Digital Asset Inflows Continue Despite Volatility, AuM Falls to $177B
Digital asset investment products recorded inflows of $286 million last week, extending a seven-week streak that has brought total inflows to $10.9 billion, according to data released Monday. Despite the sustained investment activity, total assets under management declined to $177 billion by the weekend, down from a peak of $187 billion, as broader market volatility weighed on valuations. The downturn in asset values came amid investor unease over U.S. trade policy following legal developments surrounding the legality of recently imposed tariffs. The resulting uncertainty appears to have impacted market sentiment despite the continued inflows. Regional Flows Show Shifting Focus While the United States remained the primary destination for digital asset investments with $199 million in inflows, there were signs of diversification in investor focus. Germany and Australia registered inflows of $42.9 million and $21.5 million, respectively. Hong Kong saw its strongest week of inflows since the launch of exchange-traded products in the region just over a year ago. The market took in $54.8 million, reflecting a possible uptick in regional investor confidence or positioning ahead of regulatory developments. In contrast, Switzerland recorded outflows of $32.8 million, continuing a year-to-date trend of negative fund movement. Ethereum Inflows Strengthen; Bitcoin Sees Pullback Ethereum saw another week of significant inflows, totalling $321 million. This marks six consecutive weeks of inflows amounting to $1.19 billion, its most consistent positive run since December 2024. Analysts suggest the sustained interest in Ethereum indicates renewed confidence in the platform’s long-term viability following earlier regulatory concerns. Meanwhile, Bitcoin saw early-week inflows but reversed course mid-week, finishing with minor outflows of $8 million. This marked the end of a six-week inflow streak that had accumulated $9.6 billion. The shift coincided with a New York court decision declaring U.S. tariffs illegal, an event that appears to have influenced broader investor behaviour. Other digital assets saw mixed results. XRP experienced a second consecutive week of outflows totalling $28.2 million. The asset has struggled to retain investor interest in recent weeks amid limited positive news flow. Outlook Remains Mixed Amid Policy Uncertainty Despite the ongoing inflows, analysts caution that asset managers and retail investors alike remain sensitive to global policy developments. The recent court ruling on U.S. tariffs has injected fresh volatility into the market, with price softness persisting across major digital assets. While inflows remain a positive indicator, the decline in assets under management reflects ongoing risk aversion as participants await further clarity on macroeconomic policy and regulatory direction.
Want an Entry-Level Job in Crypto? Here’s How to Start.
You want an entry-level job in crypto, right? That’s exciting… and smart! Crypto is currently the future of finance, with its global market cap reaching $2.78 trillion. It’s no surprise that everyone wants to take advantage of it. Whether you’re fresh out of college or switching careers, breaking into crypto might seem challenging at first, but it’s more accessible than you think. In this article, I’ll walk through simple, practical steps to land your first crypto job. Let’s get started! Key Takeaways Learn the Basics of the Crypto Industry If you already know the basics of crypto, you can skip to the next part. Source: Giphy Now, for those who don’t know anything about crypto. For you to land a job in crypto, you need to know the basics. Like, Crypto is short for cryptocurrency. It’s digital money that lives on the internet and uses special tech called blockchain to keep it safe and track transactions. Bitcoin and Ethereum are two popular examples. The crypto world also includes things like NFTs (digital art or collectibles), DeFi (which is like banking without banks), and DAOs (online communities that make decisions together). You don’t need to be an expert. Just understand what crypto is, how it works, and why it matters. These are beginner guides that can help you get started. You are welcome! Find What Drives You in Crypto After going through the articles and doing your research, you can start identifying what drives you in crypto. What parts of the industry catch your interest? Is it the tech side, like blockchain development, or maybe you’re more into marketing, design, or community building? Source: Giphy Take time to look at different crypto projects and see which ones match your skills and passions. When you’re excited about what you’re working on, it’s easier to stay motivated, even when things get tough. Be active on social media platforms like: These are great places to follow projects and find your people. Once you find a project or company you like, don’t be shy, reach out! Show them what you can do and how you can help. The more focused you are on what you care about, the easier it’ll be to find the right job for you. What Are Some Entry Job Levels Within the Crypto Industry These are some entry-level jobs you can find in the crypto industry. They’re great for beginners like you who want to start a career in crypto, even without a lot of experience. Crypto Content Writer If you’re good at writing, this could be a great role for you. You’ll create blog posts, how-to guides, press releases, and other content to help people understand the project. You’ll also need to stay up to date with crypto news and sometimes help with technical documents. Good grammar, clear writing, and SEO knowledge are helpful here. Community Manager Crypto projects often have big online communities. As a community manager, you’ll keep things positive, answer questions, and help people feel welcome. You should be familiar with platforms like Telegram, Discord, Reddit, and Twitter. Good communication skills are important. Junior Researcher If you like digging into data and trends, this might be your fit. Source: Giphy Junior researchers study the crypto market and write reports or updates. You’ll be reading, analyzing crypto projects, spotting trends, and writing reports. You’ll also need to pay close attention to detail and explain things clearly, even if they’re complicated… Blockchain Developer This role is more technical. Developers build and maintain the code that powers crypto projects. If you’re new to coding, it’s a good idea to start with a web development course. Once you’re ready, you can learn tools like Solidity, Python, and platforms like Remix or Truffle to create smart contracts. This path takes more time to learn but is in high demand. Crypto Video Editor If you enjoy creating videos, this is a cool job to look into. You’ll work on videos for marketing or education. Strong editing skills and knowing how to use video software are important. There are lots of entry-level jobs out there, so no matter your background: writing, research, coding, or creativity, there’s likely a place for you to get started. How to Land an Entry-Level Job in Crypto Now on to the main deal. Now that you’ve chosen your path and you are familiar with crypto, how do you land yourself a job? Build Your Presence Start a blog or website to share your knowledge about crypto. This shows your interest and helps people see you as someone who knows the space. Join online crypto communities like Twitter, Reddit, Discord, and Telegram, like I mentioned earlier. This is where a lot of hiring happens. Show up, contribute, ask questions, and connect with others. Learn and Improve Your Skills Whether you want a technical role like coding or a non-technical one like writing or marketing, build the skills that match. You can take online courses, watch YouTube tutorials, or even join workshops. Some skills you might want to learn: Get Hands-On Experience You don’t need a job to gain experience. You can start helping out with your favorite crypto projects, even if they haven’t offered you a job yet. You can: When a team sees you bringing value, they might invite you to join officially. This is one of the easiest ways to get your foot in the door. This also builds your portfolio and gives you a strong “on-chain resume” (a trackable record of your crypto activity on the blockchain). Source: Giphy Network With Crypto Folks Networking is key. Attend meetups, conferences, or join webinars. Talk to people already working in the industry. They can give you tips, refer you to job openings, or even become mentors. Also, use LinkedIn to connect with professionals and follow crypto job pages. Apply for Jobs Smartly There are websites made just for crypto jobs, like Go there and apply for the roles that match your skills. Make sure you customize your resume
How To Avoid P2P Crypto Scams and Crypto Frauds
If you’re familiar with the SEC fraud case against Do Kwon, the co-founder of Terraform Labs, or the alleged fraud case against Touzi Capital in a Crypto Mining Fund Scheme, then you’ll know that these are crypto frauds that are entirely different from P2P scams. While those cases often involve large-scale schemes, P2P crypto scams happen in more personal, direct settings—usually between two individuals on trusted platforms like Binance P2P or Paxful. P2P crypto scams have become increasingly common as peer-to-peer trading gains popularity. From fake proof of payment to impersonation and chargeback scams, these schemes can be subtle but devastating. Knowing how to spot them is crucial. In this guide, we’ll break down practical ways to avoid P2P crypto scams and crypto fraud before it’s too late. Key Takeaways What is P2P Trading in Cryptocurrency? Source: Freepik P2P trading in cryptocurrency, short for peer-to-peer trading, is a direct exchange of crypto assets between two individuals without the need for an intermediary or centralized exchange. Instead of buying or selling through a broker, users connect directly through a P2P platform, where they can negotiate prices, payment methods, and terms. These platforms, such as Binance P2P, OKX P2P, and Paxful, act as marketplaces that provide escrow services to protect both the buyer and the seller. When a trade is initiated, the crypto is held in escrow until the seller confirms payment. Only then is the crypto released. P2P trading offers flexibility, multiple local payment options, and often better rates, but it also opens the door to P2P crypto scams and crypto frauds if safety measures are ignored. Common Types of P2P Crypto Scams and Frauds Peer-to-peer crypto trading can be convenient, but scammers often exploit its trust-based structure. Below are the most common types of P2P crypto scams and frauds: Fake Proof of Payment In this scam, the buyer sends a screenshot or message claiming they’ve completed payment. In reality, no money was transferred. If the seller doesn’t double-check their bank or wallet, they may release the crypto and lose it permanently. In 2022, several users on Binance P2P reported losing funds after trusting screenshots that mimicked mobile bank transfer confirmations. Always verify payment directly through your account—never rely on screenshots. Chargeback Scams Some scammers use reversible payment methods, such as PayPal, credit cards, or specific mobile wallets. After receiving the crypto, they file a chargeback, claiming the transaction was unauthorized. The money gets reversed, and the seller is left with nothing. Stick to irreversible payment options and use platforms with escrow protection. Impersonation of Trusted Traders Scammers create fake profiles mimicking reputable traders. They might copy usernames, use identical photos, and even counterfeit ratings. This is common on forums and social media. LocalCryptos warns that scammers impersonate staff members by writing “Admin,” “Support,” or “Arbitrator” in trade chats and pressure users to release escrow. The platform displays red banners when users are suspended; however, scammers attempt to bypass this by using direct messaging. Always verify a trader’s profile directly on the P2P platform and avoid deals arranged outside the official channels. Triangle Scams In a triangle scam, the attacker involves a third person who is unaware they’re part of the fraud. The scammer purchases cryptocurrency from a seller using funds stolen from another individual, such as those from a hacked bank account. Eventually, the real owner files a dispute or chargeback, causing the seller to lose both the crypto and the payment. Indian crypto users report scammers using OLX/Quicker marketplace fraud, where they post goods for sale, direct legitimate buyers to send money to unwitting peer-to-peer (P2P) sellers’ accounts, and then collect USDT, while both victims lose money. Cancel Order After Payment Completed Here, the buyer sends a real payment but quickly cancels the order on the P2P platform before the seller can release the crypto. The platform assumes the trade is incomplete and might not honor it if a dispute arises. Multiple exchanges, including Binance and Bybit, have issued warnings about this tactic, noting that scammers often pressure sellers to act quickly. Always release cryptocurrency only after confirming that the order is still active and payment has been fully received. Phishing Links or Fake Platforms Scammers create websites that closely resemble trusted peer-to-peer (P2P) platforms. Victims are tricked into entering their login credentials or private keys. Once done, the scammer gains full access to their accounts. On January 26, 2019, LocalBitcoins users were targeted in a phishing attack that exploited a vulnerability in the platform’s forum. The attack redirected users to a fake site that stole their 2FA codes, resulting in the theft of 7.95 BTC (approximately $28,134 at the time) from at least six accounts. Always double-check URLs and avoid clicking on P2P links shared on random social media groups. Man-in-the-Middle (MitM) Scams This involves a scammer acting as a bridge between two unsuspecting parties. The attacker copies information from one and relays it to the other, pretending to be both people. It often ends with one party losing their crypto while believing the trade was legitimate. Security experts identify sophisticated man-in-the-middle (MitM) attacks on peer-to-peer (P2P) messaging apps, where fraudsters intercept communications and manipulate both parties into sending money or cryptocurrency to the wrong accounts. Only communicate through secure peer-to-peer (P2P) platforms and avoid intermediaries. Over-the-Counter (OTC) Scams on Social Media Many traders arrange over-the-counter (OTC) trades via messaging platforms such as Telegram, WhatsApp, or Facebook. Scammers create fake business profiles or pretend to be admins of popular crypto groups. Federal reports indicate that the top platforms for crypto scams are Instagram (32%), Facebook (26%), WhatsApp (9%), and Telegram (7%), with scammers targeting users specifically for fake investment opportunities. Without escrow or platform protection, these trades can easily lead to fraud. Unless you’re dealing with a verified OTC desk, it’s safer to stick with known P2P platforms. Cash-in-Person Transactions While some people still prefer meeting in person for crypto trades, this method is highly risky. Scammers can use counterfeit money, disappear during verification, or even steal
Long vs Short Positions Explained (2025 Guide)
When it comes to crypto trading, the stakes are high, and the right strategy can make all the difference. Whether you’re considering a long vs short position in crypto trading, this article will guide you through the key differences, potential rewards, and risks involved. In this article, we will discuss the mechanics of both long and short positions, how to execute them, and the factors you should consider before deciding which strategy to use. You’ll also learn about the risks associated with each approach and how to manage them effectively to protect your investments. Key Takeaways What Is a Long Position? A long position in cryptocurrency trading is a strategy where an investor buys a digital asset, such as Bitcoin or Ethereum, with the expectation that its price will increase over time. The goal is to purchase the asset at a lower price and sell it later at a higher price, thereby making a profit from the price appreciation. This approach aligns with the fundamental trading principle of “buy low, sell high.” For instance, if you buy Bitcoin at $80,000 and sell it at $85,000, you earn a $5,000 profit. Long positions are commonly used by investors who believe in the long-term potential of a particular cryptocurrency. They can be executed on various platforms, including exchanges that offer spot trading or margin trading with leverage. Mechanics of Going Long in Crypto Trading You can effectively manage a long position in cryptocurrency trading by following these steps. 1. Choose a Reliable Crypto Exchange Start by selecting a reputable cryptocurrency exchange that supports long positions. Platforms like UEEx, Kraken, and Bitfinex are popular choices. Ensure the exchange offers the specific cryptocurrency you intend to trade and provides necessary tools such as spot trading and margin options. 2. Deposit Funds into Your Account Fund your exchange account using your preferred method this could be through bank transfers, credit/debit cards, or transferring existing cryptocurrencies. Some exchanges also accept stablecoins like USDT or USDC. Ensure you deposit enough to cover the cost of your intended trade and any associated fees. 3. Analyze the Market Before making a purchase, conduct a thorough market analysis. Use technical indicators such as Moving Averages, Relative Strength Index (RSI), and support/resistance levels to assess the asset’s potential for price appreciation. Staying informed about market news and trends can also provide valuable insights. 4. Execute the Buy Order Once you’ve identified a favorable entry point, place a buy order for the cryptocurrency. You can choose between a market order, which buys at the current price, or a limit order, which buys only at a specified price or better. Some platforms also offer stop-limit orders to manage potential losses. 5. Monitor and Manage Your Position After purchasing, regularly monitor your investment. Set stop-loss orders to limit potential losses and take-profit orders to secure profits once your target price is reached. It’s also advisable to stay updated on market conditions and news that could impact your asset’s price. Risk and Reward Profile of Long Positions in Crypto Trading In this section, we’ll examine the risk and reward profile of long positions in crypto trading, helping you understand the potential outcomes of this strategy. 1. Potential for Significant Gains When you take a long position, you’re buying a cryptocurrency with the expectation that its price will rise. For example, if you purchase Bitcoin at $80,000 and sell it later at $90,000, you make a $10,000 profit. This illustrates the potential for substantial gains when the market moves in your favor. 2. Risk of Loss However, if the market moves against you, there’s a risk of loss. For instance, if Bitcoin’s price drops to $75,000 after your purchase, you would incur a $5,000 loss. This calls attention to the inherent risk in long positions, especially in the volatile crypto market. 3. Leverage and Margin Calls Using leverage can amplify both gains and losses. If you borrow funds to increase your position size and the market moves unfavourably, you might face a margin call, requiring you to deposit more funds or liquidate your position to cover the losses. 4. Emotional Impact The volatility in crypto markets can lead to emotional decision-making. Seeing significant price fluctuations can cause stress and may lead to impulsive actions, such as prematurely selling a position or holding onto a losing trade in hopes of a rebound. 5. Importance of Risk Management To manage these risks, it’s important to set stop-loss orders to limit potential losses and take-profit levels to secure gains. For example, setting a stop-loss at 10% below your entry price and a take-profit at 20% above can help manage risk and reward effectively. What Is a Short Position? A short position in cryptocurrency trading is a strategy where you borrow a cryptocurrency, sell it at the current market price, and then aim to buy it back later at a lower price. If the price drops as anticipated, you can repurchase the asset at the reduced price, return it to the lender, and pocket the difference as profit. For example, if you borrow and sell 1 Bitcoin at $80,000, and the price falls to $70,000, buying it back at this lower price would yield a $10,000 profit, minus any associated fees. This approach is commonly executed through margin trading on platforms like UEEx, Kraken, or Binance, which allow you to borrow funds to facilitate the short sale. Platforms and Tools Facilitating Short Trades Several cryptocurrency exchanges offer platforms for shorting assets. These exchanges typically provide margin trading, which allows users to borrow and short cryptocurrencies. Here are a few popular platforms: These platforms typically charge fees for borrowing assets and for using leverage, so it’s essential to factor those costs into your trading plan. In addition to exchanges, many traders use tools like stop-loss orders to manage risks and futures contracts for more advanced shorting strategies. Futures contracts allow traders to enter into agreements to sell a cryptocurrency at a specific price in the future, adding
Top Must-Know Crypto Stories of 2025 So Far
The crypto market in 2025 has been anything but dull. If you blinked for too long, you probably missed a major rally or a dramatic crash. From surprise government announcements to the latest meme coin mania, this year has pushed the boundaries of what’s possible in decentralized finance. To make sense of this whirlwind, here are the top 10 crypto stories of 2025. The year has been shaped by a mix of breakthrough innovations, regulatory shake-ups, and market-defining moments. Key Takeaways Source: FreePik Top 10 Crypto Stories of 2025 AI Agents in Crypto Source: FreePik The integration of AI in crypto isn’t entirely new, but 2025 took things to the next level. AI agents are autonomous bots powered by large language models and reinforcement learning, which everyone from retail traders to hedge funds is now utilising. They can execute trades, adjust positions in real-time, analyze thousands of tokens for red flags, and even draft governance proposals for DAOs. And they don’t sleep. One of the breakout tools this year has been Autonome, an AI crypto co-pilot that allows users to assign agents to tasks such as “monitor this DAO for key votes” or “rebalance my portfolio based on macro indicators.” It’s part Chatgpt, part Bloomberg terminal, part fund manager running 24/7 on-chain. Platforms like Fetch.ai and Ocean Protocol have also been working on AI agents that not only act on crypto networks but also earn on them, providing data, services, or computational power in return for crypto payments. Global Economic Tensions and Crypto Volatility Global economic tensions shook stock markets and sent shockwaves through the entire crypto ecosystem in 2025 The biggest tremor came from the U.S.–China tariff standoff, which reignited in Q1 after a breakdown in trade negotiations. The U.S. has implemented significant tariffs on Chinese imports. On the 2nd of April 2025, the US added a 34% ‘reciprocal tariff’ on top of pre-existing orders, resulting in an effective minimum tariff of 54% on all imports from China. China responded with sweeping restrictions on rare earth minerals and a sharp devaluation of the yuan. Cryptocurrencies, which had started the year on a strong note following the approval of spot Bitcoin ETFs and growing institutional interest, were not immune to the fallout. As risk-off sentiment gripped investors, Bitcoin dropped nearly 17.5% in a single week in February, falling below $90,000 and erasing much of its earlier gains. Ethereum suffered even steeper losses, plunging over 25% and breaking below key support levels before staging a partial recovery in March. Strategic Bitcoin Reserve by the U.S. Government Source: FreePik In a landmark move, President Donald Trump signed an executive order in March 2025 to establish a Strategic Bitcoin Reserve and a U.S. Digital Asset Stockpile. This initiative aims to position the United States as a leader in the digital asset space by treating Bitcoin as a strategic reserve asset. White House Executive Order, March 6, 2025 The reserve will be capitalized with Bitcoin seized in criminal or civil asset forfeiture proceedings. These holdings will not be sold but maintained as reserve assets. The catalyst for this decision was a growing recognition that Bitcoin is more than just a speculative asset. However, there were also rumours that this move was partly inspired by El Salvador’s success in using BTC reserves to stabilize its economy and by China’s ongoing digital yuan expansion.. Washington didn’t want to be left behind in a future where monetary influence might be measured not just in dollars, but in crypto reserves. Markets reacted swiftly. Bitcoin’s price jumped 12% the week the news was confirmed, and countries like Japan and Germany were rumoured to be evaluating similar moves. Rise of Crypto ETFs and Institutional Adoption After years of anticipation, hesitation, and regulatory pushback, 2025 became the year crypto ETFs officially went mainstream. It began with the long-awaited approval of spot Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs in late 2024, but this year, it’s really taken off. Everyone seemed to want a slice of the digital pie from BlackRock and Fidelity to smaller asset managers. By Q2, over 30 crypto-linked ETFs were trading across U.S. markets, including niche offerings like DeFi sector ETFs, Solana index funds, and even meme-coin baskets For institutional investors such as pension funds, endowments, and insurance firms, this was a game-changer. ETFs gave them a regulated, custodial, and tax-optimized way to hold crypto without worrying about seed phrases or private key security. One of the biggest market movers was Kraken’s turn into traditional finance. The crypto exchange stunned Wall Street by launching commission-free trading for over 11,000 U.S.-listed stocks and ETFs. This convergence was technical and cultural. The Trump administration’s surprisingly pro-crypto stance helped ease compliance fears, giving institutions the green light to step in without looking over their shoulder. The growing interest in regulated crypto exposure through ETFs is evident, with over 70% of surveyed asset managers viewing Bitcoin ETFs as an attractive, regulated way to gain crypto exposure, primarily due to increased transparency. Growth of Stablecoins: USDT and USDC Hitting Record Market Cap Source: Unsplash In a year where stability was in high demand, stablecoins delivered. By mid-2025, the combined market capitalisation of Tether (USDT) and USD Coin (USDC) had surged past $190 billion, with the broader stablecoin ecosystem surpassing the $200 billion milestone for the first time in history. Tether’s USDT remained the largest stablecoin by market cap, reaching a new peak of $132 billion. Circle’s USDC also saw substantial growth, with its supply expanding to nearly $60 billion. This growth is attributed mainly to investors and institutions seeking safer alternatives to volatile cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin and Ethereum. Another major factor behind this growth is the evolving role of stablecoins in global finance. The U.S. Treasury Department has acknowledged the importance of stablecoins in maintaining the U.S. dollar’s position as the world’s reserve currency. This policy shift has encouraged further use of stablecoins in both domestic and international financial systems. USDC, in particular, has strengthened its partnerships with banks, fintech companies, and payment processors,
Crypto IRAs: How To Invest in Crypto via Your Retirement Accounts
Stocks, ETFs, Bonds, etc., have long been staples of traditional retirement portfolios. However, as digital assets like Bitcoin and Ethereum become more mainstream, investors are starting to rethink what long-term growth looks like. Crypto IRAs are now emerging as a strategic option for those who want to align their retirement savings with the future of finance. By using self-directed IRAs that support cryptocurrency, individuals can take advantage of tax benefits while accessing a high-growth asset class. This blog explores how to invest in crypto via your retirement accounts, breaking down the benefits, risks, and steps required to get started. If you plan to build wealth with purpose, understanding the mechanics of Crypto IRAs could be a valuable part of your retirement strategy. Key Takeaways What Is a Crypto IRA? Source: Ideogram A Crypto IRA is a self-directed individual retirement account that allows you to invest in cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other digital assets. Unlike traditional IRAs, which typically include stocks, bonds, or mutual funds, Crypto IRAs allow account holders to hold crypto within a tax-advantaged retirement structure—either Traditional (tax-deferred) or Roth (tax-free withdrawals). These accounts are managed through custodians or platforms specifically equipped to support digital assets while complying with IRS regulations. Cryptocurrencies are increasingly being considered for retirement planning because of their long-term growth potential and low correlation with traditional assets. As inflation concerns grow and interest in decentralized finance expands, many investors view crypto as a hedge against currency devaluation and market uncertainty. Including crypto in a retirement portfolio can provide greater diversification and the possibility of higher returns over time, especially for those with a long investment horizon. Difference Between Traditional IRAs and Crypto IRAs Traditional IRAs and Crypto IRAs serve the same primary purpose: helping individuals save for retirement in a tax-advantaged way. However, they differ significantly in the types of assets they support, the level of control they offer, and how they are managed. A Traditional IRA typically invests in conventional assets such as stocks, bonds, ETFs, or mutual funds. Financial institutions manage these accounts, and the choices of assets are limited. Contributions are often tax-deductible, and withdrawals in retirement are taxed as ordinary income. On the other hand, a Crypto IRA is a self-directed IRA that allows you to invest in cryptocurrencies. It provides more control over your portfolio but requires a specialized custodian. While the tax treatment (Traditional or Roth) remains the same, Crypto IRAs allow access to digital assets and offer a modern approach to long-term investing. Types of Retirement Accounts That Allow Crypto Investments Investors looking to add cryptocurrencies to their retirement strategy can do so through self-directed retirement accounts. These accounts are structured similarly to traditional IRAs but offer broader investment flexibility—including digital assets like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other approved cryptocurrencies. Below are the main types of retirement accounts that support crypto investments: Self-Directed Traditional IRA A Self-Directed Traditional IRA (SDIRA) allows individuals to invest pre-tax income into a retirement account. Contributions may be tax-deductible depending on your income level and participation in employer-sponsored plans. Taxes are deferred until withdrawals begin, typically after age 59½. With an SDIRA, you can include alternative assets like: Self-Directed Roth IRA A Self-Directed Roth IRA also supports cryptocurrency but has a different tax structure. Contributions are made with after-tax dollars, and qualified withdrawals, including any gains, are tax-free in retirement. This is particularly attractive for long-term crypto holders who believe in the significant future growth of digital assets. For example, suppose you buy $6,000 worth of Bitcoin in your Roth IRA, which grows to $60,000 by retirement. You owe zero taxes on the $54,000 gain if the withdrawal is qualified. SEP IRA (Simplified Employee Pension IRA) A SEP IRA is designed for self-employed individuals or small business owners. Like Traditional IRAs, SEP IRAs are tax-deferred and allow for more significant contributions—up to 25% of compensation or $70,000 in 2025, whichever is less. While SEP IRAs traditionally include mutual funds or stocks, a self-directed SEP IRA allows crypto investment when managed through an approved custodian. This account type is ideal for freelancers, consultants, and small business owners who want to maximize tax-deferred savings and diversify into crypto. SIMPLE IRA (Savings Incentive Match Plan for Employees) Small businesses typically use a SIMPLE IRA with 100 or fewer employees. While SIMPLE IRAs don’t typically allow direct crypto investments, a self-directed SIMPLE IRA can be structured to enable alternative assets, including cryptocurrencies, with the help of a specialized custodian. Though SIMPLE IRAs are less common than Traditional or Roth Crypto IRAs, they offer another route to crypto exposure for eligible small business employees. Steps on How to Invest in Crypto via Your Retirement Account The key to investing in crypto through your retirement account is choosing the right type of retirement account—typically a self-directed IRA that allows cryptocurrency investments. Below is a detailed, step-by-step guide with real-world examples and practical tips for each phase. Step 1: Choose a Self-Directed IRA Custodian That Supports Crypto The first and most crucial step is selecting a custodian that offers self-directed IRAs with cryptocurrency options. Traditional brokerage firms like Vanguard or Fidelity typically don’t allow crypto investments in retirement accounts. Instead, you’ll need to work with specialized custodians. Top examples include: Step 2: Open a Self-Directed IRA (Traditional or Roth) Once you’ve chosen a custodian, the next step is opening the account. You’ll typically choose between: Most custodians have online account setup processes that take less than 30 minutes to complete. Step 3: Fund the IRA (via Rollover, Transfer, or New Contribution) You can fund your crypto IRA in three primary ways: The 2025 contribution limits include: Step 4: Select and Purchase Cryptocurrencies Once funded, you can start investing. Your custodian will provide access to a list of supported cryptocurrencies, often through a trading dashboard or integration with a third-party exchange. Common cryptocurrencies available include: For example, you may allocate 60% to Bitcoin, 30% to Ethereum, and 10% to Solana to balance between established and emerging crypto assets. Most custodians
