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1. Shard Calculation

Query:

Response:

Calculated Shard: 90 (from laksa059)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:

curl -X POST \
  'http://laksa090.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 FROM crawler3.page_info_local FINAL PREWHERE (src_root_hash, src_unparsed) IN ((getAhrefsRootHashFromUnparsed(getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.truist.com/money-mindset/principles/investing-in-your-values/crypto-investing\')), getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.truist.com/money-mindset/principles/investing-in-your-values/crypto-investing\'))) FORMAT JSONEachRow'

Response:

{"found_url":"https:\/\/www.truist.com\/money-mindset\/principles\/investing-in-your-values\/crypto-investing","crawl_time":1776168359,"first_indexed_time":1646751898,"http_code":200,"src_unparsed":"com,truist!www,\/money-mindset\/principles\/investing-in-your-values\/crypto-investing s443","src_root_hash":"6731831065951473090","history_drop_reason":null,"meta_title":"Understanding Crypto Investing: How to Get Started | Truist","meta_descriptions":["New to crypto investing? Learn what it is and how to make informed investing decisions that reflect your values and financial strategy."],"attrs_boilerpipe_text":"What to know before investing in crypto\nMoney and Mindset | June 2025\nAs an investment option, cryptocurrency has been around for years—but it’s not necessarily easy to understand. Here are some basics to know before you consider investing.\nThe highlights\nCryptocurrencies have been historically volatile, making them potentially risky as investments.\nCryptocurrencies like bitcoin can be purchased directly through trading platforms. Buying shares of public companies that are heavily involved in the crypto industry is another way to invest in crypto.\nIn addition to the industry’s ongoing evolution, shaky history, and uncertain future, other risks of investing in crypto include a lack of federal oversight and FDIC coverage, the possibility of losing coins or wallets, and the prevalence of crypto-related scams.\nChances are, you’ve heard about someone losing or making a lot of money by investing in crypto. Maybe you’ve even tried buying or selling some crypto yourself. But even if you have, you wouldn’t be alone if you said you don’t fully understand it. Only 36% of people who own crypto claim to have a very good understanding of how it works.\nDisclosure\n1\nThe history of crypto investing has been volatile, with different cryptocurrencies experiencing dramatic highs and lows, sometimes at the drop of a hat. So before you decide whether or not to invest in crypto, learn about how it works and what some of the potential risks are.\nWhat is cryptocurrency?\nBitcoin was the world’s first major cryptocurrency—but there are thousands of others, like ethereum, dogecoin, tether, and solana, to name a few. Even though thousands exist, the 20 biggest cryptocurrencies account for nearly 90% of the entire crypto market.\nDisclosure\n2\nWhat makes cryptocurrencies different from government-issued money like the U.S. dollar or Japanese yen is that they’re not physical forms of money and they’re decentralized—meaning that no government or single entity controls them. Most cryptocurrencies are built and tracked through a digital ledger called a blockchain. Part of the intention of the blockchain is to help keep crypto transactions secure and anonymous.\n20 cryptocurrencies\nAccount for nearly 90% of the entire crypto market.\nDisclosure\n2\nOne of the most common ways to invest in crypto is through a crypto trading platform. In this case, it’s a little bit like exchanging your dollars for another form of currency. People who make these trades speculate that the crypto or currency they traded for will increase in value so they can sell at a profit. Sometimes, the opposite happens instead.\nAnother way to invest in crypto is by buying shares of publicly traded companies that are heavily involved in the crypto industry. For example, you can buy shares of a crypto trading platform, crypto “mining” companies, or businesses that are known for investing in cryptocurrencies. Because of how invested these companies are in crypto, their long-term success may be very dependent on the success of the industry itself.\nYou should consider consulting a financial advisor if you’re thinking about investing in either cryptocurrencies or stocks tied to the crypto industry.\nHow crypto gets its value:\nThe value of a cryptocurrency is determined by what people are willing to pay for it. Scarcity is, in part, what drives some investors to see some cryptocurrencies as valuable. Bitcoin, for example, has a quantity limit. Once 21 million bitcoins have been “mined” or created, no new bitcoins will be created after that.\nDisclosure\n3\nSome crypto enthusiasts argue that this could help bitcoin serve as a potential hedge against inflation, similarly to gold.\nCan you spend crypto?\nAn important thing to know if you’re investing in crypto is that it may not be as easy to spend as your regular money. A small number of businesses accept major cryptocurrencies like bitcoin as a form of payment today. But in most cases, you’ll likely need a crypto debit card, which some crypto exchanges offer. This type of card essentially converts the crypto from your connected account into dollars when you swipe it.\nPotential risks of crypto investing\nCrypto investing can be risky—especially if you put too much into it and your investments aren’t diversified. Because of how new and volatile it is, it may be riskier than many other types of investments. Consider consulting a financial advisor before choosing to invest.\nThese are some of the possible drawbacks of crypto investing:\nThe history has been volatile.\nEven the most established crypto, bitcoin, has experienced dramatic highs and lows throughout its short history. If you find yourself investing in crypto at the wrong time before a major swing, it could be stressful and result in significant losses.\nThe future is unpredictable.\nMany people speculate, but nobody knows for sure what the value of bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies will be in 1, 5, 10, or 20 years.\nIt’s not insured.\nWith most banks, your cash deposits up to $250,000 are covered by federal insurance in case the bank fails. Crypto, however, isn’t covered by this same FDIC insurance. So if the crypto trading platform you’re using goes out of business, you could be out of luck.\nYou can lose coins or wallets.\nRather than letting a brokerage or bank hold onto your crypto, you can choose to store your crypto in your own digital wallet. While some industry enthusiasts prefer their sense of security, people have also lost their wallets and coins. It’s estimated that up to 3.8 million bitcoins have been lost by their owners.\nDisclosure\n4\nThe rules of buying and selling crypto could change over time.\nIt’s likely that lawmakers will continue to try to regulate the cryptocurrency industry over time (which could have a long-term impact on their values, but nobody knows for sure).\nYou have to watch out for scams.\nThere are many different types of scams related to crypto that you should be aware of. “Pump and dump” schemes—where people hype up the value of a new cryptocurrency so it spikes in price, but then quickly sell it before the price drops—are a type of scam that have cost many hopeful investors money.\nIts environmental impact is under scrutiny.\nThe act of mining cryptocurrency can require a lot of energy. The bitcoin network, for example, is said to use more energy annually than some entire countries.\nDisclosure\n5\nHowever, the energy efficiency and potential environmental impacts of cryptocurrencies could change if the technology continues to evolve.\nIf the thought of your crypto losing most of its value in mere days—which has happened before\nDisclosure\n6\n—makes you feel uneasy, then crypto investing may not be for you. But there are many other ways to invest with lower risk to achieve your\nfinancial goals\n. Retirement plans like a\n401(k) or IRA\n, for example, may be safer investment vehicles for building long-term wealth.\n“Most people want to invest in crypto because they simply want to make a bunch of money—but that’s a recipe for losing money. You need to actually believe in the future of what you’re investing in.” –Brian Ford, Head of Financial Wellness, Truist\n6 tips if you’re going to invest in crypto\nIf you’re going to try investing in crypto, proceed with caution—and consider these tips.\nBe prepared for big potential price swings.\nThe volatile history of crypto means there can be dramatic highs and lows—sometimes overnight. If you’re OK with the cryptocurrency roller coaster, it could be a way to\ndiversify a part of your overall investment portfolio.\nBut you should never invest more than you could stomach losing.\nStart small—and keep it a small part of your total portfolio.\nStarting small with your investments may help mitigate the risk of investing in crypto. If it’s only a small part of your portfolio, then it may help keep any potential losses lower in case the industry sputters.\nConsider dollar-cost averaging.\nThis is a common investing best practice that means buying regular increments of an asset over time rather than making one large investment at once. It may help you start small and stay in touch with the constantly changing prices of your crypto assets.\nDo your research.\nThis is especially important if you’re considering investing in a new coin or crypto that doesn’t have much of a history. But even if it’s a more established one—like bitcoin or ethereum—ask yourself: “Why this crypto?” Do you understand why people are enthusiastic about it? Do you really believe in its value? Just like when you’re investing in shares of a company, you should understand what you’re investing in and feel good about its future if you’re going to put your money into it.\nHave a plan for how you’ll store it.\nThis could mean setting up your own crypto wallet or relying on a trading platform to hold onto your crypto for you.\nIt shouldn’t be your main financial priority.\nBecause investing in crypto could be risky, make sure your financial well-being is covered first. This means you should have an emergency fund in place, a plan for managing debt, and that you’re investing for retirement.\nThe uncertain future of crypto investing\nSome supporters of cryptocurrency see a cashless future where crypto can act as a global currency without major government interference. But the lack of consistent government oversight could also pose problems. Without more backing and insurance from banks or governments, the currency’s potential and stability could be at risk.\nAlthough there’s a lot of uncertainty about the industry, some investors, especially younger ones, are curious about crypto. One study found 94% of cryptocurrency investors are between 18 and 40 years old\nDisclosure\n7\n—and another found that Gen Z and millennial investors are more likely to own cryptocurrency than a retirement account (even though most financial experts wouldn’t advise this).\nIt’s up to you whether you want to accept the risks of investing in crypto. It could be a way to diversify your portfolio—but be sure that your investment decisions don’t put your financial well-being in peril, since crypto’s longevity is just as unpredictable as its value.\nNext steps\nWork with a financial advisor who can help you determine your risk appetite and keep your\ninvestment strategy\nand financial well-being sound, whether you choose to invest in crypto or stay away from it.\nIf you’re interested in investing in crypto, research different cryptocurrencies and crypto companies to narrow down your investment options.\nIf you decide to invest in crypto, consider starting small and keeping it as a small portion of a well-diversified portfolio that also includes other types of assets. ","attrs_markdown":"[Skip to main content](https:\/\/www.truist.com\/money-mindset\/principles\/investing-in-your-values\/crypto-investing#main)\n\n[![](https:\/\/static.truist.com\/content\/dam\/global-images\/truist-logo-purple.svg) Truist Homepage](https:\/\/www.truist.com\/)\n\nOpen Account\n\n- [Featured accounts](https:\/\/www.truist.com\/open-account)\n- [Banking accounts](https:\/\/www.truist.com\/open-account\/banking-accounts)\n- [Savings accounts](https:\/\/www.truist.com\/open-account\/savings-accounts)\n- [Credit cards](https:\/\/www.truist.com\/open-account\/credit-cards)\n- [Loans](https:\/\/www.truist.com\/open-account\/loans)\n- [Mortgages](https:\/\/www.truist.com\/open-account\/mortgage)\n- [Small Business](https:\/\/www.truist.com\/open-account\/small-business)\n- [Investments](https:\/\/www.truist.com\/open-account\/investments)\n- [Wealth](https:\/\/www.truist.com\/open-account\/wealth)\n\nSign in to Truist online banking and other accounts.\n\nLoading\n\n- [Personal](https:\/\/www.truist.com\/)\n- [Small Business](https:\/\/www.truist.com\/small-business)\n- [Wealth Management](https:\/\/www.truist.com\/wealth)\n- [Commercial, Corporate & Institutional](https:\/\/www.truist.com\/commercial-corporate-institutional)\n\n- [Search](https:\/\/www.truist.com\/search)\n- [Locations](https:\/\/www.truist.com\/locations)\n- [Contact](https:\/\/www.truist.com\/contact)\n- [Español](https:\/\/www.truist.com\/money-mindset\/principles\/investing-in-your-values\/crypto-investing \"Global Switch\")\n- [More](https:\/\/www.truist.com\/money-mindset\/principles\/investing-in-your-values\/crypto-investing)\n  [About Truist](https:\/\/www.truist.com\/who-we-are\/about-truist) [Knowledge and Care](https:\/\/www.truist.com\/unstoppable) [Disaster relief](https:\/\/www.truist.com\/disaster-relief) [Fraud and security](https:\/\/www.truist.com\/fraud-and-security) [Payment relief](https:\/\/www.truist.com\/payment-relief\/personal-loans) [Careers](https:\/\/careers.truist.com\/) [Privacy](https:\/\/www.truist.com\/privacy) [Legal](https:\/\/www.truist.com\/terms-and-conditions)\n\n[![](https:\/\/static.truist.com\/content\/dam\/global-images\/truist-logo-purple.svg) Truist Homepage](https:\/\/www.truist.com\/)\n\n- [Checking & savings](https:\/\/www.truist.com\/money-mindset\/principles\/investing-in-your-values\/crypto-investing)\n  #### Checking\n  - 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Here are some basics to know before you consider investing.\n\nURL Copied\\!\n\n## The highlights\n- Cryptocurrencies have been historically volatile, making them potentially risky as investments.\n- Cryptocurrencies like bitcoin can be purchased directly through trading platforms. Buying shares of public companies that are heavily involved in the crypto industry is another way to invest in crypto.\n- In addition to the industry’s ongoing evolution, shaky history, and uncertain future, other risks of investing in crypto include a lack of federal oversight and FDIC coverage, the possibility of losing coins or wallets, and the prevalence of crypto-related scams.\n\nChances are, you’ve heard about someone losing or making a lot of money by investing in crypto. Maybe you’ve even tried buying or selling some crypto yourself. But even if you have, you wouldn’t be alone if you said you don’t fully understand it. Only 36% of people who own crypto claim to have a very good understanding of how it works.[Disclosure 1](https:\/\/www.truist.com\/money-mindset\/principles\/investing-in-your-values\/crypto-investing#disc1)\n\nThe history of crypto investing has been volatile, with different cryptocurrencies experiencing dramatic highs and lows, sometimes at the drop of a hat. So before you decide whether or not to invest in crypto, learn about how it works and what some of the potential risks are.\n\n## What is cryptocurrency?\nBitcoin was the world’s first major cryptocurrency—but there are thousands of others, like ethereum, dogecoin, tether, and solana, to name a few. Even though thousands exist, the 20 biggest cryptocurrencies account for nearly 90% of the entire crypto market.[Disclosure 2](https:\/\/www.truist.com\/money-mindset\/principles\/investing-in-your-values\/crypto-investing#disc2)\n\nWhat makes cryptocurrencies different from government-issued money like the U.S. dollar or Japanese yen is that they’re not physical forms of money and they’re decentralized—meaning that no government or single entity controls them. Most cryptocurrencies are built and tracked through a digital ledger called a blockchain. Part of the intention of the blockchain is to help keep crypto transactions secure and anonymous.\n\n![](<data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg viewBox='0 0  '%3E%3C\/svg%3E>)\n\n### 20 cryptocurrencies\nAccount for nearly 90% of the entire crypto market.[Disclosure 2](https:\/\/www.truist.com\/money-mindset\/principles\/investing-in-your-values\/crypto-investing#disc2)\n\n## How crypto investing works\nOne of the most common ways to invest in crypto is through a crypto trading platform. In this case, it’s a little bit like exchanging your dollars for another form of currency. People who make these trades speculate that the crypto or currency they traded for will increase in value so they can sell at a profit. Sometimes, the opposite happens instead.\n\nAnother way to invest in crypto is by buying shares of publicly traded companies that are heavily involved in the crypto industry. For example, you can buy shares of a crypto trading platform, crypto “mining” companies, or businesses that are known for investing in cryptocurrencies. Because of how invested these companies are in crypto, their long-term success may be very dependent on the success of the industry itself.\n\nYou should consider consulting a financial advisor if you’re thinking about investing in either cryptocurrencies or stocks tied to the crypto industry.\n\n**How crypto gets its value:** The value of a cryptocurrency is determined by what people are willing to pay for it. Scarcity is, in part, what drives some investors to see some cryptocurrencies as valuable. Bitcoin, for example, has a quantity limit. Once 21 million bitcoins have been “mined” or created, no new bitcoins will be created after that.[Disclosure 3](https:\/\/www.truist.com\/money-mindset\/principles\/investing-in-your-values\/crypto-investing#disc3) Some crypto enthusiasts argue that this could help bitcoin serve as a potential hedge against inflation, similarly to gold.\n\n**Can you spend crypto?** An important thing to know if you’re investing in crypto is that it may not be as easy to spend as your regular money. A small number of businesses accept major cryptocurrencies like bitcoin as a form of payment today. But in most cases, you’ll likely need a crypto debit card, which some crypto exchanges offer. This type of card essentially converts the crypto from your connected account into dollars when you swipe it.\n\n## Potential risks of crypto investing\nCrypto investing can be risky—especially if you put too much into it and your investments aren’t diversified. Because of how new and volatile it is, it may be riskier than many other types of investments. Consider consulting a financial advisor before choosing to invest.\n\nThese are some of the possible drawbacks of crypto investing:\n\n- **The history has been volatile.** Even the most established crypto, bitcoin, has experienced dramatic highs and lows throughout its short history. If you find yourself investing in crypto at the wrong time before a major swing, it could be stressful and result in significant losses.\n- **The future is unpredictable.** Many people speculate, but nobody knows for sure what the value of bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies will be in 1, 5, 10, or 20 years.\n- **It’s not insured.** With most banks, your cash deposits up to \\$250,000 are covered by federal insurance in case the bank fails. Crypto, however, isn’t covered by this same FDIC insurance. So if the crypto trading platform you’re using goes out of business, you could be out of luck.\n- **You can lose coins or wallets.** Rather than letting a brokerage or bank hold onto your crypto, you can choose to store your crypto in your own digital wallet. While some industry enthusiasts prefer their sense of security, people have also lost their wallets and coins. It’s estimated that up to 3.8 million bitcoins have been lost by their owners.[Disclosure 4](https:\/\/www.truist.com\/money-mindset\/principles\/investing-in-your-values\/crypto-investing#disc4)\n- **The rules of buying and selling crypto could change over time.** It’s likely that lawmakers will continue to try to regulate the cryptocurrency industry over time (which could have a long-term impact on their values, but nobody knows for sure).\n- **You have to watch out for scams.** There are many different types of scams related to crypto that you should be aware of. “Pump and dump” schemes—where people hype up the value of a new cryptocurrency so it spikes in price, but then quickly sell it before the price drops—are a type of scam that have cost many hopeful investors money.\n- **Its environmental impact is under scrutiny.** The act of mining cryptocurrency can require a lot of energy. The bitcoin network, for example, is said to use more energy annually than some entire countries.[Disclosure 5](https:\/\/www.truist.com\/money-mindset\/principles\/investing-in-your-values\/crypto-investing#disc5) However, the energy efficiency and potential environmental impacts of cryptocurrencies could change if the technology continues to evolve.\n\nIf the thought of your crypto losing most of its value in mere days—which has happened before[Disclosure 6](https:\/\/www.truist.com\/money-mindset\/principles\/investing-in-your-values\/crypto-investing#disc6) —makes you feel uneasy, then crypto investing may not be for you. But there are many other ways to invest with lower risk to achieve your [financial goals](https:\/\/www.truist.com\/money-mindset\/principles\/mind-money-connection\/financial-goals-check-in). Retirement plans like a [401(k) or IRA](https:\/\/www.truist.com\/money-mindset\/principles\/investing-in-your-values\/investing-for-beginners), for example, may be safer investment vehicles for building long-term wealth.\n\n> “Most people want to invest in crypto because they simply want to make a bunch of money—but that’s a recipe for losing money. You need to actually believe in the future of what you’re investing in.” –Brian Ford, Head of Financial Wellness, Truist\n\n## 6 tips if you’re going to invest in crypto\nIf you’re going to try investing in crypto, proceed with caution—and consider these tips.\n\n1. **Be prepared for big potential price swings.** The volatile history of crypto means there can be dramatic highs and lows—sometimes overnight. If you’re OK with the cryptocurrency roller coaster, it could be a way to [diversify a part of your overall investment portfolio.](https:\/\/www.truist.com\/money-mindset\/podcast\/rebalancing-more-than-just-your-portfolio) But you should never invest more than you could stomach losing.\n2. **Start small—and keep it a small part of your total portfolio.** Starting small with your investments may help mitigate the risk of investing in crypto. If it’s only a small part of your portfolio, then it may help keep any potential losses lower in case the industry sputters.\n3. **Consider dollar-cost averaging.** This is a common investing best practice that means buying regular increments of an asset over time rather than making one large investment at once. It may help you start small and stay in touch with the constantly changing prices of your crypto assets.\n4. **Do your research.** This is especially important if you’re considering investing in a new coin or crypto that doesn’t have much of a history. But even if it’s a more established one—like bitcoin or ethereum—ask yourself: “Why this crypto?” Do you understand why people are enthusiastic about it? Do you really believe in its value? Just like when you’re investing in shares of a company, you should understand what you’re investing in and feel good about its future if you’re going to put your money into it.\n5. **Have a plan for how you’ll store it.** This could mean setting up your own crypto wallet or relying on a trading platform to hold onto your crypto for you.\n6. **It shouldn’t be your main financial priority.** Because investing in crypto could be risky, make sure your financial well-being is covered first. This means you should have an emergency fund in place, a plan for managing debt, and that you’re investing for retirement.\n\n## The uncertain future of crypto investing\nSome supporters of cryptocurrency see a cashless future where crypto can act as a global currency without major government interference. But the lack of consistent government oversight could also pose problems. Without more backing and insurance from banks or governments, the currency’s potential and stability could be at risk.\n\nAlthough there’s a lot of uncertainty about the industry, some investors, especially younger ones, are curious about crypto. One study found 94% of cryptocurrency investors are between 18 and 40 years old[Disclosure 7](https:\/\/www.truist.com\/money-mindset\/principles\/investing-in-your-values\/crypto-investing#disc7) —and another found that Gen Z and millennial investors are more likely to own cryptocurrency than a retirement account (even though most financial experts wouldn’t advise this).\n\nIt’s up to you whether you want to accept the risks of investing in crypto. It could be a way to diversify your portfolio—but be sure that your investment decisions don’t put your financial well-being in peril, since crypto’s longevity is just as unpredictable as its value.\n\n### Next steps\n- Work with a financial advisor who can help you determine your risk appetite and keep your [investment strategy](https:\/\/www.truist.com\/money-mindset\/principles\/investing-in-your-values\/investing-for-beginners) and financial well-being sound, whether you choose to invest in crypto or stay away from it.\n- If you’re interested in investing in crypto, research different cryptocurrencies and crypto companies to narrow down your investment options.\n- If you decide to invest in crypto, consider starting small and keeping it as a small portion of a well-diversified portfolio that also includes other types of assets.\n\n## Related resources\nNo card error message\n\n[Investing in your values 5 common investing mistakes (and how to avoid them) Discover strategies for becoming a savvy and confident investor, even during turbulent times. Article 01\/14\/2025](https:\/\/www.truist.com\/money-mindset\/principles\/investing-in-your-values\/investing-mistakes)\n\n[Investing in your values Investing for beginners: Key terms you should know Grow your confidence by understanding key investing terms, concepts, and acronyms. Article 06\/01\/2025](https:\/\/www.truist.com\/money-mindset\/principles\/investing-in-your-values\/investing-for-beginners)\n\n## Take control of your finances.\n[Return to Money and Mindset](https:\/\/www.truist.com\/money-mindset\/principles)\n\nComponent ID : \"accordionGridLayout-1624256768\"  \n Model : \"disclaimer\"  \n Position : \"left\"\n\nDisclosures\n\nThis content does not constitute legal, tax, accounting, financial, investment, or mental health advice. You are encouraged to consult with competent legal, tax, accounting, financial, investment, or mental health professionals based on your specific circumstances. We do not make any warranties as to accuracy or completeness of this information, do not endorse any third-party companies, products, or services described here, and take no liability for your use of this information.\n\nDisclosure 1 “[2025 Cryptocurrency Investor Trends Survey](https:\/\/www.truist.com\/speedbump\/truist-speedbump?url=https:\/\/www.fool.com\/money\/research\/study-americans-cryptocurrency\/),” Motley Fool Money, January 23, 2025.\n\nDisclosure 2 “[Number of cryptocurrencies worldwide from 2013 to March 2025](https:\/\/www.truist.com\/speedbump\/truist-speedbump?url=https:\/\/www.statista.com\/statistics\/863917\/number-crypto-coins-tokens\/),” Statista, March 21, 2025.\n\nDisclosure 3 “[What Happens to Bitcoin After All 21 Million Are Mined?](https:\/\/www.truist.com\/speedbump\/truist-speedbump?url=https:\/\/www.investopedia.com\/tech\/what-happens-bitcoin-after-21-million-mined\/),” Investopedia, December 22, 2024.\n\nDisclosure 4 “[Are your lost bitcoins gone forever? Here’s how you might be able to recover them](https:\/\/www.truist.com\/speedbump\/truist-speedbump?url=https:\/\/www.bankrate.com\/investing\/how-to-recover-lost-bitcoins-and-other-crypto\/),” Bankrate, October 10, 2024.\n\nDisclosure 5 “[What’s the Environmental Impact of Cryptocurrency?](https:\/\/www.truist.com\/speedbump\/truist-speedbump?url=https:\/\/www.investopedia.com\/tech\/whats-environmental-impact-cryptocurrency\/)” Investopedia, August 24, 2024.\n\nDisclosure 6 “[Bitcoin’s price history: From its 2009 launch to its 2025 heights](https:\/\/www.bankrate.com\/investing\/bitcoin-price-history\/),” Bankrate, April 29, 2025.\n\nDisclosure 7 ”[Study: 94% of Crypto Buyers are Gen Z\/Millennial, but Gen X is Outspending Them](https:\/\/www.truist.com\/speedbump\/truist-speedbump?url=https:\/\/www.stilt.com\/blog\/2021\/03\/vast-majority-crypto-buyers-millennials-gen-z\/),” Stilt, April 10, 2024.\n\n## Disclosures\nTruist Bank, Member FDIC. © 2026 Truist Financial Corporation. Truist, the Truist logo, Truist Purple, Truist One, Truist Marquee, LightStream, and the LightStream logo are service marks of Truist Financial Corporation.\n\nEqual Housing Lender![](https:\/\/static.truist.com\/content\/dam\/global-images\/equal-housing-opportunity.webp)\n\n### Investment and Insurance Products:\n- Are Not FDIC or any other Government Agency Insured\n- Are Not Bank Guaranteed\n- May Lose Value\n\nTRUIST is a service mark of Truist Financial Corporation (Truist) and its affiliates.\n\nServices provided by Truist Financial Corporation (Truist) affiliates: Banking products and services, including loans and deposit accounts, provided by Truist Bank, Member FDIC. Trust and investment management services provided by Truist Bank. Securities, brokerage accounts and\/or annuities offered by Truist Investment Services, Inc., an SEC registered broker-dealer, and member FINRA and SIPC, and a licensed insurance agency. Investment advisory services offered by Truist Advisory Services, Inc. and GFO Advisory Services, LLC, SEC registered investment advisers. Some insurance products offered by Truist Investment Services, Inc. Other insurance products offered by Marsh & McLennan Agency, LLC (as successor in interest to McGriff Insurance Services, LLC) CA License \\#0H18131, Kensington Vanguard National Land Services, and Crump Life Insurance Services. Truist Life Insurance Services (TLIS) is a division of Crump, Arkansas License \\#100103477. Variable insurance material is for broker-dealer or registered representative use only. Variable products distributed by P.J. Robb Variable, LLC, Arkansas License \\#100110185. Member [FINRA](https:\/\/www.truist.com\/speedbump\/truist-speedbump?url=https:\/\/www.finra.org).\n\nMarsh & McLennan Agency LLC, Kensington Vanguard National Land Services, Crump Life Insurance Services, Truist Life Insurance Services, and P.J. 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[Search the NMLS Registry](https:\/\/www.truist.com\/speedbump\/truist-speedbump?url=https:\/\/www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org\/).\n\nComments regarding tax implications are informational only. Truist and its representatives do not provide tax or legal advice. You should consult your individual tax or legal professional before taking any action that may have tax or legal consequences.\n\n\"Truist Advisors\" may be officers and\/or associated persons of the following affiliates of Truist, Truist Investment Services, Inc., and\/or Truist Advisory Services, Inc. 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All Rights Reserved.","attrs_readable_markdown":"What to know before investing in crypto\n\n**Money and Mindset \\| June 2025**\n\nAs an investment option, cryptocurrency has been around for years—but it’s not necessarily easy to understand. Here are some basics to know before you consider investing.\n\n## The highlights\n- Cryptocurrencies have been historically volatile, making them potentially risky as investments.\n- Cryptocurrencies like bitcoin can be purchased directly through trading platforms. Buying shares of public companies that are heavily involved in the crypto industry is another way to invest in crypto.\n- In addition to the industry’s ongoing evolution, shaky history, and uncertain future, other risks of investing in crypto include a lack of federal oversight and FDIC coverage, the possibility of losing coins or wallets, and the prevalence of crypto-related scams.\n\nChances are, you’ve heard about someone losing or making a lot of money by investing in crypto. Maybe you’ve even tried buying or selling some crypto yourself. But even if you have, you wouldn’t be alone if you said you don’t fully understand it. Only 36% of people who own crypto claim to have a very good understanding of how it works.[Disclosure 1](https:\/\/www.truist.com\/money-mindset\/principles\/investing-in-your-values\/crypto-investing#disc1)\n\nThe history of crypto investing has been volatile, with different cryptocurrencies experiencing dramatic highs and lows, sometimes at the drop of a hat. So before you decide whether or not to invest in crypto, learn about how it works and what some of the potential risks are.\n\nWhat is cryptocurrency?\n\nBitcoin was the world’s first major cryptocurrency—but there are thousands of others, like ethereum, dogecoin, tether, and solana, to name a few. Even though thousands exist, the 20 biggest cryptocurrencies account for nearly 90% of the entire crypto market.[Disclosure 2](https:\/\/www.truist.com\/money-mindset\/principles\/investing-in-your-values\/crypto-investing#disc2)\n\nWhat makes cryptocurrencies different from government-issued money like the U.S. dollar or Japanese yen is that they’re not physical forms of money and they’re decentralized—meaning that no government or single entity controls them. Most cryptocurrencies are built and tracked through a digital ledger called a blockchain. Part of the intention of the blockchain is to help keep crypto transactions secure and anonymous.\n\n![](<data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg viewBox='0 0  '%3E%3C\/svg%3E>)\n\n20 cryptocurrencies\n\nAccount for nearly 90% of the entire crypto market.[Disclosure 2](https:\/\/www.truist.com\/money-mindset\/principles\/investing-in-your-values\/crypto-investing#disc2)\n\nOne of the most common ways to invest in crypto is through a crypto trading platform. In this case, it’s a little bit like exchanging your dollars for another form of currency. People who make these trades speculate that the crypto or currency they traded for will increase in value so they can sell at a profit. Sometimes, the opposite happens instead.\n\nAnother way to invest in crypto is by buying shares of publicly traded companies that are heavily involved in the crypto industry. For example, you can buy shares of a crypto trading platform, crypto “mining” companies, or businesses that are known for investing in cryptocurrencies. Because of how invested these companies are in crypto, their long-term success may be very dependent on the success of the industry itself.\n\nYou should consider consulting a financial advisor if you’re thinking about investing in either cryptocurrencies or stocks tied to the crypto industry.\n\n**How crypto gets its value:** The value of a cryptocurrency is determined by what people are willing to pay for it. Scarcity is, in part, what drives some investors to see some cryptocurrencies as valuable. Bitcoin, for example, has a quantity limit. Once 21 million bitcoins have been “mined” or created, no new bitcoins will be created after that.[Disclosure 3](https:\/\/www.truist.com\/money-mindset\/principles\/investing-in-your-values\/crypto-investing#disc3) Some crypto enthusiasts argue that this could help bitcoin serve as a potential hedge against inflation, similarly to gold.\n\n**Can you spend crypto?** An important thing to know if you’re investing in crypto is that it may not be as easy to spend as your regular money. A small number of businesses accept major cryptocurrencies like bitcoin as a form of payment today. But in most cases, you’ll likely need a crypto debit card, which some crypto exchanges offer. This type of card essentially converts the crypto from your connected account into dollars when you swipe it.\n\n## Potential risks of crypto investing\nCrypto investing can be risky—especially if you put too much into it and your investments aren’t diversified. Because of how new and volatile it is, it may be riskier than many other types of investments. Consider consulting a financial advisor before choosing to invest.\n\nThese are some of the possible drawbacks of crypto investing:\n\n- **The history has been volatile.** Even the most established crypto, bitcoin, has experienced dramatic highs and lows throughout its short history. If you find yourself investing in crypto at the wrong time before a major swing, it could be stressful and result in significant losses.\n- **The future is unpredictable.** Many people speculate, but nobody knows for sure what the value of bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies will be in 1, 5, 10, or 20 years.\n- **It’s not insured.** With most banks, your cash deposits up to \\$250,000 are covered by federal insurance in case the bank fails. Crypto, however, isn’t covered by this same FDIC insurance. So if the crypto trading platform you’re using goes out of business, you could be out of luck.\n- **You can lose coins or wallets.** Rather than letting a brokerage or bank hold onto your crypto, you can choose to store your crypto in your own digital wallet. While some industry enthusiasts prefer their sense of security, people have also lost their wallets and coins. It’s estimated that up to 3.8 million bitcoins have been lost by their owners.[Disclosure 4](https:\/\/www.truist.com\/money-mindset\/principles\/investing-in-your-values\/crypto-investing#disc4)\n- **The rules of buying and selling crypto could change over time.** It’s likely that lawmakers will continue to try to regulate the cryptocurrency industry over time (which could have a long-term impact on their values, but nobody knows for sure).\n- **You have to watch out for scams.** There are many different types of scams related to crypto that you should be aware of. “Pump and dump” schemes—where people hype up the value of a new cryptocurrency so it spikes in price, but then quickly sell it before the price drops—are a type of scam that have cost many hopeful investors money.\n- **Its environmental impact is under scrutiny.** The act of mining cryptocurrency can require a lot of energy. The bitcoin network, for example, is said to use more energy annually than some entire countries.[Disclosure 5](https:\/\/www.truist.com\/money-mindset\/principles\/investing-in-your-values\/crypto-investing#disc5) However, the energy efficiency and potential environmental impacts of cryptocurrencies could change if the technology continues to evolve.\n\nIf the thought of your crypto losing most of its value in mere days—which has happened before[Disclosure 6](https:\/\/www.truist.com\/money-mindset\/principles\/investing-in-your-values\/crypto-investing#disc6) —makes you feel uneasy, then crypto investing may not be for you. But there are many other ways to invest with lower risk to achieve your [financial goals](https:\/\/www.truist.com\/money-mindset\/principles\/mind-money-connection\/financial-goals-check-in). Retirement plans like a [401(k) or IRA](https:\/\/www.truist.com\/money-mindset\/principles\/investing-in-your-values\/investing-for-beginners), for example, may be safer investment vehicles for building long-term wealth.\n\n> “Most people want to invest in crypto because they simply want to make a bunch of money—but that’s a recipe for losing money. You need to actually believe in the future of what you’re investing in.” –Brian Ford, Head of Financial Wellness, Truist\n\n## 6 tips if you’re going to invest in crypto\nIf you’re going to try investing in crypto, proceed with caution—and consider these tips.\n\n1. **Be prepared for big potential price swings.** The volatile history of crypto means there can be dramatic highs and lows—sometimes overnight. If you’re OK with the cryptocurrency roller coaster, it could be a way to [diversify a part of your overall investment portfolio.](https:\/\/www.truist.com\/money-mindset\/podcast\/rebalancing-more-than-just-your-portfolio) But you should never invest more than you could stomach losing.\n2. **Start small—and keep it a small part of your total portfolio.** Starting small with your investments may help mitigate the risk of investing in crypto. If it’s only a small part of your portfolio, then it may help keep any potential losses lower in case the industry sputters.\n3. **Consider dollar-cost averaging.** This is a common investing best practice that means buying regular increments of an asset over time rather than making one large investment at once. It may help you start small and stay in touch with the constantly changing prices of your crypto assets.\n4. **Do your research.** This is especially important if you’re considering investing in a new coin or crypto that doesn’t have much of a history. But even if it’s a more established one—like bitcoin or ethereum—ask yourself: “Why this crypto?” Do you understand why people are enthusiastic about it? Do you really believe in its value? Just like when you’re investing in shares of a company, you should understand what you’re investing in and feel good about its future if you’re going to put your money into it.\n5. **Have a plan for how you’ll store it.** This could mean setting up your own crypto wallet or relying on a trading platform to hold onto your crypto for you.\n6. **It shouldn’t be your main financial priority.** Because investing in crypto could be risky, make sure your financial well-being is covered first. This means you should have an emergency fund in place, a plan for managing debt, and that you’re investing for retirement.\n\n## The uncertain future of crypto investing\nSome supporters of cryptocurrency see a cashless future where crypto can act as a global currency without major government interference. But the lack of consistent government oversight could also pose problems. Without more backing and insurance from banks or governments, the currency’s potential and stability could be at risk.\n\nAlthough there’s a lot of uncertainty about the industry, some investors, especially younger ones, are curious about crypto. One study found 94% of cryptocurrency investors are between 18 and 40 years old[Disclosure 7](https:\/\/www.truist.com\/money-mindset\/principles\/investing-in-your-values\/crypto-investing#disc7) —and another found that Gen Z and millennial investors are more likely to own cryptocurrency than a retirement account (even though most financial experts wouldn’t advise this).\n\nIt’s up to you whether you want to accept the risks of investing in crypto. It could be a way to diversify your portfolio—but be sure that your investment decisions don’t put your financial well-being in peril, since crypto’s longevity is just as unpredictable as its value.\n\n### Next steps\n- Work with a financial advisor who can help you determine your risk appetite and keep your [investment strategy](https:\/\/www.truist.com\/money-mindset\/principles\/investing-in-your-values\/investing-for-beginners) and financial well-being sound, whether you choose to invest in crypto or stay away from it.\n- If you’re interested in investing in crypto, research different cryptocurrencies and crypto companies to narrow down your investment options.\n- If you decide to invest in crypto, consider starting small and keeping it as a small portion of a well-diversified portfolio that also includes other types of assets.","meta_canonical":null}

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Boilerpipe Text	What to know before investing in crypto Money and Mindset \| June 2025 As an investment option, cryptocurrency has been around for years—but it’s not necessarily easy to understand. Here are some basics to know before you consider investing. The highlights Cryptocurrencies have been historically volatile, making them potentially risky as investments. Cryptocurrencies like bitcoin can be purchased directly through trading platforms. Buying shares of public companies that are heavily involved in the crypto industry is another way to invest in crypto. In addition to the industry’s ongoing evolution, shaky history, and uncertain future, other risks of investing in crypto include a lack of federal oversight and FDIC coverage, the possibility of losing coins or wallets, and the prevalence of crypto-related scams. Chances are, you’ve heard about someone losing or making a lot of money by investing in crypto. Maybe you’ve even tried buying or selling some crypto yourself. But even if you have, you wouldn’t be alone if you said you don’t fully understand it. Only 36% of people who own crypto claim to have a very good understanding of how it works. Disclosure 1 The history of crypto investing has been volatile, with different cryptocurrencies experiencing dramatic highs and lows, sometimes at the drop of a hat. So before you decide whether or not to invest in crypto, learn about how it works and what some of the potential risks are. What is cryptocurrency? Bitcoin was the world’s first major cryptocurrency—but there are thousands of others, like ethereum, dogecoin, tether, and solana, to name a few. Even though thousands exist, the 20 biggest cryptocurrencies account for nearly 90% of the entire crypto market. Disclosure 2 What makes cryptocurrencies different from government-issued money like the U.S. dollar or Japanese yen is that they’re not physical forms of money and they’re decentralized—meaning that no government or single entity controls them. Most cryptocurrencies are built and tracked through a digital ledger called a blockchain. Part of the intention of the blockchain is to help keep crypto transactions secure and anonymous. 20 cryptocurrencies Account for nearly 90% of the entire crypto market. Disclosure 2 One of the most common ways to invest in crypto is through a crypto trading platform. In this case, it’s a little bit like exchanging your dollars for another form of currency. People who make these trades speculate that the crypto or currency they traded for will increase in value so they can sell at a profit. Sometimes, the opposite happens instead. Another way to invest in crypto is by buying shares of publicly traded companies that are heavily involved in the crypto industry. For example, you can buy shares of a crypto trading platform, crypto “mining” companies, or businesses that are known for investing in cryptocurrencies. Because of how invested these companies are in crypto, their long-term success may be very dependent on the success of the industry itself. You should consider consulting a financial advisor if you’re thinking about investing in either cryptocurrencies or stocks tied to the crypto industry. How crypto gets its value: The value of a cryptocurrency is determined by what people are willing to pay for it. Scarcity is, in part, what drives some investors to see some cryptocurrencies as valuable. Bitcoin, for example, has a quantity limit. Once 21 million bitcoins have been “mined” or created, no new bitcoins will be created after that. Disclosure 3 Some crypto enthusiasts argue that this could help bitcoin serve as a potential hedge against inflation, similarly to gold. Can you spend crypto? An important thing to know if you’re investing in crypto is that it may not be as easy to spend as your regular money. A small number of businesses accept major cryptocurrencies like bitcoin as a form of payment today. But in most cases, you’ll likely need a crypto debit card, which some crypto exchanges offer. This type of card essentially converts the crypto from your connected account into dollars when you swipe it. Potential risks of crypto investing Crypto investing can be risky—especially if you put too much into it and your investments aren’t diversified. Because of how new and volatile it is, it may be riskier than many other types of investments. Consider consulting a financial advisor before choosing to invest. These are some of the possible drawbacks of crypto investing: The history has been volatile. Even the most established crypto, bitcoin, has experienced dramatic highs and lows throughout its short history. If you find yourself investing in crypto at the wrong time before a major swing, it could be stressful and result in significant losses. The future is unpredictable. Many people speculate, but nobody knows for sure what the value of bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies will be in 1, 5, 10, or 20 years. It’s not insured. With most banks, your cash deposits up to $250,000 are covered by federal insurance in case the bank fails. Crypto, however, isn’t covered by this same FDIC insurance. So if the crypto trading platform you’re using goes out of business, you could be out of luck. You can lose coins or wallets. Rather than letting a brokerage or bank hold onto your crypto, you can choose to store your crypto in your own digital wallet. While some industry enthusiasts prefer their sense of security, people have also lost their wallets and coins. It’s estimated that up to 3.8 million bitcoins have been lost by their owners. Disclosure 4 The rules of buying and selling crypto could change over time. It’s likely that lawmakers will continue to try to regulate the cryptocurrency industry over time (which could have a long-term impact on their values, but nobody knows for sure). You have to watch out for scams. There are many different types of scams related to crypto that you should be aware of. “Pump and dump” schemes—where people hype up the value of a new cryptocurrency so it spikes in price, but then quickly sell it before the price drops—are a type of scam that have cost many hopeful investors money. Its environmental impact is under scrutiny. The act of mining cryptocurrency can require a lot of energy. The bitcoin network, for example, is said to use more energy annually than some entire countries. Disclosure 5 However, the energy efficiency and potential environmental impacts of cryptocurrencies could change if the technology continues to evolve. If the thought of your crypto losing most of its value in mere days—which has happened before Disclosure 6 —makes you feel uneasy, then crypto investing may not be for you. But there are many other ways to invest with lower risk to achieve your financial goals . Retirement plans like a 401(k) or IRA , for example, may be safer investment vehicles for building long-term wealth. “Most people want to invest in crypto because they simply want to make a bunch of money—but that’s a recipe for losing money. You need to actually believe in the future of what you’re investing in.” –Brian Ford, Head of Financial Wellness, Truist 6 tips if you’re going to invest in crypto If you’re going to try investing in crypto, proceed with caution—and consider these tips. Be prepared for big potential price swings. The volatile history of crypto means there can be dramatic highs and lows—sometimes overnight. If you’re OK with the cryptocurrency roller coaster, it could be a way to diversify a part of your overall investment portfolio. But you should never invest more than you could stomach losing. Start small—and keep it a small part of your total portfolio. Starting small with your investments may help mitigate the risk of investing in crypto. If it’s only a small part of your portfolio, then it may help keep any potential losses lower in case the industry sputters. Consider dollar-cost averaging. This is a common investing best practice that means buying regular increments of an asset over time rather than making one large investment at once. It may help you start small and stay in touch with the constantly changing prices of your crypto assets. Do your research. This is especially important if you’re considering investing in a new coin or crypto that doesn’t have much of a history. But even if it’s a more established one—like bitcoin or ethereum—ask yourself: “Why this crypto?” Do you understand why people are enthusiastic about it? Do you really believe in its value? Just like when you’re investing in shares of a company, you should understand what you’re investing in and feel good about its future if you’re going to put your money into it. Have a plan for how you’ll store it. This could mean setting up your own crypto wallet or relying on a trading platform to hold onto your crypto for you. It shouldn’t be your main financial priority. Because investing in crypto could be risky, make sure your financial well-being is covered first. This means you should have an emergency fund in place, a plan for managing debt, and that you’re investing for retirement. The uncertain future of crypto investing Some supporters of cryptocurrency see a cashless future where crypto can act as a global currency without major government interference. But the lack of consistent government oversight could also pose problems. Without more backing and insurance from banks or governments, the currency’s potential and stability could be at risk. Although there’s a lot of uncertainty about the industry, some investors, especially younger ones, are curious about crypto. One study found 94% of cryptocurrency investors are between 18 and 40 years old Disclosure 7 —and another found that Gen Z and millennial investors are more likely to own cryptocurrency than a retirement account (even though most financial experts wouldn’t advise this). It’s up to you whether you want to accept the risks of investing in crypto. It could be a way to diversify your portfolio—but be sure that your investment decisions don’t put your financial well-being in peril, since crypto’s longevity is just as unpredictable as its value. Next steps Work with a financial advisor who can help you determine your risk appetite and keep your investment strategy and financial well-being sound, whether you choose to invest in crypto or stay away from it. If you’re interested in investing in crypto, research different cryptocurrencies and crypto companies to narrow down your investment options. If you decide to invest in crypto, consider starting small and keeping it as a small portion of a well-diversified portfolio that also includes other types of assets.
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Here are some basics to know before you consider investing. URL Copied\! ## The highlights - Cryptocurrencies have been historically volatile, making them potentially risky as investments. - Cryptocurrencies like bitcoin can be purchased directly through trading platforms. Buying shares of public companies that are heavily involved in the crypto industry is another way to invest in crypto. - In addition to the industry’s ongoing evolution, shaky history, and uncertain future, other risks of investing in crypto include a lack of federal oversight and FDIC coverage, the possibility of losing coins or wallets, and the prevalence of crypto-related scams. Chances are, you’ve heard about someone losing or making a lot of money by investing in crypto. Maybe you’ve even tried buying or selling some crypto yourself. But even if you have, you wouldn’t be alone if you said you don’t fully understand it. Only 36% of people who own crypto claim to have a very good understanding of how it works.[Disclosure 1](https://www.truist.com/money-mindset/principles/investing-in-your-values/crypto-investing#disc1) The history of crypto investing has been volatile, with different cryptocurrencies experiencing dramatic highs and lows, sometimes at the drop of a hat. So before you decide whether or not to invest in crypto, learn about how it works and what some of the potential risks are. ## What is cryptocurrency? Bitcoin was the world’s first major cryptocurrency—but there are thousands of others, like ethereum, dogecoin, tether, and solana, to name a few. Even though thousands exist, the 20 biggest cryptocurrencies account for nearly 90% of the entire crypto market.[Disclosure 2](https://www.truist.com/money-mindset/principles/investing-in-your-values/crypto-investing#disc2) What makes cryptocurrencies different from government-issued money like the U.S. dollar or Japanese yen is that they’re not physical forms of money and they’re decentralized—meaning that no government or single entity controls them. Most cryptocurrencies are built and tracked through a digital ledger called a blockchain. Part of the intention of the blockchain is to help keep crypto transactions secure and anonymous. ![](<data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg viewBox='0 0 '%3E%3C/svg%3E>) ### 20 cryptocurrencies Account for nearly 90% of the entire crypto market.[Disclosure 2](https://www.truist.com/money-mindset/principles/investing-in-your-values/crypto-investing#disc2) ## How crypto investing works One of the most common ways to invest in crypto is through a crypto trading platform. In this case, it’s a little bit like exchanging your dollars for another form of currency. People who make these trades speculate that the crypto or currency they traded for will increase in value so they can sell at a profit. Sometimes, the opposite happens instead. Another way to invest in crypto is by buying shares of publicly traded companies that are heavily involved in the crypto industry. For example, you can buy shares of a crypto trading platform, crypto “mining” companies, or businesses that are known for investing in cryptocurrencies. Because of how invested these companies are in crypto, their long-term success may be very dependent on the success of the industry itself. You should consider consulting a financial advisor if you’re thinking about investing in either cryptocurrencies or stocks tied to the crypto industry. How crypto gets its value: The value of a cryptocurrency is determined by what people are willing to pay for it. Scarcity is, in part, what drives some investors to see some cryptocurrencies as valuable. Bitcoin, for example, has a quantity limit. Once 21 million bitcoins have been “mined” or created, no new bitcoins will be created after that.[Disclosure 3](https://www.truist.com/money-mindset/principles/investing-in-your-values/crypto-investing#disc3) Some crypto enthusiasts argue that this could help bitcoin serve as a potential hedge against inflation, similarly to gold. Can you spend crypto? An important thing to know if you’re investing in crypto is that it may not be as easy to spend as your regular money. A small number of businesses accept major cryptocurrencies like bitcoin as a form of payment today. But in most cases, you’ll likely need a crypto debit card, which some crypto exchanges offer. This type of card essentially converts the crypto from your connected account into dollars when you swipe it. ## Potential risks of crypto investing Crypto investing can be risky—especially if you put too much into it and your investments aren’t diversified. Because of how new and volatile it is, it may be riskier than many other types of investments. Consider consulting a financial advisor before choosing to invest. These are some of the possible drawbacks of crypto investing: - The history has been volatile. Even the most established crypto, bitcoin, has experienced dramatic highs and lows throughout its short history. If you find yourself investing in crypto at the wrong time before a major swing, it could be stressful and result in significant losses. - The future is unpredictable. Many people speculate, but nobody knows for sure what the value of bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies will be in 1, 5, 10, or 20 years. - It’s not insured. With most banks, your cash deposits up to \$250,000 are covered by federal insurance in case the bank fails. Crypto, however, isn’t covered by this same FDIC insurance. So if the crypto trading platform you’re using goes out of business, you could be out of luck. - You can lose coins or wallets. Rather than letting a brokerage or bank hold onto your crypto, you can choose to store your crypto in your own digital wallet. While some industry enthusiasts prefer their sense of security, people have also lost their wallets and coins. It’s estimated that up to 3.8 million bitcoins have been lost by their owners.[Disclosure 4](https://www.truist.com/money-mindset/principles/investing-in-your-values/crypto-investing#disc4) - The rules of buying and selling crypto could change over time. It’s likely that lawmakers will continue to try to regulate the cryptocurrency industry over time (which could have a long-term impact on their values, but nobody knows for sure). - You have to watch out for scams. There are many different types of scams related to crypto that you should be aware of. “Pump and dump” schemes—where people hype up the value of a new cryptocurrency so it spikes in price, but then quickly sell it before the price drops—are a type of scam that have cost many hopeful investors money. - Its environmental impact is under scrutiny. The act of mining cryptocurrency can require a lot of energy. The bitcoin network, for example, is said to use more energy annually than some entire countries.[Disclosure 5](https://www.truist.com/money-mindset/principles/investing-in-your-values/crypto-investing#disc5) However, the energy efficiency and potential environmental impacts of cryptocurrencies could change if the technology continues to evolve. If the thought of your crypto losing most of its value in mere days—which has happened before[Disclosure 6](https://www.truist.com/money-mindset/principles/investing-in-your-values/crypto-investing#disc6) —makes you feel uneasy, then crypto investing may not be for you. But there are many other ways to invest with lower risk to achieve your [financial goals](https://www.truist.com/money-mindset/principles/mind-money-connection/financial-goals-check-in). Retirement plans like a [401(k) or IRA](https://www.truist.com/money-mindset/principles/investing-in-your-values/investing-for-beginners), for example, may be safer investment vehicles for building long-term wealth. > “Most people want to invest in crypto because they simply want to make a bunch of money—but that’s a recipe for losing money. You need to actually believe in the future of what you’re investing in.” –Brian Ford, Head of Financial Wellness, Truist ## 6 tips if you’re going to invest in crypto If you’re going to try investing in crypto, proceed with caution—and consider these tips. 1. Be prepared for big potential price swings. The volatile history of crypto means there can be dramatic highs and lows—sometimes overnight. If you’re OK with the cryptocurrency roller coaster, it could be a way to [diversify a part of your overall investment portfolio.](https://www.truist.com/money-mindset/podcast/rebalancing-more-than-just-your-portfolio) But you should never invest more than you could stomach losing. 2. Start small—and keep it a small part of your total portfolio. Starting small with your investments may help mitigate the risk of investing in crypto. If it’s only a small part of your portfolio, then it may help keep any potential losses lower in case the industry sputters. 3. Consider dollar-cost averaging. This is a common investing best practice that means buying regular increments of an asset over time rather than making one large investment at once. It may help you start small and stay in touch with the constantly changing prices of your crypto assets. 4. Do your research. This is especially important if you’re considering investing in a new coin or crypto that doesn’t have much of a history. But even if it’s a more established one—like bitcoin or ethereum—ask yourself: “Why this crypto?” Do you understand why people are enthusiastic about it? Do you really believe in its value? Just like when you’re investing in shares of a company, you should understand what you’re investing in and feel good about its future if you’re going to put your money into it. 5. Have a plan for how you’ll store it. This could mean setting up your own crypto wallet or relying on a trading platform to hold onto your crypto for you. 6. It shouldn’t be your main financial priority. Because investing in crypto could be risky, make sure your financial well-being is covered first. This means you should have an emergency fund in place, a plan for managing debt, and that you’re investing for retirement. ## The uncertain future of crypto investing Some supporters of cryptocurrency see a cashless future where crypto can act as a global currency without major government interference. But the lack of consistent government oversight could also pose problems. Without more backing and insurance from banks or governments, the currency’s potential and stability could be at risk. Although there’s a lot of uncertainty about the industry, some investors, especially younger ones, are curious about crypto. One study found 94% of cryptocurrency investors are between 18 and 40 years old[Disclosure 7](https://www.truist.com/money-mindset/principles/investing-in-your-values/crypto-investing#disc7) —and another found that Gen Z and millennial investors are more likely to own cryptocurrency than a retirement account (even though most financial experts wouldn’t advise this). It’s up to you whether you want to accept the risks of investing in crypto. It could be a way to diversify your portfolio—but be sure that your investment decisions don’t put your financial well-being in peril, since crypto’s longevity is just as unpredictable as its value. ### Next steps - Work with a financial advisor who can help you determine your risk appetite and keep your [investment strategy](https://www.truist.com/money-mindset/principles/investing-in-your-values/investing-for-beginners) and financial well-being sound, whether you choose to invest in crypto or stay away from it. - If you’re interested in investing in crypto, research different cryptocurrencies and crypto companies to narrow down your investment options. - If you decide to invest in crypto, consider starting small and keeping it as a small portion of a well-diversified portfolio that also includes other types of assets. ## Related resources No card error message [Investing in your values 5 common investing mistakes (and how to avoid them) Discover strategies for becoming a savvy and confident investor, even during turbulent times. Article 01/14/2025](https://www.truist.com/money-mindset/principles/investing-in-your-values/investing-mistakes) [Investing in your values Investing for beginners: Key terms you should know Grow your confidence by understanding key investing terms, concepts, and acronyms. Article 06/01/2025](https://www.truist.com/money-mindset/principles/investing-in-your-values/investing-for-beginners) ## Take control of your finances. [Return to Money and Mindset](https://www.truist.com/money-mindset/principles) Component ID : "accordionGridLayout-1624256768" Model : "disclaimer" Position : "left" Disclosures This content does not constitute legal, tax, accounting, financial, investment, or mental health advice. You are encouraged to consult with competent legal, tax, accounting, financial, investment, or mental health professionals based on your specific circumstances. We do not make any warranties as to accuracy or completeness of this information, do not endorse any third-party companies, products, or services described here, and take no liability for your use of this information. Disclosure 1 “[2025 Cryptocurrency Investor Trends Survey](https://www.truist.com/speedbump/truist-speedbump?url=https://www.fool.com/money/research/study-americans-cryptocurrency/),” Motley Fool Money, January 23, 2025. Disclosure 2 “[Number of cryptocurrencies worldwide from 2013 to March 2025](https://www.truist.com/speedbump/truist-speedbump?url=https://www.statista.com/statistics/863917/number-crypto-coins-tokens/),” Statista, March 21, 2025. Disclosure 3 “[What Happens to Bitcoin After All 21 Million Are Mined?](https://www.truist.com/speedbump/truist-speedbump?url=https://www.investopedia.com/tech/what-happens-bitcoin-after-21-million-mined/),” Investopedia, December 22, 2024. Disclosure 4 “[Are your lost bitcoins gone forever? Here’s how you might be able to recover them](https://www.truist.com/speedbump/truist-speedbump?url=https://www.bankrate.com/investing/how-to-recover-lost-bitcoins-and-other-crypto/),” Bankrate, October 10, 2024. Disclosure 5 “[What’s the Environmental Impact of Cryptocurrency?](https://www.truist.com/speedbump/truist-speedbump?url=https://www.investopedia.com/tech/whats-environmental-impact-cryptocurrency/)” Investopedia, August 24, 2024. Disclosure 6 “[Bitcoin’s price history: From its 2009 launch to its 2025 heights](https://www.bankrate.com/investing/bitcoin-price-history/),” Bankrate, April 29, 2025. Disclosure 7 ”[Study: 94% of Crypto Buyers are Gen Z/Millennial, but Gen X is Outspending Them](https://www.truist.com/speedbump/truist-speedbump?url=https://www.stilt.com/blog/2021/03/vast-majority-crypto-buyers-millennials-gen-z/),” Stilt, April 10, 2024. ## Disclosures Truist Bank, Member FDIC. © 2026 Truist Financial Corporation. 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Readable Markdown	What to know before investing in crypto Money and Mindset \\| June 2025 As an investment option, cryptocurrency has been around for years—but it’s not necessarily easy to understand. Here are some basics to know before you consider investing. ## The highlights - Cryptocurrencies have been historically volatile, making them potentially risky as investments. - Cryptocurrencies like bitcoin can be purchased directly through trading platforms. Buying shares of public companies that are heavily involved in the crypto industry is another way to invest in crypto. - In addition to the industry’s ongoing evolution, shaky history, and uncertain future, other risks of investing in crypto include a lack of federal oversight and FDIC coverage, the possibility of losing coins or wallets, and the prevalence of crypto-related scams. Chances are, you’ve heard about someone losing or making a lot of money by investing in crypto. Maybe you’ve even tried buying or selling some crypto yourself. But even if you have, you wouldn’t be alone if you said you don’t fully understand it. Only 36% of people who own crypto claim to have a very good understanding of how it works.[Disclosure 1](https://www.truist.com/money-mindset/principles/investing-in-your-values/crypto-investing#disc1) The history of crypto investing has been volatile, with different cryptocurrencies experiencing dramatic highs and lows, sometimes at the drop of a hat. So before you decide whether or not to invest in crypto, learn about how it works and what some of the potential risks are. What is cryptocurrency? Bitcoin was the world’s first major cryptocurrency—but there are thousands of others, like ethereum, dogecoin, tether, and solana, to name a few. Even though thousands exist, the 20 biggest cryptocurrencies account for nearly 90% of the entire crypto market.[Disclosure 2](https://www.truist.com/money-mindset/principles/investing-in-your-values/crypto-investing#disc2) What makes cryptocurrencies different from government-issued money like the U.S. dollar or Japanese yen is that they’re not physical forms of money and they’re decentralized—meaning that no government or single entity controls them. Most cryptocurrencies are built and tracked through a digital ledger called a blockchain. Part of the intention of the blockchain is to help keep crypto transactions secure and anonymous. ![](<data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg viewBox='0 0 '%3E%3C/svg%3E>) 20 cryptocurrencies Account for nearly 90% of the entire crypto market.[Disclosure 2](https://www.truist.com/money-mindset/principles/investing-in-your-values/crypto-investing#disc2) One of the most common ways to invest in crypto is through a crypto trading platform. In this case, it’s a little bit like exchanging your dollars for another form of currency. People who make these trades speculate that the crypto or currency they traded for will increase in value so they can sell at a profit. Sometimes, the opposite happens instead. Another way to invest in crypto is by buying shares of publicly traded companies that are heavily involved in the crypto industry. For example, you can buy shares of a crypto trading platform, crypto “mining” companies, or businesses that are known for investing in cryptocurrencies. Because of how invested these companies are in crypto, their long-term success may be very dependent on the success of the industry itself. You should consider consulting a financial advisor if you’re thinking about investing in either cryptocurrencies or stocks tied to the crypto industry. How crypto gets its value: The value of a cryptocurrency is determined by what people are willing to pay for it. Scarcity is, in part, what drives some investors to see some cryptocurrencies as valuable. Bitcoin, for example, has a quantity limit. Once 21 million bitcoins have been “mined” or created, no new bitcoins will be created after that.[Disclosure 3](https://www.truist.com/money-mindset/principles/investing-in-your-values/crypto-investing#disc3) Some crypto enthusiasts argue that this could help bitcoin serve as a potential hedge against inflation, similarly to gold. Can you spend crypto? An important thing to know if you’re investing in crypto is that it may not be as easy to spend as your regular money. A small number of businesses accept major cryptocurrencies like bitcoin as a form of payment today. But in most cases, you’ll likely need a crypto debit card, which some crypto exchanges offer. This type of card essentially converts the crypto from your connected account into dollars when you swipe it. ## Potential risks of crypto investing Crypto investing can be risky—especially if you put too much into it and your investments aren’t diversified. Because of how new and volatile it is, it may be riskier than many other types of investments. Consider consulting a financial advisor before choosing to invest. These are some of the possible drawbacks of crypto investing: - The history has been volatile. Even the most established crypto, bitcoin, has experienced dramatic highs and lows throughout its short history. If you find yourself investing in crypto at the wrong time before a major swing, it could be stressful and result in significant losses. - The future is unpredictable. Many people speculate, but nobody knows for sure what the value of bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies will be in 1, 5, 10, or 20 years. - It’s not insured. With most banks, your cash deposits up to \$250,000 are covered by federal insurance in case the bank fails. Crypto, however, isn’t covered by this same FDIC insurance. So if the crypto trading platform you’re using goes out of business, you could be out of luck. - You can lose coins or wallets. Rather than letting a brokerage or bank hold onto your crypto, you can choose to store your crypto in your own digital wallet. While some industry enthusiasts prefer their sense of security, people have also lost their wallets and coins. It’s estimated that up to 3.8 million bitcoins have been lost by their owners.[Disclosure 4](https://www.truist.com/money-mindset/principles/investing-in-your-values/crypto-investing#disc4) - The rules of buying and selling crypto could change over time. It’s likely that lawmakers will continue to try to regulate the cryptocurrency industry over time (which could have a long-term impact on their values, but nobody knows for sure). - You have to watch out for scams. There are many different types of scams related to crypto that you should be aware of. “Pump and dump” schemes—where people hype up the value of a new cryptocurrency so it spikes in price, but then quickly sell it before the price drops—are a type of scam that have cost many hopeful investors money. - Its environmental impact is under scrutiny. The act of mining cryptocurrency can require a lot of energy. The bitcoin network, for example, is said to use more energy annually than some entire countries.[Disclosure 5](https://www.truist.com/money-mindset/principles/investing-in-your-values/crypto-investing#disc5) However, the energy efficiency and potential environmental impacts of cryptocurrencies could change if the technology continues to evolve. If the thought of your crypto losing most of its value in mere days—which has happened before[Disclosure 6](https://www.truist.com/money-mindset/principles/investing-in-your-values/crypto-investing#disc6) —makes you feel uneasy, then crypto investing may not be for you. But there are many other ways to invest with lower risk to achieve your [financial goals](https://www.truist.com/money-mindset/principles/mind-money-connection/financial-goals-check-in). Retirement plans like a [401(k) or IRA](https://www.truist.com/money-mindset/principles/investing-in-your-values/investing-for-beginners), for example, may be safer investment vehicles for building long-term wealth. > “Most people want to invest in crypto because they simply want to make a bunch of money—but that’s a recipe for losing money. You need to actually believe in the future of what you’re investing in.” –Brian Ford, Head of Financial Wellness, Truist ## 6 tips if you’re going to invest in crypto If you’re going to try investing in crypto, proceed with caution—and consider these tips. 1. Be prepared for big potential price swings. The volatile history of crypto means there can be dramatic highs and lows—sometimes overnight. If you’re OK with the cryptocurrency roller coaster, it could be a way to [diversify a part of your overall investment portfolio.](https://www.truist.com/money-mindset/podcast/rebalancing-more-than-just-your-portfolio) But you should never invest more than you could stomach losing. 2. Start small—and keep it a small part of your total portfolio. Starting small with your investments may help mitigate the risk of investing in crypto. If it’s only a small part of your portfolio, then it may help keep any potential losses lower in case the industry sputters. 3. Consider dollar-cost averaging. This is a common investing best practice that means buying regular increments of an asset over time rather than making one large investment at once. It may help you start small and stay in touch with the constantly changing prices of your crypto assets. 4. Do your research. This is especially important if you’re considering investing in a new coin or crypto that doesn’t have much of a history. But even if it’s a more established one—like bitcoin or ethereum—ask yourself: “Why this crypto?” Do you understand why people are enthusiastic about it? Do you really believe in its value? Just like when you’re investing in shares of a company, you should understand what you’re investing in and feel good about its future if you’re going to put your money into it. 5. Have a plan for how you’ll store it. This could mean setting up your own crypto wallet or relying on a trading platform to hold onto your crypto for you. 6. It shouldn’t be your main financial priority. Because investing in crypto could be risky, make sure your financial well-being is covered first. This means you should have an emergency fund in place, a plan for managing debt, and that you’re investing for retirement. ## The uncertain future of crypto investing Some supporters of cryptocurrency see a cashless future where crypto can act as a global currency without major government interference. But the lack of consistent government oversight could also pose problems. Without more backing and insurance from banks or governments, the currency’s potential and stability could be at risk. Although there’s a lot of uncertainty about the industry, some investors, especially younger ones, are curious about crypto. One study found 94% of cryptocurrency investors are between 18 and 40 years old[Disclosure 7](https://www.truist.com/money-mindset/principles/investing-in-your-values/crypto-investing#disc7) —and another found that Gen Z and millennial investors are more likely to own cryptocurrency than a retirement account (even though most financial experts wouldn’t advise this). It’s up to you whether you want to accept the risks of investing in crypto. It could be a way to diversify your portfolio—but be sure that your investment decisions don’t put your financial well-being in peril, since crypto’s longevity is just as unpredictable as its value. ### Next steps - Work with a financial advisor who can help you determine your risk appetite and keep your [investment strategy](https://www.truist.com/money-mindset/principles/investing-in-your-values/investing-for-beginners) and financial well-being sound, whether you choose to invest in crypto or stay away from it. - If you’re interested in investing in crypto, research different cryptocurrencies and crypto companies to narrow down your investment options. - If you decide to invest in crypto, consider starting small and keeping it as a small portion of a well-diversified portfolio that also includes other types of assets.
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