How to Buy Bitcoin (BTC)

Bitcoin is the world’s first and most popular cryptocurrency. It is also the top performing asset in the world, rising in value from just a few cents in 2010 to over $60,000 just over a decade later. People buy Bitcoin for various reasons. It’s seen as a hedge against inflation, a store of value – like ‘digital gold’ – and a medium of exchange.

If you’re new to Bitcoin, you’ll want to learn how it works and the best places to buy Bitcoin. There are many platforms that vary in the services they offer, trading features, fees, and deposit methods.

In this how-to guide, we walk you step by step through how to buy Bitcoin online and review the best exchanges.

How to Buy Bitcoin

Best Places to Buy Bitcoin in October 2021

Compare Bitcoin Exchanges

How to Buy Bitcoin – Full Step by Step Guide

Do you want to buy Bitcoin right now? If yes, you can follow the four quickfire steps outlined below to get started.

1. Open an account: You’ll first need to open an account with a trusted cryptocurrency broker. We recommend eToro, as the platform is heavily regulated, supports multiple deposit options with super-low fees.
2. Upload ID: As a regulated brokerage site, eToro will ask you to upload a copy of your government-issued ID.
3. Deposit: You can now deposit funds with a debit/credit card, Paypal, Neteller, Skrill, or a bank wire.
4. Buy Bitcoin: Search for ‘BTC’ and click on the ‘Trade’ button. Enter the amount of Bitcoin you wish to buy ($25 minimum) and confirm the order.

You will now have Bitcoin in your eToro portfolio. Most investors will keep their Bitcoin funds on the eToro platform until it’s time to cash out. You can, however, also withdraw your Bitcoin to the eToro crypto wallet.

How to Buy Bitcoin – eToro Tutorial

Looking for a more comprehensive walkthrough of how to buy Bitcoin online? If so, the section below will show you exactly what you need to do to get your hands on Bitcoin in the safest and most cost-effective way possible.

Step 1: Open an Account

The end-to-end process of opening an account, depositing funds, and buying Bitcoin can typically be completed in less than 10 minutes at eToro. This is because the platform uses automated technology to verify your personal details.

So, to get the ball rolling, visit the eToro website and look out for the ‘Join Now’ button. You will see a box like the image below and will need to enter your first and last name, email address, phone number, and a username and password.     

Visit eToro

On the next page, you will then be asked for additional personal information – such as your country of residence, home address, date of birth, and national tax number. eToro will then send an SMS to your mobile phone. To complete your registration, enter the code that eToro sends you when prompted.

Step 2: Upload ID

As noted above, eToro is regulated by several reputable bodies. As such, you will need to have your identity verified. You can actually complete this step at a later date – but it does need to be done before you are able to:

• Deposit more than $2,250
• Make a withdrawal

With this in mind, it’s best to quickly upload the required documents now to avoid any delays in the future.

This requires a copy of your:

• Passport, driver’s license, or national ID card
• Utility bill or bank account statement issued within the last 3 months

In most cases, eToro will authenticate your documents straight away and subsequently remove all account restrictions.

Step 3: Make a Deposit

eToro doesn’t offer direct Bitcoin purchases – meaning that you will first need to deposit some funds. Apart from a bank transfer, all deposit methods are credited to your account instantly.

You can choose from:

• Debit/credit card (Visa, MasterCard, Maestro)
• Paypal
• Skrill
• Neteller
• Local bank transfer (country-specific)
• International bank wire

In terms of fees, eToro charges just 0.5% on deposits – irrespective of the payment method. This is much cheaper than some of its main competitors, with the likes of Coinbase charging 3.99% to buy Bitcoin with a debit card.

Furthermore, if you are a US resident depositing funds with a USD-backed payment method, there is no transaction fee at all. In terms of the minimum deposit, this stands at $50 for US residents and $200 for other countries.

Step 4: Search for Bitcoin

At this stage of our step-by-step guide, you should now have an eToro account that is funded. Now it’s time to buy Bitcoin. The easiest way of doing this is to enter ‘BTC’ into the search box at the top of the page.

Then, you’ll need to click on the ‘Trade’ button to open up an order box.

Step 5: Buy Bitcoin

You can now buy Bitcoin by entering the size of your stake into the ‘Amount’ box($25 minimum).

Finally, click on the ‘Open Trade’ button to complete your investment.

Where to Buy Bitcoin

The Bitcoin market has matured quite a lot. Due to its popularity, there are now several options where you can buy Bitcoin. This is in sharp contrast with what was applicable some years back.

From crypto-facing exchanges and brokerages to those that serve other asset classes, everyone is providing easy access to digital assets.

However, the problem with this variety is that it makes it a bit challenging to find the best place to buy Bitcoin. In this guide, we’ve vetted the platforms and provided a condensed section on their features, fees and what makes each one unique.

To save you from having to research dozens of different platforms, below you will find the best places where to buy Bitcoin.

1. eToro – Overall Best Place to Buy Bitcoin

eToro is now a fan-favorite with crypto investors and is arguably the best place to buy Bitcoin. This online broker offers a huge variety of assets and markets – which includes plenty of leading digital currencies. Not only can you buy heavyweight crypto-assets like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Ripple – but Defi coins like Aave, Kyber Network, and Augur.

There are many reasons why eToro has grown its client base to over 20 million investors. Firstly, the platform is really easy to use – so if this is your first time buying Bitcoin online – eToro has you covered. Additionally, eToro offers super low commissions, so you can buy Bitcoin without being charged hefty fees.

In terms of fees, there are few Bitcoin brokers that can compete with eToro. eToro is a zero-commission platform. The online broker makes it possible to buy Bitcoin without paying a penny in commission. Instead, the broker charges a small fee of 0.5% FX when you make a deposit.

eToro provides withdrawal and deposit options for several of the top channels – including PayPal, Neteller, debit, and credit cards.

eToro is heavily regulated. The brokerage firm has licenses from the likes of the U.K’s Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC), and the Australian Securities and Investment Commission (ASIC). In the United States, it is registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA).

Visit eToro

2. Capital.com – Trade Bitcoin CFDs Commission-Free

Specializing in CFDs (contracts-for-differences) Capital.com offers dozens of cryptocurrency pairs that contain Bitcoin. Not only does this include crypto-to-fiat pairs, but crypto-cross markets too. CFDs allow you to trade the future value of Bitcoin against major currencies like the US dollar, British pound, euro, and Japanese yen. You can even access BTC-fiat markets that contain emerging currencies like the Hungarian forint, Belarusian ruble, and Thai baht.

Alternatively, if you’ve got a bit of experience in cryptocurrency trading, you might also consider speculating on the exchange rate between Bitcoin and another digital asset. For example, you can trade Bitcoin against Quantum, Cardano, Ethereum, Bitcoin Cash, Bitshares, and heaps more. As noted above, you will be trading Bitcoin CFDs at Capital.com – meaning that you do not own the underlying cryptocurrency. This is hugely beneficial for many reasons, as you don’t need to worry about storage, wallets, or private keys.

Visit Capital

3. Binance – Top-Rated Crypto Exchange to Buy Bitcoin

Binance is the largest crypto exchange in the world by daily trading volume. With over $50 billion in daily trading volumes, the exchange is popular worldwide. For users, Binance offers quite a lot. You get to enjoy great liquidity since assets see significant trading activity, and the exchange provides access to several cryptocurrencies including Bitcoin and Ether.

Trading commissions on Binance starts from about 0.1 percent, and the platform’s KYC process is quite straightforward. Binance also offers leveraged trading and access to crypto futures, allowing traders to buy cryptos bigger than their wallet balances.

You can also buy Bitcoin with fiat currency on Binance. The cheapest option on the table is to complete a bank transfer, albeit, depending on where you live this might take a couple of days for the funds to arrive. If you want to benefit from a super-fast deposit, you might consider using your debit or credit card.

Visit Binance

4. Coinbase – Largest Crypto Exchange in the United States

Coinbase is one of the biggest crypto exchanges available. The exchange offers several benefits, including a clear interface and plenty of trading pairs for customers.

Headquartered in Wilmington, Delaware, Coinbase is usually the go-to option for crypto newbies in the United States. Trading is also easy here, with Coinbase’s interface tailored for beginners. If you’re an experienced trader, you can take advantage of the Coinbase Pro variant. 

Coinbase is also one of the biggest crypto companies. Asides from its exchange service, it provides trading through its Coinbase Pro platform. Users also enjoy a payment platform for businesses, custody services, and its own coin – COIN.

Visit Coinbase

5. Libertex – Industry-Leader Broker for Stocks and CFDs

Based in Cyprus, Libertex has been available since 1997. The platform is known for its zero spreads pricing structure, which is quite unique in the CFD trading scene. It offers two web trading platforms for traders. Libertex offers the MT4 and the Libertex Web Trader.

Libertex is a bit limited in its service offering. The trading platform covers about 213 markets. This includes the likes of stocks, forex, cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, and more. You get to trade and purchase over 50 cryptocurrencies on Libertex. Advanced traders will also enjoy access to margin trading with leverage as high as 1:30.

With a mobile app and a desktop trading interface, Libertex provides flexibility and a seamless trading interface. Available deposit channels include Skrill, Neteller, credit and debit cards, bank transfers, Multibanco, Sofort, Trustly, and much more. 

Visit Libertex

6. Plus500 – Regulated Platform Offering Different Asset Classes

Plus500 is a leading trading service that is a part of the Plus500UK Ltd. brand. It offers easy and seamless trading for several assets, including cryptocurrencies. The service is based in London and regulated by the FCA. 

Plus500 works as advertised. Its interface is integrated with WebTrader 4, which offers a user-friendly layout – especially for advanced traders. Plus500 also offers an additional layer of security thanks to its two-step logins. 

The online broker offers over 2,000 financial instruments that include forex, commodity, cryptocurrency and index trading. The parent company, Plus500 Ltd, is also listed on the London Stock Exchange with a market cap of over £1.73 billion.

Visit Plus500

7. AvaTrade – Legacy Crypto Trading Platform for Investors

AvaTrade is a leading forex broker. Part of the AVA Group of Companies, the service was launched in 2006 and is one of the oldest online brokerage platforms. Ava Trade has four international offices, based in Ireland, Japan, Australia, and the British Virgin Islands.

AvaTrade is also regulated by Abu Dhabi’s Financial Services Regulatory Authority. As an international broker, Ava Trade accepts clients from around the world and supports a wide array of currencies. 

One of the many benefits of Ava Trade is the availability of different trading platforms. From MetaTrader 4 and 5 to its proprietary AvaTradeAct platform, you get just about everything here. You also get automated trading software that will suit your needs. These include Duplitrade, Mirror Trader, RoboX, and API Trading. 

Tradable assets here include cryptocurrencies, indices, CFDs, options, bonds, and much more. 

Visit Avatrade

8. Revolut – Personal Finance Service With Crypto Support 

Revolut is a FinTech company based in London. The service focuses more on allowing users to receive, send, and exchange currencies, providing a quick and easy interface that lets them access basic transactions wherever they are.

Revolut focuses on simple transactions. So, there is no trading available on this platform. The service has an expansive support base, providing access to over 30 digital assets. You also get to convert crypto to fiat currency in a matter of seconds. 

Despite the lack of trading features, there’s a lot to enjoy from Revolut. For instance, the service provides access to loans and both phone and travel insurance. You also get a virtual card that lets you spend your money more conveniently. 

Visit Revolut

9. CryptoRocket – Newbie Crypto Trading and Exchange Platform 

CryptoRocket is an online broker that was launched in 2018. It is based in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, but it isn’t regulated by any financial authority.

CryptoRocket offers trading and exchange services multiple investment classes and not just cryptocurrencies. You can find fiat currencies, indices, and stocks on here as well. However, the broker remains focused on cryptocurrencies.

With CryptoRocket, users get a low minimum deposit of just $10. However, deposit methods are pretty limited – especially compared to other services. On CryptoRocket, you can only deposit with wire transfers, Bitcoin, and cards. 

One of the many benefits of CryptoRocket is the same-day withdrawal service for credit card transactions. Traders also get advanced charting and analysis tools, as well as access to the latest news to help with their strategies. For advanced traders, leverage of up to 500:1 is available. 

Visit CryptoRocket

10. Changelly – Nifty Exchange for Instant Bitcoin Purchases

Changelly is a cryptocurrency exchange for the instant purchase of cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin. Changelly is a non-custodial exchange and is well known for its privacy features. The platform won’t require your personal information or any form of utility bills before you can purchase digital assets on the platform. While it might not be as famous as names like Binance and Coinbase, it is still a safe and legitimate service that you can use. Changelly also provides trading through its Changelly Pro variant, so you can put your money to work for you.

Registered in Hong Kong, Changelly has been operating since 2015. Its main feature is the exchange service which allows for quick conversions. However, some customers have complained that it can be a tad slow from time to time. You can access the feature through any browser or the Changelly mobile app. 

Changelly also has an API that lets you connect third-party wallets. You get a flat rate for crypto-to-crypto trades on Changelly, which stands at 0.25 percent. There are no specific deposit fees on the platform, but you will need to factor in transaction fees when making an exchange. 

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What is Bitcoin?

For crypto newbies looking for how to buy Bitcoin online, it’s important you learn what the asset is and how it works.

So, what is Bitcoin?

• The easiest way to describe Bitcoin is that it is a digital currency that allows you to send and receive value digitally.
• As a digital currency, Bitcoin exists in virtual form – unlike traditional money.
• The underlying technology that backs Bitcoin is called the ‘Blockchain’ – which allows transactions to take place in a decentralized manner.
• This means that no single party or authority has control over Bitcoin.

When sending Bitcoin to another person, the transaction is completed on a wallet-to-wallet basis. This typically takes 10 minutes to process – irrespective of where the sender and receiver are based.

Bitcoin was introduced in 2008 by Satoshi Nakamoto – a pseudonym for someone – or a group of people – who remains unknown to this day. Nakamoto had published a message on a cryptography-related mailing list, titling it, “Bitcoin P2P e-cash paper.” In the message was a link to a whitepaper titled, “Bitcoin: A Peer-to-Peer Electronic Cash System.”

In his papers, Nakamoto shared the concept of Bitcoin as a digital, decentralized currency system. As a decentralized asset, no single individual or company would control Bitcoin. Instead, it will run on a public ledger of transactions known as a blockchain. Anyone can store the blockchain on the computer, and the blockchain would facilitate sending from one person to another without the need for an intermediary.

In January 2009, Bitcoin’s blockchain launched. The asset’s first block- known as the genesis block – was mined, and the first Bitcoin transaction took place a week after the block’s mining. At this point, Bitcoin was worthless. Miners, who solve complex equations on the Bitcoin blockchain to gain more tokens – would basically trade it for fun.
However, on May 22, 2010, a Florida native negotiated to pay 10,000 BTC for two Papa John’s pizzas. Both pizzas were worth $25 at the time, putting the value of Bitcoin at about 4 BTC for a penny.

In Bitcoin’s early days, transactions took place on internet forums. The asset maintained an arbitrary value, with most people negotiating when it came to Bitcoin.
2011 came, and miners and coders started looking to build their iterations of the Bitcoin network.

Blockchains like Litecoin and Ethereum came to life, and these attracted more people. With a broader base of applications and more users, Bitcoin’s perceived value started to rise. There was also a surge in the use of Bitcoin as a currency – especially as some companies started using BTC as a payment option. When Bitcoin became available on exchanges, it became much easier to trade and make transactions. These exchanges made it possible for Bitcoin to be priced against currencies like the dollar.

Why Buy Bitcoin? Bitcoin Analysis

People buy Bitcoin for many reasons. Some buy it for the technology. Others buy it for speculative reasons. If you’re still not sure whether Bitcoin is right for your portfolio, below we list some of the key reasons why you might decide to invest today.

Yield Potential

These days, keeping money in the bank just isn’t as lucrative anymore. When you put your money in the bank, you’d be lucky to earn 1 percent in interest. Consider the inflation rate and you’ll find that this rate is just too low.  Most people prevent this wealth erosion with stocks, which have shown to provide much higher returns.

Bitcoin still has a much higher return rate over time. In its early days, Bitcoin had no value – in fact, the asset was worth just $1 in 2011. But, fast forward to 2021 and Bitcoin is now worth well over $30,000. This growth is phenomenal. It’s easy to think that you’ve missed the Bitcoin boom – and, in truth, you might not see these astronomical returns anytime soon. But, when you consider the returns that Bitcoin has delivered and compare it with any other financial asset – or leaving your money in the bank – you will find that it is just too high.

Bitcoin’s Solid Economics

Satoshi Nakamoto understood that Bitcoin would become incredibly valuable once it catches on. So. the creator put a structure in place to preserve its value. Bitcoin currently has a hard cap of 21 million – meaning that once 21 million tokens have been mined, no more is available for life.

Anyone with a knowledge of economics knows that scarcity is what gives an asset the most value. Think of assets like gold and other precious metals. Their scarcity pushes their value even higher because more people want them over time. The same thing happens with Bitcoin. Thanks to its finite supply, the asset can hold and maintain its value. Bitcoin is also not controlled by any government or central authority, so its supply can’t be manipulated.

Invest Small Amounts

There is often a misconception that you need to purchase an entire Bitcoin to enter this marketplace. At $62,000 per coin – this would be out of reach for most. However, as a digital currency, it makes sense that Bitcoin can be fractioned into smaller units. In fact, a single Bitcoin can be split into 8 decimal points.

You will, however, need to ensure that you are using a cryptocurrency broker that permits small investments. This is why eToro has proven so popular with newbies, as the platform allows you to invest in Bitcoin from just $25 upwards. This allows you to gain exposure to this volatile asset class with sensible amounts.

24/7 Marketplace 

When you invest in Bitcoin – you are purchasing an asset class that benefits from significant levels of liquidity. For example, over the past 24 hours alone, more than $68 billion worth of Bitcoin has changed hands.

This is crucial, as it means that your investment is never locked up. Instead, you can sell your Bitcoin back to cash 24 hours per day, 7 days per week.

Is it Worth Buying Bitcoin in 2021?

Bitcoin came into 2021 on a high after seeing its price hit all-time highs towards the end of last year. However, the crypto market witnessed a significant crash in May, sending prices tumbling. The bearish momentum has continued, and a lot of people have asked whether it still makes sense to buy Bitcoin.

In truth, Bitcoin isn’t all that perfect. As anyone will tell you, the asset’s price volatility remains a significant disadvantage. However, Bitcoin has shown that it can rise again several times. Many believed Bitcoin was dead when its price crashed from almost $20,000 to $3,000 in 2018. But, it came back.

At the same time, the fact that Bitcoin is still severely affected by news and current events shows that the asset is still in its earliest days. Many proponents have also pointed out that Bitcoin hasn’t been accepted by most of the world’s governments yet. When it does, there will be a proper framework governing the crypto market and Bitcoin will finally become a legitimate asset.

Ways of Buying Bitcoin

If you’re looking to grow your Bitcoin portfolio, you should know that there are different ways to get that done. Some of the most popular payment options available for you include the following:

Buy Bitcoin with Bank Transfer

Linking your bank account to a cryptocurrency exchange allows for very easy, convenient and often instant deposits and withdrawals, with lower fees than when using a debit or credit card.

Read our full guide to buying Bitcoin with a bank account.

Buy Bitcoin With PayPal

PayPal is the most popular payment processor in the world. The service has hundreds of millions of customers, and it even started accepting crypto last year. Currently, PayPal customers can buy Bitcoin directly from the service. However, if you want to Buy Bitcoin with PayPal as a payment option on an exchange, then we recommend using eToro. The online broker makes it easy to fund your trading account using your PayPal balances.

Buy Bitcoin With a Credit Card

If you plan to buy Bitcoin with a credit card, the first step is to ensure your broker accepts credit card payments. This is crucial because some exchanges refuse credit card payments. This can be due to restrictions on your location or other reasons.

In addition, some credit card issuers might define your Bitcoin purchase as a “cash advance.” This means that you will need to pay a cash-advanced fee to complete the transaction. This fee usually ranges between 3 and 5 percent of the total transaction. It is recommended that you speak with your credit card issuer if this describes your situation.

Buy Bitcoin With Debit Card

The debit card option is probably the most common method for purchasing Bitcoin. It is easy, quick, and cheap. If you want to buy Bitcoin with a debit card, the most important consideration is the processing fee. Bitcoin exchanges have different payment processors, and as such, charge different fees. Some exchanges can charge as high as 4 percent on debit card purchases, while others could be lower. For instance, eToro charges just 0.5 percent on debit card purchases.

Buy Bitcoin with eCheck

Read our guide on how to buy Bitcoin with eCheck on sites such as Paxful.

Use A Bitcoin ATM

Bitcoin Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) have also become quite popular over the past few years. Like their traditional counterparts, specialist cryptocurrency ATMs allow you to make crypto purchases via a machine interface. Data from Coin ATM Radar shows that there are currently 22,130 crypto ATMs worldwide.

Most of these machines support Bitcoin. When it comes to Bitcoin ATMs, the primary difference is that the fees tend to be very large. Sometimes, the transaction fees can be between 10 and 20 percent of the total purchase.

You can follow this process to purchase Bitcoin with a crypto ATM:

• Find the nearest ATM to you
• Enter the amount of Bitcoin for purchase. This is usually expressed in the form of your local currency
• The ATM will show a preview of the Bitcoin to be purchased for that amount.
• Submit your cash into the Bitcoin ATM
• Input your wallet address or use a QR code to receive the Bitcoins
• Print out your receipt and complete the transaction

The main drawback with using Bitcoin ATMs is that the fees are often astronomical. In fact, this can average 10-20% of the transaction amount in some locations.

What to Remember Before Buying Bitcoin

Are you considering buying Bitcoin? There are a few things to consider as you foray into the crypto market.

1. Bitcoin is Volatile

You probably heard about this one a lot. In truth, Bitcoin is very volatile. Bitcoin’s price can change unexpectedly – and this can happen in less than a day. A perfect example of this came in December 2017, when Bitcoin’s price was just a few points off $20,000. In the next month, the asset lost 83 percent of its value and was trading around $3,000.

In May 2021, Bitcoin’s price also fell from $64,000 to $30,000. This volatility happens all the time. Bitcoin’s price is determined by the forces of demand and supply. If more people are buying it, then its value will go up. Bitcoin’s price is also shaped by market news and events. If bad news comes from regulators or the government, it will most likely affect Bitcoin’s price over time.

Most people who criticize Bitcoin talk a lot about its volatility. Before you buy Bitcoin online, you want to keep this in mind.

2. Public Transactions

No payment method in the world is as transparent as Bitcoin. Thanks to its blockchain, all Bitcoin transactions are public and traceable. So, whenever you buy and sell Bitcoin, the information immediately goes into the blockchain and everyone can see it.

3. Addresses are Anonymous

While transactions are available for everyone to see, it’s difficult to identify who owns what. Bitcoin transactions are executed using wallet addresses–a string of numbers and letters. Anyone snooping around needs your wallet address to check your transaction history and account balance.

Choosing the Right Bitcoin Broker

If you would like to buy Bitcoin online, choosing the right broker or exchange is crucial. But this is easier said than done. With so many options available, it might get more difficult to make a choice. We’ve highlighted some details you should consider before choosing one:

1. Fees

It is recommended that you choose a broker with reasonable fees. When it comes to trading Bitcoin, the fees can add up pretty fast. Depending on the option you settle for, you might have to pay for deposits, trading, withdrawal, and sometimes, for converting your Bitcoin to another coin. Settling for an online broker with affordable fees can save you hundreds of dollars in fees.

2. Safety

Most people store their Bitcoin on the platform where it’s purchased. This isn’t the safest option, but you can reduce the likelihood of theft by ensuring you only deal with platform with strong security protocols.

3. Support

If you have problems, you should be able to reach out to the exchange and get a response as quickly as possible. No one anticipates that any problems will arise, but a strong customer support service will come in handy now and then.

4. Payment Methods

How can you deposit funds and request a withdrawal? What are the channels available? The best platforms usually support bank transfers and debit cards. You can also look out for payment processors like Square and PayPal.

5. Volume and Liquidity

A broker service will need to have the right levels of volume and liquidity. You want to ensure that the service is getting the right transaction volumes and that you can withdraw your funds whenever you like.

Bitcoin Price

The price of Bitcoin – like all financial instruments, will move up and down throughout the day. Volatility levels are particularly high in this industry – with Bitcoin often moving by 5-10% in just 24 hours of trading – sometimes more. Whether the price of Bitcoin increases or decreases is based on market forces.

• In other words, if market sentiment on Bitcoin is strong and more people start investing – the price will naturally increase.
• This is exactly what has been happening since Bitcoin hit lows of $5,000 in early 2020.

In terms of supported currencies, Bitcoin is largely traded and quoted against the US dollar. This makes it easier to analyze Bitcoin on a global scale. However, it’s also possible to buy Bitcoin in other currencies – such as the euro, British pound, or Australian dollar.

Bitcoin Price Prediction

There are many Bitcoin price predictions available in the online domain – many of which are not based on any tangible financial data. For example, you have controversial commentators like John McAfee that predicted in 2017 that Bitcoin would surpass $1 million in 2020. It goes without saying that this prediction did not come to fruition.

On the other hand, some commentators will make Bitcoin price predictions based on technical analysis. This looks at historical pricing data with the view of predicting future trends. However, some would argue that technical analysis is somewhat limited when it comes to Bitcoin price predictions – as the digital currency is so speculative.

Instead, it could be better to try and focus on current market sentiment. For example, when Bitcoin is in a rapid upward trend, many investors will enter the market for the first time on the basis of FOMO (Fear of Missing out). If you can catch this trend early, you stand to buy Bitcoin at a very favorable time.

Investing in Bitcoin vs Trading Bitcoin

Investors have different strategies that determine their actions in the crypto market. Some prefer to buy Bitcoin for the long term. Others want to trade BTC. When should you pick one over the other? We examine the difference between investing and trading in Bitcoin.

Investing in Bitcoin

Investing is the path chosen by most crypto holders – especially the newbies. The strategy is simple – purchase Bitcoin from a broker, keep the asset in a wallet and wait for the price to rise. Once it gets to a level you’re comfortable with, you sell. Most crypto investors look to put their money into the asset and leave it for the long run – at least a year. The strategy makes sense – long-term holding has proven to be very profitable if you consider how Bitcoin started in 2009 and where it is today.

Investing is also convenient for many people who don’t want to go through the stress of monitoring prices every day. They simply keep their coins in a secure wallet and “forget about it.” Daily marker swings don’t exactly concern them since they’re in it for the long haul.

Trading Bitcoin

Trading is the other side of the coin. It involves entering into positions with the asset and cashing out based on price swings.

The objective of Bitcoin trading is to make money when the price swings in your favor. So, you could enter today and buy 1 BTC with the price at $30,000. If its value increases to $32,000 hours after and you sell off, you’ve made a gain of $2,000. If Bitcoin’s value drops below $30,000 again – remember that the asset is volatile – you could enter a position and hope for another price gain.

When it comes to trading, you make decisions based on your analysis of the asset’s price. So, you could decide to open a long position on the asset today and short it tomorrow. Trading usually occurs over a few days or weeks. However, there are also swing traders and day traders who hold positions for much shorter time frames.

You could also engage in leverage trading – that is, trading with more money than you have. Exchanges and brokers usually provide leverage to their professional customers, allowing them to maximize their chances of making a profit.

So, Which is Better?

Like most things crypto-related, it’s never clear-cut. People have different reasons for holding cryptocurrencies, and there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. To help you make a decision, here are some factors to consider:

1. Time Frame

How long do you plan to hold your crypto? If you’ve got the long game in mind, then you could just invest and don’t bother yourself about price swings. Cryptocurrencies – especially Bitcoin – have provided steadily increasing returns to investors for the past few years. So, you can rest assured that your money is safe.

2. Reason for Holding Bitcoin

Like it or not, some people see crypto as a “get rich quick” scheme. They hear of assets jumping by over 100 percent in less than a month, and they want to try such. It’s understandable – every asset class in the world has such people.
If you’re such a person, then you might be better off trading. Watch for price swings and jump on the train till it flatlines. You might get lucky to witness such bullish momentum.

3. Consistent Effort

Effective trading requires a lot of research and attention to price charts. It’s easy to jump from one hot cryptocurrency to the other, but the truth is that these types of holders eventually pick losers and see their wealth erode.

While no one is discouraging you from choosing hot assets and maximizing your gains, you have to make sure that your decisions are based on facts and research. Also, always keep an eye on price charts and make sure not to get swept when there’s a market downturn.

If you’re too busy and won’t have the time to research and check prices, you might be better off investing in Bitcoin. Just leave your coins in a wallet and let the forces of demand and supply decide your fate.

Buying Bitcoin as a CFD Product

Like many other financial assets, Bitcoin is also available as a contract for difference (CFD). A CFD is simply an agreement between a buyer and a seller showing that the buyer must pay the seller the difference between the current value of an asset and its value when the contract expires. The value of a CFD doesn’t consider the asset’s underlying value – simply the difference between entry price and exit price.

Buying a CFD allows you to profit off Bitcoin’s price movement without actually owning the asset. Several CFD brokers allow you to make a trade, although eToro is the best of the bunch. It is regulated, and it has a healthy selection of assets for you to choose from if you want to purchase a CFD.

Taxation on Bitcoin Earnings

There have been several attempts to impose taxes on crypto earnings, but the U.S Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is yet to come up with a stable regulatory regime. The IRS defines cryptocurrency as “property” in 2014, meaning that they qualify for capital gains tax treatments.

However, there are also some instances where crypto activity is treated as income – and, as such, is subject to income taxes.

Taxable events that qualify for capital gains tax in the United States include:

• Selling your crypto for fiat currency
• Purchasing goods and services using crypto
• Trading one cryptocurrency for another – via an exchange or through peer-to-peer channels

Events that qualify for income tax are:

• Receiving crypto from an airdrop
• Interest earnings through lending on decentralized finance (DeFi) platforms
• Block rewards gotten from crypto mining
• Crypto received as payment for work
• Cryptocurrencies earned through staking and liquidity pools

Note that you can use losses gained from trading to offset some of your capital gains. You can also deduct up to $3,000 from your income tax depending on how long you’ve held the assets.

Calculating Your Capital Gains Tax

In the United States, your capital gains tax for crypto activities will depend on how long you’ve held your assets and your income tax brackets. This classification will help you determine:

Short-term Capital Gains

If you made gains or losses from crypto held less than a year ago, your capital gains tax is treated at the same rate as your tax bracket. This ist provides information on tax brackets for 2021/21. Note that you can use losses to offset taxable income by up to $3,000. You can also carry losses forward into the next year.

Long-term Capital Gains

If you hold crypto for more than a year, gains or losses from activities will incur 0%, 15%, or 20% in taxes based on your individual income
You can find a classification of income in this list.

The Importance of Responsible Bitcoin Investment

From its humble beginnings in 2009 till date, Bitcoin has delivered over 48,22,525% in the process. BTC has also produced an average annualized return of 230%–ten times more than the second-ranked asset class (Nasdaq 100 index). Little wonder why everyone wants to jump into Bitcoin and become rich overnight. However, investing in Bitcoin comes with risk. It’s important you take precautions when investing in Bitcoin. To ensure that you’re doing the right thing, keep the following in mind:

1. Consistent Research

This point can’t possibly be stressed enough. When investing in Bitcoin. Remember to do as much research as you possibly can.
You can get signals from some dedicated social media channels, read the news and listen to experts having analyses for Bitcoin. You can also get expert analyses from review sites such as ours. Inside Bitcoins has a team of experts that provide regular analysis on Bitcoin and other altcoins.

2. Hedge your Bets.

It’s important to have a limit when investing. If Bitcoin’s price drops by a certain percentage, cut your losses and take your money out. You’ll lose money, but you’d at least be wiser. A lot of people make the mistake of keeping their money and waiting out the storm. However, this should really only be done with the money that you can lose.

Would You Try Bitcoin Mining?

Many people who want to earn Bitcoin tend to buy or trade it. However, there’s a third option – mining. Essentially, Bitcoin mining is a process where you perform complex mathematical processes and verify transactions on the Bitcoin blockchain. You validate and confirm transactions, add them to the Bitcoin blockchain, thus contributing your part to the Bitcoin ecosystem.

Transactions that are verified on Bitcoin’s blockchain are grouped into blocks. When a block is verified, the transactions in it are added to the blockchain and the miners get Bitcoins as a reward. While mining seems easy, it’s quite the opposite. The Bitcoin blockchain is so congested that miners now have to use specialized tools to work. In Bitcoin’s early days, mining was possible with your personal computer.

Now, the competition in the blockchain has made it that PC mining is essentially obsolete. If you want to make money through mining, you have to use an Application-Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC). Sadly, ASICs are quite expensive. Some ASICs could cost as high as $5,000. You will also need to consider the costs of electricity as mining is a highly energy-dependent endeavor – except you live in a place where renewable energy is abundant if there are government subsidies on electricity.

Even with all of this, you might not make any money from mining. Blocks are mined on a first-come-first-serve basis, so it will most likely take you a while before you can successfully earn. All in all, a lot of work will have to go into mining before you can make enough money to justify your costs. If you’re looking to earn Bitcoin, you’re better off just trading – it is less expensive, and you can start with as much money as you have.

Minimizing Your Risk With Crypto Investment

Two of the most important points we’ve raised are these:

• Bitcoin is very profitable
• Bitcoin is very risky

When you put money into Bitcoin, you must find a way to minimize your risk as much as possible. To wit, consider the following tips to minize your risks with Bitcoin investing:

1. Do Your Own Research

There’s a famous acronym in crypto lingo -Do Your Own Research (DYOR). Before you invest, remember to always do the work and be as confident as possible in your position.

Learn as much as possible and get your information from trusted sources. Remember that review sites can show some of the best analysis and you can also get good information from experts online and via social media.

2. Beware of Fraudulent Schemes

Crypto is largely unregulated, and this means that a lot of individuals and companies are on the prowl looking for who to swindle. Before committing funds to a platform, make sure you know its security levels. This is another benefit you can get from review sites.

We will also recommend that you only do business with regulated brokers. Services like eToro are regulated across different countries, and they have a track record of success. So, you can be much more confident with them.

3. Only Invest Funds You Can Lose

Every investment carries a risk – especially Bitcoin. To be on the safe side, it is recommended that you invest only funds that you can lose.

Don’t lie to yourself or take a loan because you want to make a Bitcoin investment. Only invest when you have enough capital, and you should be ready to lose that capital if things go wrong.

One of the best things about Bitcoin is that you can start investing and trading with as little money as you have – especially if you’re a newbie. Grow from there, both financially and in your trading skills. Soon enough, you’ll be raking in the big bucks.

4. Track Your Results

Regardless of whether you’re investing or trading, you need to know how your portfolio is holding up. This is especially true if you’re a trader. You have to know what the market’s outlook is and how it could affect your position.

Bitcoin’s volatile nature makes it pretty difficult to keep track of its price. However, several apps make it easy to keep an eye on the asset and monitor your portfolio’s performance. Once you make a habit of checking your account, you reduce the risk of suffering big losses.

5. Resist FOMO

It can be challenging to handle the pressure of crypto trading – especially if you’re new. But, never enter into a position or invest just because others are doing the same thing. That’s the Fear of Missing Out (FOMO).

Remember to take your time and do your research. If people are FOMO-ing into a trade, the worst that can happen is that you miss out on an earning opportunity. Your money will at least be safe. No matter how strong the temptation, don’t invest unless you’re confident and prepared.

Bitcoin Robots

As well as following the above advice you can also reduce risk by using trading robots available online, these set limit orders, take profit orders and stop losses for you, taking human error out the equation.

Bots are emotionless and over the long term can help you keep losses small when market conditions change and allow winners to ride for longer.

However, trading bot software is unregulated, so you should only deposit funds into bots that you can afford to lose. Our review team has a vetting system to help filter out genuine trading software from the rest. Some of the notable trading robots that we’ve reviewed include:

• Bitcoin Miner
• Bitcoin Prime
• Bitcoin Trader
• Cryptosoft

Best Bitcoin Wallet

As we have explained through this guide, if you want to invest in Bitcoin you need to think about where you are going to store your digital funds.

There are hundreds of Bitcoin wallets in the markets these days – some of which can be accessed via a mobile app or desktop software. It’s even possible to store your Bitcoin on a hardware device. Nevertheless, below we discuss the best Bitcoin wallets in the market right now.

eToro Bitcoin Wallet

The eToro Bitcoin wallet comes with a plethora of handy tools and features – all of which are suitable for inexperienced traders. Not only does the wallet allow you to safely store your Bitcoin – but 120 other digital currencies. This is super-useful if you are invested in a full range of crypto assets and want to store all of your coins in a single wallet.

The eToro wallet can be downloaded free of charge to your iOS or Android device. Once you have set the wallet up, you will have the option of buying and selling cryptocurrencies without leaving the app. You can also exchange one cryptocurrency for another – with eToro supporting more than 500 pairs.

When we explored security features, we found that the eToro Bitcoin wallet is authorized and regulated by the Guernsey Financial Services Commission (GFSC). You will also benefit from a password recovery service, that allows you to regain access to your wallet in the event you misplace your private keys.

If you’re looking to read and share Bitcoin-related news developments with like-minded investors – it’s worth considering Reddit. The online forum is home to a huge Bitcoin community that now consists of over 2.9 million subscribers.

You will find interesting posts and viewpoints from the Bitcoin Reddit group around the clock. Although you can view posts as a non-member, it’s best to quickly open an account with Reddit so that you can post and reply to comments.

Bitcoin Against Other Top Cryptocurrencies

Bitcoin isn’t the only cryptocurrency available. Here’s how it compares against some other options:

Bitcoin vs. Dogecoin

Dogecoin has been one of the best-performing cryptocurrencies of 2021. The meme coin was created in 2014 as a parody of cryptocurrencies, but it somehow caught on and is now the sixth most valuable digital asset in the world. Dogecoin’s value comes in large part to its community. Celebrity endorsements have also helped the asset, with the likes of Snoop Dogg, Jason Derulo, and Elon Musk regularly promoting it on social media.

Bitcoin vs. Ethereum

Ethereum is the second most valuable cryptocurrency. It also presents an impressive investment opportunity, especially with its value rising significantly this year.
Most of Ethereum’s value comes from its use as a token on the Ethereum blockchain – for paying transaction fees, etc. However, its status as Bitcoin’s biggest competitor means that it has a sizable community and some significant functionality benefits of its own.

Bitcoin vs. Litecoin

Litecoin and Bitcoin are actually quite popular. The former launched as a “lite version of Bitcoin,” with its creators touting it for its transaction speed and ability to produce more coins per time.
Litecoin is currently the 12th most valuable cryptocurrency available. It is one of the most popular options and is also available on several top exchanges and brokerage platforms.

Bitcoin vs. Libra

Libra is a stablecoin project from the Facebook-backed Libra Association. At the time it was announced, the Libra Association explained that the asset’s value will be backed by a basket of some of the world’s most popular fiat currencies. Several regulatory pushbacks since then have delayed the launch, but Libra has gone through a rebranding in terms of name and structure. It’s now called “Diem” and the organization plans to roll out the stablecoin in 2021.

Where Does Bitcoin Go From Here?

With the current market situation, you could be skeptical about investing in Bitcoin. The asset is currently amid a strong bearish pullback, meaning that its price – as well as that of every major cryptocurrency – is down.

However, this doesn’t necessarily have to be the end. Bitcoin has shown time and again that it can always come back, so investors continue to have that confidence – especially those who invested for the long term. It might take a while for Bitcoin’s price to bounce back, but it does eventually happen. It’s only a measure of how long you can wait.

eToro – Best Place to Buy Bitcoin

Bitcoin has once again shown the global investment world that it is here to stay in the long run. With the digital currency increasing in value by over 1,000% in the past 12 months alone – it’s clear to see why so many people are now looking to buy Bitcoin and hold for future gains. Read thirty quotes from ten billionaires buying Bitcoin here – including Elon Musk, Mark Cuban and George Soros.

If you are ready to take the cryptocurrency plunge and wish to buy Bitcoin right now – you can complete the process at our recommended broker eToro in less than three minutes.

You should also remember the following:

• Investing and trading Bitcoin requires a lot of research and work
• Bitcoin is inherently risky, so it is important to watch it spruce every now and then
• When trading or investing, do so with only registered brokers and exchanges
• You should also check out review sites and online experts to get their opinions about Bitcoin
• Resist FOMO. Only invest if you’re sure of it

FAQs

How do you Buy Bitcoin?

There are many ways in which you can buy Bitcoin, albeit, the safest and most convenient is to use an online broker. For example, by using eToro - you have the backing of several reputable financial bodies. All you need to do is open an account, make a deposit with a debit/credit card or e-wallet, and decide how much you wish to invest in Bitcoin.

Should I Buy Bitcoin?

Whether or not you should buy Bitcoin is your decision. On the one hand, Bitcoin is super volatile and can experience rapid price shifts on a day-to-day basis. But, Bitcoin is one of the best performing asset classes in recent years. With that in mind, if you do have an interest in Bitcoin but have a low tolerance for risk - just make sure you keep your stakes conservative.

What is the Best Way to Buy Bitcoin?

If you're wondering where to buy Bitcoin - the best option is to use a regulated online broker - such as eToro. eToro has a platform designed for beginners and professional traders alike. Their fees are quite low and they offer multiple funding options like credit/debit cards, PayPal and bank transfers.

How does Bitcoin Work?

Bitcoin is a digital currency that is not backed by a central bank or government. The network is decentralized - so no single entity has control over Bitcoin. In terms of what governs Bitcoin's price, it's a bit similar to the traditional stocks. The value of Bitcoin rises and falls based on market sentiment. If you sell Bitcoin for a higher price than you originally paid - you will make money. Don't forget to consider where to buy Bitcoin - as commissions and fees can vary wildly.

Is it Safe to Buy Bitcoin?

Bitcoin is a relatively safe investment in 2021. Of course, all investments carry risk - including Bitcoin. However, for someone who has done enough research and is confident, Bitcoin is very safe.

How Do I Make Money with Bitcoin?

Usually, you make money with Bitcoin by trading or investing it in the long term. However, you can also mine Bitcoin if you have enough resources.

What are the Benefits of Buying Bitcoin?

Bitcoin is a good investment for those who know their research. It also provides a want to hedge your health against inflation, and its sizable returns provide the opportunity to maximize your earnings.

What are the Best Payment Methods to Buy Bitcoin with?

The best payment method to use is your debit card. However, if you have funds in your PayPal or Square account, you could also use them, as long as your chosen broker enables it.

What are the Best Bitcoin Brokers?

Several qualified and registered brokers allow their customers to buy Bitcoin. However, we recommend eToro and Binance. Both platforms are regulated and secure, and they have high liquidity levels - allowing you to make a sale or purchase in a snap.

How Can I Buy Bitcoin Instantly?

If you would like to make an instant purchase, you will need to have an account with a registered broker. Once you register and verify your account, you will be able to make quick Bitcoin purchases whenever and wherever you like.

How can I Buy Bitcoin with USD?

The best way to buy Bitcoin with USD is through an exchange or a brokerage service like eToro.

What are the Taxes on Trading Bitcoin?

There are different tax rates on Bitcoin trading. However, it primarily depends on your region and the applicable tax laws there.

How Much is Bitcoin Worth?

Bitcoin's value changes often. At the time of writing this guide on May 18th, 2021, Bitcoin is trading at $45,000. Just a few weeks earlier, the digital currency was worth over $62,000.

How Do You Mine Bitcoin?

The days of being able to mine Bitcoin from the comfort of your home are long gone. Instead, this industry is dominated by large-scale mining farms that have vast technological resources. The only way to mine Bitcoin as an Average Joe is to join a cloud mining farm. However, there are many scam artists in this space, so do tread with caution.

What is Bitcoin Cash?

Much like Bitcoin, Bitcoin Cash is a cryptocurrency that can be bought and sold with ease. The Bitcoin Cash blockchain was actually copied from the original Bitcoin code in 2017. If you're wondering where to buy Bitcoin Cash, the digital currency is supported by eToro.