nWith a cold wallet, the storage facility is offline, placing an “air gap” between the contents and any would-be hackers, although this gap is closed when the wallet is connected, making the wallet vulnerable while the owner is online.\nHow To Sell Bitcoin\nSelling bitcoin through a cryptocurrency exchange is as straightforward as buying it. You simply follow the signposting on your screen, indicate how much of your BTC holding you’d like to sell, and click to proceed.\nDepending on the exchange, you may be offered the choice of whether to sell at the current market price (known as the “spot” price) or only to sell when the price reaches a certain level, either below or higher than the current price.\nWhen the sale is complete and the cash lands in your account, you can transfer it to your bank (you may face a withdrawal fee to cover the transaction costs). If you make a profit on your bitcoin trades, you may be liable for capital gains tax.\nFrequently Asked Questions (FAQs)\nThe only way to buy bitcoin directly is by using a fiat currency such as U.S. dollars or another cryptocurrency, usually through a crypto exchange.\nYou can own bitcoin indirectly by investing in \nbitcoin exchange traded funds\n (ETFs) that hold the actual currency. A few examples of bitcoin spot ETFs include iShares Bitcoin Trust (IBIT), Fidelity Wise Origin Bitcoin Fund (FBTC) and Grayscale Bitcoin Trust ETF (GBTC). Most major \nonline brokerages\n offer access to these leading bitcoin funds. For instance, \nFidelity\n offers the Fidelity Wise Origin Bitcoin Fund, in addition to other crypto funds like the Fidelity Crypto Industry and Digital Payments ETF (FDIG).\nYou could also consider buying shares in companies that make a virtue of owning large amounts of bitcoin in their corporate reserves. Strategy and Tesla are two examples.\nNo. Bitcoin’s price is volatile, and the purpose of an inflation hedge is to provide reliability and security in the battle against the effect of rising prices.\nYou can buy, sell and transact with bitcoin on PayPal sites in some countries, including within the U.S.","attrs_markdown":"[Subscribe To Newsletters](https:\/\/account.forbes.com\/newsletters)\n\n- [Subscribe To Newsletters](https:\/\/account.forbes.com\/newsletters)\n- [Trump Tracker](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/trump\/)\n- [Billionaires](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/worlds-billionaires\/)\n  Billionaires\n  \n  - [View All Billionaires](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/worlds-billionaires\/)\n  - [World's Billionaires](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/billionaires\/)\n  - [Forbes 400](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/forbes-400\/)\n  - [America's Richest Self-Made Women](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/self-made-women\/)\n  - [China's Richest](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/china-billionaires\/)\n  - [India's Richest](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/india-billionaires\/)\n  - [Indonesia's Richest](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/indonesia-billionaires\/)\n  - [Korea's Richest](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/korea-billionaires\/list\/)\n  - [Thailand's Richest](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/thailand-billionaires\/list\/)\n  - [Japan's Richest](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/japan-billionaires\/list\/)\n  - [Australia's Richest](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/australia-billionaires\/)\n  - [Taiwan's Richest](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/taiwan-billionaires\/)\n  - [Singapore's Richest](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/singapore-billionaires\/)\n  - [Philippines' Richest](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/philippines-billionaires\/)\n  - [Hong Kong's Richest](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/hong-kong-billionaires\/)\n  - [Malaysia's Richest](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/malaysia-billionaires\/)\n  - [Money & Politics](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/money-politics\/)\n  - [2024 Election](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/2024-election\/)\n- [Innovation](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/innovation\/)\n  Innovation\n  \n  - [View All Innovation](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/innovation\/)\n  - [AI](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/ai\/)\n  - [Big Data](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/big-data\/)\n  - [Cloud](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/cloud\/)\n  - [Cloud 100](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/cloud100\/)\n  - [Consumer Tech](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/consumer-tech\/)\n  - [Creator Economy](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/creator-economy\/)\n  - [Cybersecurity](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/cybersecurity\/)\n  - [Digital Transformation](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/digital-transformation\/)\n  - [Enterprise Commerce](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/topics\/enterprise-commerce\/)\n  - [Enterprise Security and Protection](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/topics\/enterprise-security-and-protection\/)\n  - [Enterprise Tech](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/enterprise-tech\/)\n  - [Enterprise Growth Strategy](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/topics\/enterprise-growth-strategy\/)\n  - [Future Of Work](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/future-of-work)\n  - [Gaming](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/gaming\/)\n  - [greenhouse Insights: How AI Can Help You Make Your Smartest Hire Yet \\| Paid Program](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/sites\/insights-greenhousecom\/2024\/08\/14\/how-ai-can-help-you-make-your-smartest-hire-yet\/)\n  - [Healthcare](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/healthcare)\n  - [Innovation Rules](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/innovation-rules)\n  - [Retail Industry](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/topics\/retail-industry\/)\n  - [SAP BrandVoice \\| Paid Program](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/sites\/sap\/)\n  - [Science](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/science\/)\n  - [Social Media](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/social-media\/)\n  - [Sustainability & Climate](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/sustainability\/)\n  - [Transportation](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/transportation\/)\n  - [Venture Capital](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/venture-capital\/)\n  - [Technology](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/sites\/technology\/)\n  - [VMware BrandVoice \\| Paid Program](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/sites\/vmware\/)\n  - [Zendesk BrandVoice \\| Paid Program](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/sites\/zendesk)\n- [Leadership](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/leadership\/)\n  Leadership\n  \n  - [View All Leadership](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/leadership\/)\n  - [Careers](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/careers\/)\n  - [CEO Network](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/ceo-network)\n  - [CFO Network](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/cfo-network\/)\n  - [CHRO Network](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/chro-network\/)\n  - [CIO Network](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/cio-network\/)\n  - [CMO Network](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/cmo-network\/)\n  - [CxO](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/cxo)\n  - [Diversity, Equity & Inclusion](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/diversity-inclusion\/)\n  - [Education](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/education\/)\n  - [Forbes EQ \\| Paid Program](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/sites\/forbeseq)\n  - [ForbesBLK](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/blk-leadership\/)\n  - [ForbesWomen](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/women-at-forbes\/)\n  - [Leadership Strategy](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/leadership-strategy\/)\n  - [Under 30](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/under30\/)\n  - [Working Remote](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/working-remote\/)\n  - [Over 50](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/over-50\/)\n  - [Deloitte BrandVoice \\| Paid Program](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/sites\/deloitte\/)\n  - [Dell Technologies BrandVoice \\| Paid Program](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/sites\/delltechnologies\/)\n- [Money](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/money\/)\n  Money\n  \n  - [View All Money](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/money\/)\n  - [Banking & Insurance](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/banking-insurance\/)\n  - [ETFs & Mutual Funds](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/etfs-mutual-funds\/)\n  - [Fintech](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/fintech\/)\n  - [Hedge Funds & Private Equity](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/hedge-funds-private-equity\/)\n  - [Investing](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/investing\/)\n  - [Investor Hub](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/sites\/investor-hub\/)\n  - [Markets](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/markets\/)\n  - [Personal Finance](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/personal-finance\/)\n  - [Premium Investing Newsletters](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/newsletters\/)\n  - [Retirement](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/retirement\/)\n  - [Taxes](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/taxes\/)\n  - [Top Advisor \\| SHOOK](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/top-advisor-shook\/)\n  - [Wealth Management](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/wealth-management\/)\n- [Forbes Digital Assets](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/digital-assets\/)\n  Forbes Digital Assets\n  \n  - [View All Forbes Digital Assets](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/digital-assets\/)\n  - [Home](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/digital-assets\/)\n  - [Web3 Community](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/digital-assets\/community\/)\n  - [News](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/digital-assets\/news\/)\n  - [Crypto Prices](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/digital-assets\/crypto-prices\/)\n  - [NFT Prices](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/digital-assets\/nft-prices\/)\n  - [Research](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/digital-assets\/research\/)\n  - [Learn](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/digital-assets\/learn\/)\n    \n    [Crypto Basics](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/digital-assets\/learn\/crypto-basics\/)     [BTC](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/digital-assets\/learn\/btc\/)     [DeFi](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/digital-assets\/learn\/defi\/)     [Web3 Education](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/digital-assets\/learn\/web3-education\/)     [NFTs](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/digital-assets\/learn\/nfts\/)     [Crypto Investments](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/digital-assets\/learn\/crypto-investments\/)\n  - [Events](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/digital-assets\/events\/)\n  - [Crypto Portfolios](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/digital-assets\/crypto-advisor-portfolio\/)\n- [Investment Newsletters](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/newsletters\/)\n- [Business](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/business\/)\n  Business\n  \n  - [View All Business](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/business\/)\n  - [Aerospace & Defense](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/aerospace-defense\/)\n  - [Energy](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/energy\/)\n  - [Food & Drink](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/food-drink\/)\n  - [Hollywood & Entertainment](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/hollywood-entertainment\/)\n  - [Law](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/law\/)\n  - [Manufacturing](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/manufacturing\/)\n  - [Media](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/media\/)\n  - [Policy](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/policy\/)\n  - [Retail](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/retail\/)\n  - [SportsMoney](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/sportsmoney\/)\n  - [Entertainment Digest](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/sites\/entertainment\/)\n- [Small Business](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/small-business\/)\n  Small Business\n  \n  - [View All Small Business](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/small-business\/)\n  - [Entrepreneurs](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/entrepreneurs\/)\n  - [Franchises](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/franchises\/)\n  - [Small Business Strategy](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/small-business-strategy\/)\n- [Lifestyle](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/lifestyle\/)\n  Lifestyle\n  \n  - [View All Lifestyle](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/lifestyle\/)\n  - [Arts](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/arts\/)\n  - [Boats & Planes](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/boats-planes\/)\n  - [Cars & Bikes](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/cars-bikes\/)\n  - [Dining](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/dining\/)\n  - [ForbesLife](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/forbeslife\/)\n  - [Forbes Travel Guide](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/forbes-travel-guide\/)\n  - [Spirits](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/spirits\/)\n  - [Style & Beauty](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/style-beauty\/)\n  - [Travel](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/travel\/)\n  - [Vices](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vices\/)\n  - [Watches](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/watches-jewelry\/)\n- [Real Estate](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/real-estate)\n  Real Estate\n  \n  - [View All Real Estate](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/real-estate)\n  - [Commercial Real Estate](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/commercial-real-estate)\n  - [Forbes Global Properties](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/forbes-global-properties)\n  - [Residential Real Estate](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/residential-real-estate)\n- [Vetted](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/)\n  Vetted\n  \n  - [View All Vetted](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/)\n  - [Mattress & Sleep](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/mattress-sleep\/)\n    \n    [Bed Frames](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/mattress-sleep\/bed-frames\/)     [Mattresses](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/mattress-sleep\/mattresses\/)     [Mattress Toppers](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/mattress-sleep\/mattress-toppers\/)     [Pillows](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/mattress-sleep\/pillows\/)     [Sheets & Bedding](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/mattress-sleep\/sheets-bedding\/)     [Sleep Products](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/mattress-sleep\/sleep-products\/)\n  - [Home](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/home\/)\n    \n    [Bathroom](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/home\/bathroom\/)     [Cleaning & Laundry](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/home\/cleaning-laundry\/)     [Decor](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/home\/decor\/)     [Furniture](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/home\/furniture\/)     [Heating & Cooling](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/home\/heating-cooling\/)     [Hobbies](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/home\/hobbies\/)     [Home Office](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/home-office\/)     [Kitchen & Dining](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/home\/kitchen-dining\/)     [Outdoor](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/home\/outdoor\/)     [Pets](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/home\/pets\/)     [Storage & Organization](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/home\/storage-organization\/)     [Tools](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/home\/tools\/)     [Wine & Bar](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/home\/wine-bar\/)\n  - [Fashion](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/fashion\/)\n    \n    [Accessories](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/fashion\/accessories\/)     [Clothing](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/fashion\/clothing\/)     [Eyewear](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/fashion\/eyewear\/)     [Footwear](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/fashion\/footwear\/)     [Jewelry](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/fashion\/jewelry\/)     [Handbags & Purses](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/fashion\/handbags-purses\/)     [Lingerie & Sleepwear](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/fashion\/lingerie-sleepwear\/)     [Outdoor & Fitness Apparel](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/fashion\/outdoor-fitness-apparel\/)     [Outerwear](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/fashion\/outerwear\/)     [Watches](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/fashion\/watches\/)\n  - [Kids & Baby Gear](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/kids-baby-gear\/)\n    \n    [Baby Gear](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/kids-baby-gear\/baby-gear\/)     [Kids Clothes & Accessories](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/kids-baby-gear\/kids-clothes-accessories\/)     [Nursery](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/kids-baby-gear\/nursery\/)     [Pregnancy & Postpartum](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/kids-baby-gear\/pregnancy-postpartum\/)     [Toys & Books](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/kids-baby-gear\/toys-books\/)\n  - [Gear](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/gear\/)\n    \n    [Apparel & Accessories](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/gear\/apparel-accessories\/)     [Bikes](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/gear\/bikes\/)     [Camping & Hiking](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/gear\/camping-hiking\/)     [Climbing](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/gear\/climbing\/)     [Fishing & Hunting](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/gear\/fishing-hunting\/)     [Fitness](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/gear\/fitness\/)     [Golf](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/gear\/golf\/)     [Running](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/gear\/running\/)     [Tennis & Racket Sports](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/gear\/tennis-racket-sports\/)     [Tools & Tech](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/gear\/tools-tech\/)     [Training & Recovery](https:\/\/ww.forbes.com\/vetted\/gear\/training-recovery\/)     [Water Sports](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/gear\/water-sports\/)     [Wellness](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/gear\/wellness\/)     [Winter Sports](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/gear\/winter-sports\/)\n  - [Beauty & Grooming](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/beauty-grooming\/)\n    \n    [Haircare](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/beauty-grooming\/haircare\/)     [Makeup](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/beauty-grooming\/makeup\/)     [Nailcare](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/beauty-grooming\/nailcare\/)     [Shaving](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/beauty-grooming\/shaving\/)     [Skincare](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/beauty-grooming\/skincare\/)     [Personal Products](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/beauty-grooming\/personal-products\/)     [Wellness & Self Care](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/beauty-grooming\/wellness-self-care\/)\n  - [Tech & Electronics](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/tech-electronics\/)\n    \n    [Audio](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/tech-electronics\/audio\/)     [Cameras](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/tech-electronics\/cameras\/)     [Computers, Tablets & Accessories](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/tech-electronics\/computers-tablets-accessories\/)     [Gaming](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/tech-electronics\/gaming\/)     [Home Office](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/tech-electronics\/home-office\/)     [Online Tools](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/tech-electronics\/online-tools\/)     [Smart Home Devices](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/tech-electronics\/smart-home-devices\/)     [Smartphones, Smartwatches & Accessories](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/tech-electronics\/smartphones-smartwatches-accessories\/)     [Streaming](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/tech-electronics\/streaming\/)     [TVs](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/tech-electronics\/tvs\/)\n  - [Travel](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/travel\/)\n    \n    [Cruises](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/travel\/cruises\/)     [Hotels & Lodging](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/travel\/hotels-lodging\/)     [Luggage](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/travel\/luggage\/)     [Travel Products](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/travel\/travel-products\/)\n  - [Gifts](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/gifts\/)\n    \n    [Father's Day](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/gifts\/fathers-day\/)     [Holiday](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/gifts\/holiday\/)     [Mother's Day](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/gifts\/mothers-day\/)     [Valentine's Day](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/gifts\/valentines-day\/)     [Wedding](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/gifts\/wedding\/)\n  - [Deals](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/deals\/)\n    \n    [Black Friday](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/deals\/black-friday\/)     [Cyber Monday](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/deals\/cyber-monday\/)     [Amazon Prime Day](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/deals\/amazon-prime-day\/)     [Beauty & Grooming](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/deals\/beauty-grooming\/)     [Big Sales](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/deals\/big-sales\/)     [Fashion](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/deals\/fashion\/)     [Gear](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/deals\/gear\/)     [Home](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/deals\/home\/)     [Tech & Electronics](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/deals\/tech-electronics\/)     [Travel Deals](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/deals\/travel-deals\/)     [Mattress & Sleep](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/vetted\/deals\/mattress-sleep\/)\n- [Forbes 101](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/forbes-101\/)\n- [Advisor](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/)\n  Advisor\n  \n  - [View All Advisor](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/)\n  - [Credit Cards](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/credit-cards\/)\n    \n    [Best Credit Cards](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/credit-cards\/best-credit-cards\/)     [Travel Credit Cards](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/credit-cards\/best-travel-credit-cards\/)     [0% APR Credit Cards](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/credit-cards\/best-0-apr-credit-cards\/)     [Balance Transfer Credit Cards](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/credit-cards\/best\/balance-transfer\/)     [Business Credit Cards](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/credit-cards\/best\/business\/)     [Best First Credit Card](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/credit-cards\/best\/first-credit-card\/)\n  - [Mortgages & Loans](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/mortgages\/)\n    \n    [Best Mortgage Lenders](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/mortgages\/best-mortgage-lenders\/)     [Mortgage Refinance Lenders](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/mortgages\/refinance\/best-mortgage-refinance-lenders\/)     [Personal Loans](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/personal-loans\/best-personal-loans\/)     [Business Loans](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/business-loans\/best-small-business-loans\/)     [Bad Credit Loans](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/personal-loans\/bad-credit-loans\/)     [Debt Consolidation Loans](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/personal-loans\/debt-consolidation-loans\/)     [Debt Relief Companies](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/debt-relief\/best-debt-relief-companies\/)     [Student Loans Refinance](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/student-loans\/best-student-loan-refinance-lenders\/)     [Private Student Loans](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/student-loans\/best-private-student-loans\/)\n  - [Banking](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/banking\/)\n    \n    [Best CD Rates](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/banking\/cds\/best-cd-rates\/)     [High Yield Savings Accounts](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/banking\/savings\/best-high-yield-savings-accounts\/)     [Money Market Account](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/banking\/best-money-market-accounts\/)     [Checking Accounts](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/banking\/checking\/best-checking-accounts\/)     [Business Checking Accounts](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/banking\/checking\/best-business-checking-accounts\/)     [Budgeting Apps](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/banking\/best-budgeting-apps\/)     [Best Online Banks](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/banking\/best-online-banks\/)\n  - [Insurance](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/life-insurance\/best-life-insurance-companies\/)\n    \n    [Health Insurance Companies](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/health-insurance\/best-health-insurance-companies\/)     [Medicare](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/health-insurance\/medicare\/)     [Life Insurance Companies](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/life-insurance\/best-life-insurance-companies\/)     [Best Car Insurance Companies](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/car-insurance\/best-car-insurance-companies\/)     [Cheapest Car Insurance Companies](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/car-insurance\/cheapest-car-insurance\/)     [Pet Insurance Companies](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/pet-insurance\/best-pet-insurance\/)     [Travel Insurance Companies](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/travel-insurance\/best-travel-insurance\/)     [Homeowners Insurance Companies](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/homeowners-insurance\/best-homeowners-insurance-companies\/)     [Best Business Insurance Companies](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/business-insurance\/best-small-business-insurance\/)\n  - [Business Services](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/business\/)\n    \n    [How To Start A Business](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/business\/how-to-start-a-business\/)     [LLC Services](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/business\/best-llc-service\/)     [Payroll Services](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/business\/software\/best-payroll-services\/)     [HR Software](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/business\/software\/best-human-resource-management-systems\/)     [HRIS Systems](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/business\/software\/hris-systems\/)     [PEO Services](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/business\/software\/best-peo-services\/)     [Applicant tracking Systems](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/business\/best-applicant-tracking-systems\/)     [Domain Registrars](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/business\/software\/best-domain-registrar\/)     [Hosting Services](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/business\/software\/best-web-hosting-services\/)     [Website Builders](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/business\/software\/best-website-builders\/)     [Ecomm Platforms](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/business\/software\/best-ecommerce-platform\/)     [Landing Page Builders](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/business\/software\/best-landing-page-builder\/)     [VOIP Services](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/business\/software\/best-voip-service\/)     [Answering Services](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/business\/software\/best-answering-services\/)     [Project Management Software](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/business\/software\/best-project-management-software\/)     [Task Management Software](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/business\/software\/best-task-management-software\/)     [Gantt Chart Software](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/business\/software\/best-gantt-chart-software\/)     [VPNs](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/business\/software\/best-vpn\/)     [Anti Virus Software](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/business\/software\/best-antivirus-software\/)     [Password Managers](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/business\/software\/best-password-managers\/)\n  - [Home Services](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/home-improvement\/)\n    \n    [Moving Companies](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/home-improvement\/moving-services\/best-moving-companies\/)     [Long Distance Moving Companies](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/home-improvement\/moving-services\/best-long-distance-moving-companies\/)     [Car Shipping Companies](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/home-improvement\/moving-services\/best-car-shipping-companies\/)     [Home Warranty Companies](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/home-improvement\/home-warranty\/best-home-warranty-companies\/)     [Solar Companies](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/home-improvement\/solar\/best-solar-companies\/)     [Solar Panels](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/home-improvement\/solar\/best-solar-panels\/)     [Home Security Companies](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/home-improvement\/home-security\/best-home-security-companies\/)     [Home Security Systems](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/home-improvement\/home-security\/best-home-security-systems\/)     [Internet Providers](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/home-improvement\/internet\/best-internet-providers\/)     [Cheapest Internet Providers](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/home-improvement\/internet\/cheapest-internet-plans\/)     [Fastest High Speed Internet Providers](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/home-improvement\/internet\/fastest-high-speed-internet-provider\/)     [Pest Control Companies](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/home-improvement\/pest-control\/best-pest-control-companies\/)\n  - [Education](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/education\/)\n  - [Forbes Advisor UK](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/uk\/advisor\/)\n  - [Forbes Advisor CA](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/ca\/)\n  - [Forbes Advisor AU](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/au\/)\n- [Health](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/health\/)\n  Health\n  \n  - [View All Health](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/health\/)\n  - [Mental Health](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/health\/mind\/)\n    \n    [Best Online Therapy](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/health\/mind\/best-online-therapy\/)     [Online Therapy that Takes Insurance](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/health\/mind\/best-online-therapy-that-takes-insurance\/)     [Online Psychiatrists](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/health\/mind\/best-online-psychiatry\/)     [Best Online Dating Sites & Apps](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/health\/dating\/best-online-dating-websites\/)     [Best Senior Dating Sites](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/health\/dating\/best-senior-dating-sites\/)     [Best LGBTQ Dating Sites](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/health\/dating\/best-lgbtq-dating-sites\/)\n  - [CBD](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/health\/cbd\/)\n    \n    [CBD Gummies](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/health\/cbd\/best-cbd-gummies\/)     [CBD Oil](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/health\/cbd\/best-cbd-oil\/)     [CBD Creams](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/health\/cbd\/best-cbd-creams\/)     [CBD for Anxiety](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/health\/cbd\/cbd-for-anxiety\/)     [CBD for Pain](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/health\/cbd\/best-cbd-oil-for-pain\/)\n  - [Supplements](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/health\/supplements\/)\n    \n    [Protein Powder](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/health\/supplements\/best-protein-powders\/)     [Preworkout](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/health\/supplements\/best-pre-workout\/)     [Collagen Powders](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/health\/supplements\/best-collagen-powders\/)     [Creatine Supplements](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/health\/supplements\/best-creatine-supplements\/)     [CoQ10 Supplements](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/health\/supplements\/coq10-supplements\/)\n  - [Hearing Health](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/health\/hearing-aids\/)\n    \n    [Best Hearing Aids](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/health\/hearing-aids\/best-hearing-aids\/)     [OTC Hearing Aids](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/health\/hearing-aids\/best-otc-hearing-aids\/)     [Affordable Hearing Aids](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/health\/hearing-aids\/best-affordable-hearing-aids\/)\n  - [Medical Devices](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/health\/medical-alert-systems\/)\n    \n    [Best Medical Alert Systems](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/health\/medical-alert-systems\/best-medical-alert-systems\/)     [Best Medical Alert Systems with Fall Detection](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/health\/medical-alert-systems\/best-medical-alert-systems-with-fall-detection\/)     [Best Online Dating Sites & Apps](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/health\/dating\/best-online-dating-websites\/)     [Best Dating Apps for Serious Relationships](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/health\/dating\/best-dating-apps-for-serious-relationships\/)     [Best Senior Dating Sites](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/health\/dating\/best-senior-dating-sites\/)     [Best LGBTQ Dating Sites](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/health\/dating\/best-lgbtq-dating-sites\/)\n  - [Diet & Weight Loss](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/health\/weight-loss\/)\n    \n    [Best Weight Loss Plans](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/health\/weight-loss\/best-weight-loss-program\/)\n- [Lists](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/lists\/)\n- [Video](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/video\/)\n- [Newsletters](https:\/\/account.forbes.com\/newsletters\/?utm_source=forbes&utm_medium=featured&utm_campaign=navigation)\n  Newsletters\n  \n  - [View All Newsletters](https:\/\/account.forbes.com\/newsletters\/?utm_source=forbes&utm_medium=featured&utm_campaign=navigation)\n  - [Crypto Confidential](http:\/\/bit.ly\/2Y2rVX8)\n  - [Editorial Newsletters](https:\/\/account.forbes.com\/newsletters\/?utm_source=forbes&utm_medium=featured&utm_campaign=navigation)\n  - [Investing Digest](https:\/\/bit.ly\/2Rkd9oN)\n  - [Premium Investing Newsletters](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/newsletters\/)\n- [Forbes Games](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/games\/)\n  Forbes Games\n  \n  - [View All Forbes Games](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/games\/)\n  - [Frase by Forbes](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/frase\/)\n  - [Pinpoint by LinkedIn](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/games\/pinpoint\/)\n  - [Queens by LinkedIn](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/games\/queens\/)\n  - [Crossclimb by LinkedIn](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/games\/crossclimb\/)\n- [Forbes Magazine](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/forbes-magazine\/#42ad043030a4)\n  Forbes Magazine\n  \n  - [View All Forbes Magazine](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/forbes-magazine\/#42ad043030a4)\n  - [Forbes Asia](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/forbesasia\/#7cb46d1d2f95)\n  - [Free Issue of Forbes](https:\/\/w1.buysub.com\/pubs\/B4\/FRB\/16-forbes_relaunch_landingpage_2freetrial.jsp?cds_mag_code=FRB&cds_page_id=241223)\n- [Latest]()\n  Latest\n  \n  - [Coronavirus Coverage](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/coronavirus\/#59d4597c20dd)\n  - [Daily Cover Stories](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/daily-cover-stories\/#78127e5b6a74)\n  - [Dark Capital](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/dark-capital\/#4bf21bb954c9)\n  - [Editors' Picks](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/editors-picks\/#15c416d878bf)\n- [Breaking News](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/news\/)\n- [Featured]()\n  Featured\n  \n  - [American Express Insights: 5 Findings That Could Reveal Your Company's Path To Payment Innovation](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/sites\/insights-american-express\/2024\/11\/26\/5-findings-that-could-reveal-your-companys-path-to-payment-innovation\/)\n  - [The CEO's Guide To Marketing](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/sites\/forbesvideo\/2024\/11\/21\/the-ceos-guide-to-marketing\/)\n  - [The Forbes CIO Next List: 2024](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/sites\/richardnieva\/2024\/11\/19\/the-forbes-cio-next-list-2024\/)\n  - [America's Top Wealth Management Teams High Net Worth](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/lists\/top-wealth-management-teams-high-net-worth\/?sh=3dff2fb023e1)\n  - [The One Who Changed Everything Video Series](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/sites\/forbesvideo\/2024\/09\/18\/the-one-who-changed-everything\/)\n  - [30 Under 30 2023](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/30-under-30\/2023\/)\n  - [AI's Nuanced Impact And A Quest To Quantify It](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/sites\/forbes-research\/2023\/10\/26\/c-suite-data-reveals-ais-nuanced-impact--a-quest-to-quantify-it\/?sh=2e0ce1152c4a)\n  - [Cognizant BrandVoice: Gen AI Leadership Conversation Video Series \\| Paid Program](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/sites\/cognizant\/2024\/05\/15\/gen-ai-leadership-conversation-series\/)\n  - [DNA of Success](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/sites\/forbesvideo\/2023\/11\/01\/dna-of-success-2023)\n  - [Embracing And Bracing For AI](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/sites\/forbes-research\/2023\/10\/26\/new-forbes-survey-reveals-how-executives-are-embracing---and-bracing-for---ai\/?sh=4c9ec37647fe)\n  - [Facing A Volatile Market, C-Suites Look To The CFO For Strategic Guidance](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/sites\/forbes-research\/2023\/11\/01\/facing-a-volatile-market-c-suites-look-to-the-cfo-for-strategic-guidance\/?sh=5ebd4e0f8752)\n  - [Forbes Research: 2023 Small Business Survey](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/sites\/forbes-research\/2023\/06\/07\/resiliency-and-ingenuity-revealed-in-new-forbes-small-business-research\/?sh=7933ed832cee)\n  - ['I Am Who I Am': Owning Your Personal And Professional Brand \\| Paid Program](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/sites\/statefarm\/2024\/08\/13\/i-am-who-i-am-owning-your-personal-and-professional-brand\/)\n  - [TIAA BrandVoice \\| Paid Program](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/sites\/tiaa)\n  - [Forbes CXO Spotlight](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/video\/17c95107-2e8f-410a-bd28-3b3b3f8321c2\/citizens-bank-cxo-beth-johnson-finds-success-by-innovating-on-the-margins\/)\n  - [Scaling AI Editorial Video Series \\| Paid Program](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/sites\/forbesvideo\/2024\/09\/16\/scaling-ai\/)\n  - [America's Top RIA Firms](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/lists\/top-ria-firms)\n  - [5 Traits of AI Pacesetters to Help You Pull Ahead \\| Paid Program](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/sites\/servicenow\/2024\/10\/15\/5-traits-of-ai-pacesetters-to-help-you-pull-ahead\/)\n  - [State Farm BrandVoice \\| Paid Program]()\n  - [Thomson Reuters Insights Premium Post: 4 Factors To Explore When Considering Professional-Grade AI \\| Paid Program](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/sites\/insights-thomsonreuters\/2024\/10\/30\/4-factors-to-explore-when-considering-ai-for-professional-work\/)\n  - [PayPal BrandVoice Premium Post: The Future Of E-Commerce \\| Paid Program](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/sites\/paypal\/2024\/10\/31\/the-future-of-e-commerce\/)\n  - [The Birth Of Almanac: A Re-Evaluation Of What's Really Needed In Farming \\| Paid Program](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/sites\/almanac\/2024\/11\/04\/the-birth-of-almanac-a-re-evaluation-of-whats-really-needed-in-farming)\n  - [Leadership Lessons on Financial Literacy Video Series, presented by New York Life \\| Paid Program](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/sites\/forbesvideo\/2024\/02\/22\/forbes-leadership-lessons-on-financial-literacy\/)\n  - [PayPal BrandVoice Premium Post: How Merchants Are Leveling Up Checkout To Drive Conversion \\| Paid Program](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/sites\/paypal\/2024\/11\/13\/how-merchants-are-leveling-up-checkout-to-drive-conversion\/)\n  - [Hyoeun Kim On LG's Brand Promise, \"Life's Good\" \\| Paid Program](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/video\/5dd30175-916e-4349-9cab-564a384e45da\/hyoeun-kim-on-lgs-brand-promise-lifes-good\/)\n  - [Poised To Outperform: Rev Up Your Investment Strategy With Active ETFs \\| Paid Program](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/sites\/t-rowe-price\/2024\/11\/20\/poised-to-outperform-rev-up-your-investment-strategy-with-active-etfs\/)\n  - [ServiceNow BrandVoice Premium Post: Why It's Time To See Your Workforce In 4D \\| Paid Program](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/sites\/servicenow\/2024\/11\/22\/why-its-time-to-see-your-workforce-in-4d\/)\n  - [Presented by New York Life: Forbes Leadership Lessons On Financial Literacy \\| Paid Program](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/sites\/forbesvideo\/2024\/02\/22\/forbes-leadership-lessons-on-financial-literacy\/)\n  - [SAP BrandVoice: 4 Ways A Cloud ERP Can Unleash AI Potential \\| Paid Program](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/sites\/sap\/2024\/12\/05\/4-ways-a-cloud-erp-can-unleash-ai-potential\/)\n- [Advertise with Forbes](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/connect\/)\n- [Report a Security Issue](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/contact\/)\n- [Editorial Values and Standards](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/sites\/forbesstaff\/article\/forbes-editorial-values-and-standards)\n- [Site Feedback](mailto:feedback@forbes.com)\n- [Contact Us](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/contact\/)\n- [Careers at Forbes](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/careers-at-forbes\/)\n- [Tips](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/tips\/)\n- [Corrections](mailto:corrections@forbes.com)\n- [Privacy](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/fdc\/privacy.html)\n- [Do Not Sell My Personal Information](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/consent\/editprivacy\/?consent_do_not_sell=true)\n- [Terms](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/terms\/)\n- [AdChoices](https:\/\/youradchoices.com\/control)\n- [Reprints & Permissions](https:\/\/www.parsintl.com\/publication\/forbes\/)\n- © 2026 Forbes Media LLC. All Rights Reserved.\n\n[Subscribe](https:\/\/account.forbes.com\/membership?eventSource=header&redirect=https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/)\n\n[Advisor](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/)\n\n- [Personal Finance](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/personal-finance\/)\n- [Income Tax Calculator](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/income-tax-calculator\/)\n- [Money Transfer](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/money-transfer\/)\n- [Credit Score](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/credit-score\/)\n- [Debt Relief](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/debt-relief\/)\n- [Investing](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/investing\/)\n- [Retirement](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/retirement\/)\n- [Taxes](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/taxes\/)\n\n|   |   |   |\n|---|---|---|\n|   | You might be using an unsupported or outdated browser. To get the best possible experience please use the latest version of Chrome, Firefox, Safari, or Microsoft Edge to view this website. |   |\n\nWe earn a commission from the offers on this page, which influences which offers are displayed and how and where the offers appear. Advertiser Disclosure.\n\nWe independently select all products and services. While we earn a commission from partner links, commissions do not affect our editors' opinions or evaluations.\n\nAdvertiser Disclosure\n\n- [Advisor](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor)\n- [Investing](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/investing\/)\n- [Cryptocurrency](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/investing\/cryptocurrency\/)\n# What Is Bitcoin? And How Does It Work?\nAudited & Verified: Feb 26, 2026, 10:42am\n\n[![Mark Hooson](https:\/\/thumbor.forbes.com\/thumbor\/fit-in\/x\/https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/mark-hooson-88x88.jpg)](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/author\/mark-hooson\/)\n\n![Mark Hooson](https:\/\/thumbor.forbes.com\/thumbor\/fit-in\/x\/https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/mark-hooson-88x88.jpg)\n\n[Mark Hooson](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/author\/mark-hooson\/)Staff Writer\n\nStaff writer Mark Hooson has been a journalist within the personal finance, consumer affairs and fraud sectors for more than 10 years. He is also Forbes Advisor UK’s resident tech expert. Mark says he thrives on making ‘complicated and dry topics eas...\n\n[Read Full Bio![See Full Bio](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/themes\/fadv\/assets\/img\/social-icons\/read-full-bio.svg)](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/author\/mark-hooson\/)\n\n![close icon](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/themes\/fadv\/assets\/img\/social-icons\/forbes-media-close-icon.svg)\n\n![Mark Hooson](https:\/\/thumbor.forbes.com\/thumbor\/fit-in\/x\/https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/mark-hooson-88x88.jpg)\n\n[Mark Hooson](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/author\/mark-hooson\/)Staff Writer\n\nStaff writer Mark Hooson has been a journalist within the personal finance, consumer affairs and fraud sectors for more than 10 years. He is also Forbes Advisor UK’s resident tech expert. Mark says he thrives on making ‘complicated and dry topics eas...\n\n[Read Full Bio![See Full Bio](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/themes\/fadv\/assets\/img\/social-icons\/read-full-bio.svg)](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/author\/mark-hooson\/)\n\nWritten By\n\n[Mark Hooson](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/author\/mark-hooson\/)\n\n![Mark Hooson](https:\/\/thumbor.forbes.com\/thumbor\/fit-in\/x\/https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/mark-hooson-88x88.jpg)\n\n[Mark Hooson](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/author\/mark-hooson\/)Staff Writer\n\nStaff writer Mark Hooson has been a journalist within the personal finance, consumer affairs and fraud sectors for more than 10 years. He is also Forbes Advisor UK’s resident tech expert. Mark says he thrives on making ‘complicated and dry topics eas...\n\n[Read Full Bio![See Full Bio](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/themes\/fadv\/assets\/img\/social-icons\/read-full-bio.svg)](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/author\/mark-hooson\/)\n\n![close icon](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/themes\/fadv\/assets\/img\/social-icons\/forbes-media-close-icon.svg)\n\n![Mark Hooson](https:\/\/thumbor.forbes.com\/thumbor\/fit-in\/x\/https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/mark-hooson-88x88.jpg)\n\n[Mark Hooson](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/author\/mark-hooson\/)Staff Writer\n\nStaff writer Mark Hooson has been a journalist within the personal finance, consumer affairs and fraud sectors for more than 10 years. He is also Forbes Advisor UK’s resident tech expert. Mark says he thrives on making ‘complicated and dry topics eas...\n\n[Read Full Bio![See Full Bio](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/themes\/fadv\/assets\/img\/social-icons\/read-full-bio.svg)](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/author\/mark-hooson\/)\n\nStaff Writer\n\n[![Mark Hooson](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/mark-hooson-88x88.jpg)](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/author\/mark-hooson\/)\n\n![Mark Hooson](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/mark-hooson-88x88.jpg)\n\n[Mark Hooson](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/author\/mark-hooson\/)Staff Writer\n\nStaff writer Mark Hooson has been a journalist within the personal finance, consumer affairs and fraud sectors for more than 10 years. He is also Forbes Advisor UK’s resident tech expert. Mark says he thrives on making ‘complicated and dry topics eas...\n\n[Read Full Bio![See Full Bio](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/themes\/fadv\/assets\/img\/social-icons\/read-full-bio.svg)](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/author\/mark-hooson\/)\n\n![close icon](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/themes\/fadv\/assets\/img\/social-icons\/forbes-media-close-icon.svg)\n\n![Mark Hooson](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/mark-hooson-88x88.jpg)\n\n[Mark Hooson](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/author\/mark-hooson\/)Staff Writer\n\nStaff writer Mark Hooson has been a journalist within the personal finance, consumer affairs and fraud sectors for more than 10 years. He is also Forbes Advisor UK’s resident tech expert. Mark says he thrives on making ‘complicated and dry topics eas...\n\n[Read Full Bio![See Full Bio](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/themes\/fadv\/assets\/img\/social-icons\/read-full-bio.svg)](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/author\/mark-hooson\/)\n\nWritten By\n\n[Mark Hooson](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/author\/mark-hooson\/)\n\n![Mark Hooson](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/mark-hooson-88x88.jpg)\n\n[Mark Hooson](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/author\/mark-hooson\/)Staff Writer\n\nStaff writer Mark Hooson has been a journalist within the personal finance, consumer affairs and fraud sectors for more than 10 years. He is also Forbes Advisor UK’s resident tech expert. Mark says he thrives on making ‘complicated and dry topics eas...\n\n[Read Full Bio![See Full Bio](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/themes\/fadv\/assets\/img\/social-icons\/read-full-bio.svg)](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/author\/mark-hooson\/)\n\n![close icon](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/themes\/fadv\/assets\/img\/social-icons\/forbes-media-close-icon.svg)\n\n![Mark Hooson](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/mark-hooson-88x88.jpg)\n\n[Mark Hooson](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/author\/mark-hooson\/)Staff Writer\n\nStaff writer Mark Hooson has been a journalist within the personal finance, consumer affairs and fraud sectors for more than 10 years. He is also Forbes Advisor UK’s resident tech expert. Mark says he thrives on making ‘complicated and dry topics eas...\n\n[Read Full Bio![See Full Bio](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/themes\/fadv\/assets\/img\/social-icons\/read-full-bio.svg)](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/author\/mark-hooson\/)\n\nStaff Writer\n\n[![Farran Powell](https:\/\/thumbor.forbes.com\/thumbor\/fit-in\/x\/https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Farran-Powell_headshot-88x88.jpeg)](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/author\/fpowell\/)\n\n![Farran Powell](https:\/\/thumbor.forbes.com\/thumbor\/fit-in\/x\/https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Farran-Powell_headshot-88x88.jpeg)\n\nFact Checked by\n\n[Farran Powell](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/author\/fpowell\/)Staff Editor\n\nFarran Powell is the managing editor of investing at Forbes Advisor. She was previously the assistant managing editor of investing at U.S. News & World Report. Her work has appeared in numerous publications including TheStreet, Mansion Global, CN...\n\n[Read Full Bio![See Full Bio](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/themes\/fadv\/assets\/img\/social-icons\/read-full-bio.svg)](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/author\/fpowell\/)\n\n![close icon](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/themes\/fadv\/assets\/img\/social-icons\/forbes-media-close-icon.svg)\n\n![Farran Powell](https:\/\/thumbor.forbes.com\/thumbor\/fit-in\/x\/https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Farran-Powell_headshot-88x88.jpeg)\n\nFact Checked by\n\n[Farran Powell](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/author\/fpowell\/)Staff Editor\n\nFarran Powell is the managing editor of investing at Forbes Advisor. She was previously the assistant managing editor of investing at U.S. News & World Report. Her work has appeared in numerous publications including TheStreet, Mansion Global, CN...\n\n[Read Full Bio![See Full Bio](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/themes\/fadv\/assets\/img\/social-icons\/read-full-bio.svg)](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/author\/fpowell\/)\n\nFact Checked\n\n[Farran Powell](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/author\/fpowell\/)\n\n![Farran Powell](https:\/\/thumbor.forbes.com\/thumbor\/fit-in\/x\/https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Farran-Powell_headshot-88x88.jpeg)\n\nFact Checked by\n\n[Farran Powell](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/author\/fpowell\/)Staff Editor\n\nFarran Powell is the managing editor of investing at Forbes Advisor. She was previously the assistant managing editor of investing at U.S. News & World Report. Her work has appeared in numerous publications including TheStreet, Mansion Global, CN...\n\n[Read Full Bio![See Full Bio](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/themes\/fadv\/assets\/img\/social-icons\/read-full-bio.svg)](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/author\/fpowell\/)\n\n![close icon](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/themes\/fadv\/assets\/img\/social-icons\/forbes-media-close-icon.svg)\n\n![Farran Powell](https:\/\/thumbor.forbes.com\/thumbor\/fit-in\/x\/https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Farran-Powell_headshot-88x88.jpeg)\n\nFact Checked by\n\n[Farran Powell](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/author\/fpowell\/)Staff Editor\n\nFarran Powell is the managing editor of investing at Forbes Advisor. She was previously the assistant managing editor of investing at U.S. News & World Report. Her work has appeared in numerous publications including TheStreet, Mansion Global, CN...\n\n[Read Full Bio![See Full Bio](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/themes\/fadv\/assets\/img\/social-icons\/read-full-bio.svg)](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/author\/fpowell\/)\n\nStaff Editor\n\n& 2 others\n\nHave a question we may not have answered?\n\nAsk our editors here\n\nHave a question for Mark Hooson or our other editors?\n\nAsk here for a chance to be featured in a story.\n\nThis form is protected by reCAPTCHA Enterprise and the Google [Privacy Policy](https:\/\/policies.google.com\/privacy)and [Terms of Service](https:\/\/policies.google.com\/terms)apply.\n\n![Mark Hooson](https:\/\/thumbor.forbes.com\/thumbor\/fit-in\/x\/https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/mark-hooson-88x88.jpg)\n\n![Mark Hooson](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/mark-hooson-88x88.jpg)\n\n![Farran Powell](https:\/\/thumbor.forbes.com\/thumbor\/fit-in\/x\/https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Farran-Powell_headshot-88x88.jpeg)\n\nSend a note to Mark Hooson, Mark Hooson, Farran Powell and our other editors. We read every email.\n\nBy submitting this form, you agree to allow us to collect, store, and potentially publish your provided information, including name and question, in the article or any related content. You confirm that the submitted content is original, accurate, and non-infringing on any third-party rights. We may contact you via the email address provided for follow-up questions or to notify you if your question is selected for publication. See our [Terms of Use](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/terms-and-conditions\/#5cc91797193f)and our [Privacy Policy](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/privacy-policy\/).\n\nThank you for submitting your question.\n\nKeep reading Forbes Advisor for the chance to see the answer to your question in one of our upcoming stories. Our editors also may be in touch with follow-up questions.\n\nContinue reading\n\n![What Is Bitcoin? And How Does It Work?](https:\/\/thumbor.forbes.com\/thumbor\/fit-in\/900x510\/https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/bitcoin_glasses.jpg) Getty\n\nBitcoin (BTC), launched in 2009, is by far the biggest cryptocurrency. Indeed, its size relative to other cryptos is of such that, collectively, others are known as “altcoins.”\n\nBut bitcoin’s size does not mean it is more likely to prove a good investment, or that it is less likely to lose value. Like all [cryptocurrencies](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/investing\/cryptocurrency\/top-10-cryptocurrencies\/), it is a highly volatile digital asset whose worth is heavily influenced by market sentiment.\n\nFEATURED PARTNER OFFER\n\n### Crypto.com\n[![Crypto.com](https:\/\/thumbor.forbes.com\/thumbor\/fit-in\/150x\/https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/crypto.com_logo.png)](https:\/\/cryptocom.sjv.io\/c\/1955282\/2107455\/25666?sharedid=sponsored)\n\nFees (Maker\/Taker)\n\n0\\.8% trading fee, can be reduced by joining level-up.\n\nOther fees and spreads apply.\n\nCryptocurrencies Available for Trade\n\n400+ cryptocurrencies available\n\n[![Crypto.com](https:\/\/thumbor.forbes.com\/thumbor\/fit-in\/150x\/https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/crypto.com_logo.png)](https:\/\/cryptocom.sjv.io\/c\/1955282\/2107455\/25666?sharedid=sponsored)\n\n[Trade Now ![Arrow](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/themes\/fadv\/assets\/img\/right-arrow.svg)](https:\/\/cryptocom.sjv.io\/c\/1955282\/2107455\/25666?sharedid=sponsored)\n\nOn Crypto.com's Website\n\n0\\.8% trading fee, can be reduced by joining level-up.\n\nOther fees and spreads apply.\n\n400+ cryptocurrencies available\n## What Is Bitcoin?\nBitcoin runs on a blockchain-based network that’s powered by global users. Bitcoin allows peer-to-peer financial transactions without the use of a centralized financial intermediary.\n\nCentralized government orders issue legal tender (fiat currency) like the U.S. dollar (USD) or the British pound (GBP). In contrast, bitcoin is a virtual currency that operates on a public distributed ledger called a blockchain. Bitcoin is often referred to as a decentralized currency, too.\n\nThe table below shows some key differences between fiat currency and bitcoin.\n\n| Fiat Currency vs. Bitcoin |   |\n|---|---|\n| **Fiat currency** | **Bitcoin** |\n| Physical medium | Digital medium |\n| Government can produce as needed | Limited supply |\n| Issued by governments | Produced by computers |\n| Centralized | Decentralized |\n\n![Left Arrow](data:image\/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAAAcAAAAMCAYAAACulacQAAAACXBIWXMAAAsTAAALEwEAmpwYAAAAAXNSR0IArs4c6QAAAARnQU1BAACxjwv8YQUAAADJSURBVHgBXZCxDcIwEEXvLrbTMgIjeAQXQB0aUiBENgAmIBswQkJJg6iQaGAF2CBskBY5wbEjWXLiwjr73f\/\/dAijo5JiEse01Zrd2BhwgS8DIDnXcgBFjAUASltWkeY5eTBPSwcSW9ZMM3W\/rr+9crY6HxEgcwCBeuD+yQFCyPsH\/pePy+bj3YiCzLaNTDgDumuRlidb7o2BmpCUV2M4EAJmrqFtmHzaXAxtfAOAqRrNVRgJ+mcOFryt4dQuIR8o\/ZaEoB1rWNkBtuxEvL1bUnQAAAAASUVORK5CYII=)\n\n![Right Arrow](data:image\/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAAAcAAAAMCAYAAACulacQAAAACXBIWXMAAAsTAAALEwEAmpwYAAAAAXNSR0IArs4c6QAAAARnQU1BAACxjwv8YQUAAADQSURBVHgBdVC5DcJAENw53pAS6AA6wAlPCAGCDLsSoAJEBXwJEDk0JrA7wCW4BMeH5GXP2MggscHenEYzNzew5rt2PVULrdNt6DoJlUY1GEsCrWp1BNZ41\/oiAV7LGQPo1hrYlEmYNRLrlNVDYIuJ9\/eL7WRKs7yzE4OUJTABwR7M9puPspj+9NiD4tDglGml6M8YolJchrNTh8CewCaJyr8u1plt9tc8ECTQLQ+EN4FAYJuIXf9iTwq3qimBhWDm6KnZKb9bzUpgRFrz4be+FwjJTXtIGD7JAAAAAElFTkSuQmCC)\n\nSee More\n\nSee Less\n\nWith bitcoin, transactions are verified by “network nodes.” Bitcoin miners bundle these verified transactions into blocks. Miners for BTC use high-powered computers to solve complex mathematical puzzles. This then creates new blocks of verified transactions on the blockchain.\n\nAs with most cryptocurrencies, bitcoin is created via cryptographic computer technology known as a blockchain. The blockchain, and bitcoin for that matter, was created by a person or group using the pseudonym Satoshi Nakamoto. Bitcoin’s creator said there was a need for “an electronic payment system based on cryptographic proof instead of trust, allowing any two willing parties to transact directly with each other without the need for a trusted third party.”\n\nThe first [exchanged bitcoin](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/investing\/cryptocurrency\/bitcoin-price-today\/) with a recorded price was in late 2009. A user in a bitcoin online forum exchanged 5,050 BTC for \\$5.02, using PayPal. At the time, BTC was valued about one-tenth of a cent.\n\n## Find The Best Crypto Exchanges\nWe've combed through the leading exchange offerings, and reams of data, to determine the best crypto exchanges.\n\n[Learn More](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/investing\/cryptocurrency\/best-crypto-exchanges\/)\n## How Does Bitcoin Work?\nBitcoin is built on a blockchain, which acts as a digital ledger. The blockchain is a linked body of data, comprised of units called blocks. These blocks contain information, including addresses (public keys), values and identifying codes. Entries are strung together in chronological order, creating a digital chain of blocks.\n\nFor transaction blocks to be added to the bitcoin blockchain, blocks must be verified. The process of adding new transactions to the bitcoin blockchain is bitcoin mining, using a proof-of-work construct. The proof-of-work method alongside the consensus rules and digital signatures helps to fight against fraud.\n\nFEATURED PARTNER OFFER\n\n### Phantom\n[![Phantom](https:\/\/thumbor.forbes.com\/thumbor\/fit-in\/150x\/https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/Phantom-Logo-Purple-1.png)](https:\/\/phanom.sjv.io\/c\/1955282\/3439812\/41945)\n\nTrade with Phantom\n\nTrade SOL, ETH, BTC, and tap into prediction markets, perpetual futures, and staking across multiple chains, all in one place.\n\nFlexible wallet\n\nMultiple chains, one wallet. No more switching.\n\nTrust and security\n\nAs a self-custodial wallet, you have full control of your funds with built in scam detection alerts that flags malicious transactions instantly (global support 24\/7).\n\n[![Phantom](https:\/\/thumbor.forbes.com\/thumbor\/fit-in\/150x\/https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/Phantom-Logo-Purple-1.png)](https:\/\/phanom.sjv.io\/c\/1955282\/3439812\/41945)\n\n[Learn More ![Arrow](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/themes\/fadv\/assets\/img\/right-arrow.svg)](https:\/\/phanom.sjv.io\/c\/1955282\/3439812\/41945)\n\nVia App Store\n\nTrade SOL, ETH, BTC, and tap into prediction markets, perpetual futures, and staking across multiple chains, all in one place.\n\nMultiple chains, one wallet. No more switching.\n\nAs a self-custodial wallet, you have full control of your funds with built in scam detection alerts that flags malicious transactions instantly (global support 24\/7).\n\nDisclosure\n\n*Prediction markets and perpetual futures are available only in supported regions outside the US, UK, Australia, Canada, France, and other restricted areas.*\n## How Does Bitcoin Mining Work?\nBitcoin mining is one way to obtain BTC. With a proof-of-work method, bitcoin miners compete to validate blocks of bitcoin transactions and add them to the crypto’s blockchain—an indelible ledger of all bitcoin transactions since the beginning. If they are successful, they are rewarded with an amount of actual bitcoins.\n\nThe size of this reward has reduced over the years (it is currently 3.125 BTC per block) to control the supply of new bitcoins.\n\nFor every 210,000 blocks mined, the network undergoes a “halving” process. With a halving, the BTC reward is cut in half. The next halving event is expected to occur in 2028 with block number 1,050,000. The BTC reward will then be halved from 3.125 BTC per block to 1.5625 BTC.\n\n| Halving Event | Date | Block | Reward Before Halving | Post-Halving Reward |\n|---|---|---|---|---|\n| 1st halving | Nov. 28, 2012 | 210,000 | 50 BTC | 25 BTC |\n| 2nd halving | July 9, 2016 | 420,000 | 25 BTC | 12\\.5 BTC |\n| 3rd halving | May 11, 2020 | 630,000 | 12\\.5 BTC | 6\\.25 BTC |\n| 4th halving | April 19, 2024 | 840,000 | 6\\.25 BTC | 3\\.125 BTC |\n| 5th halving (expected) | April 2028 | 1,050,000 | 3\\.125 BTC | 1\\.5625 BTC |\n\n![Left Arrow](data:image\/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAAAcAAAAMCAYAAACulacQAAAACXBIWXMAAAsTAAALEwEAmpwYAAAAAXNSR0IArs4c6QAAAARnQU1BAACxjwv8YQUAAADJSURBVHgBXZCxDcIwEEXvLrbTMgIjeAQXQB0aUiBENgAmIBswQkJJg6iQaGAF2CBskBY5wbEjWXLiwjr73f\/\/dAijo5JiEse01Zrd2BhwgS8DIDnXcgBFjAUASltWkeY5eTBPSwcSW9ZMM3W\/rr+9crY6HxEgcwCBeuD+yQFCyPsH\/pePy+bj3YiCzLaNTDgDumuRlidb7o2BmpCUV2M4EAJmrqFtmHzaXAxtfAOAqRrNVRgJ+mcOFryt4dQuIR8o\/ZaEoB1rWNkBtuxEvL1bUnQAAAAASUVORK5CYII=)\n\n![Right Arrow](data:image\/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAAAcAAAAMCAYAAACulacQAAAACXBIWXMAAAsTAAALEwEAmpwYAAAAAXNSR0IArs4c6QAAAARnQU1BAACxjwv8YQUAAADQSURBVHgBdVC5DcJAENw53pAS6AA6wAlPCAGCDLsSoAJEBXwJEDk0JrA7wCW4BMeH5GXP2MggscHenEYzNzew5rt2PVULrdNt6DoJlUY1GEsCrWp1BNZ41\/oiAV7LGQPo1hrYlEmYNRLrlNVDYIuJ9\/eL7WRKs7yzE4OUJTABwR7M9puPspj+9NiD4tDglGml6M8YolJchrNTh8CewCaJyr8u1plt9tc8ECTQLQ+EN4FAYJuIXf9iTwq3qimBhWDm6KnZKb9bzUpgRFrz4be+FwjJTXtIGD7JAAAAAElFTkSuQmCC)\n\nSee More\n\nSee Less\n\nThe founders of the currency set a finite limit on the total supply of bitcoins of 21 million. In February 2026, the number in circulation was nearly 20 million, meaning there is something over a million yet to be mined. Experts forecast that this won’t happen until around 2140.\n\n## How to Buy Bitcoin\nThere are four stages to [buying bitcoin](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/investing\/cryptocurrency\/buying-bitcoin\/) if you are a beginner: selecting a [crypto exchange](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/investing\/cryptocurrency\/best-crypto-exchanges\/),deciding on your payment method, placing an order and choosing your method of storage.\n\n### Select a Crypto Exchange\nCryptocurrency is bought and sold on crypto exchanges and also on [trading platforms](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/investing\/best-online-brokers\/) and apps. It is important for beginners to research the market thoroughly and find the combination of ease of use, competitive fees and high security that suits your preferences and objectives.\n\nYou’ll need to create an account, which will involve providing your personal information and a form of identification, such as your driving license. All this will be handled online via your chosen website or app.\n\n#### Best Crypto Exchanges\n[![Kraken](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/kraken-vector-logo-1-removebg-preview.png)](https:\/\/kraken.pxf.io\/c\/1955282\/3369972\/10583)\n\n[Kraken](https:\/\/kraken.pxf.io\/c\/1955282\/3369972\/10583)\n\n![Forbes Advisor Desktop Logo](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/forbes-advisor.svg) ![Forbes Advisor Mobile Logo](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/forbes-advisor.svg)\n\n5\\.0\n\n![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/filled-star.svg)![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/filled-star.svg)![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/filled-star.svg)![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/filled-star.svg)![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/filled-star.svg)\n\n![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/tooltip.svg)\n\n[Learn More](https:\/\/kraken.pxf.io\/c\/1955282\/3369972\/10583)\n\nOn Kraken's Website\n\nTrading Fees\n\nMaker Fee 0.25%\/Taker Fee 0.40% (For Kraken Pro, trading under \\$10,000 within 30 days.)\n\nTradable Coins\n\n600+\n\n[![Uphold](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/uphold.png)](https:\/\/uphold.sjv.io\/c\/1955282\/1273495\/13619?sharedid=Sponsored)\n\n[Uphold](https:\/\/uphold.sjv.io\/c\/1955282\/1273495\/13619?sharedid=Sponsored)\n\n![Forbes Advisor Desktop Logo](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/forbes-advisor.svg) ![Forbes Advisor Mobile Logo](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/forbes-advisor.svg)\n\n4\\.7\n\n![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/filled-star.svg)![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/filled-star.svg)![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/filled-star.svg)![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/filled-star.svg)![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/half-star.svg)\n\n![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/tooltip.svg)\n\n[Learn More](https:\/\/uphold.sjv.io\/c\/1955282\/1273495\/13619?sharedid=Sponsored)\n\nOn Uphold's Website\n\nTrading Fees\n\nFlat fee that depends on asset (0.25% for most stablecoins; 1.4%-1.6% for BTC and ETH; 2.5%-2.95% for altcoins)\n\nTradable Coins\n\n300+\n\n[![Crypto.com](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/crypto.com_logo.png)](https:\/\/cryptocom.sjv.io\/c\/1955282\/2107455\/25666)\n\n[Crypto.com](https:\/\/cryptocom.sjv.io\/c\/1955282\/2107455\/25666)\n\n![Forbes Advisor Desktop Logo](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/forbes-advisor.svg) ![Forbes Advisor Mobile Logo](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/forbes-advisor.svg)\n\n4\\.6\n\n![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/filled-star.svg)![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/filled-star.svg)![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/filled-star.svg)![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/filled-star.svg)![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/half-star.svg)\n\n![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/tooltip.svg)\n\n[Learn More](https:\/\/cryptocom.sjv.io\/c\/1955282\/2107455\/25666)\n\nOn Crypto.com's Website\n\nTrading Fees\n\nMaker Fee 0.25%\/Taker Fee 0.50% (For \\$10,000 or less in trades within 30 days.)\n\nTradable Coins\n\n400+\n\n[![Gemini](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/Gemini-Hor-Dark-Full-RGB-1-1.png)](https:\/\/gemini.sjv.io\/c\/1955282\/1297140\/11829)\n\n[Gemini](https:\/\/gemini.sjv.io\/c\/1955282\/1297140\/11829)\n\n![Forbes Advisor Desktop Logo](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/forbes-advisor.svg) ![Forbes Advisor Mobile Logo](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/forbes-advisor.svg)\n\n3\\.9\n\n![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/filled-star.svg)![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/filled-star.svg)![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/filled-star.svg)![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/filled-star.svg)![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/outline-star.svg)\n\n![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/tooltip.svg)\n\n[Learn More](https:\/\/gemini.sjv.io\/c\/1955282\/1297140\/11829)\n\nOn Gemini's Website\n\nTrading Fees\n\nMaker Fee 0.20%\/Taker Fee 0.40% (For trades less than \\$10,000 within 30 days.)\n\nTradable Coins\n\n70+\n\n[![Coinbase Exchange](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/coinbase.d491999a12d7c093ec6cd83ad64a1e23.png)](https:\/\/coinbase-consumer.sjv.io\/c\/1955282\/958009\/9251)\n\n[Coinbase Exchange](https:\/\/coinbase-consumer.sjv.io\/c\/1955282\/958009\/9251)\n\n![Forbes Advisor Desktop Logo](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/forbes-advisor.svg) ![Forbes Advisor Mobile Logo](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/forbes-advisor.svg)\n\n3\\.7\n\n![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/filled-star.svg)![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/filled-star.svg)![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/filled-star.svg)![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/half-star.svg)![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/outline-star.svg)\n\n![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/tooltip.svg)\n\n[Learn More](https:\/\/coinbase-consumer.sjv.io\/c\/1955282\/958009\/9251)\n\nOn Coinbase's Secure Website\n\nTrading Fees\n\nMaker Fee 0.40%\/Taker Fee 0.60% (For \\$10,000 or less in trades within 30 days.)\n\nTradable Coins\n\n340+\n\n[![Binance.US](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/binanceus_logo-e1721210701640-150x41.png)](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/investing\/cryptocurrency\/binance-us-review\/)\n\n[Binance.US](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/investing\/cryptocurrency\/binance-us-review\/)\n\n![Forbes Advisor Desktop Logo](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/forbes-advisor.svg) ![Forbes Advisor Mobile Logo](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/forbes-advisor.svg)\n\n3\\.7\n\n![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/filled-star.svg)![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/filled-star.svg)![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/filled-star.svg)![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/half-star.svg)![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/outline-star.svg)\n\n![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/tooltip.svg)\n\n[Learn More](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/investing\/cryptocurrency\/binance-us-review\/)\n\nRead Forbes' Review\n\nTrading Fees\n\nMaker Fee 0.40%\/Taker Fee 0.60% for Tier I trades; Tier 0 trades for 0.00% maker fees bitcoin, Ethereum, solana, BNB and cardano, with 0.01% taker fees\n\nTradable Coins\n\n180+\n\n[![Interactive Brokers](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/Interactive_Brokers_logo-removebg-preview.png)](https:\/\/mktp.us\/InteractiveBrokers_crypto)\n\n[Interactive Brokers](https:\/\/mktp.us\/InteractiveBrokers_crypto)\n\n![Forbes Advisor Desktop Logo](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/forbes-advisor.svg) ![Forbes Advisor Mobile Logo](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/forbes-advisor.svg)\n\n3\\.7\n\n![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/filled-star.svg)![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/filled-star.svg)![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/filled-star.svg)![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/half-star.svg)![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/outline-star.svg)\n\n![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/tooltip.svg)\n\n[Learn More](https:\/\/mktp.us\/InteractiveBrokers_crypto)\n\nVia InteractiveBrokers' Secure Website\n\nTrading Fees\n\nCommissions of 0.12% to 0.18%, depending on trade value\n\nTradable Coins\n\n11\n\n[![Bitstamp](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Bitstamp_logo_2017.png)](https:\/\/links.bitstamp.net\/c\/1955282\/1228811\/14006)\n\n[Bitstamp](https:\/\/links.bitstamp.net\/c\/1955282\/1228811\/14006)\n\n![Forbes Advisor Desktop Logo](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/forbes-advisor.svg) ![Forbes Advisor Mobile Logo](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/forbes-advisor.svg)\n\n3\\.5\n\n![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/filled-star.svg)![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/filled-star.svg)![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/filled-star.svg)![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/half-star.svg)![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/outline-star.svg)\n\n![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/tooltip.svg)\n\n[Learn More](https:\/\/links.bitstamp.net\/c\/1955282\/1228811\/14006)\n\nOn Bitstamp's Website\n\nTrading Fees\n\nMaker Fee 0.30%\/Taker Fee 40% (For trades less than \\$10,000 within 30 days.)\n\nTradable Coins\n\n100+\n\n[![BitFlyer](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/bitFlyer-1-removebg-preview.png)](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/investing\/cryptocurrency\/best-crypto-exchanges\/#bitflyer_section)\n\n[BitFlyer](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/investing\/cryptocurrency\/best-crypto-exchanges\/#bitflyer_section)\n\n![Forbes Advisor Desktop Logo](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/forbes-advisor.svg) ![Forbes Advisor Mobile Logo](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/forbes-advisor.svg)\n\n3\\.1\n\n![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/filled-star.svg)![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/filled-star.svg)![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/filled-star.svg)![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/outline-star.svg)![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/outline-star.svg)\n\n![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/tooltip.svg)\n\n[View More](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/investing\/cryptocurrency\/best-crypto-exchanges\/#bitflyer_section)\n\nTrading Fees\n\nFees can be as low as 0.10%\n\nTradable Coins\n\n9\n\n[![EToro](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/SEM_etoro_logo.png)](https:\/\/go.etoro.com\/en\/get10?utm_medium=Media%20Performance&utm_source=113475&utm_content=20618&utm_serial=etororeview&utm_campaign=etororeview&utm_term=&funnelFromId=60)\n\n[EToro](https:\/\/go.etoro.com\/en\/get10?utm_medium=Media%20Performance&utm_source=113475&utm_content=20618&utm_serial=etororeview&utm_campaign=etororeview&utm_term=&funnelFromId=60)\n\n![Forbes Advisor Desktop Logo](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/forbes-advisor.svg) ![Forbes Advisor Mobile Logo](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/forbes-advisor.svg)\n\n2\\.8\n\n![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/filled-star.svg)![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/filled-star.svg)![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/filled-star.svg)![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/outline-star.svg)![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/outline-star.svg)\n\n![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/tooltip.svg)\n\n[Learn More](https:\/\/go.etoro.com\/en\/get10?utm_medium=Media%20Performance&utm_source=113475&utm_content=20618&utm_serial=etororeview&utm_campaign=etororeview&utm_term=&funnelFromId=60)\n\nVia eToro's Website\n\nTrading Fees\n\n1% fee plus bid-ask spread\n\nTradable Coins\n\n100+ globally (only 30+ available in the U.S.)\n\n| Crypto Exchange | Star Rating | Trading Fees | Tradable Coins | Learn More |\n|---|---|---|---|---|\n| [![Kraken](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/kraken-vector-logo-1-removebg-preview.png)](https:\/\/kraken.pxf.io\/c\/1955282\/3369972\/10583) [Kraken](https:\/\/kraken.pxf.io\/c\/1955282\/3369972\/10583) | ![Forbes Advisor Desktop Logo](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/forbes-advisor.svg) ![Forbes Advisor Mobile Logo](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/forbes-advisor.svg) 5\\.0 ![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/filled-star.svg)![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/filled-star.svg)![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/filled-star.svg)![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/filled-star.svg)![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/filled-star.svg) ![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/tooltip.svg) | Maker Fee 0.25%\/Taker Fee 0.40% (For Kraken Pro, trading under \\$10,000 within 30 days.) | 600+ | [Learn More](https:\/\/kraken.pxf.io\/c\/1955282\/3369972\/10583) On Kraken's Website |\n| [![Uphold](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/uphold.png)](https:\/\/uphold.sjv.io\/c\/1955282\/1273495\/13619?sharedid=Sponsored) [Uphold](https:\/\/uphold.sjv.io\/c\/1955282\/1273495\/13619?sharedid=Sponsored) | ![Forbes Advisor Desktop Logo](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/forbes-advisor.svg) ![Forbes Advisor Mobile Logo](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/forbes-advisor.svg) 4\\.7 ![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/filled-star.svg)![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/filled-star.svg)![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/filled-star.svg)![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/filled-star.svg)![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/half-star.svg) ![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/tooltip.svg) | Flat fee that depends on asset (0.25% for most stablecoins; 1.4%-1.6% for BTC and ETH; 2.5%-2.95% for altcoins) | 300+ | [Learn More](https:\/\/uphold.sjv.io\/c\/1955282\/1273495\/13619?sharedid=Sponsored) On Uphold's Website |\n| [![Crypto.com](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/crypto.com_logo.png)](https:\/\/cryptocom.sjv.io\/c\/1955282\/2107455\/25666) [Crypto.com](https:\/\/cryptocom.sjv.io\/c\/1955282\/2107455\/25666) | ![Forbes Advisor Desktop Logo](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/forbes-advisor.svg) ![Forbes Advisor Mobile Logo](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/forbes-advisor.svg) 4\\.6 ![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/filled-star.svg)![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/filled-star.svg)![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/filled-star.svg)![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/filled-star.svg)![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/half-star.svg) ![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/tooltip.svg) | Maker Fee 0.25%\/Taker Fee 0.50% (For \\$10,000 or less in trades within 30 days.) | 400+ | [Learn More](https:\/\/cryptocom.sjv.io\/c\/1955282\/2107455\/25666) On Crypto.com's Website |\n| [![Gemini](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/Gemini-Hor-Dark-Full-RGB-1-1.png)](https:\/\/gemini.sjv.io\/c\/1955282\/1297140\/11829) [Gemini](https:\/\/gemini.sjv.io\/c\/1955282\/1297140\/11829) | ![Forbes Advisor Desktop Logo](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/forbes-advisor.svg) ![Forbes Advisor Mobile Logo](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/forbes-advisor.svg) 3\\.9 ![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/filled-star.svg)![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/filled-star.svg)![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/filled-star.svg)![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/filled-star.svg)![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/outline-star.svg) ![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/tooltip.svg) | Maker Fee 0.20%\/Taker Fee 0.40% (For trades less than \\$10,000 within 30 days.) | 70+ | [Learn More](https:\/\/gemini.sjv.io\/c\/1955282\/1297140\/11829) On Gemini's Website |\n| [![Coinbase Exchange](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/coinbase.d491999a12d7c093ec6cd83ad64a1e23.png)](https:\/\/coinbase-consumer.sjv.io\/c\/1955282\/958009\/9251) [Coinbase Exchange](https:\/\/coinbase-consumer.sjv.io\/c\/1955282\/958009\/9251) | ![Forbes Advisor Desktop Logo](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/forbes-advisor.svg) ![Forbes Advisor Mobile Logo](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/forbes-advisor.svg) 3\\.7 ![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/filled-star.svg)![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/filled-star.svg)![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/filled-star.svg)![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/half-star.svg)![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/outline-star.svg) ![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/tooltip.svg) | Maker Fee 0.40%\/Taker Fee 0.60% (For \\$10,000 or less in trades within 30 days.) | 340+ | [Learn More](https:\/\/coinbase-consumer.sjv.io\/c\/1955282\/958009\/9251) On Coinbase's Secure Website |\n| [![Binance.US](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/binanceus_logo-e1721210701640-150x41.png)](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/investing\/cryptocurrency\/binance-us-review\/) [Binance.US](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/investing\/cryptocurrency\/binance-us-review\/) | ![Forbes Advisor Desktop Logo](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/forbes-advisor.svg) ![Forbes Advisor Mobile Logo](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/forbes-advisor.svg) 3\\.7 ![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/filled-star.svg)![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/filled-star.svg)![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/filled-star.svg)![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/half-star.svg)![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/outline-star.svg) ![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/tooltip.svg) | Maker Fee 0.40%\/Taker Fee 0.60% for Tier I trades; Tier 0 trades for 0.00% maker fees bitcoin, Ethereum, solana, BNB and cardano, with 0.01% taker fees | 180+ | [Learn More](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/investing\/cryptocurrency\/binance-us-review\/) Read Forbes' Review |\n| [![Interactive Brokers](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/Interactive_Brokers_logo-removebg-preview.png)](https:\/\/mktp.us\/InteractiveBrokers_crypto) [Interactive Brokers](https:\/\/mktp.us\/InteractiveBrokers_crypto) | ![Forbes Advisor Desktop Logo](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/forbes-advisor.svg) ![Forbes Advisor Mobile Logo](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/forbes-advisor.svg) 3\\.7 ![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/filled-star.svg)![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/filled-star.svg)![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/filled-star.svg)![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/half-star.svg)![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/outline-star.svg) ![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/tooltip.svg) | Commissions of 0.12% to 0.18%, depending on trade value | 11 | [Learn More](https:\/\/mktp.us\/InteractiveBrokers_crypto) Via InteractiveBrokers' Secure Website |\n| [![Bitstamp](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/Bitstamp_logo_2017.png)](https:\/\/links.bitstamp.net\/c\/1955282\/1228811\/14006) [Bitstamp](https:\/\/links.bitstamp.net\/c\/1955282\/1228811\/14006) | ![Forbes Advisor Desktop Logo](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/forbes-advisor.svg) ![Forbes Advisor Mobile Logo](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/forbes-advisor.svg) 3\\.5 ![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/filled-star.svg)![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/filled-star.svg)![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/filled-star.svg)![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/half-star.svg)![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/outline-star.svg) ![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/tooltip.svg) | Maker Fee 0.30%\/Taker Fee 40% (For trades less than \\$10,000 within 30 days.) | 100+ | [Learn More](https:\/\/links.bitstamp.net\/c\/1955282\/1228811\/14006) On Bitstamp's Website |\n| [![BitFlyer](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/bitFlyer-1-removebg-preview.png)](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/investing\/cryptocurrency\/best-crypto-exchanges\/#bitflyer_section) [BitFlyer](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/investing\/cryptocurrency\/best-crypto-exchanges\/#bitflyer_section) | ![Forbes Advisor Desktop Logo](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/forbes-advisor.svg) ![Forbes Advisor Mobile Logo](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/forbes-advisor.svg) 3\\.1 ![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/filled-star.svg)![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/filled-star.svg)![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/filled-star.svg)![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/outline-star.svg)![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/outline-star.svg) ![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/tooltip.svg) | Fees can be as low as 0.10% | 9 | [View More](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/investing\/cryptocurrency\/best-crypto-exchanges\/#bitflyer_section) |\n| [![EToro](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/SEM_etoro_logo.png)](https:\/\/go.etoro.com\/en\/get10?utm_medium=Media%20Performance&utm_source=113475&utm_content=20618&utm_serial=etororeview&utm_campaign=etororeview&utm_term=&funnelFromId=60) [EToro](https:\/\/go.etoro.com\/en\/get10?utm_medium=Media%20Performance&utm_source=113475&utm_content=20618&utm_serial=etororeview&utm_campaign=etororeview&utm_term=&funnelFromId=60) | ![Forbes Advisor Desktop Logo](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/forbes-advisor.svg) ![Forbes Advisor Mobile Logo](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/forbes-advisor.svg) 2\\.8 ![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/filled-star.svg)![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/filled-star.svg)![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/filled-star.svg)![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/outline-star.svg)![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/outline-star.svg) ![](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/plugins\/marketplace-tables\/public\/images\/tooltip.svg) | 1% fee plus bid-ask spread | 100+ globally (only 30+ available in the U.S.) | [Learn More](https:\/\/go.etoro.com\/en\/get10?utm_medium=Media%20Performance&utm_source=113475&utm_content=20618&utm_serial=etororeview&utm_campaign=etororeview&utm_term=&funnelFromId=60) Via eToro's Website |\n\n![Left Arrow](data:image\/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAAAcAAAAMCAYAAACulacQAAAACXBIWXMAAAsTAAALEwEAmpwYAAAAAXNSR0IArs4c6QAAAARnQU1BAACxjwv8YQUAAADJSURBVHgBXZCxDcIwEEXvLrbTMgIjeAQXQB0aUiBENgAmIBswQkJJg6iQaGAF2CBskBY5wbEjWXLiwjr73f\/\/dAijo5JiEse01Zrd2BhwgS8DIDnXcgBFjAUASltWkeY5eTBPSwcSW9ZMM3W\/rr+9crY6HxEgcwCBeuD+yQFCyPsH\/pePy+bj3YiCzLaNTDgDumuRlidb7o2BmpCUV2M4EAJmrqFtmHzaXAxtfAOAqRrNVRgJ+mcOFryt4dQuIR8o\/ZaEoB1rWNkBtuxEvL1bUnQAAAAASUVORK5CYII=)\n\n![Right Arrow](data:image\/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAAAcAAAAMCAYAAACulacQAAAACXBIWXMAAAsTAAALEwEAmpwYAAAAAXNSR0IArs4c6QAAAARnQU1BAACxjwv8YQUAAADQSURBVHgBdVC5DcJAENw53pAS6AA6wAlPCAGCDLsSoAJEBXwJEDk0JrA7wCW4BMeH5GXP2MggscHenEYzNzew5rt2PVULrdNt6DoJlUY1GEsCrWp1BNZ41\/oiAV7LGQPo1hrYlEmYNRLrlNVDYIuJ9\/eL7WRKs7yzE4OUJTABwR7M9puPspj+9NiD4tDglGml6M8YolJchrNTh8CewCaJyr8u1plt9tc8ECTQLQ+EN4FAYJuIXf9iTwq3qimBhWDm6KnZKb9bzUpgRFrz4be+FwjJTXtIGD7JAAAAAElFTkSuQmCC)\n\nSee More\n\nSee Less\n### Decide on a Payment Method\nOnce you have created an account, you’ll need to seed it with funds, usually by transferring money from your bank, although it may be possible to use a credit or debit card or payment provider.\n\n### Place Your Order\nOnce you’ve got cash in your account, you can click as instructed to place an order and become a bitcoin owner. Only the very wealthy can afford to buy even one bitcoin (1 BTC) outright at current prices, but at the moment, you can buy a fraction of one, called a satoshi, for less than a penny. (A bitcoin is comprised of 100 million satoshis.)\n\n### Choose Your Storage Method\nIt’s worth noting that bitcoin has no physical form—it is represented by crypto keys, and it is these that need to be stored and used as proof of ownership.\n\nMany exchanges and platforms offer wallets where you can store your crypto keys, but there is an element of risk here as hackers will prey on exchanges looking for easy loot. That’s why security is such an important issue.\n\nSome exchanges have insurance schemes designed to reimburse customers if the exchange is a victim of theft or fraud, and an increasing number of hold users’ keys in cold storage, which means it is offline and further out of reach of the crooks.\n\nYou also have the option to transfer your bitcoin keys from an exchange to your own [crypto wallet](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/investing\/cryptocurrency\/best-crypto-wallets\/), which may be offline (cold) or managed by a third-party custodian.\n\n#### Hot Wallets vs. Cold Wallets\nHot wallets are connected to the internet and protected by a password. The beauty of them is that they can be accessed immediately from anywhere you can connect your device to the internet, but the downside is the risk of hacking and theft.\n\nThe hot wallet provider, such as a crypto exchange, will be engaged in a constant battle to outwit criminals and keep the wallet content safe.\n\nWith a cold wallet, the storage facility is offline, placing an “air gap” between the contents and any would-be hackers, although this gap is closed when the wallet is connected, making the wallet vulnerable while the owner is online.\n\n## How To Sell Bitcoin\nSelling bitcoin through a cryptocurrency exchange is as straightforward as buying it. You simply follow the signposting on your screen, indicate how much of your BTC holding you’d like to sell, and click to proceed.\n\nDepending on the exchange, you may be offered the choice of whether to sell at the current market price (known as the “spot” price) or only to sell when the price reaches a certain level, either below or higher than the current price.\n\nWhen the sale is complete and the cash lands in your account, you can transfer it to your bank (you may face a withdrawal fee to cover the transaction costs). If you make a profit on your bitcoin trades, you may be liable for capital gains tax.\n\n## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)\n### What are some alternative ways of buying bitcoin?\nThe only way to buy bitcoin directly is by using a fiat currency such as U.S. dollars or another cryptocurrency, usually through a crypto exchange.\n\nYou can own bitcoin indirectly by investing in [bitcoin exchange traded funds](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/investing\/cryptocurrency\/best-bitcoin-etfs\/) (ETFs) that hold the actual currency. A few examples of bitcoin spot ETFs include iShares Bitcoin Trust (IBIT), Fidelity Wise Origin Bitcoin Fund (FBTC) and Grayscale Bitcoin Trust ETF (GBTC). Most major [online brokerages](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/investing\/best-online-brokers\/) offer access to these leading bitcoin funds. For instance, [Fidelity](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/investing\/fidelity-investments-review\/) offers the Fidelity Wise Origin Bitcoin Fund, in addition to other crypto funds like the Fidelity Crypto Industry and Digital Payments ETF (FDIG).\n\nYou could also consider buying shares in companies that make a virtue of owning large amounts of bitcoin in their corporate reserves. Strategy and Tesla are two examples.\n\n### Is bitcoin potentially a good hedge against inflation?\nNo. Bitcoin’s price is volatile, and the purpose of an inflation hedge is to provide reliability and security in the battle against the effect of rising prices.\n\n### Is it possible to buy bitcoin with PayPal?\nYou can buy, sell and transact with bitcoin on PayPal sites in some countries, including within the U.S.\n\nWas this article helpful?\n\nShare your feedback\n\nSend feedback to the editorial team\n\n![User Form](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/themes\/fadv\/assets\/img\/user-feedback-form\/user-form-icon.svg)\n\n![Success Icon](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/themes\/fadv\/assets\/img\/user-feedback-form\/success-icon.svg)\n\nThank You for your feedback\\!\n\n![Error Icon](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/themes\/fadv\/assets\/img\/user-feedback-form\/error-icon.svg)\n\nSomething went wrong. Please try again later.\n\nBasics\n\n- [Top 10 Cryptocurrencies](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/investing\/cryptocurrency\/top-10-cryptocurrencies\/ \"Top 10 Cryptocurrencies\")\n- [Best Crypto Exchanges](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/investing\/cryptocurrency\/best-crypto-exchanges\/ \"Best Crypto Exchanges\")\n- [Best Crypto Credit Cards](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/credit-cards\/best\/crypto-rewards\/ \"Best Crypto Credit Cards\")\n- [Cryptocurrency Tax Calculator](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/taxes\/cryptocurrency-tax-calculator\/ \"Cryptocurrency Tax Calculator\")\n\nGuides\n\n- [How To Buy Cryptocurrency](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/investing\/cryptocurrency\/how-to-buy-cryptocurrency\/ \"How To Buy Cryptocurrency\")\n- [How To Buy XRP (Ripple)](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/investing\/cryptocurrency\/how-to-buy-xrp-ripple\/ \"How To Buy XRP (Ripple)\")\n- [How To Buy Bitcoin (BTC)](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/investing\/cryptocurrency\/buying-bitcoin\/ \"How To Buy Bitcoin (BTC)\")\n- [How To Buy Ethereum (ETH)](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/investing\/cryptocurrency\/how-to-buy-ethereum\/ \"How To Buy Ethereum (ETH)\")\n\nCrypto Exchanges\n\n- [Crypto.com Review](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/investing\/cryptocurrency\/crypto-com-review\/ \"Crypto.com Review\")\n- [Coinbase Review](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/investing\/cryptocurrency\/coinbase-review\/ \"Coinbase Review\")\n- [Binance.US Review](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/investing\/cryptocurrency\/binance-us-review\/ \"Binance.US Review\")\n- [Kraken Review](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/investing\/cryptocurrency\/kraken-review\/ \"Kraken Review\")\n- [eToro Review](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/investing\/cryptocurrency\/etoro-review\/ \"eToro Review\")\n\n### Next Up In Cryptocurrency\n- [Best Crypto Wallets](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/investing\/cryptocurrency\/best-crypto-wallets\/ \"Best Crypto Wallets\")\n- [Best Crypto Exchanges](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/investing\/cryptocurrency\/best-crypto-exchanges\/ \"Best Crypto Exchanges\")\n- [Best Crypto Staking Platforms](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/investing\/cryptocurrency\/best-crypto-staking-platforms\/ \"Best Crypto Staking Platforms\")\n- [Best Crypto to Buy Now](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/investing\/cryptocurrency\/top-10-cryptocurrencies\/ \"Best Crypto to Buy Now\")\n- [Coinbase Review](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/investing\/cryptocurrency\/coinbase-review\/ \"Coinbase Review\")\n- [Kraken Review](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/investing\/cryptocurrency\/kraken-review\/ \"Kraken Review\")\n- [Best Bitcoin ETFs](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/investing\/cryptocurrency\/best-bitcoin-etfs\/ \"Best Bitcoin ETFs\")\n\n#### More from  ![forbes-advisor](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/themes\/fadv\/assets\/img\/forbes-updated-logo.svg)\n[![8 Best Crypto Wallets](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/best_crypto_wallets-568x322.jpg) 8 Best Crypto Wallets ![Maisha Shahid](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/maisha-headshot-Maisha-Shahid-e1730783915307.jpg) By **Maisha Shahid**](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/investing\/cryptocurrency\/best-crypto-wallets\/ \"8 Best Crypto Wallets\")\n\n[![Ethereum Price Today: ETH Is Trading At \\$2,316 ](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/ethereum-ETFs-568x322.jpg) Ethereum Price Today: ETH Is Trading At \\$2,316 ![Farran Powell](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Farran-Powell_headshot.jpeg) By **Farran Powell**](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/investing\/cryptocurrency\/ethereum-price-today\/ \"Ethereum Price Today: ETH Is Trading At $2,316 \")\n\n[![Bitcoin Profit Calculator](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/bitcoin-charts-568x322.jpeg) Bitcoin Profit Calculator ![Farran Powell](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Farran-Powell_headshot.jpeg) By **Farran Powell**](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/investing\/cryptocurrency\/bitcoin-profit-calculator\/ \"Bitcoin Profit Calculator\")\n\n[![Bitcoin Price Today: Bitcoin Drops To \\$75,647](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/bitcoin-20210617-568x322.jpg) Bitcoin Price Today: Bitcoin Drops To \\$75,647 ![Farran Powell](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Farran-Powell_headshot.jpeg) By **Farran Powell**](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/investing\/cryptocurrency\/bitcoin-price-today\/ \"Bitcoin Price Today: Bitcoin Drops To $75,647\")\n\n[![What Is Bitcoin And How Does It Work?](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/bitcoin_glasses-568x322.jpg) What Is Bitcoin And How Does It Work? ![Kate Ashford](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/kate-ashford.jpg) By **Kate Ashford**](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/investing\/cryptocurrency\/what-is-bitcoin-zx1fa\/ \"What Is Bitcoin And How Does It Work?\")\n\n[![How To Buy Cryptocurrency](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/07\/how-to-buy-crypto-568x322.jpg) How To Buy Cryptocurrency ![Kat Tretina](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Screenshot-2024-02-19-at-4.12.24-PM-Kat-Tretina-2-e1709642870995.png) By **Kat Tretina**](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/investing\/cryptocurrency\/how-to-buy-cryptocurrency-zx1fa\/ \"How To Buy Cryptocurrency\")\n\nInformation provided on Forbes Advisor is for educational purposes only. Your financial situation is unique and the products and services we review may not be right for your circumstances. We do not offer financial advice, advisory or brokerage services, nor do we recommend or advise individuals or to buy or sell particular stocks or securities. Performance information may have changed since the time of publication. Past performance is not indicative of future results.  \n   \n Forbes Advisor adheres to strict [editorial integrity standards](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/about-us\/). To the best of our knowledge, all content is accurate as of the date posted, though offers contained herein may no longer be available. The opinions expressed are the author’s alone and have not been provided, approved, or otherwise endorsed by our [partners](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/advertiser-disclosure\/ \"Advertiser Disclosure\").\n\n[![Mark Hooson](https:\/\/thumbor.forbes.com\/thumbor\/fit-in\/x\/https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/mark-hooson-88x88.jpg)](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/author\/mark-hooson\/ \"Mark Hooson\")\n\n[Mark Hooson](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/author\/mark-hooson\/)\n\nStaff Writer\n\nStaff writer Mark Hooson has been a journalist within the personal finance, consumer affairs and fraud sectors for more than 10 years. He is also Forbes Advisor UK’s resident tech expert. Mark says he thrives on making ‘complicated and dry topics easier to digest’.\n\n[![Mark Hooson](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/mark-hooson-88x88.jpg)](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/author\/mark-hooson\/ \"Mark Hooson\")\n\n[Mark Hooson](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/author\/mark-hooson\/)\n\nStaff Writer\n\nStaff writer Mark Hooson has been a journalist within the personal finance, consumer affairs and fraud sectors for more than 10 years. He is also Forbes Advisor UK’s resident tech expert. Mark says he thrives on making ‘complicated and dry topics easier to digest’.\n\n© 2026 Forbes Media LLC. All Rights Reserved.\n\n- [AdChoices](https:\/\/preferences-mgr.truste.com\/?pid=forbes01)\n- [Privacy Statement](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/privacy-policy\/)\n- [Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/consent\/editprivacy\/?consent_do_not_sell=true)\n- [Limit the Use of My Sensitive Personal Information](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/consent\/editprivacy\/?consent_limit=true)\n- [Privacy Preferences](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/consent\/editprivacy\/?consent_limit=true)\n- [Terms of Sale](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/digital-terms-of-sale)\n- [Terms of Service](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/terms-and-conditions\/)\n- [Contact Us](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/fdc\/contact.html)\n- [Send Us Feedback](mailto:feedback@forbes.com)\n- [Report a Security Issue](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/contact\/)\n- [Jobs At Forbes](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/sites\/careers-at-forbes\/)\n- [Reprints & Permissions](http:\/\/forbesreprints.magreprints.com\/)\n- [Forbes Press Room](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/sites\/forbespr\/)\n- [Advertise](http:\/\/www.forbesmedia.com\/)\n\nlorem\n\nAre you sure you want to rest your choices?\n\ncancel\n\nok\n\nThe Forbes Advisor editorial team is independent and objective. To help support our reporting work, and to continue our ability to provide this content for free to our readers, we receive compensation from the companies that advertise on the Forbes Advisor site. This compensation comes from two main sources. **First**, we provide paid placements to advertisers to present their offers. The compensation we receive for those placements affects how and where advertisers’ offers appear on the site. This site does not include all companies or products available within the market. **Second,** we also include links to advertisers’ offers in some of our articles; these “affiliate links” may generate income for our site when you click on them. The compensation we receive from advertisers does not influence the recommendations or advice our editorial team provides in our articles or otherwise impact any of the editorial content on Forbes Advisor. While we work hard to provide accurate and up to date information that we think you will find relevant, Forbes Advisor does not and cannot guarantee that any information provided is complete and makes no representations or warranties in connection thereto, nor to the accuracy or applicability thereof. Here is a list of our [partners](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/advertiser-disclosure\/) who offer products that we have affiliate links for.","attrs_readable_markdown":"Bitcoin (BTC), launched in 2009, is by far the biggest cryptocurrency. Indeed, its size relative to other cryptos is of such that, collectively, others are known as “altcoins.”\n\nBut bitcoin’s size does not mean it is more likely to prove a good investment, or that it is less likely to lose value. Like all [cryptocurrencies](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/investing\/cryptocurrency\/top-10-cryptocurrencies\/), it is a highly volatile digital asset whose worth is heavily influenced by market sentiment.\n\nBitcoin runs on a blockchain-based network that’s powered by global users. Bitcoin allows peer-to-peer financial transactions without the use of a centralized financial intermediary.\n\nCentralized government orders issue legal tender (fiat currency) like the U.S. dollar (USD) or the British pound (GBP). In contrast, bitcoin is a virtual currency that operates on a public distributed ledger called a blockchain. Bitcoin is often referred to as a decentralized currency, too.\n\nThe table below shows some key differences between fiat currency and bitcoin.\n\n| Fiat Currency vs. Bitcoin |   |\n|---|---|\n| **Fiat currency** | **Bitcoin** |\n| Physical medium | Digital medium |\n| Government can produce as needed | Limited supply |\n| Issued by governments | Produced by computers |\n| Centralized | Decentralized |\n\nWith bitcoin, transactions are verified by “network nodes.” Bitcoin miners bundle these verified transactions into blocks. Miners for BTC use high-powered computers to solve complex mathematical puzzles. This then creates new blocks of verified transactions on the blockchain.\n\nAs with most cryptocurrencies, bitcoin is created via cryptographic computer technology known as a blockchain. The blockchain, and bitcoin for that matter, was created by a person or group using the pseudonym Satoshi Nakamoto. Bitcoin’s creator said there was a need for “an electronic payment system based on cryptographic proof instead of trust, allowing any two willing parties to transact directly with each other without the need for a trusted third party.”\n\nThe first [exchanged bitcoin](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/investing\/cryptocurrency\/bitcoin-price-today\/) with a recorded price was in late 2009. A user in a bitcoin online forum exchanged 5,050 BTC for \\$5.02, using PayPal. At the time, BTC was valued about one-tenth of a cent.\n\n## Find The Best Crypto Exchanges\nWe've combed through the leading exchange offerings, and reams of data, to determine the best crypto exchanges.\n## How Does Bitcoin Work?\nBitcoin is built on a blockchain, which acts as a digital ledger. The blockchain is a linked body of data, comprised of units called blocks. These blocks contain information, including addresses (public keys), values and identifying codes. Entries are strung together in chronological order, creating a digital chain of blocks.\n\nFor transaction blocks to be added to the bitcoin blockchain, blocks must be verified. The process of adding new transactions to the bitcoin blockchain is bitcoin mining, using a proof-of-work construct. The proof-of-work method alongside the consensus rules and digital signatures helps to fight against fraud.\n\n## How Does Bitcoin Mining Work?\nBitcoin mining is one way to obtain BTC. With a proof-of-work method, bitcoin miners compete to validate blocks of bitcoin transactions and add them to the crypto’s blockchain—an indelible ledger of all bitcoin transactions since the beginning. If they are successful, they are rewarded with an amount of actual bitcoins.\n\nThe size of this reward has reduced over the years (it is currently 3.125 BTC per block) to control the supply of new bitcoins.\n\nFor every 210,000 blocks mined, the network undergoes a “halving” process. With a halving, the BTC reward is cut in half. The next halving event is expected to occur in 2028 with block number 1,050,000. The BTC reward will then be halved from 3.125 BTC per block to 1.5625 BTC.\n\n| Halving Event | Date | Block | Reward Before Halving | Post-Halving Reward |\n|---|---|---|---|---|\n| 1st halving | Nov. 28, 2012 | 210,000 | 50 BTC | 25 BTC |\n| 2nd halving | July 9, 2016 | 420,000 | 25 BTC | 12\\.5 BTC |\n| 3rd halving | May 11, 2020 | 630,000 | 12\\.5 BTC | 6\\.25 BTC |\n| 4th halving | April 19, 2024 | 840,000 | 6\\.25 BTC | 3\\.125 BTC |\n| 5th halving (expected) | April 2028 | 1,050,000 | 3\\.125 BTC | 1\\.5625 BTC |\n\nThe founders of the currency set a finite limit on the total supply of bitcoins of 21 million. In February 2026, the number in circulation was nearly 20 million, meaning there is something over a million yet to be mined. Experts forecast that this won’t happen until around 2140.\n\n## How to Buy Bitcoin\nThere are four stages to [buying bitcoin](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/investing\/cryptocurrency\/buying-bitcoin\/) if you are a beginner: selecting a [crypto exchange](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/investing\/cryptocurrency\/best-crypto-exchanges\/),deciding on your payment method, placing an order and choosing your method of storage.\n\n### Select a Crypto Exchange\nCryptocurrency is bought and sold on crypto exchanges and also on [trading platforms](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/investing\/best-online-brokers\/) and apps. It is important for beginners to research the market thoroughly and find the combination of ease of use, competitive fees and high security that suits your preferences and objectives.\n\nYou’ll need to create an account, which will involve providing your personal information and a form of identification, such as your driving license. All this will be handled online via your chosen website or app.\n\n#### Best Crypto Exchanges\n### Decide on a Payment Method\nOnce you have created an account, you’ll need to seed it with funds, usually by transferring money from your bank, although it may be possible to use a credit or debit card or payment provider.\n\n### Place Your Order\nOnce you’ve got cash in your account, you can click as instructed to place an order and become a bitcoin owner. Only the very wealthy can afford to buy even one bitcoin (1 BTC) outright at current prices, but at the moment, you can buy a fraction of one, called a satoshi, for less than a penny. (A bitcoin is comprised of 100 million satoshis.)\n\n### Choose Your Storage Method\nIt’s worth noting that bitcoin has no physical form—it is represented by crypto keys, and it is these that need to be stored and used as proof of ownership.\n\nMany exchanges and platforms offer wallets where you can store your crypto keys, but there is an element of risk here as hackers will prey on exchanges looking for easy loot. That’s why security is such an important issue.\n\nSome exchanges have insurance schemes designed to reimburse customers if the exchange is a victim of theft or fraud, and an increasing number of hold users’ keys in cold storage, which means it is offline and further out of reach of the crooks.\n\nYou also have the option to transfer your bitcoin keys from an exchange to your own [crypto wallet](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/investing\/cryptocurrency\/best-crypto-wallets\/), which may be offline (cold) or managed by a third-party custodian.\n\n#### Hot Wallets vs. Cold Wallets\nHot wallets are connected to the internet and protected by a password. The beauty of them is that they can be accessed immediately from anywhere you can connect your device to the internet, but the downside is the risk of hacking and theft.\n\nThe hot wallet provider, such as a crypto exchange, will be engaged in a constant battle to outwit criminals and keep the wallet content safe.\n\nWith a cold wallet, the storage facility is offline, placing an “air gap” between the contents and any would-be hackers, although this gap is closed when the wallet is connected, making the wallet vulnerable while the owner is online.\n\n## How To Sell Bitcoin\nSelling bitcoin through a cryptocurrency exchange is as straightforward as buying it. You simply follow the signposting on your screen, indicate how much of your BTC holding you’d like to sell, and click to proceed.\n\nDepending on the exchange, you may be offered the choice of whether to sell at the current market price (known as the “spot” price) or only to sell when the price reaches a certain level, either below or higher than the current price.\n\nWhen the sale is complete and the cash lands in your account, you can transfer it to your bank (you may face a withdrawal fee to cover the transaction costs). If you make a profit on your bitcoin trades, you may be liable for capital gains tax.\n\n## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)\nThe only way to buy bitcoin directly is by using a fiat currency such as U.S. dollars or another cryptocurrency, usually through a crypto exchange.\n\nYou can own bitcoin indirectly by investing in [bitcoin exchange traded funds](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/investing\/cryptocurrency\/best-bitcoin-etfs\/) (ETFs) that hold the actual currency. A few examples of bitcoin spot ETFs include iShares Bitcoin Trust (IBIT), Fidelity Wise Origin Bitcoin Fund (FBTC) and Grayscale Bitcoin Trust ETF (GBTC). Most major [online brokerages](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/investing\/best-online-brokers\/) offer access to these leading bitcoin funds. For instance, [Fidelity](https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/investing\/fidelity-investments-review\/) offers the Fidelity Wise Origin Bitcoin Fund, in addition to other crypto funds like the Fidelity Crypto Industry and Digital Payments ETF (FDIG).\n\nYou could also consider buying shares in companies that make a virtue of owning large amounts of bitcoin in their corporate reserves. Strategy and Tesla are two examples.\n\nNo. Bitcoin’s price is volatile, and the purpose of an inflation hedge is to provide reliability and security in the battle against the effect of rising prices.\n\nYou can buy, sell and transact with bitcoin on PayPal sites in some countries, including within the U.S.","meta_canonical":null,"ml_categories_json":"{\"\/Finance\":986,\"\/Finance\/Investing\":978,\"\/Finance\/Investing\/Currencies_and_Foreign_Exchange\":770}","ml_types_json":"{\"\/Article\":990,\"\/Article\/Definitions\":591}","ml_intent_types_json":"{\"Informational\":999,\"Commercial\":218}","meta_language":"en-us","attrs_author":"Mark Hooson","attrs_publish_time":1635269126,"attrs_original_publish_time":1635269126,"attrs_is_republished":0,"attrs_nr_words":"4859","attrs_boilerpipe_nr_words":"1479","body_ext_links_number":22,"body_int_links_number":469,"meta_nofollow":0,"meta_noarchive":0,"props_was_rendered":0,"src_redirect":"","download_time_msec":1355,"download_ttfb_msec":806,"download_size":169872}

3. Robots.txt Check

Query:

Response:

4. Spam/Ban Check

Query:

Response:

5. Seen Status Check

ℹ️ Skipped - page is already crawled

📄

INDEXABLE

✅

CRAWLED

1 day ago

🤖

ROBOTS ALLOWED

Page Info Filters

Filter	Status	Condition	Details
HTTP status	PASS	`download_http_code = 200`	HTTP 200
Age cutoff	PASS	`download_stamp > now() - 6 MONTH`	0 months ago
History drop	PASS	`isNull(history_drop_reason)`	No drop reason
Spam/ban	PASS	`fh_dont_index != 1 AND ml_spam_score = 0`	ml_spam_score=0
Canonical	PASS	`meta_canonical IS NULL OR = '' OR = src_unparsed`	Not set

Page Details

Property

Value

URL

https://www.forbes.com/advisor/investing/cryptocurrency/what-is-bitcoin/

Last Crawled

2026-04-21 11:49:44 (1 day ago)

First Indexed

2022-04-12 13:56:20 (4 years ago)

HTTP Status Code

200

Content

Meta Title

What Is Bitcoin? How Does It Work? – Forbes Advisor

Meta Description

Bitcoin is a decentralized digital currency that you can buy, sell and exchange directly, without an intermediary like a bank.

Meta Canonical

null

Boilerpipe Text

Bitcoin (BTC), launched in 2009, is by far the biggest cryptocurrency. Indeed, its size relative to other cryptos is of such that, collectively, others are known as “altcoins.” But bitcoin’s size does not mean it is more likely to prove a good investment, or that it is less likely to lose value. Like all cryptocurrencies , it is a highly volatile digital asset whose worth is heavily influenced by market sentiment. Bitcoin runs on a blockchain-based network that’s powered by global users. Bitcoin allows peer-to-peer financial transactions without the use of a centralized financial intermediary. Centralized government orders issue legal tender (fiat currency) like the U.S. dollar (USD) or the British pound (GBP). In contrast, bitcoin is a virtual currency that operates on a public distributed ledger called a blockchain. Bitcoin is often referred to as a decentralized currency, too. The table below shows some key differences between fiat currency and bitcoin. Fiat Currency vs. Bitcoin Fiat currency Bitcoin Physical medium Digital medium Government can produce as needed Limited supply Issued by governments Produced by computers Centralized Decentralized With bitcoin, transactions are verified by “network nodes.” Bitcoin miners bundle these verified transactions into blocks. Miners for BTC use high-powered computers to solve complex mathematical puzzles. This then creates new blocks of verified transactions on the blockchain. As with most cryptocurrencies, bitcoin is created via cryptographic computer technology known as a blockchain. The blockchain, and bitcoin for that matter, was created by a person or group using the pseudonym Satoshi Nakamoto. Bitcoin’s creator said there was a need for “an electronic payment system based on cryptographic proof instead of trust, allowing any two willing parties to transact directly with each other without the need for a trusted third party.” The first exchanged bitcoin with a recorded price was in late 2009. A user in a bitcoin online forum exchanged 5,050 BTC for $5.02, using PayPal. At the time, BTC was valued about one-tenth of a cent. Find The Best Crypto Exchanges We've combed through the leading exchange offerings, and reams of data, to determine the best crypto exchanges. How Does Bitcoin Work? Bitcoin is built on a blockchain, which acts as a digital ledger. The blockchain is a linked body of data, comprised of units called blocks. These blocks contain information, including addresses (public keys), values and identifying codes. Entries are strung together in chronological order, creating a digital chain of blocks. For transaction blocks to be added to the bitcoin blockchain, blocks must be verified. The process of adding new transactions to the bitcoin blockchain is bitcoin mining, using a proof-of-work construct. The proof-of-work method alongside the consensus rules and digital signatures helps to fight against fraud. How Does Bitcoin Mining Work? Bitcoin mining is one way to obtain BTC. With a proof-of-work method, bitcoin miners compete to validate blocks of bitcoin transactions and add them to the crypto’s blockchain—an indelible ledger of all bitcoin transactions since the beginning. If they are successful, they are rewarded with an amount of actual bitcoins. The size of this reward has reduced over the years (it is currently 3.125 BTC per block) to control the supply of new bitcoins. For every 210,000 blocks mined, the network undergoes a “halving” process. With a halving, the BTC reward is cut in half. The next halving event is expected to occur in 2028 with block number 1,050,000. The BTC reward will then be halved from 3.125 BTC per block to 1.5625 BTC. Halving Event Date Block Reward Before Halving Post-Halving Reward 1st halving Nov. 28, 2012 210,000 50 BTC 25 BTC 2nd halving July 9, 2016 420,000 25 BTC 12.5 BTC 3rd halving May 11, 2020 630,000 12.5 BTC 6.25 BTC 4th halving April 19, 2024 840,000 6.25 BTC 3.125 BTC 5th halving (expected) April 2028 1,050,000 3.125 BTC 1.5625 BTC The founders of the currency set a finite limit on the total supply of bitcoins of 21 million. In February 2026, the number in circulation was nearly 20 million, meaning there is something over a million yet to be mined. Experts forecast that this won’t happen until around 2140. How to Buy Bitcoin There are four stages to buying bitcoin if you are a beginner: selecting a crypto exchange ,deciding on your payment method, placing an order and choosing your method of storage. Select a Crypto Exchange Cryptocurrency is bought and sold on crypto exchanges and also on trading platforms and apps. It is important for beginners to research the market thoroughly and find the combination of ease of use, competitive fees and high security that suits your preferences and objectives. You’ll need to create an account, which will involve providing your personal information and a form of identification, such as your driving license. All this will be handled online via your chosen website or app. Best Crypto Exchanges Decide on a Payment Method Once you have created an account, you’ll need to seed it with funds, usually by transferring money from your bank, although it may be possible to use a credit or debit card or payment provider. Place Your Order Once you’ve got cash in your account, you can click as instructed to place an order and become a bitcoin owner. Only the very wealthy can afford to buy even one bitcoin (1 BTC) outright at current prices, but at the moment, you can buy a fraction of one, called a satoshi, for less than a penny. (A bitcoin is comprised of 100 million satoshis.) Choose Your Storage Method It’s worth noting that bitcoin has no physical form—it is represented by crypto keys, and it is these that need to be stored and used as proof of ownership. Many exchanges and platforms offer wallets where you can store your crypto keys, but there is an element of risk here as hackers will prey on exchanges looking for easy loot. That’s why security is such an important issue. Some exchanges have insurance schemes designed to reimburse customers if the exchange is a victim of theft or fraud, and an increasing number of hold users’ keys in cold storage, which means it is offline and further out of reach of the crooks. You also have the option to transfer your bitcoin keys from an exchange to your own crypto wallet , which may be offline (cold) or managed by a third-party custodian. Hot Wallets vs. Cold Wallets Hot wallets are connected to the internet and protected by a password. The beauty of them is that they can be accessed immediately from anywhere you can connect your device to the internet, but the downside is the risk of hacking and theft. The hot wallet provider, such as a crypto exchange, will be engaged in a constant battle to outwit criminals and keep the wallet content safe. With a cold wallet, the storage facility is offline, placing an “air gap” between the contents and any would-be hackers, although this gap is closed when the wallet is connected, making the wallet vulnerable while the owner is online. How To Sell Bitcoin Selling bitcoin through a cryptocurrency exchange is as straightforward as buying it. You simply follow the signposting on your screen, indicate how much of your BTC holding you’d like to sell, and click to proceed. Depending on the exchange, you may be offered the choice of whether to sell at the current market price (known as the “spot” price) or only to sell when the price reaches a certain level, either below or higher than the current price. When the sale is complete and the cash lands in your account, you can transfer it to your bank (you may face a withdrawal fee to cover the transaction costs). If you make a profit on your bitcoin trades, you may be liable for capital gains tax. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) The only way to buy bitcoin directly is by using a fiat currency such as U.S. dollars or another cryptocurrency, usually through a crypto exchange. You can own bitcoin indirectly by investing in bitcoin exchange traded funds (ETFs) that hold the actual currency. A few examples of bitcoin spot ETFs include iShares Bitcoin Trust (IBIT), Fidelity Wise Origin Bitcoin Fund (FBTC) and Grayscale Bitcoin Trust ETF (GBTC). Most major online brokerages offer access to these leading bitcoin funds. For instance, Fidelity offers the Fidelity Wise Origin Bitcoin Fund, in addition to other crypto funds like the Fidelity Crypto Industry and Digital Payments ETF (FDIG). You could also consider buying shares in companies that make a virtue of owning large amounts of bitcoin in their corporate reserves. Strategy and Tesla are two examples. No. Bitcoin’s price is volatile, and the purpose of an inflation hedge is to provide reliability and security in the battle against the effect of rising prices. You can buy, sell and transact with bitcoin on PayPal sites in some countries, including within the U.S.

Markdown

[Subscribe To Newsletters](https://account.forbes.com/newsletters) - [Subscribe To Newsletters](https://account.forbes.com/newsletters) - [Trump Tracker](https://www.forbes.com/trump/) - [Billionaires](https://www.forbes.com/worlds-billionaires/) Billionaires - [View All Billionaires](https://www.forbes.com/worlds-billionaires/) - [World's Billionaires](https://www.forbes.com/billionaires/) - [Forbes 400](https://www.forbes.com/forbes-400/) - [America's Richest Self-Made Women](https://www.forbes.com/self-made-women/) - [China's Richest](https://www.forbes.com/china-billionaires/) - [India's Richest](https://www.forbes.com/india-billionaires/) - [Indonesia's Richest](https://www.forbes.com/indonesia-billionaires/) - [Korea's Richest](https://www.forbes.com/korea-billionaires/list/) - [Thailand's Richest](https://www.forbes.com/thailand-billionaires/list/) - [Japan's Richest](https://www.forbes.com/japan-billionaires/list/) - [Australia's Richest](https://www.forbes.com/australia-billionaires/) - [Taiwan's Richest](https://www.forbes.com/taiwan-billionaires/) - [Singapore's Richest](https://www.forbes.com/singapore-billionaires/) - [Philippines' Richest](https://www.forbes.com/philippines-billionaires/) - [Hong Kong's Richest](https://www.forbes.com/hong-kong-billionaires/) - [Malaysia's Richest](https://www.forbes.com/malaysia-billionaires/) - [Money & Politics](https://www.forbes.com/money-politics/) - [2024 Election](https://www.forbes.com/2024-election/) - [Innovation](https://www.forbes.com/innovation/) Innovation - [View All Innovation](https://www.forbes.com/innovation/) - [AI](https://www.forbes.com/ai/) - [Big Data](https://www.forbes.com/big-data/) - [Cloud](https://www.forbes.com/cloud/) - [Cloud 100](https://www.forbes.com/cloud100/) - [Consumer Tech](https://www.forbes.com/consumer-tech/) - [Creator Economy](https://www.forbes.com/creator-economy/) - [Cybersecurity](https://www.forbes.com/cybersecurity/) - [Digital Transformation](https://www.forbes.com/digital-transformation/) - [Enterprise Commerce](https://www.forbes.com/topics/enterprise-commerce/) - [Enterprise Security and Protection](https://www.forbes.com/topics/enterprise-security-and-protection/) - [Enterprise Tech](https://www.forbes.com/enterprise-tech/) - [Enterprise Growth Strategy](https://www.forbes.com/topics/enterprise-growth-strategy/) - [Future Of Work](https://www.forbes.com/future-of-work) - [Gaming](https://www.forbes.com/gaming/) - [greenhouse Insights: How AI Can Help You Make Your Smartest Hire Yet \| Paid Program](https://www.forbes.com/sites/insights-greenhousecom/2024/08/14/how-ai-can-help-you-make-your-smartest-hire-yet/) - [Healthcare](https://www.forbes.com/healthcare) - [Innovation Rules](https://www.forbes.com/innovation-rules) - [Retail Industry](https://www.forbes.com/topics/retail-industry/) - [SAP BrandVoice \| Paid Program](https://www.forbes.com/sites/sap/) - [Science](https://www.forbes.com/science/) - [Social Media](https://www.forbes.com/social-media/) - [Sustainability & Climate](https://www.forbes.com/sustainability/) - [Transportation](https://www.forbes.com/transportation/) - [Venture Capital](https://www.forbes.com/venture-capital/) - [Technology](https://www.forbes.com/sites/technology/) - [VMware BrandVoice \| Paid Program](https://www.forbes.com/sites/vmware/) - [Zendesk BrandVoice \| Paid Program](https://www.forbes.com/sites/zendesk) - [Leadership](https://www.forbes.com/leadership/) Leadership - [View All Leadership](https://www.forbes.com/leadership/) - [Careers](https://www.forbes.com/careers/) - [CEO Network](https://www.forbes.com/ceo-network) - [CFO Network](https://www.forbes.com/cfo-network/) - [CHRO Network](https://www.forbes.com/chro-network/) - [CIO Network](https://www.forbes.com/cio-network/) - [CMO Network](https://www.forbes.com/cmo-network/) - [CxO](https://www.forbes.com/cxo) - [Diversity, Equity & Inclusion](https://www.forbes.com/diversity-inclusion/) - [Education](https://www.forbes.com/education/) - [Forbes EQ \| Paid Program](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbeseq) - [ForbesBLK](https://www.forbes.com/blk-leadership/) - [ForbesWomen](https://www.forbes.com/women-at-forbes/) - [Leadership Strategy](https://www.forbes.com/leadership-strategy/) - [Under 30](https://www.forbes.com/under30/) - [Working Remote](https://www.forbes.com/working-remote/) - [Over 50](https://www.forbes.com/over-50/) - [Deloitte BrandVoice \| Paid Program](https://www.forbes.com/sites/deloitte/) - [Dell Technologies BrandVoice \| Paid Program](https://www.forbes.com/sites/delltechnologies/) - [Money](https://www.forbes.com/money/) Money - [View All Money](https://www.forbes.com/money/) - [Banking & Insurance](https://www.forbes.com/banking-insurance/) - [ETFs & Mutual Funds](https://www.forbes.com/etfs-mutual-funds/) - [Fintech](https://www.forbes.com/fintech/) - [Hedge Funds & Private Equity](https://www.forbes.com/hedge-funds-private-equity/) - [Investing](https://www.forbes.com/investing/) - [Investor Hub](https://www.forbes.com/sites/investor-hub/) - [Markets](https://www.forbes.com/markets/) - [Personal Finance](https://www.forbes.com/personal-finance/) - [Premium Investing Newsletters](https://www.forbes.com/newsletters/) - [Retirement](https://www.forbes.com/retirement/) - [Taxes](https://www.forbes.com/taxes/) - [Top Advisor \| SHOOK](https://www.forbes.com/top-advisor-shook/) - [Wealth Management](https://www.forbes.com/wealth-management/) - [Forbes Digital Assets](https://www.forbes.com/digital-assets/) Forbes Digital Assets - [View All Forbes Digital Assets](https://www.forbes.com/digital-assets/) - [Home](https://www.forbes.com/digital-assets/) - [Web3 Community](https://www.forbes.com/digital-assets/community/) - [News](https://www.forbes.com/digital-assets/news/) - [Crypto Prices](https://www.forbes.com/digital-assets/crypto-prices/) - [NFT Prices](https://www.forbes.com/digital-assets/nft-prices/) - [Research](https://www.forbes.com/digital-assets/research/) - [Learn](https://www.forbes.com/digital-assets/learn/) [Crypto Basics](https://www.forbes.com/digital-assets/learn/crypto-basics/) [BTC](https://www.forbes.com/digital-assets/learn/btc/) [DeFi](https://www.forbes.com/digital-assets/learn/defi/) [Web3 Education](https://www.forbes.com/digital-assets/learn/web3-education/) [NFTs](https://www.forbes.com/digital-assets/learn/nfts/) [Crypto Investments](https://www.forbes.com/digital-assets/learn/crypto-investments/) - [Events](https://www.forbes.com/digital-assets/events/) - [Crypto Portfolios](https://www.forbes.com/digital-assets/crypto-advisor-portfolio/) - [Investment Newsletters](https://www.forbes.com/newsletters/) - [Business](https://www.forbes.com/business/) Business - [View All Business](https://www.forbes.com/business/) - [Aerospace & Defense](https://www.forbes.com/aerospace-defense/) - [Energy](https://www.forbes.com/energy/) - [Food & Drink](https://www.forbes.com/food-drink/) - [Hollywood & Entertainment](https://www.forbes.com/hollywood-entertainment/) - [Law](https://www.forbes.com/law/) - [Manufacturing](https://www.forbes.com/manufacturing/) - [Media](https://www.forbes.com/media/) - [Policy](https://www.forbes.com/policy/) - [Retail](https://www.forbes.com/retail/) - [SportsMoney](https://www.forbes.com/sportsmoney/) - [Entertainment Digest](https://www.forbes.com/sites/entertainment/) - [Small Business](https://www.forbes.com/small-business/) Small Business - [View All Small Business](https://www.forbes.com/small-business/) - [Entrepreneurs](https://www.forbes.com/entrepreneurs/) - [Franchises](https://www.forbes.com/franchises/) - [Small Business Strategy](https://www.forbes.com/small-business-strategy/) - [Lifestyle](https://www.forbes.com/lifestyle/) Lifestyle - [View All Lifestyle](https://www.forbes.com/lifestyle/) - [Arts](https://www.forbes.com/arts/) - [Boats & Planes](https://www.forbes.com/boats-planes/) - [Cars & Bikes](https://www.forbes.com/cars-bikes/) - [Dining](https://www.forbes.com/dining/) - [ForbesLife](https://www.forbes.com/forbeslife/) - [Forbes Travel Guide](https://www.forbes.com/forbes-travel-guide/) - [Spirits](https://www.forbes.com/spirits/) - [Style & Beauty](https://www.forbes.com/style-beauty/) - [Travel](https://www.forbes.com/travel/) - [Vices](https://www.forbes.com/vices/) - [Watches](https://www.forbes.com/watches-jewelry/) - [Real Estate](https://www.forbes.com/real-estate) Real Estate - [View All Real Estate](https://www.forbes.com/real-estate) - [Commercial Real Estate](https://www.forbes.com/commercial-real-estate) - [Forbes Global Properties](https://www.forbes.com/forbes-global-properties) - [Residential Real Estate](https://www.forbes.com/residential-real-estate) - [Vetted](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/) Vetted - [View All Vetted](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/) - [Mattress & Sleep](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/mattress-sleep/) [Bed Frames](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/mattress-sleep/bed-frames/) [Mattresses](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/mattress-sleep/mattresses/) [Mattress Toppers](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/mattress-sleep/mattress-toppers/) [Pillows](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/mattress-sleep/pillows/) [Sheets & Bedding](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/mattress-sleep/sheets-bedding/) [Sleep Products](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/mattress-sleep/sleep-products/) - [Home](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/home/) [Bathroom](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/home/bathroom/) [Cleaning & Laundry](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/home/cleaning-laundry/) [Decor](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/home/decor/) [Furniture](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/home/furniture/) [Heating & Cooling](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/home/heating-cooling/) [Hobbies](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/home/hobbies/) [Home Office](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/home-office/) [Kitchen & Dining](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/home/kitchen-dining/) [Outdoor](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/home/outdoor/) [Pets](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/home/pets/) [Storage & Organization](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/home/storage-organization/) [Tools](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/home/tools/) [Wine & Bar](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/home/wine-bar/) - [Fashion](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/fashion/) [Accessories](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/fashion/accessories/) [Clothing](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/fashion/clothing/) [Eyewear](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/fashion/eyewear/) [Footwear](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/fashion/footwear/) [Jewelry](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/fashion/jewelry/) [Handbags & Purses](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/fashion/handbags-purses/) [Lingerie & Sleepwear](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/fashion/lingerie-sleepwear/) [Outdoor & Fitness Apparel](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/fashion/outdoor-fitness-apparel/) [Outerwear](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/fashion/outerwear/) [Watches](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/fashion/watches/) - [Kids & Baby Gear](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/kids-baby-gear/) [Baby Gear](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/kids-baby-gear/baby-gear/) [Kids Clothes & Accessories](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/kids-baby-gear/kids-clothes-accessories/) [Nursery](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/kids-baby-gear/nursery/) [Pregnancy & Postpartum](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/kids-baby-gear/pregnancy-postpartum/) [Toys & Books](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/kids-baby-gear/toys-books/) - [Gear](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/gear/) [Apparel & Accessories](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/gear/apparel-accessories/) [Bikes](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/gear/bikes/) [Camping & Hiking](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/gear/camping-hiking/) [Climbing](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/gear/climbing/) [Fishing & Hunting](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/gear/fishing-hunting/) [Fitness](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/gear/fitness/) [Golf](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/gear/golf/) [Running](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/gear/running/) [Tennis & Racket Sports](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/gear/tennis-racket-sports/) [Tools & Tech](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/gear/tools-tech/) [Training & Recovery](https://ww.forbes.com/vetted/gear/training-recovery/) [Water Sports](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/gear/water-sports/) [Wellness](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/gear/wellness/) [Winter Sports](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/gear/winter-sports/) - [Beauty & Grooming](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/beauty-grooming/) [Haircare](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/beauty-grooming/haircare/) [Makeup](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/beauty-grooming/makeup/) [Nailcare](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/beauty-grooming/nailcare/) [Shaving](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/beauty-grooming/shaving/) [Skincare](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/beauty-grooming/skincare/) [Personal Products](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/beauty-grooming/personal-products/) [Wellness & Self Care](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/beauty-grooming/wellness-self-care/) - [Tech & Electronics](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/tech-electronics/) [Audio](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/tech-electronics/audio/) [Cameras](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/tech-electronics/cameras/) [Computers, Tablets & Accessories](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/tech-electronics/computers-tablets-accessories/) [Gaming](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/tech-electronics/gaming/) [Home Office](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/tech-electronics/home-office/) [Online Tools](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/tech-electronics/online-tools/) [Smart Home Devices](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/tech-electronics/smart-home-devices/) [Smartphones, Smartwatches & Accessories](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/tech-electronics/smartphones-smartwatches-accessories/) [Streaming](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/tech-electronics/streaming/) [TVs](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/tech-electronics/tvs/) - [Travel](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/travel/) [Cruises](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/travel/cruises/) [Hotels & Lodging](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/travel/hotels-lodging/) [Luggage](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/travel/luggage/) [Travel Products](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/travel/travel-products/) - [Gifts](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/gifts/) [Father's Day](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/gifts/fathers-day/) [Holiday](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/gifts/holiday/) [Mother's Day](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/gifts/mothers-day/) [Valentine's Day](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/gifts/valentines-day/) [Wedding](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/gifts/wedding/) - [Deals](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/deals/) [Black Friday](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/deals/black-friday/) [Cyber Monday](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/deals/cyber-monday/) [Amazon Prime Day](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/deals/amazon-prime-day/) [Beauty & Grooming](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/deals/beauty-grooming/) [Big Sales](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/deals/big-sales/) [Fashion](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/deals/fashion/) [Gear](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/deals/gear/) [Home](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/deals/home/) [Tech & Electronics](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/deals/tech-electronics/) [Travel Deals](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/deals/travel-deals/) [Mattress & Sleep](https://www.forbes.com/vetted/deals/mattress-sleep/) - [Forbes 101](https://www.forbes.com/forbes-101/) - [Advisor](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/) Advisor - [View All Advisor](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/) - [Credit Cards](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/credit-cards/) [Best Credit Cards](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/credit-cards/best-credit-cards/) [Travel Credit Cards](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/credit-cards/best-travel-credit-cards/) [0% APR Credit Cards](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/credit-cards/best-0-apr-credit-cards/) [Balance Transfer Credit Cards](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/credit-cards/best/balance-transfer/) [Business Credit Cards](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/credit-cards/best/business/) [Best First Credit Card](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/credit-cards/best/first-credit-card/) - [Mortgages & Loans](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/mortgages/) [Best Mortgage Lenders](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/mortgages/best-mortgage-lenders/) [Mortgage Refinance Lenders](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/mortgages/refinance/best-mortgage-refinance-lenders/) [Personal Loans](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/personal-loans/best-personal-loans/) [Business Loans](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/business-loans/best-small-business-loans/) [Bad Credit Loans](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/personal-loans/bad-credit-loans/) [Debt Consolidation Loans](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/personal-loans/debt-consolidation-loans/) [Debt Relief Companies](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/debt-relief/best-debt-relief-companies/) [Student Loans Refinance](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/student-loans/best-student-loan-refinance-lenders/) [Private Student Loans](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/student-loans/best-private-student-loans/) - [Banking](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/banking/) [Best CD Rates](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/banking/cds/best-cd-rates/) [High Yield Savings Accounts](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/banking/savings/best-high-yield-savings-accounts/) [Money Market Account](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/banking/best-money-market-accounts/) [Checking Accounts](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/banking/checking/best-checking-accounts/) [Business Checking Accounts](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/banking/checking/best-business-checking-accounts/) [Budgeting Apps](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/banking/best-budgeting-apps/) [Best Online Banks](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/banking/best-online-banks/) - [Insurance](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/life-insurance/best-life-insurance-companies/) [Health Insurance Companies](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/health-insurance/best-health-insurance-companies/) [Medicare](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/health-insurance/medicare/) [Life Insurance Companies](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/life-insurance/best-life-insurance-companies/) [Best Car Insurance Companies](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/car-insurance/best-car-insurance-companies/) [Cheapest Car Insurance Companies](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/car-insurance/cheapest-car-insurance/) [Pet Insurance Companies](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/pet-insurance/best-pet-insurance/) [Travel Insurance Companies](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/travel-insurance/best-travel-insurance/) [Homeowners Insurance Companies](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/homeowners-insurance/best-homeowners-insurance-companies/) [Best Business Insurance Companies](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/business-insurance/best-small-business-insurance/) - [Business Services](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/business/) [How To Start A Business](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/business/how-to-start-a-business/) [LLC Services](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/business/best-llc-service/) [Payroll Services](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/business/software/best-payroll-services/) [HR Software](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/business/software/best-human-resource-management-systems/) [HRIS Systems](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/business/software/hris-systems/) [PEO Services](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/business/software/best-peo-services/) [Applicant tracking Systems](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/business/best-applicant-tracking-systems/) [Domain Registrars](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/business/software/best-domain-registrar/) [Hosting Services](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/business/software/best-web-hosting-services/) [Website Builders](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/business/software/best-website-builders/) [Ecomm Platforms](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/business/software/best-ecommerce-platform/) [Landing Page Builders](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/business/software/best-landing-page-builder/) [VOIP Services](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/business/software/best-voip-service/) [Answering Services](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/business/software/best-answering-services/) [Project Management Software](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/business/software/best-project-management-software/) [Task Management Software](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/business/software/best-task-management-software/) [Gantt Chart Software](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/business/software/best-gantt-chart-software/) [VPNs](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/business/software/best-vpn/) [Anti Virus Software](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/business/software/best-antivirus-software/) [Password Managers](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/business/software/best-password-managers/) - [Home Services](https://www.forbes.com/home-improvement/) [Moving Companies](https://www.forbes.com/home-improvement/moving-services/best-moving-companies/) [Long Distance Moving Companies](https://www.forbes.com/home-improvement/moving-services/best-long-distance-moving-companies/) [Car Shipping Companies](https://www.forbes.com/home-improvement/moving-services/best-car-shipping-companies/) [Home Warranty Companies](https://www.forbes.com/home-improvement/home-warranty/best-home-warranty-companies/) [Solar Companies](https://www.forbes.com/home-improvement/solar/best-solar-companies/) [Solar Panels](https://www.forbes.com/home-improvement/solar/best-solar-panels/) [Home Security Companies](https://www.forbes.com/home-improvement/home-security/best-home-security-companies/) [Home Security Systems](https://www.forbes.com/home-improvement/home-security/best-home-security-systems/) [Internet Providers](https://www.forbes.com/home-improvement/internet/best-internet-providers/) [Cheapest Internet Providers](https://www.forbes.com/home-improvement/internet/cheapest-internet-plans/) [Fastest High Speed Internet Providers](https://www.forbes.com/home-improvement/internet/fastest-high-speed-internet-provider/) [Pest Control Companies](https://www.forbes.com/home-improvement/pest-control/best-pest-control-companies/) - [Education](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/education/) - [Forbes Advisor UK](https://www.forbes.com/uk/advisor/) - [Forbes Advisor CA](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/ca/) - [Forbes Advisor AU](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/au/) - [Health](https://www.forbes.com/health/) Health - [View All Health](https://www.forbes.com/health/) - [Mental Health](https://www.forbes.com/health/mind/) [Best Online Therapy](https://www.forbes.com/health/mind/best-online-therapy/) [Online Therapy that Takes Insurance](https://www.forbes.com/health/mind/best-online-therapy-that-takes-insurance/) [Online Psychiatrists](https://www.forbes.com/health/mind/best-online-psychiatry/) [Best Online Dating Sites & Apps](https://www.forbes.com/health/dating/best-online-dating-websites/) [Best Senior Dating Sites](https://www.forbes.com/health/dating/best-senior-dating-sites/) [Best LGBTQ Dating Sites](https://www.forbes.com/health/dating/best-lgbtq-dating-sites/) - [CBD](https://www.forbes.com/health/cbd/) [CBD Gummies](https://www.forbes.com/health/cbd/best-cbd-gummies/) [CBD Oil](https://www.forbes.com/health/cbd/best-cbd-oil/) [CBD Creams](https://www.forbes.com/health/cbd/best-cbd-creams/) [CBD for Anxiety](https://www.forbes.com/health/cbd/cbd-for-anxiety/) [CBD for Pain](https://www.forbes.com/health/cbd/best-cbd-oil-for-pain/) - [Supplements](https://www.forbes.com/health/supplements/) [Protein Powder](https://www.forbes.com/health/supplements/best-protein-powders/) [Preworkout](https://www.forbes.com/health/supplements/best-pre-workout/) [Collagen Powders](https://www.forbes.com/health/supplements/best-collagen-powders/) [Creatine Supplements](https://www.forbes.com/health/supplements/best-creatine-supplements/) [CoQ10 Supplements](https://www.forbes.com/health/supplements/coq10-supplements/) - [Hearing Health](https://www.forbes.com/health/hearing-aids/) [Best Hearing Aids](https://www.forbes.com/health/hearing-aids/best-hearing-aids/) [OTC Hearing Aids](https://www.forbes.com/health/hearing-aids/best-otc-hearing-aids/) [Affordable Hearing Aids](https://www.forbes.com/health/hearing-aids/best-affordable-hearing-aids/) - [Medical Devices](https://www.forbes.com/health/medical-alert-systems/) [Best Medical Alert Systems](https://www.forbes.com/health/medical-alert-systems/best-medical-alert-systems/) [Best Medical Alert Systems with Fall Detection](https://www.forbes.com/health/medical-alert-systems/best-medical-alert-systems-with-fall-detection/) [Best Online Dating Sites & Apps](https://www.forbes.com/health/dating/best-online-dating-websites/) [Best Dating Apps for Serious Relationships](https://www.forbes.com/health/dating/best-dating-apps-for-serious-relationships/) [Best Senior Dating Sites](https://www.forbes.com/health/dating/best-senior-dating-sites/) [Best LGBTQ Dating Sites](https://www.forbes.com/health/dating/best-lgbtq-dating-sites/) - [Diet & Weight Loss](https://www.forbes.com/health/weight-loss/) [Best Weight Loss Plans](https://www.forbes.com/health/weight-loss/best-weight-loss-program/) - [Lists](https://www.forbes.com/lists/) - [Video](https://www.forbes.com/video/) - [Newsletters](https://account.forbes.com/newsletters/?utm_source=forbes&utm_medium=featured&utm_campaign=navigation) Newsletters - [View All Newsletters](https://account.forbes.com/newsletters/?utm_source=forbes&utm_medium=featured&utm_campaign=navigation) - [Crypto Confidential](http://bit.ly/2Y2rVX8) - [Editorial Newsletters](https://account.forbes.com/newsletters/?utm_source=forbes&utm_medium=featured&utm_campaign=navigation) - [Investing Digest](https://bit.ly/2Rkd9oN) - [Premium Investing Newsletters](https://www.forbes.com/newsletters/) - [Forbes Games](https://www.forbes.com/games/) Forbes Games - [View All Forbes Games](https://www.forbes.com/games/) - [Frase by Forbes](https://www.forbes.com/frase/) - [Pinpoint by LinkedIn](https://www.forbes.com/games/pinpoint/) - [Queens by LinkedIn](https://www.forbes.com/games/queens/) - [Crossclimb by LinkedIn](https://www.forbes.com/games/crossclimb/) - [Forbes Magazine](https://www.forbes.com/forbes-magazine/#42ad043030a4) Forbes Magazine - [View All Forbes Magazine](https://www.forbes.com/forbes-magazine/#42ad043030a4) - [Forbes Asia](https://www.forbes.com/forbesasia/#7cb46d1d2f95) - [Free Issue of Forbes](https://w1.buysub.com/pubs/B4/FRB/16-forbes_relaunch_landingpage_2freetrial.jsp?cds_mag_code=FRB&cds_page_id=241223) - [Latest]() Latest - [Coronavirus Coverage](https://www.forbes.com/coronavirus/#59d4597c20dd) - [Daily Cover Stories](https://www.forbes.com/daily-cover-stories/#78127e5b6a74) - [Dark Capital](https://www.forbes.com/dark-capital/#4bf21bb954c9) - [Editors' Picks](https://www.forbes.com/editors-picks/#15c416d878bf) - [Breaking News](https://www.forbes.com/news/) - [Featured]() Featured - [American Express Insights: 5 Findings That Could Reveal Your Company's Path To Payment Innovation](https://www.forbes.com/sites/insights-american-express/2024/11/26/5-findings-that-could-reveal-your-companys-path-to-payment-innovation/) - [The CEO's Guide To Marketing](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesvideo/2024/11/21/the-ceos-guide-to-marketing/) - [The Forbes CIO Next List: 2024](https://www.forbes.com/sites/richardnieva/2024/11/19/the-forbes-cio-next-list-2024/) - [America's Top Wealth Management Teams High Net Worth](https://www.forbes.com/lists/top-wealth-management-teams-high-net-worth/?sh=3dff2fb023e1) - [The One Who Changed Everything Video Series](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesvideo/2024/09/18/the-one-who-changed-everything/) - [30 Under 30 2023](https://www.forbes.com/30-under-30/2023/) - [AI's Nuanced Impact And A Quest To Quantify It](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbes-research/2023/10/26/c-suite-data-reveals-ais-nuanced-impact--a-quest-to-quantify-it/?sh=2e0ce1152c4a) - [Cognizant BrandVoice: Gen AI Leadership Conversation Video Series \| Paid Program](https://www.forbes.com/sites/cognizant/2024/05/15/gen-ai-leadership-conversation-series/) - [DNA of Success](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesvideo/2023/11/01/dna-of-success-2023) - [Embracing And Bracing For AI](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbes-research/2023/10/26/new-forbes-survey-reveals-how-executives-are-embracing---and-bracing-for---ai/?sh=4c9ec37647fe) - [Facing A Volatile Market, C-Suites Look To The CFO For Strategic Guidance](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbes-research/2023/11/01/facing-a-volatile-market-c-suites-look-to-the-cfo-for-strategic-guidance/?sh=5ebd4e0f8752) - [Forbes Research: 2023 Small Business Survey](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbes-research/2023/06/07/resiliency-and-ingenuity-revealed-in-new-forbes-small-business-research/?sh=7933ed832cee) - ['I Am Who I Am': Owning Your Personal And Professional Brand \| Paid Program](https://www.forbes.com/sites/statefarm/2024/08/13/i-am-who-i-am-owning-your-personal-and-professional-brand/) - [TIAA BrandVoice \| Paid Program](https://www.forbes.com/sites/tiaa) - [Forbes CXO Spotlight](https://www.forbes.com/video/17c95107-2e8f-410a-bd28-3b3b3f8321c2/citizens-bank-cxo-beth-johnson-finds-success-by-innovating-on-the-margins/) - [Scaling AI Editorial Video Series \| Paid Program](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesvideo/2024/09/16/scaling-ai/) - [America's Top RIA Firms](https://www.forbes.com/lists/top-ria-firms) - [5 Traits of AI Pacesetters to Help You Pull Ahead \| Paid Program](https://www.forbes.com/sites/servicenow/2024/10/15/5-traits-of-ai-pacesetters-to-help-you-pull-ahead/) - [State Farm BrandVoice \| Paid Program]() - [Thomson Reuters Insights Premium Post: 4 Factors To Explore When Considering Professional-Grade AI \| Paid Program](https://www.forbes.com/sites/insights-thomsonreuters/2024/10/30/4-factors-to-explore-when-considering-ai-for-professional-work/) - [PayPal BrandVoice Premium Post: The Future Of E-Commerce \| Paid Program](https://www.forbes.com/sites/paypal/2024/10/31/the-future-of-e-commerce/) - [The Birth Of Almanac: A Re-Evaluation Of What's Really Needed In Farming \| Paid Program](https://www.forbes.com/sites/almanac/2024/11/04/the-birth-of-almanac-a-re-evaluation-of-whats-really-needed-in-farming) - [Leadership Lessons on Financial Literacy Video Series, presented by New York Life \| Paid Program](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesvideo/2024/02/22/forbes-leadership-lessons-on-financial-literacy/) - [PayPal BrandVoice Premium Post: How Merchants Are Leveling Up Checkout To Drive Conversion \| Paid Program](https://www.forbes.com/sites/paypal/2024/11/13/how-merchants-are-leveling-up-checkout-to-drive-conversion/) - [Hyoeun Kim On LG's Brand Promise, "Life's Good" \| Paid Program](https://www.forbes.com/video/5dd30175-916e-4349-9cab-564a384e45da/hyoeun-kim-on-lgs-brand-promise-lifes-good/) - [Poised To Outperform: Rev Up Your Investment Strategy With Active ETFs \| Paid Program](https://www.forbes.com/sites/t-rowe-price/2024/11/20/poised-to-outperform-rev-up-your-investment-strategy-with-active-etfs/) - [ServiceNow BrandVoice Premium Post: Why It's Time To See Your Workforce In 4D \| Paid Program](https://www.forbes.com/sites/servicenow/2024/11/22/why-its-time-to-see-your-workforce-in-4d/) - [Presented by New York Life: Forbes Leadership Lessons On Financial Literacy \| Paid Program](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesvideo/2024/02/22/forbes-leadership-lessons-on-financial-literacy/) - [SAP BrandVoice: 4 Ways A Cloud ERP Can Unleash AI Potential \| Paid Program](https://www.forbes.com/sites/sap/2024/12/05/4-ways-a-cloud-erp-can-unleash-ai-potential/) - [Advertise with Forbes](https://www.forbes.com/connect/) - [Report a Security Issue](https://www.forbes.com/contact/) - [Editorial Values and Standards](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesstaff/article/forbes-editorial-values-and-standards) - [Site Feedback](mailto:feedback@forbes.com) - [Contact Us](https://www.forbes.com/contact/) - [Careers at Forbes](https://www.forbes.com/careers-at-forbes/) - [Tips](https://www.forbes.com/tips/) - [Corrections](mailto:corrections@forbes.com) - [Privacy](https://www.forbes.com/fdc/privacy.html) - [Do Not Sell My Personal Information](https://www.forbes.com/consent/editprivacy/?consent_do_not_sell=true) - [Terms](https://www.forbes.com/terms/) - [AdChoices](https://youradchoices.com/control) - [Reprints & Permissions](https://www.parsintl.com/publication/forbes/) - © 2026 Forbes Media LLC. All Rights Reserved. [Subscribe](https://account.forbes.com/membership?eventSource=header&redirect=https://www.forbes.com/) [Advisor](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/) - [Personal Finance](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/personal-finance/) - [Income Tax Calculator](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/income-tax-calculator/) - [Money Transfer](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/money-transfer/) - [Credit Score](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/credit-score/) - [Debt Relief](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/debt-relief/) - [Investing](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/investing/) - [Retirement](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/retirement/) - [Taxes](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/taxes/) | | | | |---|---|---| | | You might be using an unsupported or outdated browser. To get the best possible experience please use the latest version of Chrome, Firefox, Safari, or Microsoft Edge to view this website. | | We earn a commission from the offers on this page, which influences which offers are displayed and how and where the offers appear. Advertiser Disclosure. We independently select all products and services. While we earn a commission from partner links, commissions do not affect our editors' opinions or evaluations. Advertiser Disclosure - [Advisor](https://www.forbes.com/advisor) - [Investing](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/investing/) - [Cryptocurrency](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/investing/cryptocurrency/) # What Is Bitcoin? And How Does It Work? Audited & Verified: Feb 26, 2026, 10:42am [![Mark Hooson](https://thumbor.forbes.com/thumbor/fit-in/x/https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/mark-hooson-88x88.jpg)](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/author/mark-hooson/) ![Mark Hooson](https://thumbor.forbes.com/thumbor/fit-in/x/https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/mark-hooson-88x88.jpg) [Mark Hooson](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/author/mark-hooson/)Staff Writer Staff writer Mark Hooson has been a journalist within the personal finance, consumer affairs and fraud sectors for more than 10 years. He is also Forbes Advisor UK’s resident tech expert. Mark says he thrives on making ‘complicated and dry topics eas... [Read Full Bio![See Full Bio](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/themes/fadv/assets/img/social-icons/read-full-bio.svg)](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/author/mark-hooson/) ![close icon](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/themes/fadv/assets/img/social-icons/forbes-media-close-icon.svg) ![Mark Hooson](https://thumbor.forbes.com/thumbor/fit-in/x/https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/mark-hooson-88x88.jpg) [Mark Hooson](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/author/mark-hooson/)Staff Writer Staff writer Mark Hooson has been a journalist within the personal finance, consumer affairs and fraud sectors for more than 10 years. He is also Forbes Advisor UK’s resident tech expert. Mark says he thrives on making ‘complicated and dry topics eas... [Read Full Bio![See Full Bio](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/themes/fadv/assets/img/social-icons/read-full-bio.svg)](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/author/mark-hooson/) Written By [Mark Hooson](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/author/mark-hooson/) ![Mark Hooson](https://thumbor.forbes.com/thumbor/fit-in/x/https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/mark-hooson-88x88.jpg) [Mark Hooson](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/author/mark-hooson/)Staff Writer Staff writer Mark Hooson has been a journalist within the personal finance, consumer affairs and fraud sectors for more than 10 years. He is also Forbes Advisor UK’s resident tech expert. Mark says he thrives on making ‘complicated and dry topics eas... [Read Full Bio![See Full Bio](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/themes/fadv/assets/img/social-icons/read-full-bio.svg)](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/author/mark-hooson/) ![close icon](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/themes/fadv/assets/img/social-icons/forbes-media-close-icon.svg) ![Mark Hooson](https://thumbor.forbes.com/thumbor/fit-in/x/https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/mark-hooson-88x88.jpg) [Mark Hooson](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/author/mark-hooson/)Staff Writer Staff writer Mark Hooson has been a journalist within the personal finance, consumer affairs and fraud sectors for more than 10 years. He is also Forbes Advisor UK’s resident tech expert. Mark says he thrives on making ‘complicated and dry topics eas... [Read Full Bio![See Full Bio](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/themes/fadv/assets/img/social-icons/read-full-bio.svg)](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/author/mark-hooson/) Staff Writer [![Mark Hooson](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/mark-hooson-88x88.jpg)](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/author/mark-hooson/) ![Mark Hooson](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/mark-hooson-88x88.jpg) [Mark Hooson](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/author/mark-hooson/)Staff Writer Staff writer Mark Hooson has been a journalist within the personal finance, consumer affairs and fraud sectors for more than 10 years. He is also Forbes Advisor UK’s resident tech expert. Mark says he thrives on making ‘complicated and dry topics eas... [Read Full Bio![See Full Bio](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/themes/fadv/assets/img/social-icons/read-full-bio.svg)](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/author/mark-hooson/) ![close icon](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/themes/fadv/assets/img/social-icons/forbes-media-close-icon.svg) ![Mark Hooson](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/mark-hooson-88x88.jpg) [Mark Hooson](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/author/mark-hooson/)Staff Writer Staff writer Mark Hooson has been a journalist within the personal finance, consumer affairs and fraud sectors for more than 10 years. He is also Forbes Advisor UK’s resident tech expert. Mark says he thrives on making ‘complicated and dry topics eas... [Read Full Bio![See Full Bio](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/themes/fadv/assets/img/social-icons/read-full-bio.svg)](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/author/mark-hooson/) Written By [Mark Hooson](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/author/mark-hooson/) ![Mark Hooson](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/mark-hooson-88x88.jpg) [Mark Hooson](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/author/mark-hooson/)Staff Writer Staff writer Mark Hooson has been a journalist within the personal finance, consumer affairs and fraud sectors for more than 10 years. He is also Forbes Advisor UK’s resident tech expert. Mark says he thrives on making ‘complicated and dry topics eas... [Read Full Bio![See Full Bio](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/themes/fadv/assets/img/social-icons/read-full-bio.svg)](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/author/mark-hooson/) ![close icon](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/themes/fadv/assets/img/social-icons/forbes-media-close-icon.svg) ![Mark Hooson](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/mark-hooson-88x88.jpg) [Mark Hooson](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/author/mark-hooson/)Staff Writer Staff writer Mark Hooson has been a journalist within the personal finance, consumer affairs and fraud sectors for more than 10 years. He is also Forbes Advisor UK’s resident tech expert. Mark says he thrives on making ‘complicated and dry topics eas... [Read Full Bio![See Full Bio](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/themes/fadv/assets/img/social-icons/read-full-bio.svg)](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/author/mark-hooson/) Staff Writer [![Farran Powell](https://thumbor.forbes.com/thumbor/fit-in/x/https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/Farran-Powell_headshot-88x88.jpeg)](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/author/fpowell/) ![Farran Powell](https://thumbor.forbes.com/thumbor/fit-in/x/https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/Farran-Powell_headshot-88x88.jpeg) Fact Checked by [Farran Powell](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/author/fpowell/)Staff Editor Farran Powell is the managing editor of investing at Forbes Advisor. She was previously the assistant managing editor of investing at U.S. News & World Report. Her work has appeared in numerous publications including TheStreet, Mansion Global, CN... [Read Full Bio![See Full Bio](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/themes/fadv/assets/img/social-icons/read-full-bio.svg)](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/author/fpowell/) ![close icon](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/themes/fadv/assets/img/social-icons/forbes-media-close-icon.svg) ![Farran Powell](https://thumbor.forbes.com/thumbor/fit-in/x/https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/Farran-Powell_headshot-88x88.jpeg) Fact Checked by [Farran Powell](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/author/fpowell/)Staff Editor Farran Powell is the managing editor of investing at Forbes Advisor. She was previously the assistant managing editor of investing at U.S. News & World Report. Her work has appeared in numerous publications including TheStreet, Mansion Global, CN... [Read Full Bio![See Full Bio](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/themes/fadv/assets/img/social-icons/read-full-bio.svg)](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/author/fpowell/) Fact Checked [Farran Powell](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/author/fpowell/) ![Farran Powell](https://thumbor.forbes.com/thumbor/fit-in/x/https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/Farran-Powell_headshot-88x88.jpeg) Fact Checked by [Farran Powell](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/author/fpowell/)Staff Editor Farran Powell is the managing editor of investing at Forbes Advisor. She was previously the assistant managing editor of investing at U.S. News & World Report. Her work has appeared in numerous publications including TheStreet, Mansion Global, CN... [Read Full Bio![See Full Bio](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/themes/fadv/assets/img/social-icons/read-full-bio.svg)](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/author/fpowell/) ![close icon](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/themes/fadv/assets/img/social-icons/forbes-media-close-icon.svg) ![Farran Powell](https://thumbor.forbes.com/thumbor/fit-in/x/https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/Farran-Powell_headshot-88x88.jpeg) Fact Checked by [Farran Powell](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/author/fpowell/)Staff Editor Farran Powell is the managing editor of investing at Forbes Advisor. She was previously the assistant managing editor of investing at U.S. News & World Report. Her work has appeared in numerous publications including TheStreet, Mansion Global, CN... [Read Full Bio![See Full Bio](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/themes/fadv/assets/img/social-icons/read-full-bio.svg)](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/author/fpowell/) Staff Editor & 2 others Have a question we may not have answered? Ask our editors here Have a question for Mark Hooson or our other editors? Ask here for a chance to be featured in a story. This form is protected by reCAPTCHA Enterprise and the Google [Privacy Policy](https://policies.google.com/privacy)and [Terms of Service](https://policies.google.com/terms)apply. ![Mark Hooson](https://thumbor.forbes.com/thumbor/fit-in/x/https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/mark-hooson-88x88.jpg) ![Mark Hooson](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/mark-hooson-88x88.jpg) ![Farran Powell](https://thumbor.forbes.com/thumbor/fit-in/x/https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/Farran-Powell_headshot-88x88.jpeg) Send a note to Mark Hooson, Mark Hooson, Farran Powell and our other editors. We read every email. By submitting this form, you agree to allow us to collect, store, and potentially publish your provided information, including name and question, in the article or any related content. You confirm that the submitted content is original, accurate, and non-infringing on any third-party rights. We may contact you via the email address provided for follow-up questions or to notify you if your question is selected for publication. See our [Terms of Use](https://www.forbes.com/terms-and-conditions/#5cc91797193f)and our [Privacy Policy](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/privacy-policy/). Thank you for submitting your question. Keep reading Forbes Advisor for the chance to see the answer to your question in one of our upcoming stories. Our editors also may be in touch with follow-up questions. Continue reading ![What Is Bitcoin? And How Does It Work?](https://thumbor.forbes.com/thumbor/fit-in/900x510/https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/bitcoin_glasses.jpg) Getty Bitcoin (BTC), launched in 2009, is by far the biggest cryptocurrency. Indeed, its size relative to other cryptos is of such that, collectively, others are known as “altcoins.” But bitcoin’s size does not mean it is more likely to prove a good investment, or that it is less likely to lose value. Like all [cryptocurrencies](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/investing/cryptocurrency/top-10-cryptocurrencies/), it is a highly volatile digital asset whose worth is heavily influenced by market sentiment. FEATURED PARTNER OFFER ### Crypto.com [![Crypto.com](https://thumbor.forbes.com/thumbor/fit-in/150x/https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/crypto.com_logo.png)](https://cryptocom.sjv.io/c/1955282/2107455/25666?sharedid=sponsored) Fees (Maker/Taker) 0\.8% trading fee, can be reduced by joining level-up. Other fees and spreads apply. Cryptocurrencies Available for Trade 400+ cryptocurrencies available [![Crypto.com](https://thumbor.forbes.com/thumbor/fit-in/150x/https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/crypto.com_logo.png)](https://cryptocom.sjv.io/c/1955282/2107455/25666?sharedid=sponsored) [Trade Now ![Arrow](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/themes/fadv/assets/img/right-arrow.svg)](https://cryptocom.sjv.io/c/1955282/2107455/25666?sharedid=sponsored) On Crypto.com's Website 0\.8% trading fee, can be reduced by joining level-up. Other fees and spreads apply. 400+ cryptocurrencies available ## What Is Bitcoin? Bitcoin runs on a blockchain-based network that’s powered by global users. Bitcoin allows peer-to-peer financial transactions without the use of a centralized financial intermediary. Centralized government orders issue legal tender (fiat currency) like the U.S. dollar (USD) or the British pound (GBP). In contrast, bitcoin is a virtual currency that operates on a public distributed ledger called a blockchain. Bitcoin is often referred to as a decentralized currency, too. The table below shows some key differences between fiat currency and bitcoin. | Fiat Currency vs. Bitcoin | | |---|---| | **Fiat currency** | **Bitcoin** | | Physical medium | Digital medium | | Government can produce as needed | Limited supply | | Issued by governments | Produced by computers | | Centralized | Decentralized | ![Left Arrow](data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAAAcAAAAMCAYAAACulacQAAAACXBIWXMAAAsTAAALEwEAmpwYAAAAAXNSR0IArs4c6QAAAARnQU1BAACxjwv8YQUAAADJSURBVHgBXZCxDcIwEEXvLrbTMgIjeAQXQB0aUiBENgAmIBswQkJJg6iQaGAF2CBskBY5wbEjWXLiwjr73f//dAijo5JiEse01Zrd2BhwgS8DIDnXcgBFjAUASltWkeY5eTBPSwcSW9ZMM3W/rr+9crY6HxEgcwCBeuD+yQFCyPsH/pePy+bj3YiCzLaNTDgDumuRlidb7o2BmpCUV2M4EAJmrqFtmHzaXAxtfAOAqRrNVRgJ+mcOFryt4dQuIR8o/ZaEoB1rWNkBtuxEvL1bUnQAAAAASUVORK5CYII=) ![Right Arrow](data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAAAcAAAAMCAYAAACulacQAAAACXBIWXMAAAsTAAALEwEAmpwYAAAAAXNSR0IArs4c6QAAAARnQU1BAACxjwv8YQUAAADQSURBVHgBdVC5DcJAENw53pAS6AA6wAlPCAGCDLsSoAJEBXwJEDk0JrA7wCW4BMeH5GXP2MggscHenEYzNzew5rt2PVULrdNt6DoJlUY1GEsCrWp1BNZ41/oiAV7LGQPo1hrYlEmYNRLrlNVDYIuJ9/eL7WRKs7yzE4OUJTABwR7M9puPspj+9NiD4tDglGml6M8YolJchrNTh8CewCaJyr8u1plt9tc8ECTQLQ+EN4FAYJuIXf9iTwq3qimBhWDm6KnZKb9bzUpgRFrz4be+FwjJTXtIGD7JAAAAAElFTkSuQmCC) See More See Less With bitcoin, transactions are verified by “network nodes.” Bitcoin miners bundle these verified transactions into blocks. Miners for BTC use high-powered computers to solve complex mathematical puzzles. This then creates new blocks of verified transactions on the blockchain. As with most cryptocurrencies, bitcoin is created via cryptographic computer technology known as a blockchain. The blockchain, and bitcoin for that matter, was created by a person or group using the pseudonym Satoshi Nakamoto. Bitcoin’s creator said there was a need for “an electronic payment system based on cryptographic proof instead of trust, allowing any two willing parties to transact directly with each other without the need for a trusted third party.” The first [exchanged bitcoin](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/investing/cryptocurrency/bitcoin-price-today/) with a recorded price was in late 2009. A user in a bitcoin online forum exchanged 5,050 BTC for \$5.02, using PayPal. At the time, BTC was valued about one-tenth of a cent. ## Find The Best Crypto Exchanges We've combed through the leading exchange offerings, and reams of data, to determine the best crypto exchanges. [Learn More](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/investing/cryptocurrency/best-crypto-exchanges/) ## How Does Bitcoin Work? Bitcoin is built on a blockchain, which acts as a digital ledger. The blockchain is a linked body of data, comprised of units called blocks. These blocks contain information, including addresses (public keys), values and identifying codes. Entries are strung together in chronological order, creating a digital chain of blocks. For transaction blocks to be added to the bitcoin blockchain, blocks must be verified. The process of adding new transactions to the bitcoin blockchain is bitcoin mining, using a proof-of-work construct. The proof-of-work method alongside the consensus rules and digital signatures helps to fight against fraud. FEATURED PARTNER OFFER ### Phantom [![Phantom](https://thumbor.forbes.com/thumbor/fit-in/150x/https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Phantom-Logo-Purple-1.png)](https://phanom.sjv.io/c/1955282/3439812/41945) Trade with Phantom Trade SOL, ETH, BTC, and tap into prediction markets, perpetual futures, and staking across multiple chains, all in one place. Flexible wallet Multiple chains, one wallet. No more switching. Trust and security As a self-custodial wallet, you have full control of your funds with built in scam detection alerts that flags malicious transactions instantly (global support 24/7). [![Phantom](https://thumbor.forbes.com/thumbor/fit-in/150x/https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Phantom-Logo-Purple-1.png)](https://phanom.sjv.io/c/1955282/3439812/41945) [Learn More ![Arrow](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/themes/fadv/assets/img/right-arrow.svg)](https://phanom.sjv.io/c/1955282/3439812/41945) Via App Store Trade SOL, ETH, BTC, and tap into prediction markets, perpetual futures, and staking across multiple chains, all in one place. Multiple chains, one wallet. No more switching. As a self-custodial wallet, you have full control of your funds with built in scam detection alerts that flags malicious transactions instantly (global support 24/7). Disclosure *Prediction markets and perpetual futures are available only in supported regions outside the US, UK, Australia, Canada, France, and other restricted areas.* ## How Does Bitcoin Mining Work? Bitcoin mining is one way to obtain BTC. With a proof-of-work method, bitcoin miners compete to validate blocks of bitcoin transactions and add them to the crypto’s blockchain—an indelible ledger of all bitcoin transactions since the beginning. If they are successful, they are rewarded with an amount of actual bitcoins. The size of this reward has reduced over the years (it is currently 3.125 BTC per block) to control the supply of new bitcoins. For every 210,000 blocks mined, the network undergoes a “halving” process. With a halving, the BTC reward is cut in half. The next halving event is expected to occur in 2028 with block number 1,050,000. The BTC reward will then be halved from 3.125 BTC per block to 1.5625 BTC. | Halving Event | Date | Block | Reward Before Halving | Post-Halving Reward | |---|---|---|---|---| | 1st halving | Nov. 28, 2012 | 210,000 | 50 BTC | 25 BTC | | 2nd halving | July 9, 2016 | 420,000 | 25 BTC | 12\.5 BTC | | 3rd halving | May 11, 2020 | 630,000 | 12\.5 BTC | 6\.25 BTC | | 4th halving | April 19, 2024 | 840,000 | 6\.25 BTC | 3\.125 BTC | | 5th halving (expected) | April 2028 | 1,050,000 | 3\.125 BTC | 1\.5625 BTC | ![Left Arrow](data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAAAcAAAAMCAYAAACulacQAAAACXBIWXMAAAsTAAALEwEAmpwYAAAAAXNSR0IArs4c6QAAAARnQU1BAACxjwv8YQUAAADJSURBVHgBXZCxDcIwEEXvLrbTMgIjeAQXQB0aUiBENgAmIBswQkJJg6iQaGAF2CBskBY5wbEjWXLiwjr73f//dAijo5JiEse01Zrd2BhwgS8DIDnXcgBFjAUASltWkeY5eTBPSwcSW9ZMM3W/rr+9crY6HxEgcwCBeuD+yQFCyPsH/pePy+bj3YiCzLaNTDgDumuRlidb7o2BmpCUV2M4EAJmrqFtmHzaXAxtfAOAqRrNVRgJ+mcOFryt4dQuIR8o/ZaEoB1rWNkBtuxEvL1bUnQAAAAASUVORK5CYII=) ![Right Arrow](data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAAAcAAAAMCAYAAACulacQAAAACXBIWXMAAAsTAAALEwEAmpwYAAAAAXNSR0IArs4c6QAAAARnQU1BAACxjwv8YQUAAADQSURBVHgBdVC5DcJAENw53pAS6AA6wAlPCAGCDLsSoAJEBXwJEDk0JrA7wCW4BMeH5GXP2MggscHenEYzNzew5rt2PVULrdNt6DoJlUY1GEsCrWp1BNZ41/oiAV7LGQPo1hrYlEmYNRLrlNVDYIuJ9/eL7WRKs7yzE4OUJTABwR7M9puPspj+9NiD4tDglGml6M8YolJchrNTh8CewCaJyr8u1plt9tc8ECTQLQ+EN4FAYJuIXf9iTwq3qimBhWDm6KnZKb9bzUpgRFrz4be+FwjJTXtIGD7JAAAAAElFTkSuQmCC) See More See Less The founders of the currency set a finite limit on the total supply of bitcoins of 21 million. In February 2026, the number in circulation was nearly 20 million, meaning there is something over a million yet to be mined. Experts forecast that this won’t happen until around 2140. ## How to Buy Bitcoin There are four stages to [buying bitcoin](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/investing/cryptocurrency/buying-bitcoin/) if you are a beginner: selecting a [crypto exchange](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/investing/cryptocurrency/best-crypto-exchanges/),deciding on your payment method, placing an order and choosing your method of storage. ### Select a Crypto Exchange Cryptocurrency is bought and sold on crypto exchanges and also on [trading platforms](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/investing/best-online-brokers/) and apps. It is important for beginners to research the market thoroughly and find the combination of ease of use, competitive fees and high security that suits your preferences and objectives. You’ll need to create an account, which will involve providing your personal information and a form of identification, such as your driving license. All this will be handled online via your chosen website or app. #### Best Crypto Exchanges [![Kraken](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/kraken-vector-logo-1-removebg-preview.png)](https://kraken.pxf.io/c/1955282/3369972/10583) [Kraken](https://kraken.pxf.io/c/1955282/3369972/10583) ![Forbes Advisor Desktop Logo](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/forbes-advisor.svg) ![Forbes Advisor Mobile Logo](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/forbes-advisor.svg) 5\.0 ![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/filled-star.svg)![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/filled-star.svg)![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/filled-star.svg)![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/filled-star.svg)![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/filled-star.svg) ![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/tooltip.svg) [Learn More](https://kraken.pxf.io/c/1955282/3369972/10583) On Kraken's Website Trading Fees Maker Fee 0.25%/Taker Fee 0.40% (For Kraken Pro, trading under \$10,000 within 30 days.) Tradable Coins 600+ [![Uphold](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/uphold.png)](https://uphold.sjv.io/c/1955282/1273495/13619?sharedid=Sponsored) [Uphold](https://uphold.sjv.io/c/1955282/1273495/13619?sharedid=Sponsored) ![Forbes Advisor Desktop Logo](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/forbes-advisor.svg) ![Forbes Advisor Mobile Logo](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/forbes-advisor.svg) 4\.7 ![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/filled-star.svg)![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/filled-star.svg)![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/filled-star.svg)![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/filled-star.svg)![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/half-star.svg) ![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/tooltip.svg) [Learn More](https://uphold.sjv.io/c/1955282/1273495/13619?sharedid=Sponsored) On Uphold's Website Trading Fees Flat fee that depends on asset (0.25% for most stablecoins; 1.4%-1.6% for BTC and ETH; 2.5%-2.95% for altcoins) Tradable Coins 300+ [![Crypto.com](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/crypto.com_logo.png)](https://cryptocom.sjv.io/c/1955282/2107455/25666) [Crypto.com](https://cryptocom.sjv.io/c/1955282/2107455/25666) ![Forbes Advisor Desktop Logo](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/forbes-advisor.svg) ![Forbes Advisor Mobile Logo](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/forbes-advisor.svg) 4\.6 ![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/filled-star.svg)![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/filled-star.svg)![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/filled-star.svg)![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/filled-star.svg)![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/half-star.svg) ![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/tooltip.svg) [Learn More](https://cryptocom.sjv.io/c/1955282/2107455/25666) On Crypto.com's Website Trading Fees Maker Fee 0.25%/Taker Fee 0.50% (For \$10,000 or less in trades within 30 days.) Tradable Coins 400+ [![Gemini](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Gemini-Hor-Dark-Full-RGB-1-1.png)](https://gemini.sjv.io/c/1955282/1297140/11829) [Gemini](https://gemini.sjv.io/c/1955282/1297140/11829) ![Forbes Advisor Desktop Logo](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/forbes-advisor.svg) ![Forbes Advisor Mobile Logo](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/forbes-advisor.svg) 3\.9 ![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/filled-star.svg)![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/filled-star.svg)![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/filled-star.svg)![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/filled-star.svg)![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/outline-star.svg) ![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/tooltip.svg) [Learn More](https://gemini.sjv.io/c/1955282/1297140/11829) On Gemini's Website Trading Fees Maker Fee 0.20%/Taker Fee 0.40% (For trades less than \$10,000 within 30 days.) Tradable Coins 70+ [![Coinbase Exchange](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/coinbase.d491999a12d7c093ec6cd83ad64a1e23.png)](https://coinbase-consumer.sjv.io/c/1955282/958009/9251) [Coinbase Exchange](https://coinbase-consumer.sjv.io/c/1955282/958009/9251) ![Forbes Advisor Desktop Logo](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/forbes-advisor.svg) ![Forbes Advisor Mobile Logo](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/forbes-advisor.svg) 3\.7 ![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/filled-star.svg)![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/filled-star.svg)![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/filled-star.svg)![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/half-star.svg)![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/outline-star.svg) ![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/tooltip.svg) [Learn More](https://coinbase-consumer.sjv.io/c/1955282/958009/9251) On Coinbase's Secure Website Trading Fees Maker Fee 0.40%/Taker Fee 0.60% (For \$10,000 or less in trades within 30 days.) Tradable Coins 340+ [![Binance.US](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/binanceus_logo-e1721210701640-150x41.png)](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/investing/cryptocurrency/binance-us-review/) [Binance.US](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/investing/cryptocurrency/binance-us-review/) ![Forbes Advisor Desktop Logo](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/forbes-advisor.svg) ![Forbes Advisor Mobile Logo](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/forbes-advisor.svg) 3\.7 ![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/filled-star.svg)![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/filled-star.svg)![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/filled-star.svg)![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/half-star.svg)![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/outline-star.svg) ![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/tooltip.svg) [Learn More](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/investing/cryptocurrency/binance-us-review/) Read Forbes' Review Trading Fees Maker Fee 0.40%/Taker Fee 0.60% for Tier I trades; Tier 0 trades for 0.00% maker fees bitcoin, Ethereum, solana, BNB and cardano, with 0.01% taker fees Tradable Coins 180+ [![Interactive Brokers](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Interactive_Brokers_logo-removebg-preview.png)](https://mktp.us/InteractiveBrokers_crypto) [Interactive Brokers](https://mktp.us/InteractiveBrokers_crypto) ![Forbes Advisor Desktop Logo](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/forbes-advisor.svg) ![Forbes Advisor Mobile Logo](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/forbes-advisor.svg) 3\.7 ![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/filled-star.svg)![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/filled-star.svg)![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/filled-star.svg)![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/half-star.svg)![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/outline-star.svg) ![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/tooltip.svg) [Learn More](https://mktp.us/InteractiveBrokers_crypto) Via InteractiveBrokers' Secure Website Trading Fees Commissions of 0.12% to 0.18%, depending on trade value Tradable Coins 11 [![Bitstamp](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/Bitstamp_logo_2017.png)](https://links.bitstamp.net/c/1955282/1228811/14006) [Bitstamp](https://links.bitstamp.net/c/1955282/1228811/14006) ![Forbes Advisor Desktop Logo](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/forbes-advisor.svg) ![Forbes Advisor Mobile Logo](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/forbes-advisor.svg) 3\.5 ![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/filled-star.svg)![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/filled-star.svg)![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/filled-star.svg)![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/half-star.svg)![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/outline-star.svg) ![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/tooltip.svg) [Learn More](https://links.bitstamp.net/c/1955282/1228811/14006) On Bitstamp's Website Trading Fees Maker Fee 0.30%/Taker Fee 40% (For trades less than \$10,000 within 30 days.) Tradable Coins 100+ [![BitFlyer](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/bitFlyer-1-removebg-preview.png)](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/investing/cryptocurrency/best-crypto-exchanges/#bitflyer_section) [BitFlyer](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/investing/cryptocurrency/best-crypto-exchanges/#bitflyer_section) ![Forbes Advisor Desktop Logo](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/forbes-advisor.svg) ![Forbes Advisor Mobile Logo](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/forbes-advisor.svg) 3\.1 ![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/filled-star.svg)![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/filled-star.svg)![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/filled-star.svg)![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/outline-star.svg)![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/outline-star.svg) ![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/tooltip.svg) [View More](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/investing/cryptocurrency/best-crypto-exchanges/#bitflyer_section) Trading Fees Fees can be as low as 0.10% Tradable Coins 9 [![EToro](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/SEM_etoro_logo.png)](https://go.etoro.com/en/get10?utm_medium=Media%20Performance&utm_source=113475&utm_content=20618&utm_serial=etororeview&utm_campaign=etororeview&utm_term=&funnelFromId=60) [EToro](https://go.etoro.com/en/get10?utm_medium=Media%20Performance&utm_source=113475&utm_content=20618&utm_serial=etororeview&utm_campaign=etororeview&utm_term=&funnelFromId=60) ![Forbes Advisor Desktop Logo](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/forbes-advisor.svg) ![Forbes Advisor Mobile Logo](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/forbes-advisor.svg) 2\.8 ![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/filled-star.svg)![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/filled-star.svg)![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/filled-star.svg)![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/outline-star.svg)![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/outline-star.svg) ![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/tooltip.svg) [Learn More](https://go.etoro.com/en/get10?utm_medium=Media%20Performance&utm_source=113475&utm_content=20618&utm_serial=etororeview&utm_campaign=etororeview&utm_term=&funnelFromId=60) Via eToro's Website Trading Fees 1% fee plus bid-ask spread Tradable Coins 100+ globally (only 30+ available in the U.S.) | Crypto Exchange | Star Rating | Trading Fees | Tradable Coins | Learn More | |---|---|---|---|---| | [![Kraken](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/kraken-vector-logo-1-removebg-preview.png)](https://kraken.pxf.io/c/1955282/3369972/10583) [Kraken](https://kraken.pxf.io/c/1955282/3369972/10583) | ![Forbes Advisor Desktop Logo](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/forbes-advisor.svg) ![Forbes Advisor Mobile Logo](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/forbes-advisor.svg) 5\.0 ![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/filled-star.svg)![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/filled-star.svg)![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/filled-star.svg)![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/filled-star.svg)![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/filled-star.svg) ![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/tooltip.svg) | Maker Fee 0.25%/Taker Fee 0.40% (For Kraken Pro, trading under \$10,000 within 30 days.) | 600+ | [Learn More](https://kraken.pxf.io/c/1955282/3369972/10583) On Kraken's Website | | [![Uphold](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/uphold.png)](https://uphold.sjv.io/c/1955282/1273495/13619?sharedid=Sponsored) [Uphold](https://uphold.sjv.io/c/1955282/1273495/13619?sharedid=Sponsored) | ![Forbes Advisor Desktop Logo](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/forbes-advisor.svg) ![Forbes Advisor Mobile Logo](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/forbes-advisor.svg) 4\.7 ![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/filled-star.svg)![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/filled-star.svg)![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/filled-star.svg)![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/filled-star.svg)![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/half-star.svg) ![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/tooltip.svg) | Flat fee that depends on asset (0.25% for most stablecoins; 1.4%-1.6% for BTC and ETH; 2.5%-2.95% for altcoins) | 300+ | [Learn More](https://uphold.sjv.io/c/1955282/1273495/13619?sharedid=Sponsored) On Uphold's Website | | [![Crypto.com](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/crypto.com_logo.png)](https://cryptocom.sjv.io/c/1955282/2107455/25666) [Crypto.com](https://cryptocom.sjv.io/c/1955282/2107455/25666) | ![Forbes Advisor Desktop Logo](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/forbes-advisor.svg) ![Forbes Advisor Mobile Logo](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/forbes-advisor.svg) 4\.6 ![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/filled-star.svg)![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/filled-star.svg)![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/filled-star.svg)![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/filled-star.svg)![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/half-star.svg) ![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/tooltip.svg) | Maker Fee 0.25%/Taker Fee 0.50% (For \$10,000 or less in trades within 30 days.) | 400+ | [Learn More](https://cryptocom.sjv.io/c/1955282/2107455/25666) On Crypto.com's Website | | [![Gemini](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Gemini-Hor-Dark-Full-RGB-1-1.png)](https://gemini.sjv.io/c/1955282/1297140/11829) [Gemini](https://gemini.sjv.io/c/1955282/1297140/11829) | ![Forbes Advisor Desktop Logo](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/forbes-advisor.svg) ![Forbes Advisor Mobile Logo](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/forbes-advisor.svg) 3\.9 ![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/filled-star.svg)![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/filled-star.svg)![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/filled-star.svg)![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/filled-star.svg)![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/outline-star.svg) ![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/tooltip.svg) | Maker Fee 0.20%/Taker Fee 0.40% (For trades less than \$10,000 within 30 days.) | 70+ | [Learn More](https://gemini.sjv.io/c/1955282/1297140/11829) On Gemini's Website | | [![Coinbase Exchange](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/coinbase.d491999a12d7c093ec6cd83ad64a1e23.png)](https://coinbase-consumer.sjv.io/c/1955282/958009/9251) [Coinbase Exchange](https://coinbase-consumer.sjv.io/c/1955282/958009/9251) | ![Forbes Advisor Desktop Logo](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/forbes-advisor.svg) ![Forbes Advisor Mobile Logo](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/forbes-advisor.svg) 3\.7 ![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/filled-star.svg)![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/filled-star.svg)![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/filled-star.svg)![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/half-star.svg)![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/outline-star.svg) ![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/tooltip.svg) | Maker Fee 0.40%/Taker Fee 0.60% (For \$10,000 or less in trades within 30 days.) | 340+ | [Learn More](https://coinbase-consumer.sjv.io/c/1955282/958009/9251) On Coinbase's Secure Website | | [![Binance.US](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/binanceus_logo-e1721210701640-150x41.png)](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/investing/cryptocurrency/binance-us-review/) [Binance.US](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/investing/cryptocurrency/binance-us-review/) | ![Forbes Advisor Desktop Logo](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/forbes-advisor.svg) ![Forbes Advisor Mobile Logo](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/forbes-advisor.svg) 3\.7 ![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/filled-star.svg)![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/filled-star.svg)![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/filled-star.svg)![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/half-star.svg)![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/outline-star.svg) ![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/tooltip.svg) | Maker Fee 0.40%/Taker Fee 0.60% for Tier I trades; Tier 0 trades for 0.00% maker fees bitcoin, Ethereum, solana, BNB and cardano, with 0.01% taker fees | 180+ | [Learn More](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/investing/cryptocurrency/binance-us-review/) Read Forbes' Review | | [![Interactive Brokers](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Interactive_Brokers_logo-removebg-preview.png)](https://mktp.us/InteractiveBrokers_crypto) [Interactive Brokers](https://mktp.us/InteractiveBrokers_crypto) | ![Forbes Advisor Desktop Logo](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/forbes-advisor.svg) ![Forbes Advisor Mobile Logo](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/forbes-advisor.svg) 3\.7 ![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/filled-star.svg)![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/filled-star.svg)![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/filled-star.svg)![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/half-star.svg)![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/outline-star.svg) ![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/tooltip.svg) | Commissions of 0.12% to 0.18%, depending on trade value | 11 | [Learn More](https://mktp.us/InteractiveBrokers_crypto) Via InteractiveBrokers' Secure Website | | [![Bitstamp](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/Bitstamp_logo_2017.png)](https://links.bitstamp.net/c/1955282/1228811/14006) [Bitstamp](https://links.bitstamp.net/c/1955282/1228811/14006) | ![Forbes Advisor Desktop Logo](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/forbes-advisor.svg) ![Forbes Advisor Mobile Logo](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/forbes-advisor.svg) 3\.5 ![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/filled-star.svg)![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/filled-star.svg)![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/filled-star.svg)![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/half-star.svg)![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/outline-star.svg) ![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/tooltip.svg) | Maker Fee 0.30%/Taker Fee 40% (For trades less than \$10,000 within 30 days.) | 100+ | [Learn More](https://links.bitstamp.net/c/1955282/1228811/14006) On Bitstamp's Website | | [![BitFlyer](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/bitFlyer-1-removebg-preview.png)](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/investing/cryptocurrency/best-crypto-exchanges/#bitflyer_section) [BitFlyer](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/investing/cryptocurrency/best-crypto-exchanges/#bitflyer_section) | ![Forbes Advisor Desktop Logo](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/forbes-advisor.svg) ![Forbes Advisor Mobile Logo](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/forbes-advisor.svg) 3\.1 ![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/filled-star.svg)![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/filled-star.svg)![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/filled-star.svg)![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/outline-star.svg)![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/outline-star.svg) ![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/tooltip.svg) | Fees can be as low as 0.10% | 9 | [View More](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/investing/cryptocurrency/best-crypto-exchanges/#bitflyer_section) | | [![EToro](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/SEM_etoro_logo.png)](https://go.etoro.com/en/get10?utm_medium=Media%20Performance&utm_source=113475&utm_content=20618&utm_serial=etororeview&utm_campaign=etororeview&utm_term=&funnelFromId=60) [EToro](https://go.etoro.com/en/get10?utm_medium=Media%20Performance&utm_source=113475&utm_content=20618&utm_serial=etororeview&utm_campaign=etororeview&utm_term=&funnelFromId=60) | ![Forbes Advisor Desktop Logo](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/forbes-advisor.svg) ![Forbes Advisor Mobile Logo](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/forbes-advisor.svg) 2\.8 ![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/filled-star.svg)![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/filled-star.svg)![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/filled-star.svg)![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/outline-star.svg)![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/outline-star.svg) ![](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/plugins/marketplace-tables/public/images/tooltip.svg) | 1% fee plus bid-ask spread | 100+ globally (only 30+ available in the U.S.) | [Learn More](https://go.etoro.com/en/get10?utm_medium=Media%20Performance&utm_source=113475&utm_content=20618&utm_serial=etororeview&utm_campaign=etororeview&utm_term=&funnelFromId=60) Via eToro's Website | ![Left Arrow](data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAAAcAAAAMCAYAAACulacQAAAACXBIWXMAAAsTAAALEwEAmpwYAAAAAXNSR0IArs4c6QAAAARnQU1BAACxjwv8YQUAAADJSURBVHgBXZCxDcIwEEXvLrbTMgIjeAQXQB0aUiBENgAmIBswQkJJg6iQaGAF2CBskBY5wbEjWXLiwjr73f//dAijo5JiEse01Zrd2BhwgS8DIDnXcgBFjAUASltWkeY5eTBPSwcSW9ZMM3W/rr+9crY6HxEgcwCBeuD+yQFCyPsH/pePy+bj3YiCzLaNTDgDumuRlidb7o2BmpCUV2M4EAJmrqFtmHzaXAxtfAOAqRrNVRgJ+mcOFryt4dQuIR8o/ZaEoB1rWNkBtuxEvL1bUnQAAAAASUVORK5CYII=) ![Right Arrow](data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAAAcAAAAMCAYAAACulacQAAAACXBIWXMAAAsTAAALEwEAmpwYAAAAAXNSR0IArs4c6QAAAARnQU1BAACxjwv8YQUAAADQSURBVHgBdVC5DcJAENw53pAS6AA6wAlPCAGCDLsSoAJEBXwJEDk0JrA7wCW4BMeH5GXP2MggscHenEYzNzew5rt2PVULrdNt6DoJlUY1GEsCrWp1BNZ41/oiAV7LGQPo1hrYlEmYNRLrlNVDYIuJ9/eL7WRKs7yzE4OUJTABwR7M9puPspj+9NiD4tDglGml6M8YolJchrNTh8CewCaJyr8u1plt9tc8ECTQLQ+EN4FAYJuIXf9iTwq3qimBhWDm6KnZKb9bzUpgRFrz4be+FwjJTXtIGD7JAAAAAElFTkSuQmCC) See More See Less ### Decide on a Payment Method Once you have created an account, you’ll need to seed it with funds, usually by transferring money from your bank, although it may be possible to use a credit or debit card or payment provider. ### Place Your Order Once you’ve got cash in your account, you can click as instructed to place an order and become a bitcoin owner. Only the very wealthy can afford to buy even one bitcoin (1 BTC) outright at current prices, but at the moment, you can buy a fraction of one, called a satoshi, for less than a penny. (A bitcoin is comprised of 100 million satoshis.) ### Choose Your Storage Method It’s worth noting that bitcoin has no physical form—it is represented by crypto keys, and it is these that need to be stored and used as proof of ownership. Many exchanges and platforms offer wallets where you can store your crypto keys, but there is an element of risk here as hackers will prey on exchanges looking for easy loot. That’s why security is such an important issue. Some exchanges have insurance schemes designed to reimburse customers if the exchange is a victim of theft or fraud, and an increasing number of hold users’ keys in cold storage, which means it is offline and further out of reach of the crooks. You also have the option to transfer your bitcoin keys from an exchange to your own [crypto wallet](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/investing/cryptocurrency/best-crypto-wallets/), which may be offline (cold) or managed by a third-party custodian. #### Hot Wallets vs. Cold Wallets Hot wallets are connected to the internet and protected by a password. The beauty of them is that they can be accessed immediately from anywhere you can connect your device to the internet, but the downside is the risk of hacking and theft. The hot wallet provider, such as a crypto exchange, will be engaged in a constant battle to outwit criminals and keep the wallet content safe. With a cold wallet, the storage facility is offline, placing an “air gap” between the contents and any would-be hackers, although this gap is closed when the wallet is connected, making the wallet vulnerable while the owner is online. ## How To Sell Bitcoin Selling bitcoin through a cryptocurrency exchange is as straightforward as buying it. You simply follow the signposting on your screen, indicate how much of your BTC holding you’d like to sell, and click to proceed. Depending on the exchange, you may be offered the choice of whether to sell at the current market price (known as the “spot” price) or only to sell when the price reaches a certain level, either below or higher than the current price. When the sale is complete and the cash lands in your account, you can transfer it to your bank (you may face a withdrawal fee to cover the transaction costs). If you make a profit on your bitcoin trades, you may be liable for capital gains tax. ## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) ### What are some alternative ways of buying bitcoin? The only way to buy bitcoin directly is by using a fiat currency such as U.S. dollars or another cryptocurrency, usually through a crypto exchange. You can own bitcoin indirectly by investing in [bitcoin exchange traded funds](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/investing/cryptocurrency/best-bitcoin-etfs/) (ETFs) that hold the actual currency. A few examples of bitcoin spot ETFs include iShares Bitcoin Trust (IBIT), Fidelity Wise Origin Bitcoin Fund (FBTC) and Grayscale Bitcoin Trust ETF (GBTC). Most major [online brokerages](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/investing/best-online-brokers/) offer access to these leading bitcoin funds. For instance, [Fidelity](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/investing/fidelity-investments-review/) offers the Fidelity Wise Origin Bitcoin Fund, in addition to other crypto funds like the Fidelity Crypto Industry and Digital Payments ETF (FDIG). You could also consider buying shares in companies that make a virtue of owning large amounts of bitcoin in their corporate reserves. Strategy and Tesla are two examples. ### Is bitcoin potentially a good hedge against inflation? No. Bitcoin’s price is volatile, and the purpose of an inflation hedge is to provide reliability and security in the battle against the effect of rising prices. ### Is it possible to buy bitcoin with PayPal? You can buy, sell and transact with bitcoin on PayPal sites in some countries, including within the U.S. Was this article helpful? Share your feedback Send feedback to the editorial team ![User Form](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/themes/fadv/assets/img/user-feedback-form/user-form-icon.svg) ![Success Icon](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/themes/fadv/assets/img/user-feedback-form/success-icon.svg) Thank You for your feedback\! ![Error Icon](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/themes/fadv/assets/img/user-feedback-form/error-icon.svg) Something went wrong. Please try again later. Basics - [Top 10 Cryptocurrencies](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/investing/cryptocurrency/top-10-cryptocurrencies/ "Top 10 Cryptocurrencies") - [Best Crypto Exchanges](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/investing/cryptocurrency/best-crypto-exchanges/ "Best Crypto Exchanges") - [Best Crypto Credit Cards](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/credit-cards/best/crypto-rewards/ "Best Crypto Credit Cards") - [Cryptocurrency Tax Calculator](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/taxes/cryptocurrency-tax-calculator/ "Cryptocurrency Tax Calculator") Guides - [How To Buy Cryptocurrency](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/investing/cryptocurrency/how-to-buy-cryptocurrency/ "How To Buy Cryptocurrency") - [How To Buy XRP (Ripple)](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/investing/cryptocurrency/how-to-buy-xrp-ripple/ "How To Buy XRP (Ripple)") - [How To Buy Bitcoin (BTC)](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/investing/cryptocurrency/buying-bitcoin/ "How To Buy Bitcoin (BTC)") - [How To Buy Ethereum (ETH)](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/investing/cryptocurrency/how-to-buy-ethereum/ "How To Buy Ethereum (ETH)") Crypto Exchanges - [Crypto.com Review](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/investing/cryptocurrency/crypto-com-review/ "Crypto.com Review") - [Coinbase Review](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/investing/cryptocurrency/coinbase-review/ "Coinbase Review") - [Binance.US Review](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/investing/cryptocurrency/binance-us-review/ "Binance.US Review") - [Kraken Review](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/investing/cryptocurrency/kraken-review/ "Kraken Review") - [eToro Review](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/investing/cryptocurrency/etoro-review/ "eToro Review") ### Next Up In Cryptocurrency - [Best Crypto Wallets](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/investing/cryptocurrency/best-crypto-wallets/ "Best Crypto Wallets") - [Best Crypto Exchanges](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/investing/cryptocurrency/best-crypto-exchanges/ "Best Crypto Exchanges") - [Best Crypto Staking Platforms](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/investing/cryptocurrency/best-crypto-staking-platforms/ "Best Crypto Staking Platforms") - [Best Crypto to Buy Now](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/investing/cryptocurrency/top-10-cryptocurrencies/ "Best Crypto to Buy Now") - [Coinbase Review](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/investing/cryptocurrency/coinbase-review/ "Coinbase Review") - [Kraken Review](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/investing/cryptocurrency/kraken-review/ "Kraken Review") - [Best Bitcoin ETFs](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/investing/cryptocurrency/best-bitcoin-etfs/ "Best Bitcoin ETFs") #### More from ![forbes-advisor](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/themes/fadv/assets/img/forbes-updated-logo.svg) [![8 Best Crypto Wallets](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/best_crypto_wallets-568x322.jpg) 8 Best Crypto Wallets ![Maisha Shahid](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/maisha-headshot-Maisha-Shahid-e1730783915307.jpg) By **Maisha Shahid**](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/investing/cryptocurrency/best-crypto-wallets/ "8 Best Crypto Wallets") [![Ethereum Price Today: ETH Is Trading At \$2,316 ](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/ethereum-ETFs-568x322.jpg) Ethereum Price Today: ETH Is Trading At \$2,316 ![Farran Powell](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/Farran-Powell_headshot.jpeg) By **Farran Powell**](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/investing/cryptocurrency/ethereum-price-today/ "Ethereum Price Today: ETH Is Trading At $2,316 ") [![Bitcoin Profit Calculator](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/bitcoin-charts-568x322.jpeg) Bitcoin Profit Calculator ![Farran Powell](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/Farran-Powell_headshot.jpeg) By **Farran Powell**](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/investing/cryptocurrency/bitcoin-profit-calculator/ "Bitcoin Profit Calculator") [![Bitcoin Price Today: Bitcoin Drops To \$75,647](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/bitcoin-20210617-568x322.jpg) Bitcoin Price Today: Bitcoin Drops To \$75,647 ![Farran Powell](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/Farran-Powell_headshot.jpeg) By **Farran Powell**](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/investing/cryptocurrency/bitcoin-price-today/ "Bitcoin Price Today: Bitcoin Drops To $75,647") [![What Is Bitcoin And How Does It Work?](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/bitcoin_glasses-568x322.jpg) What Is Bitcoin And How Does It Work? ![Kate Ashford](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/kate-ashford.jpg) By **Kate Ashford**](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/investing/cryptocurrency/what-is-bitcoin-zx1fa/ "What Is Bitcoin And How Does It Work?") [![How To Buy Cryptocurrency](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/how-to-buy-crypto-568x322.jpg) How To Buy Cryptocurrency ![Kat Tretina](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Screenshot-2024-02-19-at-4.12.24-PM-Kat-Tretina-2-e1709642870995.png) By **Kat Tretina**](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/investing/cryptocurrency/how-to-buy-cryptocurrency-zx1fa/ "How To Buy Cryptocurrency") Information provided on Forbes Advisor is for educational purposes only. Your financial situation is unique and the products and services we review may not be right for your circumstances. We do not offer financial advice, advisory or brokerage services, nor do we recommend or advise individuals or to buy or sell particular stocks or securities. Performance information may have changed since the time of publication. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Forbes Advisor adheres to strict [editorial integrity standards](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/about-us/). To the best of our knowledge, all content is accurate as of the date posted, though offers contained herein may no longer be available. The opinions expressed are the author’s alone and have not been provided, approved, or otherwise endorsed by our [partners](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/advertiser-disclosure/ "Advertiser Disclosure"). [![Mark Hooson](https://thumbor.forbes.com/thumbor/fit-in/x/https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/mark-hooson-88x88.jpg)](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/author/mark-hooson/ "Mark Hooson") [Mark Hooson](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/author/mark-hooson/) Staff Writer Staff writer Mark Hooson has been a journalist within the personal finance, consumer affairs and fraud sectors for more than 10 years. He is also Forbes Advisor UK’s resident tech expert. Mark says he thrives on making ‘complicated and dry topics easier to digest’. [![Mark Hooson](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/mark-hooson-88x88.jpg)](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/author/mark-hooson/ "Mark Hooson") [Mark Hooson](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/author/mark-hooson/) Staff Writer Staff writer Mark Hooson has been a journalist within the personal finance, consumer affairs and fraud sectors for more than 10 years. He is also Forbes Advisor UK’s resident tech expert. Mark says he thrives on making ‘complicated and dry topics easier to digest’. © 2026 Forbes Media LLC. All Rights Reserved. - [AdChoices](https://preferences-mgr.truste.com/?pid=forbes01) - [Privacy Statement](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/privacy-policy/) - [Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information](https://www.forbes.com/consent/editprivacy/?consent_do_not_sell=true) - [Limit the Use of My Sensitive Personal Information](https://www.forbes.com/consent/editprivacy/?consent_limit=true) - [Privacy Preferences](https://www.forbes.com/consent/editprivacy/?consent_limit=true) - [Terms of Sale](https://www.forbes.com/digital-terms-of-sale) - [Terms of Service](https://www.forbes.com/terms-and-conditions/) - [Contact Us](https://www.forbes.com/fdc/contact.html) - [Send Us Feedback](mailto:feedback@forbes.com) - [Report a Security Issue](https://www.forbes.com/contact/) - [Jobs At Forbes](https://www.forbes.com/sites/careers-at-forbes/) - [Reprints & Permissions](http://forbesreprints.magreprints.com/) - [Forbes Press Room](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbespr/) - [Advertise](http://www.forbesmedia.com/) lorem Are you sure you want to rest your choices? cancel ok The Forbes Advisor editorial team is independent and objective. To help support our reporting work, and to continue our ability to provide this content for free to our readers, we receive compensation from the companies that advertise on the Forbes Advisor site. This compensation comes from two main sources. **First**, we provide paid placements to advertisers to present their offers. The compensation we receive for those placements affects how and where advertisers’ offers appear on the site. This site does not include all companies or products available within the market. **Second,** we also include links to advertisers’ offers in some of our articles; these “affiliate links” may generate income for our site when you click on them. The compensation we receive from advertisers does not influence the recommendations or advice our editorial team provides in our articles or otherwise impact any of the editorial content on Forbes Advisor. While we work hard to provide accurate and up to date information that we think you will find relevant, Forbes Advisor does not and cannot guarantee that any information provided is complete and makes no representations or warranties in connection thereto, nor to the accuracy or applicability thereof. Here is a list of our [partners](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/advertiser-disclosure/) who offer products that we have affiliate links for.

Readable Markdown

Bitcoin (BTC), launched in 2009, is by far the biggest cryptocurrency. Indeed, its size relative to other cryptos is of such that, collectively, others are known as “altcoins.” But bitcoin’s size does not mean it is more likely to prove a good investment, or that it is less likely to lose value. Like all [cryptocurrencies](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/investing/cryptocurrency/top-10-cryptocurrencies/), it is a highly volatile digital asset whose worth is heavily influenced by market sentiment. Bitcoin runs on a blockchain-based network that’s powered by global users. Bitcoin allows peer-to-peer financial transactions without the use of a centralized financial intermediary. Centralized government orders issue legal tender (fiat currency) like the U.S. dollar (USD) or the British pound (GBP). In contrast, bitcoin is a virtual currency that operates on a public distributed ledger called a blockchain. Bitcoin is often referred to as a decentralized currency, too. The table below shows some key differences between fiat currency and bitcoin. | Fiat Currency vs. Bitcoin | | |---|---| | **Fiat currency** | **Bitcoin** | | Physical medium | Digital medium | | Government can produce as needed | Limited supply | | Issued by governments | Produced by computers | | Centralized | Decentralized | With bitcoin, transactions are verified by “network nodes.” Bitcoin miners bundle these verified transactions into blocks. Miners for BTC use high-powered computers to solve complex mathematical puzzles. This then creates new blocks of verified transactions on the blockchain. As with most cryptocurrencies, bitcoin is created via cryptographic computer technology known as a blockchain. The blockchain, and bitcoin for that matter, was created by a person or group using the pseudonym Satoshi Nakamoto. Bitcoin’s creator said there was a need for “an electronic payment system based on cryptographic proof instead of trust, allowing any two willing parties to transact directly with each other without the need for a trusted third party.” The first [exchanged bitcoin](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/investing/cryptocurrency/bitcoin-price-today/) with a recorded price was in late 2009. A user in a bitcoin online forum exchanged 5,050 BTC for \$5.02, using PayPal. At the time, BTC was valued about one-tenth of a cent. ## Find The Best Crypto Exchanges We've combed through the leading exchange offerings, and reams of data, to determine the best crypto exchanges. ## How Does Bitcoin Work? Bitcoin is built on a blockchain, which acts as a digital ledger. The blockchain is a linked body of data, comprised of units called blocks. These blocks contain information, including addresses (public keys), values and identifying codes. Entries are strung together in chronological order, creating a digital chain of blocks. For transaction blocks to be added to the bitcoin blockchain, blocks must be verified. The process of adding new transactions to the bitcoin blockchain is bitcoin mining, using a proof-of-work construct. The proof-of-work method alongside the consensus rules and digital signatures helps to fight against fraud. ## How Does Bitcoin Mining Work? Bitcoin mining is one way to obtain BTC. With a proof-of-work method, bitcoin miners compete to validate blocks of bitcoin transactions and add them to the crypto’s blockchain—an indelible ledger of all bitcoin transactions since the beginning. If they are successful, they are rewarded with an amount of actual bitcoins. The size of this reward has reduced over the years (it is currently 3.125 BTC per block) to control the supply of new bitcoins. For every 210,000 blocks mined, the network undergoes a “halving” process. With a halving, the BTC reward is cut in half. The next halving event is expected to occur in 2028 with block number 1,050,000. The BTC reward will then be halved from 3.125 BTC per block to 1.5625 BTC. | Halving Event | Date | Block | Reward Before Halving | Post-Halving Reward | |---|---|---|---|---| | 1st halving | Nov. 28, 2012 | 210,000 | 50 BTC | 25 BTC | | 2nd halving | July 9, 2016 | 420,000 | 25 BTC | 12\.5 BTC | | 3rd halving | May 11, 2020 | 630,000 | 12\.5 BTC | 6\.25 BTC | | 4th halving | April 19, 2024 | 840,000 | 6\.25 BTC | 3\.125 BTC | | 5th halving (expected) | April 2028 | 1,050,000 | 3\.125 BTC | 1\.5625 BTC | The founders of the currency set a finite limit on the total supply of bitcoins of 21 million. In February 2026, the number in circulation was nearly 20 million, meaning there is something over a million yet to be mined. Experts forecast that this won’t happen until around 2140. ## How to Buy Bitcoin There are four stages to [buying bitcoin](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/investing/cryptocurrency/buying-bitcoin/) if you are a beginner: selecting a [crypto exchange](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/investing/cryptocurrency/best-crypto-exchanges/),deciding on your payment method, placing an order and choosing your method of storage. ### Select a Crypto Exchange Cryptocurrency is bought and sold on crypto exchanges and also on [trading platforms](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/investing/best-online-brokers/) and apps. It is important for beginners to research the market thoroughly and find the combination of ease of use, competitive fees and high security that suits your preferences and objectives. You’ll need to create an account, which will involve providing your personal information and a form of identification, such as your driving license. All this will be handled online via your chosen website or app. #### Best Crypto Exchanges ### Decide on a Payment Method Once you have created an account, you’ll need to seed it with funds, usually by transferring money from your bank, although it may be possible to use a credit or debit card or payment provider. ### Place Your Order Once you’ve got cash in your account, you can click as instructed to place an order and become a bitcoin owner. Only the very wealthy can afford to buy even one bitcoin (1 BTC) outright at current prices, but at the moment, you can buy a fraction of one, called a satoshi, for less than a penny. (A bitcoin is comprised of 100 million satoshis.) ### Choose Your Storage Method It’s worth noting that bitcoin has no physical form—it is represented by crypto keys, and it is these that need to be stored and used as proof of ownership. Many exchanges and platforms offer wallets where you can store your crypto keys, but there is an element of risk here as hackers will prey on exchanges looking for easy loot. That’s why security is such an important issue. Some exchanges have insurance schemes designed to reimburse customers if the exchange is a victim of theft or fraud, and an increasing number of hold users’ keys in cold storage, which means it is offline and further out of reach of the crooks. You also have the option to transfer your bitcoin keys from an exchange to your own [crypto wallet](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/investing/cryptocurrency/best-crypto-wallets/), which may be offline (cold) or managed by a third-party custodian. #### Hot Wallets vs. Cold Wallets Hot wallets are connected to the internet and protected by a password. The beauty of them is that they can be accessed immediately from anywhere you can connect your device to the internet, but the downside is the risk of hacking and theft. The hot wallet provider, such as a crypto exchange, will be engaged in a constant battle to outwit criminals and keep the wallet content safe. With a cold wallet, the storage facility is offline, placing an “air gap” between the contents and any would-be hackers, although this gap is closed when the wallet is connected, making the wallet vulnerable while the owner is online. ## How To Sell Bitcoin Selling bitcoin through a cryptocurrency exchange is as straightforward as buying it. You simply follow the signposting on your screen, indicate how much of your BTC holding you’d like to sell, and click to proceed. Depending on the exchange, you may be offered the choice of whether to sell at the current market price (known as the “spot” price) or only to sell when the price reaches a certain level, either below or higher than the current price. When the sale is complete and the cash lands in your account, you can transfer it to your bank (you may face a withdrawal fee to cover the transaction costs). If you make a profit on your bitcoin trades, you may be liable for capital gains tax. ## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) The only way to buy bitcoin directly is by using a fiat currency such as U.S. dollars or another cryptocurrency, usually through a crypto exchange. You can own bitcoin indirectly by investing in [bitcoin exchange traded funds](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/investing/cryptocurrency/best-bitcoin-etfs/) (ETFs) that hold the actual currency. A few examples of bitcoin spot ETFs include iShares Bitcoin Trust (IBIT), Fidelity Wise Origin Bitcoin Fund (FBTC) and Grayscale Bitcoin Trust ETF (GBTC). Most major [online brokerages](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/investing/best-online-brokers/) offer access to these leading bitcoin funds. For instance, [Fidelity](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/investing/fidelity-investments-review/) offers the Fidelity Wise Origin Bitcoin Fund, in addition to other crypto funds like the Fidelity Crypto Industry and Digital Payments ETF (FDIG). You could also consider buying shares in companies that make a virtue of owning large amounts of bitcoin in their corporate reserves. Strategy and Tesla are two examples. No. Bitcoin’s price is volatile, and the purpose of an inflation hedge is to provide reliability and security in the battle against the effect of rising prices. You can buy, sell and transact with bitcoin on PayPal sites in some countries, including within the U.S.

ML Classification

ML Categories

/Finance		98.6%
/Finance/Investing		97.8%
/Finance/Investing/Currencies_and_Foreign_Exchange		77.0%

Raw JSON

{
    "/Finance": 986,
    "/Finance/Investing": 978,
    "/Finance/Investing/Currencies_and_Foreign_Exchange": 770
}

ML Page Types

/Article		99.0%
/Article/Definitions		59.1%

Raw JSON

{
    "/Article": 990,
    "/Article/Definitions": 591
}

ML Intent Types

Informational		99.9%
Commercial		21.8%

Raw JSON

{
    "Informational": 999,
    "Commercial": 218
}

Content Metadata

Language

en-us

Author

Mark Hooson

Publish Time

2021-10-26 17:25:26 (4 years ago)

Original Publish Time

2021-10-26 17:25:26 (4 years ago)

Republished

Word Count (Total)

4,859

Word Count (Content)

1,479

Links

External Links

Internal Links

469

Technical SEO

Meta Nofollow

Meta Noarchive

JS Rendered

Redirect Target

null

Performance

Download Time (ms)

1,355

TTFB (ms)

806

Download Size (bytes)

169,872

Shard

156 (laksa)

Root Hash

7074450602188365556

Unparsed URL

com,forbes!www,/advisor/investing/cryptocurrency/what-is-bitcoin/ s443