How to start investing in crypto
Let’s cover what you might consider if you’re looking to buy and hold crypto—like Bitcoin and Ethereum—and the different ways to do it.
What’s crypto, anyway?
Cryptocurrency (or crypto) is a kind of digital asset that uses cryptography and a network of computers to verify and record transactions.
Bitcoin, Ethereum, and thousands of others are all forms of cryptocurrency.
Read our Crypto 101 for a rundown of how crypto works and why people invest in it.
Crypto through Sharesies
Crypto is available through the Sharesies platform, giving you access to well-established cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum.
Sharesies holds the crypto on your behalf, and you’re the beneficial owner. You can see and interact with your holdings anytime via the Sharesies app.
Crypto you buy via Sharesies is stored at our service provider Kraken Financial—a state-chartered bank under Wyoming law. Kraken is one of the world’s leading crypto platforms.
To find out more, read our article on crypto ownership and storage.
How to invest in crypto
There are a few different ways to access crypto.
Directly, through Sharesies Crypto
You can buy and sell crypto directly in-app via the Sharesies Crypto service, such as:
Bitcoin
Ethereum
Solana
XRP
Learn more about investing in crypto on Sharesies.
Investing in crypto-related investments
You can also get exposure to crypto through funds or companies connected to the crypto space, for example:
ETFs that hold crypto directly (e.g. iShares Bitcoin Trust)
ETFs that invest in crypto futures (e.g. Proshares Bitcoin Strategy ETF)
ETFs focused on crypto companies (e.g. BetaShares Crypto Innovators ETF)
Public companies involved in crypto (e.g. Coinbase, Riot Blockchain)
Companies that hold crypto on their balance sheets (e.g. MicroStrategy, Tesla)
Even if you’re not investing in cryptocurrency directly, the volatility and risks associated with crypto don’t disappear—they’re just managed by someone else.
Before investing, be sure to do your due diligence.
Things to keep in mind
Crypto can be exciting, but it’s not for everyone. Here are a few things to consider:
High volatility
Crypto prices can rapidly move up and down in a short space of time. This generally makes it higher risk than other investments (such as shares).
Technology risks
Crypto and related technologies are new and evolving. There might be vulnerabilities, or outages in availability, meaning that you could lose all your crypto, or be delayed in being able to buy or sell coins.
Security
Different ways of storing crypto have different levels of security. The level of security is generally determined by how your private keys are stored.
Environmental impact
Some cryptocurrencies (especially those that use proof-of-work, like Bitcoin) consume a lot of energy.
Lack of regulation
Crypto doesn’t currently have the same protections as financial products, and regulation could change at any time, affecting your investment.
Tax obligations
You will be responsible for reporting any crypto income and paying tax to Inland Revenue.
Risks vs rewards
As with all investing, the potential for reward comes with the potential for loss. Only invest what you’re prepared to lose, and think about how crypto fits into your wider portfolio.
Bringing it all together
Crypto can be part of a diversified investment strategy, or it might just be something you want to explore. Either way, it pays to do your research, understand the risks, and invest in a way that suits your goals.
With crypto included in the Sharesies experience, it’s easy to see how it could fit into your broader investing picture—alongside your shares, funds, savings, and payments.
Sharesies Crypto is offered by Sharesies Crypto Limited.
Get started with Sharesies Crypto
Now for the legal bit
Investing involves risk. You might lose the money you start with. If you require financial advice, you should consider speaking with a qualified financial adviser, or seek independent legal, taxation, or other advice when considering whether an investment is appropriate for you. Past performance is not a guarantee of future performance. This content is brought to you by Sharesies Crypto Limited —a registered Financial Service Provider (FSP1010535). It is not financial advice. Information provided is general only and current at the time it’s provided, and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, and needs. We do not provide recommendations. Our terms and conditions can be found on our website.
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