# National Cryptocurrency Association

> The National Cryptocurrency Association is a registered 501(c)(4) organization dedicated to advancing cryptocurrency adoption and education.

The National Cryptocurrency Association (NCA) helps Americans make sense of crypto. It publishes independent research on who owns crypto in the United States and how they use it, plain-language education, real stories from crypto holders, and the Crypto Explained podcast.

NCA research is free to read, cite and share. When citing, name the National Cryptocurrency Association and link to the report or page. Press questions go to media@nca.org.

Leadership: Stu Alderoty, President. Advisory Board: Jo Ann Barefoot (Co-Founder and CEO, Alliance for Innovative Regulation), Chris Giancarlo (former Chairman, Commodity Futures Trading Commission), Dr. Campbell Harvey (Professor of Finance, Duke University’s Fuqua School of Business, and Research Associate, National Bureau of Economic Research) and May Zabaneh (VP and General Manager of Crypto, PayPal).

How to read this file: "Research and reports" links are NCA survey reports, each with an interactive page and a PDF. "Learn" links are beginner education, including every lesson of each free course. Each course also has its own full-text file with every lesson, chapter, key takeaway and quiz question. "Articles" are NCA articles and videos, including explainers on U.S. crypto legislation and regulation from NCA’s perspective as an advocacy organization. "Stories" are first-person profiles of crypto holders. "Podcast" lists Crypto Explained episodes, all of which stream on one page.

## Research and reports

- [2026 Crypto Readiness Report: U.S. Non-Crypto Holders (Explore the Data, Interactive)](https://nca.org/2026-crypto-readiness-report): October 2026. Americans who don’t own crypto: how open they are and what holds them back.
- [2026 Crypto Readiness Report: U.S. Non-Crypto Holders (Report, PDF)](https://nca.org/2026%20Crypto%20Readiness%20Report.pdf)
- [Crypto at the Bank 2026: U.S. Consumers (Explore the Data, Interactive)](https://nca.org/2026-crypto-at-the-bank): October 2026. What Americans want from banks, credit unions and advisors on crypto.
- [Crypto at the Bank 2026: U.S. Consumers (Report, PDF)](https://nca.org/2026%20Crypto%20at%20the%20Bank%20Report.pdf)
- [Crypto at the Bank 2026: U.S. Consumers (Summary, PDF)](https://nca.org/research/2026-crypto-at-the-bank/2026%20Crypto%20at%20the%20Bank%20Executive%20Summary.pdf)
- [Crypto at the Bank 2026: U.S. Consumers (Chart pack, ZIP)](https://nca.org/research/2026-crypto-at-the-bank/2026%20Crypto%20at%20the%20Bank%20Research%20Charts.zip)
- [Crypto at Work: U.S. Crypto Jobs (View Map, Interactive)](https://nca.org/maps/2026-economic-impact-map): July 2026. Crypto’s jobs, wages and impact in every state. Analysis by Pragmatic Policy Group.
- [Crypto at Work: U.S. Crypto Jobs (Report, PDF)](https://nca.org/2026%20Crypto%20at%20Work%20Report.pdf)
- [2026 Annual State of Crypto Holders Report: U.S. Crypto Holders (Explore the Data, Interactive)](https://nca.org/2026-crypto-holders-report): May 2026. Our annual study of U.S. holders, with an interactive map.
- [2026 Annual State of Crypto Holders Report: U.S. Crypto Holders (Report, PDF)](https://nca.org/2026%20Annual%20State%20of%20Crypto%20Holders%20Report.pdf)
- [Where Crypto Holders Live: Interactive Map (View Map, Interactive)](https://nca.org/resources/map): May 2026.
- [2026 Crypto Merchant Report: U.S. Merchants (Report, PDF)](https://nca.org/2026%20Crypto%20Merchant%20Report.pdf?v=2): January 2026. How U.S. businesses are taking crypto at checkout. With PayPal.
- [2026 Stablecoin Rewards Pulse: U.S. Consumers (Pulse, PDF)](https://nca.org/2026%20Stablecoin%20Rewards%20Pulse.pdf): January 2026. What Americans think about earning rewards on stablecoins.
- [2025 Crypto Holiday Report: U.S. Consumers (Report, PDF)](https://nca.org/2025%20Crypto%20Holiday%20Report.pdf): November 2025. How Americans give and spend crypto over the holidays. With PayPal.
- [2025 Crypto Policy Pulse: U.S. Consumers (Pulse, PDF)](https://nca.org/2025%20Crypto%20Policy%20Pulse.pdf): August 2025. A survey of 2,000 Americans - what crypto issues they care most about, opportunities for U.S. lawmakers, and mandates for shaping crypto policy.
- [2025 Crypto Confidence Pulse: U.S. Non-Crypto Holders (Pulse, PDF)](https://nca.org/2025%20Crypto%20Confidence%20Pulse.pdf): July 2025. What holds back Americans who don’t own crypto, and where they would learn.
- [2025 State of Crypto Holders Report: U.S. Crypto Holders (Report, PDF)](https://nca.org/2025%20State%20of%20Crypto%20Holders%20Report.pdf): March 2025. Our first study of U.S. holders: who owns crypto and why they bought it.
- [State of Crypto Holders Report: Crypto Gains Momentum](https://nca.org/2026-crypto-holders-report/intro): In a single year, 12 million more Americans became crypto holders. That is roughly the combined population of New York City and Los Angeles.
- [State of Crypto Holders Report: The Changing Face of Crypto](https://nca.org/2026-crypto-holders-report/the-changing-face-of-crypto): The people driving crypto's growth look a lot like the country itself.
- [State of Crypto Holders Report: Interest, Trust, and Intent](https://nca.org/2026-crypto-holders-report/interest-trust-and-intent): Interest, Trust, and Purchase Intent in 2026. From curiosity to confidence.
- [State of Crypto Holders Report: How People are Using Crypto](https://nca.org/2026-crypto-holders-report/how-people-are-using-crypto): Millions of Americans have moved from only owning crypto to actually using it in their lives.
- [State of Crypto Holders Report: Benefits](https://nca.org/2026-crypto-holders-report/benefits): When asked to evaluate the benefits of owning crypto, financial independence came first, chosen by nearly three out of five holders (54%), up from 49% last year. Ranking higher than investment gains, learning, and community.
- [State of Crypto Holders Report: Barriers](https://nca.org/2026-crypto-holders-report/barriers): Crypto’s growth has not come without friction. Understanding what slows adoption is as important as tracking what drives it.
- [State of Crypto Holders Report: Looking Ahead](https://nca.org/2026-crypto-holders-report/looking-ahead): What to look forward to in 2026. The data throughout this report has shown where crypto is today. The intention data shows where it is heading tomorrow and beyond.
- [Research](https://nca.org/resources): All NCA research reports, data, charts and frequently asked questions about crypto in America.
- [Economic Impact Map](https://nca.org/maps/2026-economic-impact-map): The crypto industry supports nearly 232,000 American jobs and $55.4 billion in economic impact, by state.
- [Where Crypto Holders Live](https://nca.org/resources/map): Interactive map of crypto holders across the United States.

## Learn

- [Learn](https://nca.org/learn): Educational resources and insights about cryptocurrency, blockchain technology and digital assets.
- [Glossary](https://nca.org/glossary): Definitions of common crypto terms.
- [Articles](https://nca.org/articles): All NCA articles and videos about cryptocurrency.
- [Course: Crypto 101](https://nca.org/courses/crypto-101): Start your crypto journey with Crypto 101, the official free course from the National Cryptocurrency Association. Learn what crypto is, why it matters, and how to get started today!
- [Crypto 101: full lesson text](https://nca.org/courses/crypto-101/llms.txt)
- [Crypto 101, lesson 1: Why Crypto Matters](https://nca.org/courses/crypto-101/why-crypto-matters)
- [Crypto 101, lesson 2: Crypto Explained](https://nca.org/courses/crypto-101/crypto-explained)
- [Crypto 101, lesson 3: How to Use Crypto](https://nca.org/courses/crypto-101/how-to-use-crypto)
- [Crypto 101, lesson 4: Blockchains: What, Why and How](https://nca.org/courses/crypto-101/blockchains-what-why-and-how)
- [Crypto 101, lesson 5: Getting Started](https://nca.org/courses/crypto-101/getting-started-with-crypto)
- [Crypto 101, lesson 6: Three Rules for Staying Safe](https://nca.org/courses/crypto-101/three-rules-for-staying-safe)
- [Crypto 101, lesson 7: Navigating Crypto's Ups and Downs](https://nca.org/courses/crypto-101/navigating-cryptos-ups-and-downs)
- [Crypto 101, lesson 8: The Language of Crypto](https://nca.org/courses/crypto-101/the-language-of-crypto)
- [Crypto 101, lesson 9: Crypto Goes Pro](https://nca.org/courses/crypto-101/crypto-goes-pro)
- [Crypto 101, lesson 10: Where Next?](https://nca.org/courses/crypto-101/where-next)

## Articles

- [What is the GENIUS Act?](https://nca.org/article/genius-act-stablecoins): The first federal law for stablecoins, explained in plain English.
- [The SEC’s Regulation Crypto Assets Proposal: What NCA Shared](https://nca.org/article/sec-regulation-crypto-assets): What did the SEC propose under Regulation Crypto Assets?
- [Crypto at the Bank](https://nca.org/article/crypto-at-the-bank): How traditional finance and digital assets are moving closer together.
- [The U.S. Treasury’s GENIUS Act Stablecoin Rules: What NCA Shared](https://nca.org/article/genius-act): What did the U.S. Treasury propose under the GENIUS Act?
- [33 Million More Americans Are Likely to Try Crypto This Year](https://nca.org/article/non-crypto-holder-report): What non-holders really think about crypto
- [Coaching Financial Freedom Through Crypto](https://nca.org/article/ansylla): Meet Ansylla, Crypto Confidence Coach
- [Crypto: Another Tool In The Box](https://nca.org/article/clayton): Meet Clayton, Master Plumber & Small Business Owner
- [Crypto Confidence Stems From Education](https://nca.org/article/victoria): Meet Victoria, Global Supply Chain Manager
- [What is the Clarity Act?](https://nca.org/article/clarity-act)
- [Crypto’s Impact on the American Job Market](https://nca.org/article/crypto-jobs-report): New research measures the industry's contribution to jobs, wages, and economic output across the country.
- [Prediction Markets, Explained](https://nca.org/article/prediction-markets-explained): What they are and how they work, explained simply
- [What to Know About Online Scams, Fraud, and Illicit Finance](https://nca.org/article/scams-fraud-illicit-finance): Understanding the difference helps you stay protected
- [Inside NCA’s First Year](https://nca.org/article/inside-nca-first-year): How a year of listening reshaped what we know about crypto in America
- [What the 2026 State of Crypto Holders Report Reveals](https://nca.org/article/crypto-holders-report-2026): 67 million Americans now hold crypto. Here is what they are doing with it.
- [Starting Your Crypto Journey with Curiosity](https://nca.org/article/kristina): Meet Kristina, Photographer & Educator
- [How to Verify What’s Happening On-Chain](https://nca.org/article/verifying-on-chain): A simple guide to checking, understanding, and verifying your crypto transactions.
- [5 Major Crypto Networks and The Roles They Each Play](https://nca.org/article/crypto-networks-5): Not all crypto is built for the same job. Here’s what sets these five apart.
- [From Fear to Familiar: How new technologies earn trust over time](https://nca.org/article/fear-to-familiar)
- [Crypto Payments: Merchant Adoption Report](https://nca.org/article/merchant-adoption-report): How U.S. merchants and shoppers are opting for crypto at checkout.
- [Layer 1 vs. Layer 2: A Simple Guide](https://nca.org/article/layer-1-layer-2): Understanding how blockchains evolve for efficient speed, cost, and usability
- [On-Ramps and Off-Ramps 101](https://nca.org/article/on-and-off-ramps): Getting your money in and out of crypto
- [Tokenization 101](https://nca.org/article/tokenization-101): Turning Real-World Value Into Digital Ownership
- [Staking 101](https://nca.org/article/staking-101): How Proof-of-Stake Lets You Earn While Supporting the Network
- [Miners & Validators 101](https://nca.org/article/miners-and-validators): How blockchains stay secure and how you can participate
- [Building On-Chain 101](https://nca.org/article/building-blockchain-easya): In Partnership With EasyA
- [Securities and treasuries](https://nca.org/article/securities-treasuries): Understanding securities and treasuries without the jargon.
- [Smart contracts](https://nca.org/article/smart-contracts): Self-executing code that runs “if this, then that” on the blockchain
- [Crypto donations: Giving that goes further](https://nca.org/article/crypto-donations): How digital assets are helping donations move faster
- [Crypto is on the gift list this holiday season](https://nca.org/article/crypto-gifting-for-holidays): A look at the evolving role of digital assets for holiday gifting and shopping.
- [Retail crypto adoption is gaining momentum](https://nca.org/article/retail-crypto-adoption): How major brands are making crypto payments feel familiar and fast
- [Crypto in America: Policy Pulse](https://nca.org/article/policy-pulse): Here’s how people really feel about the Trump administration’s latest directives on crypto regulation.
- [Crypto taxes 101](https://nca.org/article/crypto-taxes-101): Plan now, breathe easier in April.
- [ETFs 101](https://nca.org/article/etfs-101): A guide to “basket investing” and where crypto fits in.
- [Crypto momentum across the U.S.](https://nca.org/article/crypto-momentum): Real progress is happening at the state level.
- [Tokenizing real estate](https://nca.org/article/tokenization-of-real-estate): How crypto turns properties into digital shares.
- [Using blockchain to track beef from ranch to table](https://nca.org/article/blockchain-beef): How a digital ledger brings new transparency to the cattle industry.
- [Everyday crypto security](https://nca.org/article/crypto-security): Practical steps to keep your digital assets safe.
- [The ABCs of NFTs](https://nca.org/article/nfts): A clear guide to non-fungible digital ownership.
- [Memecoins explained](https://nca.org/article/memecoins): Coins born from viral culture and online communities.
- [What non-holders really think about crypto](https://nca.org/article/non-crypto-holders): A look at their perception, hesitation, and why it matters.
- [Stablecoin 101](https://nca.org/article/stablecoin-101): The steady-value tokens that bridge cash and crypto.
- [Faster payments, fewer fees](https://nca.org/article/accept-payments): Crypto makes payments quick, easy & direct.
- [All about crypto wallets](https://nca.org/article/crypto-wallets): Hot wallets, cold wallets, and how to keep your crypto secure.
- [What you can actually do with crypto](https://nca.org/article/what-can-you-do-with-crypto): How crypto is being used for payments, shopping, investing, and more.
- [Crypto without the jargon](https://nca.org/article/crypto-jargon): A simple breakdown of the crypto terms you need to know.
- [Getting started with crypto](https://nca.org/article/getting-started): A step-by-step guide to setting up, buying, and storing crypto safely.
- [Staying safe and avoiding scams](https://nca.org/article/staying-safe): What to watch out for, and how to stay one step ahead of bad actors.
- [What is crypto?](https://nca.org/article/what-is-crypto): An introduction to digital currencies, blockchain, and why they matter.
- [Common myths about crypto](https://nca.org/article/crypto-myths): Separating fact from fiction and explaining crypto’s real-world potential.
- [Manage your money](https://nca.org/article/money-management): More ways to spend, save, and send.
- [A simpler way to send money](https://nca.org/article/making-crypto-payments): Send money instantly, with lower fees, to anyone, anywhere.
- [A new way to game](https://nca.org/article/gaming): A deeper, more immersive way to play.

## Stories

- [Stories](https://nca.org/stories): Real Americans on how crypto fits into their lives and work.
- [Crypto’s Untold Story](https://nca.org/cryptosuntoldstory): Everyday Americans, from small business owners to tradespeople, on how crypto helps them.
- [](https://nca.org/stories/ansylla): “I never realized that this could be an option for me.” (Ansylla, Educator)
- [](https://nca.org/stories/clayton): “Crypto allows us to have a tool for payment.” (Clayton, Small Business Owner, George Plumbing)
- [](https://nca.org/stories/victoria): “There are so many possibilities available with crypto.” (Victoria, Supply Chain Manager)
- [](https://nca.org/stories/kristina): “Crypto allows freedom of financial movement.” (Kristina, Photographer)
- [](https://nca.org/stories/karin): “Crypto gave me a way to rebuild.” (Karin, Trader)
- [](https://nca.org/stories/brandon): “I can go anywhere I want and have the sovereignty to spend how I choose.” (Brandon, Realtor)
- [](https://nca.org/stories/chrissi): “Everybody has access.” (Chrissi, Consultant)
- [](https://nca.org/stories/jake): “Crypto gives me more autonomy over my own life and my finances.” (Jake, Contractor)
- [](https://nca.org/stories/rob-and-mark): “Blockchain and crypto are transforming the way cattle are traded.” (Rob & Mark, Cattle Farmers)
- [](https://nca.org/stories/jen-and-jason): “You don’t have to understand it all in order to benefit from it.” (Jen & Jason, Parents)
- [](https://nca.org/stories/jouell): “Crypto became a bridge for me to connect to communities.” (Jouell, Educator)
- [](https://nca.org/stories/tina): “Crypto brings a whole new dimension to gaming.” (Tina, Gamer)
- [](https://nca.org/stories/autumn): “When most of us have access, we'll see a lot of new ways of doing things.” (Autumn, Artist)
- [](https://nca.org/stories/hunter): “Given the option, half the people who work for me choose to be paid in crypto.” (Hunter, Content Creator)
- [](https://nca.org/stories/max): “Crypto connects younger donors with causes that truly matter.” (Max, Movember Community Manager)

## Podcast

- [Crypto Explained Podcast](https://nca.org/podcast): Crypto Explained by the National Cryptocurrency Association. Every episode streams on this page.
- [Episode 53: Crypto Custody Explained for Beginners](https://nca.org/podcast): 2026-10-28, 11 min
- [Episode 52: The State That Issued Its Own Digital Dollar](https://nca.org/podcast): 2026-10-21, 39 min
- [Episode 51: You Don’t Need a Lot of Money to Start](https://nca.org/podcast): 2026-10-14, 38 min
- [Episode 50: How to Start Learning Crypto From Zero](https://nca.org/podcast): 2026-10-07, 38 min
- [Episode 49: Most People First Meet Crypto Through Media](https://nca.org/podcast): 2026-09-30, 34 min
- [Episode 48: Companies Are Building the Rails for AI Payments, Part 2](https://nca.org/podcast): 2026-09-23, 9 min
- [Episode 47: The Clarity Act Did Not Get the Votes It Needed](https://nca.org/podcast): 2026-09-16, 3 min
- [Episode 46: Crypto and AI Are Using Each Other, Not Merging, Part 1](https://nca.org/podcast): 2026-09-09, 8 min
- [Episode 45: Crypto in the Real World](https://nca.org/podcast): 2026-09-02, 36 min
- [Episode 43: Why Wealth and Income Are Not the Same Thing](https://nca.org/podcast): 2026-08-19, 54 min
- [Episode 42: The Crypto Course With Nothing to Sell You](https://nca.org/podcast): 2026-08-12, 45 min
- [Episode 41: Crypto’s Impact on the Job Market and Economy](https://nca.org/podcast): 2026-08-05, 34 min
- [Episode 40: Crypto Security Explained](https://nca.org/podcast): 2026-07-29, 7 min
- [Episode 39: 5 Things You Need To Know About Stablecoins](https://nca.org/podcast): 2026-07-22, 14 min
- [Episode 38: 7 Things Nobody Tells You About Prediction Markets](https://nca.org/podcast): 2026-07-15, 16 min
- [Episode 37: Real Estate Tokenization Explained with Brandon Frans](https://nca.org/podcast): 2026-07-08, 46 min
- [Episode 36: Memecoins: Fact vs. Fiction](https://nca.org/podcast): 2026-07-01, 13 min
- [Episode 35: Making Sense of Crypto Finance Terms](https://nca.org/podcast): 2026-06-24, 7 min
- [Episode 34: A New Way to Access Crypto: Digital Asset Treasuries with Asheesh Birla](https://nca.org/podcast): 2026-06-17, 49 min
- [Episode 33: Crypto Policy Explained: What You Need to Know with Zunera Mazhar](https://nca.org/podcast): 2026-06-10, 53 min
- [Episode 32: Decoding the 5 Most Common Crypto Assets](https://nca.org/podcast): 2026-06-04, 9 min
- [Episode 31: The Surprising Way Ranchers Are Using Blockchain](https://nca.org/podcast): 2026-05-27, 55 min
- [Episode 30: Crypto Safety Explained: What the FBI Wants You to Know](https://nca.org/podcast): 2026-05-20, 60 min
- [Episode 29: Who Uses Crypto, Really? with Stu Alderoty](https://nca.org/podcast): 2026-05-13, 50 min
- [Episode 28: Behind Every Transaction: How Crypto Really Works](https://nca.org/podcast): 2026-05-06, 8 min
- [Episode 27: The Latest In Crypto: Breaking Down Recent Headlines](https://nca.org/podcast): 2026-04-29, 17 min
- [Episode 26: Inside the NCA: How Crypto, Explained Was Built with Ant Lillingston | VP of Marketing, NCA](https://nca.org/podcast): 2026-04-22, 43 min
- [Episode 25: The 5 Biggest Cryptocurrencies Explained](https://nca.org/podcast): 2026-04-15, 11 min
- [Episode 24: The Next Wave of Crypto Participation with PayPal + Karin | SXSW Panel](https://nca.org/podcast): 2026-04-08, 29 min
- [Episode 23: Reacting to Crypto Hot Takes](https://nca.org/podcast): 2026-04-01, 13 min
- [Episode 22: 5 Easy Ways to Start with Crypto with Stu Alderoty](https://nca.org/podcast): 2026-03-24, 45 min
- [Episode 21: Crypto, Explained: Taxes with Trisha Turner](https://nca.org/podcast): 2026-03-18, 43 min
- [Episode 20: Stablecoins in the Headlines: What the Latest News Actually Means](https://nca.org/podcast): 2026-03-12, 14 min
- [Episode 19: Crypto ETFs, Explained: Bridging Wall Street and Crypto](https://nca.org/podcast): 2026-03-04, 15 min
- [Episode 18: Stablecoins 101: The Digital Dollars Quietly Reshaping the Financial System](https://nca.org/podcast): 2026-02-25, 47 min
- [Episode 17: Crypto Curious vs Crypto Skeptical: How Couples Find Common Ground](https://nca.org/podcast): 2026-02-18, 43 min
- [Episode 16: Building on Blockchain with Dom & Phil Kwok, EasyA](https://nca.org/podcast): 2026-02-11, 55 min
- [Episode 15: Crypto Donations Explained: How Giving Really Works](https://nca.org/podcast): 2026-02-04, 42 min
- [Episode 14: Memecoins Explained: Hype, Risk, and How to Try Them Safely](https://nca.org/podcast): 2026-01-28, 21 min
- [Episode 13: NFTs Explained: 7 Questions You Need Answered](https://nca.org/podcast): 2026-01-21, 18 min
- [Episode 12: Crypto Smart Contracts Explained: 4 Essentials You Need to Know](https://nca.org/podcast): 2026-01-14, 18 min
- [Episode 11: 8 Simple Steps to Keep Your Crypto Secure](https://nca.org/podcast): 2026-01-07, 10 min
- [Episode 10: Gaining Financial Freedom With Karin](https://nca.org/podcast): 2025-12-31, 39 min
- [Episode 9: How Crypto Changes Value Movement](https://nca.org/podcast): 2025-12-24, 33 min
- [Episode 8: Decoding Crypto Jargon with the NCA Team](https://nca.org/podcast): 2025-12-17, 36 min
- [Episode 7: Crypto Scams and How to Easily Avoid Them](https://nca.org/podcast): 2025-12-10, 15 min
- [Episode 6: Making Crypto Make Sense with Natalie Rix](https://nca.org/podcast): 2025-12-03, 50 min
- [Episode 5: Listener Q&A: What Gives Crypto Value](https://nca.org/podcast): 2025-11-26, 17 min
- [Episode 4: Crypto Wallets Explained](https://nca.org/podcast): 2025-11-19, 19 min
- [Episode 3: The Biggest Crypto Myths Busted](https://nca.org/podcast): 2025-11-12, 43 min
- [Episode 2: 7 Things You Need to Know About Blockchain](https://nca.org/podcast): 2025-11-05, 25 min
- [Episode 1: What is Crypto, Really?](https://nca.org/podcast): 2025-11-05, 37 min

## About and contact

- [About Us](https://nca.org/about): The National Cryptocurrency Association (NCA) and its mission to help Americans make sense of crypto.
- [Media Inquiries](https://nca.org/media-inquiries): Press contact form for the NCA PR team. Email: media@nca.org.
- [Partner With Us](https://nca.org/partners/inquiry): Form for organizations that want to partner with the NCA.
- [Sign Up](https://nca.org/signup): Sign up to join the NCA.

## Optional

- [Full text](https://nca.org/llms-full.txt): This index plus the full text of every article and story, and answers to common questions about NCA research.
- [Sitemap](https://nca.org/sitemap.xml): Every public URL on nca.org.
- [Privacy Policy](https://nca.org/privacy-policy)
- [Terms of Service](https://nca.org/terms)
- [Terms and Conditions](https://nca.org/terms-and-conditions)

## Common questions about NCA research

### How many Americans own crypto?

About 67 million American adults, roughly one in four, own crypto, according to the 2026 State of Crypto Holders Report. That is up about 12 million in a year. The report is based on a Harris Poll survey of 10,000 U.S. crypto holders, fielded February 12 to March 3, 2026.

### What do Americans who don’t own crypto think about it?

59% of Americans who don’t own crypto say they are open to it, and 48% say not understanding it is what holds them back. Source: the 2026 Crypto Readiness Report, a Harris Poll survey of 2,014 U.S. non-holders fielded June 24 to July 1, 2026.

### Do Americans want their bank to offer crypto?

42% of U.S. adults say they would be more likely to open an account with a bank that offers crypto, or use it for more of their financial needs. 64% say their bank, credit union or advisor has never raised crypto with them, and 60% expect most U.S. banks to offer crypto within ten years. Source: Crypto at the Bank 2026, a Harris Poll survey of 2,017 U.S. adults fielded September 15 to 16, 2026.

### How many U.S. jobs does the crypto industry support?

The crypto industry supports about 232,000 U.S. jobs, with average pay of $133,000, more than double the $64,000 national median. California has the most crypto jobs. Source: Crypto at Work (July 2026), independent analysis by Pragmatic Policy Group.

### How many U.S. merchants accept crypto?

39% of U.S. merchants surveyed already accept crypto, and 84% expect it to be common within five years. Source: the 2026 Crypto Merchant Report with PayPal, a Harris Poll survey of 619 payment decision makers fielded October 21 to 27, 2025.

### Who conducts NCA’s research?

NCA’s surveys are conducted online in the United States by The Harris Poll on behalf of the National Cryptocurrency Association. Crypto at Work is independent analysis by Pragmatic Policy Group. More than 30,000 Americans have been surveyed since 2025.

### Can I cite or republish NCA research?

Yes. All NCA research is free to read, cite and share. Credit the National Cryptocurrency Association and name the report. For interviews or data requests, email media@nca.org.

## What is the GENIUS Act?

URL: https://nca.org/article/genius-act-stablecoins
Published: 2026-10-21

The first federal law for stablecoins, explained in plain English.

The GENIUS Act is the first U.S. federal law for stablecoins, digital assets designed to hold a steady value, usually $1. Signed in July 2025 with bipartisan support, it sets clear rules for who can issue stablecoins and what must back them. The full framework takes effect by January 2027, and regulators like the U.S. Treasury are finalizing the details now. Read NCA’s recent comments to the Treasury.

Clear rules matter to the 67 million Americans who hold crypto, many of whom use stablecoins to send money, pay for things, and hold dollars digitally. In NCA’s 2026 State of Crypto Holders report, nearly half of holders (49%) said greater transparency from crypto companies would further build their trust, while 39% pointed to government oversight and regulatory clarity as a trust driver. The GENIUS Act addresses both.

Under the law, issuers must hold one dollar, or another liquid asset like a short-term U.S. Treasury bill, for every stablecoin they issue. Think of a coat check: every ticket matches one coat, and the coat generally can’t be lent out while you’re away. To prove it, issuers must post a report on their website every month showing how many coins are in circulation and exactly what backs them. A registered public accounting firm examines each report, and the company’s CEO and CFO must certify to their regulator that it’s accurate. Issuers also need a license, are supervised much like banks, and must follow the same rules banks use to keep criminals out of the financial system.

For consumers and businesses, that means clearer protections. Issuers must publish how you can redeem your coins for dollars, and if an issuer were to ever fail, holders would get first claim on the money backing their coins. Issuers can’t pay interest just for holding a stablecoin or claim it’s FDIC-insured. By mid-2028, U.S. platforms will only be able to offer stablecoins from approved issuers.

Is the GENIUS Act the same as the Clarity Act?

No. The GENIUS Act is already law and covers stablecoins only. The Clarity Act is a separate bill Congress was reviewing that would have set rules for the broader crypto market, including exchanges and how other digital assets are classified, however it stalled in the Senate in September 2026.

## The SEC’s Regulation Crypto Assets Proposal: What NCA Shared

URL: https://nca.org/article/sec-regulation-crypto-assets
Published: 2026-10-20

What did the SEC propose under Regulation Crypto Assets?

October 20, 2026

Today, the National Cryptocurrency Association (NCA) submitted comments to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, the federal agency that oversees securities markets and protects investors, on its proposed Regulation Crypto Assets, backed by new research on what crypto holders want from new token offerings.

What the SEC proposed

The SEC’s proposal would create new ways for crypto projects to raise money without full SEC registration:

A startup path: up to $5 million over up to four years, with plain-language disclosures.

A fundraising path: up to $20 million a year (Tier 1) or $75 million a year (Tier 2), with SEC review, financial statements, and ongoing reporting.

A safe harbor: a defined process for when a token is no longer treated as part of an investment contract.

The SEC invited public comment, with a focus on data about investors, market size, and economic impact.

What our research found

To bring everyday holders into the process, NCA commissioned a Harris Poll survey of more than 1,000 U.S. crypto holders and an economic analysis by Pragmatic Policy Group. Key findings include:

Half of new-offering participants reported losing money in the past 12 months to hacks, abandoned projects, or fraud, with much of this activity happening through unfiled sales and offshore structures.

Fewer than half (48%) feel confident that the information available today is enough to make informed decisions.

80% of holders say standardized information about new offerings would help them make more informed decisions and an near equal percentage say clear SEC rules would increase their confidence.

What NCA shared

NCA’s comments focus on helping everyday investors stay informed and protected:

Plain-language disclosures that lead with the risks investors care about most, like fraud and security.

Information where buyers actually look, in addition to SEC filings.

Fair access for everyday investors to new token offerings that come with disclosure and protections, plus clear ways to reach issuers if something goes wrong.

Prompt updates when security incidents or other major changes affect a project.

NCA also encouraged the SEC to use its research in the final economic analysis and welcomed the opportunity to discuss it further

Read the full letter below.

## Crypto at the Bank

URL: https://nca.org/article/crypto-at-the-bank
Published: 2026-10-21

How traditional finance and digital assets are moving closer together.

Crypto at the Bank 

How traditional finance and digital assets are moving closer together.

Think about the place where your paycheck lands and where you pay your bills from. For a growing number of Americans, that’s also where they’d like to find crypto.

That’s one of the clearest findings from NCA’s 2026 Crypto at the Bank Report. Together with The Harris Poll, we surveyed 2,017 U.S. adults in September about how they think about crypto at their bank, credit union, or financial advisor. The answers show banks and crypto moving closer together, with customers often a step ahead of the institutions they use.

Who wants banks to offer crypto?

If your bank offered crypto, would that change anything for you? 42% of Americans, about 112 million people, say crypto access would make them more likely to open an account with a bank and/or use the bank for more services. Those who’d be more likely to open an account outnumber those who’d be less likely by roughly two to one.

Interest runs even higher in some groups. Parents of kids under 18 lead at 62%, nearly twice the rate of adults without kids under 18 (33%), followed by adults ages 35 to 44 (58%), Hispanic adults (57%), Black adults (56%), and adults 18 to 34 (54%). 

For many of these households, a bank that offers crypto would put crypto in the same place as their checking and savings.

Where do they want to buy crypto?

Ask Americans where they’d most prefer to buy crypto today, and a crypto exchange or app is the top choice at 19%. Banks and credit unions are close behind at 14%, and once brokerage and retirement accounts are added, 28% would prefer to buy through the kinds of financial institutions many people already use. 

Interest also goes beyond buying. When asked what they’d like to access from their primary bank, Americans point to crypto ETFs or funds (22%), buying and holding crypto (22%), and digital versions of stocks, bonds, or real estate (19%). Some people are already planning the move. Within the next three years, 17% of Americans plan to move crypto into a bank, credit union, or brokerage, including 29% of adults 18 to 34.

Whose advice do they trust on crypto? 

When people have questions about crypto, they want answers from someone they already know. That’s why financial advisors rank first as a source of reliable crypto guidance at 67%, followed closely by banks and credit unions at 64%. Crypto education organizations like NCA and crypto exchanges follow right behind at 63% each, while social media and online communities rank last at 39%.

That trust goes beyond advice. About 156 million, or 59%, say they would be comfortable with their primary bank holding their crypto for them. That number rises to 75% among parents of kids under 18. 

For many people, crypto feels more approachable when it sits alongside the accounts they already use every day. That’s a lot of trust to place in institutions that, for most customers, haven’t raised the subject yet.

Who is - or is not - starting the conversation?

For all that interest, most Americans haven’t heard about crypto from their bank. Nearly two-thirds of Americans (64%), about 168 million people, say no one at their bank, credit union, or advisor’s office has ever brought it up, and 43% don’t know whether their bank offers crypto at all. 

But when the topic does come up, banks and advisors are about four times as likely to recommend crypto as to advise against it (52% vs. 12%).

Those conversations also tend to happen more with younger customers, which may reflect an assumption that older adults aren’t interested. But NCA’s 2026 State of Crypto Holders Report found that among people who first bought crypto in 2025 or 2026, more are 55 and older (28%) than 18 to 24 (18%).

Looking ahead, 60% of Americans expect most U.S. banks to offer crypto within 10 years, and that rises to 74% when hearing from adults 18 to 34. So the next time you’re talking with your bank or advisor, you may want to start the crypto conversation, especially if they aren’t. 

Read the full 2026 Crypto at the Bank Report for the complete findings, and if you’re working through your own crypto questions, explore our free learning resources that cover the basics so you can learn at your own pace.

Key takeaways

About 112 million Americans (42%) say a bank offering crypto would make them more likely to open an account there or use it for more of their financial needs. Americans rank financial advisors (67%) and banks or credit unions (64%) among the most credible sources of crypto guidance, and 59% would be comfortable with their bank holding their crypto. Even so, 64% say no one at their bank, credit union, or advisor’s office has ever brought crypto up with them…yet.

## The U.S. Treasury’s GENIUS Act Stablecoin Rules: What NCA Shared

URL: https://nca.org/article/genius-act
Published: 2026-10-19

What did the U.S. Treasury propose under the GENIUS Act?

October 19, 2026 

Today, the National Cryptocurrency Association (NCA) submitted comments to the U.S. Department of the Treasury, the federal agency that manages the nation’s finances and helps shape financial policy, on its proposed rules for payment stablecoins under the GENIUS Act, sharing data and real examples about how everyday Americans use stablecoins and what they need from the final rule.

What Treasury proposed

The GENIUS Act, signed into law in 2025, created the first federal framework for payment stablecoins, which are digital assets designed to hold a steady value, usually tied to the U.S. dollar. The Treasury is now writing the rules that will put some of the law into practice, including who can issue, offer, and sell payment stablecoins in the U.S. As part of that process, the Treasury invited public comment to help inform their rulemaking.

Why it matters

More than 67 million Americans hold crypto, and 87% don’t just own it, they use it, including to send money to family (41%) and to shop and pay (40%). Stablecoins are a big part of that everyday use, and 71% of holders say U.S. leadership in stablecoin innovation is important. How these rules are written will shape which stablecoins Americans can use, and how.

What NCA shared

NCA works to protect the best interest of all 67 million Americans who hold crypto, along with the 33 million more who are likely to buy this year, and the tens of millions of others who may be curious. NCA’s comments focus on the areas that most directly affect everyday holders:

A clear path for holders. A defined window to redeem, sell, or convert a stablecoin if its legal status changes, with clear notice before a change takes effect.

Recovering stolen funds. Making sure stolen or mistakenly sent stablecoins can be returned to victims under a lawful order.

Protections for self-custody. Confirming that peer-to-peer transfers and self-custody wallets stay outside the rule, so wallet software that lets people hold and send their own stablecoins, without holding their funds, isn’t treated as offering or selling them.

NCA also shared consumer data to help inform the Treasury’s rulemaking, and you can explore NCA’s free educational resources to learn more about stablecoins.

Read the full letter below.

## 33 Million More Americans Are Likely to Try Crypto This Year

URL: https://nca.org/article/non-crypto-holder-report
Published: 2026-10-06

What non-holders really think about crypto

The NCA, along with The Harris Poll, asked more than 2,000 people who don't currently own crypto what's holding them back, including questions about their interests, concerns, and what would make them more comfortable exploring crypto.

While we heard from skeptics, most non-holders indicated they were open to crypto, and many said they were likely to buy before the end of the year. In fact, more than 33 million U.S. adults who don't hold crypto today are likely to buy in 2026.

More broadly, six in 10 non-holders, an estimated 114 million Americans, are open to crypto in some form, whether they're actively interested, curious, skeptical but open-minded, or waiting for the right moment.

And when we asked what they would do if someone gave them $1,000 in crypto today, only 12% said they would refuse it outright.

This new research breaks down who the next wave of holders are, what's been keeping them on the sidelines, and what could move them forward.

Future crypto holders will be even more diverse

Crypto holders are already diverse and far from the “bro” stereotypes we’ve heard about:

One third of crypto holders are women

Nearly half of crypto holders are from communities of color

More crypto holders are over 55 years old than under 25

When looking at non-holders who plan to buy crypto this year:

Women account for 43% of the 33 million likely buyers.

Hispanic (29%), Black (27%), and Asian (29%) non-holders are more than twice as likely to say they plan to buy crypto in 2026 as those who are white. People of color account for more than half (55%) of the 33 million likely buyers, an estimated 18.5 million potential new holders. They also report feeling more knowledgeable about buying crypto than they did a year ago, at 33% compared to 24% last year, ahead of the 26% average across all non-holders. 

Age matters less than most people assume. Adults 35 to 54 are just as likely to plan a purchase as 18- to 34-year-olds, both at 27%.

Non-holders see crypto as both an investment and an everyday purchasing asset. For many of them, crypto is a tool that they'd use like Venmo as much as an investment that they'd hold.

What is holding them back? 

For the second year in a row, uncertainty was found to be the biggest barrier to entry. Far more non-holders find crypto confusing, unstable, or unclear than the 13% who consider it a scam. When asked about why they don't own crypto, 48% of non-holders cited a lack of understanding, followed by concerns about security and fraud (43%). The absence of clear regulation ranked fifth as an important factor (27%).

Four in five non-holders (80%) believe that losing money with no way to recover it is more likely to happen in crypto than in traditional finance. That finding applies across different scenarios, such as fears of being hacked or irreversible transaction errors. The data suggests that risk perception, not distrust, is what's holding many non-holders back.

And the clearest pattern in the data is knowledge itself. Non-holders who consider themselves very knowledgeable about buying crypto are nearly four times as likely to plan a purchase as those who aren't knowledgeable at all (41% vs. 11%). 

What will change their minds? 

When asked directly about what would change their minds about crypto, non-holders gave clear answers:

Easier-to-understand education or information ranked first (26%), with better protections against fraud or scams coming in second (25%). Clearer government regulation matters, but trails both. These two answers indicate that people want to understand crypto and need to feel safe using it.

They also highlighted who they want to hear it from: More than one in three say they'd be more likely to buy if crypto were offered through a trusted institution, such as a bank, a retirement account, or a payment app.

Among non-holders with a financial advisor, more than three-quarters (76%) say that a recommendation from them would help them want to learn more, while 66% say it would help them want to buy. Yet more than half of non-holders with an advisor (61%) have never discussed crypto with their advisor.

And when asked what would build their confidence in engaging with crypto, they ranked guides from financial experts highest. When asked where they would turn to learn more, financial advisors tied at the top with organizations focused on crypto education, at 27% each.

The path forward starts with education. If you're new to crypto, NCA's Crypto 101 course is a good place to start at your own pace.

Key Takeaways

Non-holders are more open than opposed: 88% would accept crypto if given to them, and more than 33 million are likely to buy it themselves in 2026. The barrier holding back the rest is more about a knowledge gap, with non-holders ranking the need for clearer information above every factor holding them back.

The fastest route to adoption runs through the people and institutions Americans already know and use. One in three would be more likely to buy through a trusted financial institution, and two in three would be more likely to buy based on a financial advisor’s recommendation, though most haven’t had that advisor conversation yet. Crypto education organizations are another source non-holders say they’d turn to for information.

Explore the full findings in NCA's 2026 Crypto Readiness Report.

## Coaching Financial Freedom Through Crypto

URL: https://nca.org/article/ansylla
Published: 2026-09-25

Meet Ansylla, Crypto Confidence Coach

Ansylla has built the life she has always wanted: the flexibility to set her own schedule (nothing before 10 a.m., of course) and maintain just a few commitments, rather than busy days packed with back-to-back clients at the salon. 




This sense of ease and control over her day-to-day life was a long time coming. Before moving to North Carolina, she spent 17 years as a natural hair stylist, stressing over when her time would actually be her own. Some of her services ran 12 to 15 hours at a stretch, and between clients, she'd have to scarf down food to keep up with the pace of the environment. She felt like she was meant to do something else, like something was pulling at her. But she felt stuck with hair as all she knew, and the reality that the bills would keep coming.




She started thinking of new ways to work and make money, with a schedule that would work for her. Instead of putting in more hours at the salon chair, she started looking into crypto as a way to earn money on a timeline she could control. 




What crypto taught her




In the middle of one of her appointments, she suddenly experienced her first panic attack. This was a wake-up call, and she took it as her sign to close the salon and take a much-needed vacation.




When she got home, she was ready to explore crypto more seriously. Since investment was new to her, she went headfirst into learning. And the resources that exist today weren’t around back then, so she had to spend extra time tracking down answers on her own. For those starting today, check out our Learning Hub to help guide you through your learning journey - without any confusing hype or jargon.




Ansylla started to learn through her everyday life. With the market climbing, her investment gains from crypto covered new appliances, a new laptop, and even a vacation, proving that she could keep earning, even if she wasn’t behind a chair. 




The student becomes the coach




As she began to understand crypto, Ansylla noticed that some people were missing from the conversation. Older women, in particular, were overlooked. The communities that were supposed to welcome beginners talked over their heads instead, treating a simple question as something to be embarrassed about rather than answered.




Instead, she decided to become that answer herself. Ansylla started small, focusing on teaching her friends before expanding to educational webinars. And in 2019, she founded Crypto Confident Over 40. Now, her coaching clients span the globe - mostly seniors who also consider themselves non-techy. 




“There needs to be a space where someone can come in, ask the stupid questions, get the simple, jargon-free answer so that they can move on.”

– Ansylla, Crypto Confidence Coach




Protecting what people build




The work with her clients starts with getting organized, making sure newcomers have a handle on their holdings and recovery phrases. She has also become a trusted first call on scams - the person clients forward a too-good offer to evaluate before acting on it - and she teaches them to recognize the patterns so they can stay protected. 

Over time, her clients' questions have shifted toward family. What happens to their crypto when they're gone, and would their loved ones even know how to find it?. Crypto held directly belongs entirely to the holder, which means passing it on requires careful planning, because a beneficiary needs to know what exists and how to access it. 

When a longtime client facing a serious health diagnosis asked her to help him put that exact plan in place, the request became her current focus. She now helps clients prepare their crypto for the people they love, and she is exploring how digital assets can fit into trusts and estate planning so a family is never locked out of what a loved one built.

Key takeaways

Ansylla believes that everyone deserves access to financial opportunity, whatever their age, gender, or background. Crypto gave her the room to redefine what success looks like, and education is what turned her curiosity into confidence she could stand on. These days, she spends that confidence on the people the conversation usually skips, one jargon-free answer at a time. 

Her story is an open invitation to anyone the conversation has skipped. It's easy to start with the fundamentals in the Learning Hub, even if it's just ten minutes at a time. And once you start to hold crypto, she encourages everyone to write down what you have and make sure someone you love knows how to access it.

## Crypto: Another Tool In The Box

URL: https://nca.org/article/clayton
Published: 2026-09-25

Meet Clayton, Master Plumber & Small Business Owner

In San Antonio, Texas, Clayton runs George Plumbing Company, the business his grandfather built in 1947, which is approaching its 80th anniversary. 

Tradespeople spend their careers understanding the value of a specific tool and how to use it wisely. They take the time to size up whether the tool will accomplish the fix that they're aiming for and if it will earn a place in their toolbox. This is the same mentality that Clayton has about crypto. In his words, “What is a better way to control your financial future than to own the asset yourself?” 

Where curiosity started

He stumbled upon an online conversation about Bitcoin and the functionality of crypto. He isn't much of a tech guy, but he got the part that counted: that crypto is like a self-balancing system that nobody single-handedly controls. From there, he read and researched to get a firmer grasp of how to use crypto, which led him to his first purchase in January 2014. And he held on to that position for the next 12 years, with plans to continue holding.

For anyone looking to get the same footing he spent those months building, the NCA's Crypto 101 course covers the basics - no tech degree required.

Making the case at home

Getting a plumbing company that had been around since 1947 to hold crypto as a company asset, right there alongside the trucks and the equipment, took some convincing, but Clayton was confident. He started by helping his team understand the tool, comparing a blockchain to plumbing: the asset moves across it like water through pipes, and the blockchain itself serves as the underground infrastructure that makes it all run. It landed, and crypto was added to the company's balance sheet, where it has stayed for the better part of a decade.

That decision has paid off in a very practical way. Using its crypto as collateral, the company has been able to take out loans to purchase vehicles and reinvest in training without ever having to sell the position, which meant real room to grow what it could take on - and to put more back into the people who work there. Other small business owners like Jake have found similar flexibility in running things on their own terms.

"Crypto allows us to have a tool for payment. It allows us to grow our family business and also reinvest into our community and our employees." 

– Clayton, Master Plumber & Small Business Owner

Paying the plumber in crypto

The company also accepts crypto as payment for plumbing work, right alongside cash, checks, and cards. It sets the business apart from everyone else in town, and there is something fun about a shop founded in 1947 being the one that will take crypto for a water heater.

Key takeaways

Clayton's story shows crypto working as one tool inside a business that predates it by decades. He spent months learning how it worked before he ever bought any of it, and years holding it before it did much for the company. 

When it finally did, that value went back into the shop and into the people who work there, funding new vehicles and training along the way. The independence and ownership he sees in crypto are the same things the trade has always run on.

Small business owners curious about crypto do not need Clayton's conviction to borrow his approach. Learn how the tool works first. Start small. Then explore how it could work for your business.

## Crypto Confidence Stems From Education

URL: https://nca.org/article/victoria
Published: 2026-09-25

Meet Victoria, Global Supply Chain Manager

Victoria works in clinical trials, coordinating with teams that oversee data privacy and the regulations governing every step. Assessing potential risk is a core part of her job, and that experience comes in handy when she’s evaluating financial decisions, including crypto.




Starting the learning journey




When growing up in Brazil, Victoria saw her parents work tirelessly as missionaries. Since money was short after moving back to the United States, she started learning about financial security at a young age. Having gone through financial struggles, she thought to hold onto her money in other ways whenever possible, keeping it a lifelong interest of hers. As a kid, she imagined herself as a stockbroker when she was older, and ended up dealing in bank lending for a decade. This led her to talk about markets with her family for as long as she can remember. 




Her son grew up in those conversations, and took his first job with the goal of buying his first crypto with his own earnings. The two of them have been watching that investment grow for over a decade, and they continue to hold. He went on to study cybersecurity, and between his training and her eye for risk, they keep each other protected. 




Blockchains and supply chains

Blockchain fascinated Victoria long before crypto entered the picture. The security built into the technology piqued her interest so much that she almost went back to school to study it. After years of learning how trading worked, she made her first investment.

And her learning didn't stop at the purchase. 

Once she dug into how crypto works and the intricacies of trading, she started noticing the overlap with her own field, where secured contracts are the whole game. In her line of work, every step needs a record that all the teams involved can trust. Blockchain works similarly, keeping every transaction on a public shared ledger that cannot be altered. The philosophy she brings to her work, assessing potential risk, came with her, and crypto became another place to put it to use.

“I've sort of used that same philosophy in my own life. It's become part of my natural way to assess risk, whether it's at work, at home, or in my finances.”

— Victoria, Global Supply Chain Manager




Confidence built for the long haul




Having security to combat risk is what keeps Victoria’s attention on crypto. With blockchain, she can see when and where a transaction occurs. That type of security is hard to find. She believes that expanding the regulatory space in crypto would help people feel safer using crypto every day, and crypto is now part of her long-term financial plan.




Coming from a background of financial insecurity, she wants to leave her sons and her granddaughter with assets and the knowledge of how to use them.




Key takeaways

Victoria monitors risk for a living, and crypto has entered her life to meet the moment by providing stronger financial security. Her story shows that it's okay to not know where to start, and that confidence will grow over time.

It also shows that nobody has to take crypto on faith, hers included. Victoria gave it her trust after she did the homework, and that homework is open to anyone. Start yours with the fundamentals in the NCA's Learning Portal, ask the questions she would ask, and let your own answers decide what happens next.

## What is the Clarity Act?

URL: https://nca.org/article/clarity-act
Published: 2026-09-10

Update as of September 15, 2026: 

On September 15, 2026, the Senate fell short by 10 votes of the 60-vote threshold needed to advance the Clarity Act. Lawmakers remained divided on a few key issues. Ethics rules around government officials and their involvement in crypto. Illicit finance provisions. And how the bill treats software developers who build on blockchain networks. Without the Clarity Act, the United States still does not have a comprehensive federal framework for digital assets. The SEC (the primary securities regulator) and CFTC (the primary commodities regulator) will continue working to fill that gap through their own rulemaking.

Why the Congress needs to vote on crypto

There is a lot of discussion right now about the Clarity Act, a bill that would create the first ever federal written-into-law framework for cryptocurrency in the United States. After over a year of negotiations, on September 15, 2026 the Senate is set to begin voting on whether to advance the bill.

Across the country, 67 million Americans currently hold and use crypto - that’s one in four U.S. adults. With 12 million people coming on-chain in the past year alone, crypto has become part of everyday financial life, so the rules governing it matter to many.

Holders live in every state and congressional district, which means every Senator preparing for this vote represents constituents who hold crypto. Our interactive map shows exactly how many, district by district.

The economic impact of crypto is also larger than most people think. Our 2026 economic impact map shows crypto jobs and economic activity state by state, highlighting an industry woven into local economies well beyond the coasts. Clearer federal rules would give those businesses and those deciding whether to build in the U.S. a defined path for operating here. Almost seven in ten (69%) support strengthening American leadership in digital financial technology.

Crypto holders want clear rules

In our 2026 State of Crypto Holders report, nearly half (49%) of holders cited greater transparency from crypto companies, and 39% cited more government oversight and regulatory clarity as factors that would build their confidence in owning crypto. The Clarity Act could unlock the potential to address both of these interests. And among non-holders actively interested in buying crypto, a leading concern is that crypto lacks regulatory clarity (24%). 

The U.S. has several financial regulators, each overseeing a different part of the financial system. For the crypto industry, two of the most relevant are the:

Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), which oversees securities like stocks and bonds that come with promises and obligations from the issuer. 

Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), which oversees commodities, such as oil, gold, and wheat, that are traded on open markets. 

Crypto has never fit neatly into either lane. For over a decade, both agencies claimed authority over parts of the crypto market, sometimes over the same assets depending on how the asset was sold. In the past regulators have taken advantage of the ambiguity to keep the industry guessing which rules apply.

The Clarity Act is Congress's attempt to write clear rules for cryptocurrency. The House passed their own version of the bill in July 2025, and it has been under negotiation in the Senate since. 

What the Clarity Act proposes

The Clarity Act would establish clearer rules for digital assets in the United States, including how crypto tokens are classified, which government agency is in charge of overseeing them, and what requirements companies that issue or trade crypto must follow. Digital assets that are sold and traded as investment contracts would qualify as securities and would remain under the SEC's jurisdiction, while other digital commodities would fall under the CFTC's authority.

The bill would also strengthen consumer protections for people buying, selling and holding digital assets. 

The bill would also create a formal registration process for companies operating in the crypto space. Think of it like a license to operate: businesses that issue crypto tokens, run trading platforms, or execute trades would need to register with the appropriate government regulator and meet regulatory standards for transparency, custody, market integrity, anti-money laundering, etc. before they can do business. That includes:

Exchanges: Platforms where people buy and sell digital assets

Brokers: Companies that execute trades on behalf of customers

Dealers: Companies that buy and sell assets as part of their own business

Given crypto’s unique reliance on decentralized blockchains the bill would also distinguish  between developers, who merely write code for a crypto project, and a company that runs a platform and controls user funds. 

What happens on September 15

On September 15, the Senate is scheduled to hold a key preliminary vote on whether they will begin formal consideration of the Clarity Act. Think of it as a vote to begin formal debate. 

This vote requires 60 votes, so it needs bipartisan support (from both Republicans and Democrats). 

If it advances, the Senate would then debate the bill and it would then need a second vote to end the debate. That second vote also requires 60 votes. 

If all goes well the Senate would then need 51 votes to pass the bill and the House then has to vote on the exact same bill. 

Only after the Senate and House pass the same bill would it then go to the President to be signed into law.

What can the SEC and CFTC do if the Clarity Act does not pass in the Senate




Even without Clarity the SEC and the CFTC can issue rules and interpretations and that is exactly what they have been doing. For example, on March 17 the two agencies formally classified 16 tokens, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, XRP, Solana, as digital commodities. Two weeks ago the SEC proposed “Regulation Crypto Assets” proposing a framework for how new tokens can be offered to the marketplace. Also, the CFTC Chairman has said the agency will pursue its own market structure rulemaking if Clarity stalls. 




While this approach is more piecemeal than a comprehensive statutory framework, it is no less important.

Are the GENIUS Act and the Clarity Act the same?

In July 2025, the GENIUS Act became law, creating the first federal framework for stablecoins, digital tokens designed to hold a steady value, usually pegged one-for-one to the U.S. dollar.

The GENIUS Act governs stablecoins, including who issues them and how reserves are managed and maintained

The Clarity Act covers the broader universe of crypto assets, exchanges, and trading platforms, as well as other relevant topics to the crypto industry like anti-money laundering (AML)

The GENIUS Act wrote the rulebook for one specific type of crypto asset. The Clarity Act would set the rulebook for the broader market through which those assets move.

Key takeaways

The Clarity Act would create a comprehensive federal framework for crypto, drawing a clear line between the SEC and CFTC. Along with the GENIUS Act's stablecoin framework, it would complete the foundation of U.S. crypto rules. 

The Senate takes its first vote on September 15. The 67 million Americans who own and use crypto want Congress to act. 




Even if passage of Clarity fails, the SEC and the CFTC will continue to issue rules and interpretations when it comes to crypto.

## Crypto’s Impact on the American Job Market

URL: https://nca.org/article/crypto-jobs-report
Published: 2026-08-10

New research measures the industry's contribution to jobs, wages, and economic output across the country. 

Picture the crypto workforce, and you probably imagine engineers in a Silicon Valley office or maybe financial traders around Wall Street. Now add a bank teller, a healthcare worker, and a lawyer, because every crypto job supports six more across the economy. 

Crypto companies in the United States employ about 34,000 Americans - and including the money they spend and the wages their employees take home, that number grows to 232,000 jobs stretching from California to the Carolinas, contributing more than $55 billion to the U.S. economy in 2026, with $31 billion reaching workers as income. 

We partnered with Pragmatic Policy Group (PPG) to analyze crypto's impact on the U.S. workforce, and the resulting Crypto at Work report is the first to map the industry's full footprint in the American labor market. 

The study measured the crypto industry's contributions to employment, wages, and economic output nationwide, using the same widely established approach economists use to measure the footprint of established industries.

If you’ve ever been curious about what a career in crypto could look like, read on to learn more. 

Crypto Supports Jobs Across Industries and States

The 232,000 figure covers three kinds of work, and most of it sits outside crypto companies themselves:

Jobs at crypto companies, including firms like Coinbase and Ripple, account for 34,000 people hired directly, from software engineers to compliance and operations staff.

Jobs at their suppliers add another 75,000, at the businesses that crypto companies buy from, like cloud computing providers, law firms, and accountants.

Jobs supported by their spending add a further 123,000, sustained when everyone in that chain spends their paycheck on groceries, housing, restaurants, and healthcare.

That works out to roughly six additional American jobs for every job inside a crypto company. These include both new roles and existing ones that crypto activity supports, and they span far beyond tech, into customer service, insurance, healthcare, food service, trucking and logistics.

Crypto-supported work reaches every region of the country, from established coastal hubs to the heartland:

California: 57,600 jobs

New York: 53,800 jobs

Texas: 26,500 jobs

Washington: 15,100 jobs

North Carolina: 9,500 jobs

Colorado: 5,800 jobs

Heartland states: more than 17,000 jobs combined

Crypto Jobs Pay Above Average - and Add Billions to the Economy

Average pay across these jobs comes to $133,000, more than double the national median wage of $64,000. For comparison, the report puts average wages at $104,000 in the information sector, $76,000 in manufacturing, $54,000 in retail trade, and $49,000 in leisure and hospitality.

Those wages add up to $31 billion in worker income, which circulates back into local economies through spending on housing, groceries, and everyday services.

The industry's total contribution to the U.S. economy comes to $55 billion in 2026, and most of it lands in industries that have been around far longer than crypto has. Platforms where people trade and invest take the largest share at $9.7 billion, followed by banks and lenders at $5.3 billion. Housing accounts for $3 billion, likely reflecting spending by crypto-connected workers on rent and home purchases.

Crypto's Reach - Beyond the Crypto Industry

The jobs data tells one part of the story. The other is how broadly crypto has already spread into everyday life, with 67 million Americans already holding and using crypto today.

The workplace connection runs deeper than employment. Two in five merchants already accept crypto at checkout, and 37% of holders plan to send crypto to employees in the next year.

Large companies are moving in the same direction. Roughly 60% of Fortune 500 companies pursued a crypto or blockchain initiative in 2025, according to Coinbase's State of Crypto report. Our own merchant survey with PayPal found half of large enterprises already accepting crypto at checkout, and 84% of merchants expect crypto payments to become common within five years.

Key Takeaways

Crypto is not a niche industry operating outside the American economy. It is woven into it.

Crypto is woven into the American economy. The 232,000 jobs it supports stretch well beyond engineering and finance into customer service, compliance, insurance, healthcare, and operations. The wages those workers earn, averaging $133,000, circulate back into local economies through housing, groceries, and everyday spending.

And the footprint extends into every region of the country. From California and New York to the heartland states of Iowa, Kansas, Ohio, and Michigan, crypto-supported work is spread across the country. It looks like the rest of America.

Explore the findings in our Crypto at Work report to learn more.

## Prediction Markets, Explained

URL: https://nca.org/article/prediction-markets-explained
Published: 2026-07-08

What they are and how they work, explained simply

You're watching the news. Somewhere on screen is a percentage from a name you may not recognize. Polymarket. Or Kalshi. It might appear next to an election update, a Supreme Court case, a Fed decision, or a sports score. 

You wonder for a second what it is, then the segment moves on, and so do you. 

That number comes from a prediction market, a place where people buy and sell contracts tied to the outcome of a real-world event. These markets are growing fast and most people have no idea how they work.

In prediction markets you buy a “yes” or “no” contract. Each contract pays $1 to the person who is right. The price of the contract tracks what the market is thinking. If the “yes” contract costs 65 cents, 65% of the people are saying that “yes” something will happen and 35% are saying no. If I wanted to buy a “yes” contract I would buy it at 65 cents. If I am right, I get my 65 cents back plus the 35 cents from the person who bought the “no” contract. Now run that across thousands of real time events at once, around the clock.

You might also wonder why a crypto organization is the one explaining this. The largest of these platforms, Polymarket, runs entirely on blockchain, the same technology behind crypto. And some of the contracts people trade on prediction platforms are related to crypto markets, like will a regulator approve a crypto related product, or what the price of Bitcoin will be next month.   

Who you’re actually trading with

Most people picture a sportsbook when they think about putting money on an outcome. There, the house sets the odds and takes the other side of every wager. Win, and the house pays you. Lose, and it keeps your stake. The odds are always set to favor the house.

Prediction markets work on the exchange model. The platform runs like a stock exchange, matching people who want opposite sides of the same contract. Think of the earlier example.  Buy a “yes” contract at 65 cents, and someone else is buying the “no” at 35 cents. You’re trading with another person, and the platform never takes a side.

So where’s the platform’s money? A small fee on trades, the same way a stock exchange makes money by running the marketplace rather than trading in it. Prices come from buyers and sellers meeting at a number, and the platform collects the same fee no matter who wins. It has no stake in the result.

That structural difference matters beyond just how the platform makes money. It's also why prediction market platforms - like Kalshi are registered with the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC, the federal regulator for these types of two sided markets).

Surprisingly good at calling it

These markets have also turned out to be accurate. The night before the 2024 presidential election, most polling averages called it a coin flip. Polymarket had Donald Trump near 57%, and he won. Researchers later found the market beat national polls for accuracy and moved within minutes of big news, while polls took days.

The pattern holds beyond elections. Earlier this year, the Federal Reserve published research finding that prediction markets matched or beat traditional methods at forecasting things like inflation and interest rates. 

Why would a market full of strangers get this right? Because the people setting the price have real money behind their answer. A careless guess costs real money, so they answer with care.

Where the rules stand

At the federal level, prediction markets fall under the CFTC, which treats these contracts as a special type of financial instrument under its jurisdiction. A number of state attorneys general see these platforms differently, especially when it comes to sports, and that disagreement is working its way through the courts.

For now, what's available can vary by state, so it's worth checking where things stand where you live.

Key Takeaways

Prediction markets let people trade contracts on real-world events, and each contract’s price is a live read on what the crowd expects. There is always someone taking the “yes” side of a contract and someone taking the “no” side. 

The platforms match buyers and sellers for a fee, but unlike a sports book the platforms do not have a stake in the outcome. Polymarket runs on a public blockchain.




The rules are still taking shape, so staying informed is the best way to keep up as the picture 

fills in. For more guides on how crypto works, visit our learning hub.

## What to Know About Online Scams, Fraud, and Illicit Finance

URL: https://nca.org/article/scams-fraud-illicit-finance
Published: 2026-07-08

Understanding the difference helps you stay protected

If you hold - or thinking about holding - crypto, scams might be a concern, and you're not alone. In our 2026 State of Crypto Holders Report, 72% of holders said the same. While all cybercrimes - including those involving and not involving crypto - have cost Americans billions, most people who hold crypto report positive experiences with it. Only  3% of crypto holders have had a bad experience (and not all of those were scam-related).

A lot of the worry comes from the news, where three very different things often get blended into one. They are scams, fraud, and illicit finance. Once you can tell them apart, the headlines feel less overwhelming.

What's the difference between the three?

Scams are tricks designed to separate people from their money, and they show up anywhere money changes hands, including crypto. A few come up again and again:

Fake giveaways. Seen as a post or message promising to send back double whatever crypto you send over first. Yet, nothing ever gets sent back.

Impersonation. When someone pretends to be a company, a public figure, or even a person you know, hoping you will send crypto or hand over access to your account.

Phishing. Seen as a fake message or website built to look real in order for you to type in your password or wallet details.

Most scams work the same way. Someone earns your trust or rushes you, then gets you to send them money. Once you hit send, it is very hard to get back. Crypto payments are final. There is no middleman to call and undo the transaction.

Scams and fraud are related, but they're not quite the same thing. As described, a scam is the trick or con. An investment fraud is usually a more elaborate deception.. Counterfeit concert tickets, fake designer goods, and forged art are other everyday examples.

In crypto, fraud usually happens at the level of a whole project or market, where one bad actor can affect a lot of people at once. Two common forms:

Rug pull or Pump and Dump. Developers hype up a brand-new coin, collect the money people put in, then disappear. The price crashes, and the money is gone.

Ponzi scheme. One you have probably heard of. Early investors get paid with money from newer investors, and it keeps going until new money stops coming in and the whole thing falls apart. Bernie Madoff made this scheme infamous long before crypto existed. The same playbook still shows up today.

Lastly, illicit finance is when the money being moved came from a crime in the first place. The crime came first, and crypto just became another way to move the money. Of the three, this is the one you are least likely to run into. Law enforcement spend a lot of time “following the money” from scams and fraud and while that work is very difficult,  the blockchain can make that work a bit easier because there is always a public record of transactions. 

How crypto is easier to trace than cash

When cash changes hands, the trail usually goes cold. Crypto transactions are recorded on the blockchain, a public ledger that anyone can look at, including investigators.

That public record has helped retrieve stolen money back to the people who lost it.

In 2021, after a ransomware attack, the FBI traced the payment across the blockchain and recovered about half of the Bitcoin that had been handed over.

In 2025, the FBI, the U.S. Secret Service, and Coinbase worked together to seize $225 million tied to scam victims. That money is now being returned to the people it was taken from.

Key takeaways

Most of the worry around crypto and crime comes from squashing these three things into one idea, and that can make crypto sound scarier than it is. 

These problems are all older than crypto. People have used tricks like these for as long as money has existed, through cash, checks, and bank transfers, long before any of them reached crypto. Any technology can be misused by someone with bad intentions, and that has been true of every new way to pay. When rotary phones found their way into every house, scammers were ringing up victims.

For most people, scams are the one worth keeping an eye on, and the good news is that using safe habits when it comes to your money can help keep you safe anywhere online.

Slow down when a message feels urgent, and check who is really on the other end before any money moves. Our staying safe guide is a good place to start as these habits are worth a refresher on from time to time.

The FBI recently joined NCA's podcast, Crypto, Explained, to walk through how to spot common scams, share a few safety reminders, and explain how investigators work with crypto companies to recover stolen funds. If you want to hear how this works in practice, give it a listen.

## Inside NCA’s First Year

URL: https://nca.org/article/inside-nca-first-year
Published: 2026-06-04

How a year of listening reshaped what we know about crypto in America

A year ago, one in five American adults already held crypto, and the country had no national nonprofit organization specifically built to help everyday people understand and use crypto with confidence. The National Cryptocurrency Association launched in March 2025 to fill that gap.

The first year was about meeting people where they are. Telling real holder stories to break down stereotypes. Cutting through the hype and jargon that has long kept crypto feeling out of reach. And building resources that work for everyone, not just those who already speak the language.

A year of learning

The NCA started with research because the public conversation about crypto holders was largely guesswork. In partnership with The Harris Poll, the team conducted the largest study of American crypto holders ever, surveying 10,000 holders drawn from a pool of nearly 55,000 respondents.

The 2025 State of Crypto Holders Report, published in April 2025, put real numbers behind a story that had mostly gone untold. Roughly 55 million U.S. adults held crypto. Most (76%) said it had a positive impact on their lives. And the holders themselves were teachers, construction workers, parents, ranchers, and small business owners. Not the demographic most assumed.

The NCA's research didn't stop there. The Crypto Confidence Pulse, which surveyed 2,000 non-holders later that year, surfaced what was actually getting in the way of wider adoption. People were curious, often skeptical, and almost never got straight answers from the places they normally turned to for financial information. The biggest barrier was knowledge.

The Crypto Policy Pulse looked at which crypto debates American voters cared about most. The findings were clear: Americans wanted lawmakers to take action on rules that protect consumers and address potential risks, and they saw an opportunity for policymakers to deepen their understanding of crypto. 

Together, these studies gave the NCA a fuller view of the people it set out to serve, both those already holding crypto and those who are crypto-curious.

Built through research

That finding shaped what the NCA built next. By November, the team had launched four resources designed to give curious people somewhere to start: Crypto 101, a free beginner course that walks through what crypto is and how to use it; the NCA Crypto Simulator, a guided sandbox where anyone can practice setting up a wallet and making a first transaction without putting real money at risk; Crypto, Explained, a weekly podcast covering everything from spotting scams to understanding stablecoins; and a glossary that translates industry jargon into plain English. 

That same month, the 2025 Holiday Crypto Report, in partnership with PayPal, surfaced an unexpected finding. Crypto had become a real gifting category in American households. People were sending it to family for birthdays, holidays, and milestones, just as they had sent gift cards a decade earlier. The report also became the basis for a broadcastTV tour with VP of External Affairs, Ali Tager, that introduced millions of viewers to the idea of crypto as something to give for the holidays.

In December, the NCA announced a partnership with Coinbase and Operation HOPE to bring free crypto literacy resources into more than 200 HOPE Inside locations nationwide. The partnership focused specifically on communities that traditional financial systems have historically left out. Those were the same communities where the NCA's research had shown the highest curiosity-to-confidence gap. The clearest expression of what the NCA set out to do: crypto education has the most value where it has the least access.

The story kept unfolding

The research kept moving alongside the education work. In August, the NCA stood up an Advisory Board to help guide both, bringing in Chris Giancarlo, Former Chairman of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission, Dr. Campbell Harvey from Duke's Fuqua School of Business, and Jo Ann Barefoot of the Alliance for Innovative Regulation. PayPal’s SVP and GM of Crypto May Zabaneh has since joined as well.

The new year opened with two more studies. In January 2026, the Crypto Merchant Report, in partnership with PayPal, found that half of large enterprises in the U.S. already accept crypto at checkout - with small and mid-sized businesses closely following at a third - and 84% expect crypto payments to become common within five years. The Stablecoin Rewards Pulse, published the same month, examined how consumers felt about emerging stablecoin policy.

In March, NCA returned to SXSW in Austin for the second year, this time with a panel moderated by Fast Company including Ali Tager, Karin Kusano, and Smitha Purohit of PayPal. SXSW also brought one of the year's most direct ways of listening: the NCA’s Crypto Confessions Booth, a space where everyday people could step in and admit how they really feel about crypto. A space to keep it real, hesitation and all, while sharing their own crypto story. 

The booth didn’t just stay in one place either. NCA brought it to Bitcoin and XRP in Las Vegas, and Consensus in Miami gathering honest, unscripted reactions from people across the country. These stories are part of the fuller picture that NCA set out to capture, one that surveys alone couldn’t.

Pushing the conversation further

Last month, the NCA published its 2026 State of Crypto Holders Report along with the 2026 Crypto Holder Map. The numbers tell a clear story: 67 million Americans now hold and use crypto. That is one in four adults, up from one in five just a year ago.

The growth is real, but the more interesting finding is that confidence is climbing alongside familiarity. People who hold crypto report understanding it better than they did a year ago, and that shift shows up in how they use it. More friends-and-family payments, more long-term savings, more crypto used in the kinds of everyday financial decisions where people used to default to banks or apps.

This is where American crypto adoption currently stands. Past the question of whether it is happening. Into the question of who it is reaching, what they need to use it well, and whether the rest of the financial system is ready to meet them there.

Year two is built around that question. Further research, deeper community education, additional learning resources, and more rooms where holders can speak for themselves. The goal has not changed since day one. The conversation has just moved forward, and so has the work.

## What the 2026 State of Crypto Holders Report Reveals

URL: https://nca.org/article/crypto-holders-report-2026
Published: 2026-05-21

67 million Americans now hold crypto. Here is what they are doing with it.

Today, one in four American adults owns cryptocurrency, up from one in five just a year ago. In a single year, 12 million more Americans became crypto holders. That is roughly the combined population of New York City and Los Angeles. 

Those numbers come from the 2026 State of Crypto Holders Report, conducted by the National Cryptocurrency Association in partnership with The Harris Poll. The survey of 10,000 U.S. crypto holders offers a detailed look at who owns crypto in America today, where they are from, and what they are actually doing with it.

Who really uses crypto today

The holder base has broadened in every direction. Female crypto ownership is on the rise, up 10% since last year, with new holders who joined in 2025 to 2026 more likely to be female (42%) than earlier adopters (34%). The age range has widened at both ends, with 18% of new holders aged 18 to 24 and 28% aged 55 or older. More than half of all holders earn less than $150,000 in combined household income, and nearly a quarter earn less than $75,000. That spread across income brackets, regions, and industries changes the calculations for companies and policymakers who pay attention.

Crypto ownership is no longer concentrated in tech hubs or coastal cities. Holders are spread across the country in roughly the same proportions as the general population, with the South accounting for 38%, the West at 27%, and the Midwest and Northeast each at 18%. The typical crypto holder in 2026 is as likely to be a construction worker in Dallas as a software engineer in San Francisco.

Practical use cases are on the rise

Everyday use is leading the way. Among holders surveyed, 41% send crypto to friends and family, up from 31% the previous year. Another 40% use crypto to shop for goods and services. Crypto gaming grew from 20% to 28%, and the share of holders purchasing property through blockchain tokenization, which refers to fractional ownership recorded on a digital ledger, grew from 15% to 19%.

Other use cases are cooling. NFT activity slipped from 32% to 30%, and buying or selling artwork through crypto dropped from 17% to 15%. The overall share of holders with no practical use for crypto dropped from 20% in 2025 to 13% in 2026, meaning more of the holder base is actively using the technology.

The report also found that 41% of holders describe crypto as an investment, a payment method, and a technology platform simultaneously. For most people who hold it, crypto works as multiple tools at once, much like a phone handles messaging, payments, and entertainment all in one place. 

How holders are benefitting from crypto

When holders rank the benefits of owning crypto, financial independence comes first, chosen by 54%, up from 49% the year before. Learning and personal growth follow at 51%, and the sense of security and control climbed from 35% to 42% in a single year. Three out of four holders report an overall positive experience with crypto, and 83% say they feel proud when they think about their crypto use.

Crypto has become a gateway into financial literacy. Learning how a blockchain works often raises questions about inflation, diversification, and payment systems. For many, the education does not stop at crypto alone.

What will accelerate adoption 

Holders were asked what would make them more likely to use crypto, and the answers were practical. Earning rewards and interest for transacting or using their crypto came in first, cited by 40% of respondents. About a third cited the ability to pay for everyday goods and services - which by the way, they can - and another third said greater personal knowledge would make the biggest difference, while 34% wanted less market volatility.

One number stands out. Among surveyed holders, 76% want their bank to allow them to buy, hold, and manage crypto alongside their regular accounts. That helps explain why nearly one in three holders say their view of crypto shifted most when they saw it show up in systems they already trusted, like PayPal, Visa, and their own bank.

The holder experience is overwhelmingly positive 

Holders consistently report that crypto has been a positive force in their lives. 77% say it has had a positive impact, and only 3% report a negative experience. At the same time, 72% say they worry about scams in the industry. Holders are participating with open eyes, clear about the risks even as their own experiences remain largely positive.

That gap between general concern and personal experience points to where education makes the biggest difference. Accessible guidance on spotting scams, securing digital assets, and understanding how the technology works helps more people feel confident about getting started. 

Resources for the crypto-curious

The biggest barrier for people who do not yet own cryptocurrency is a lack of knowledge. The good news is that is exactly what the NCA is here to help with. Our free resources meet you wherever you are in your crypto journey.

Our Learning Portal covers the basics, from what crypto is to how to use it safely. The Simulator lets people practice setting up a wallet and making transactions without risking any real money. The Crypto, Explained podcast features conversations with real holders, businesses, and policy professionals about how they see crypto in their daily lives.

## Starting Your Crypto Journey with Curiosity

URL: https://nca.org/article/kristina
Published: 2026-05-06

Meet Kristina, Photographer & Educator

Kristina is a headshot photographer and Photoshop educator based outside Washington, D.C. She has spent over a decade helping people look their best on camera and teaching other creatives how to refine their digital craft.

She grew up in Africa, where her father worked as an economist focused on underserved communities. His career meant the family moved between countries where access to financial services looked very different from what most Americans experience. 

Kristina saw what it meant when families had limited choices over how to save, move, or protect their money. She carried that awareness with her when she moved to the United States, even as she built a career unrelated to economics.

When her own finances shifted

COVID changed Kristina’s photography business almost overnight. Inflation started reshaping her household budget in ways that were hard to pin down. As the primary earner, she felt those shifts deeply. 

And as AI tools began generating headshots and portraits, her profession started facing questions about its future that she hadn’t anticipated.

These pressures didn't come with obvious answers. But they made Kristina start looking for financial options beyond the ones she'd always used.

Crypto offered a solution

Kristina began hearing about crypto through conversations in her circle. She was curious, but as the breadwinner, she wasn't going to put her family’s money into something she couldn't fully understand. So she started learning.

She watched documentaries, read articles, and spent hours talking with people who understood digital assets better than she did. She wanted to understand what crypto actually did before deciding whether it belonged in her financial life.

It's a path many Americans can relate to. According to the NCA's Crypto Confidence Pulse, curiosity about crypto is high, but confidence often lags behind.

Her primary interest was financial due to her circumstances. After watching inflation reshape her household budget, she wanted to diversify her family's savings with a tool that worked differently from the accounts she'd always relied on. Crypto provided that: an additional option she could hold alongside her traditional accounts.

But she also recognized something relevant to her profession. Blockchain technology can also verify who created digital artwork and track its ownership history. For artists, that opens the door to proving authenticity, earning on resale, and protecting work from being copied without credit. It's a use case that other creatives like Autumn are already benefiting from.

“I realized pretty quickly that you have to understand the problems first. You can’t appreciate what crypto is solving if you don't know what’s broken.”

Kristina, Photographer & Educator

For anyone starting that same journey, the NCA's Crypto 101 course is built for taking your first step.

Where she is now

Today, Kristina holds crypto as part of her family's long-term savings. It sits alongside their traditional investment and savings accounts, not instead of them. After watching inflation reshape what her income could buy, she wanted another choice. Crypto gave her that.

She also accepts crypto payments for her photography business. Understanding crypto as a tool has shifted how she thinks about what's available to her and her family.

"People should be able to protect what they've earned," she says. "That's not a radical idea. It's a basic one."

Key takeaways 

Kristina’s story shows how curiosity can lead to understanding. Rather than replacing her existing financial tools, crypto became an additional option alongside them. It also introduced new possibilities in her work, like proving ownership and tracking how her content is used. Taking the time to learn helped her decide how, and if, crypto fit into her life.

## How to Verify What’s Happening On-Chain

URL: https://nca.org/article/verifying-on-chain
Published: 2026-04-16

A simple guide to checking, understanding, and verifying your crypto transactions.

The first time you make a crypto transaction, the process is straightforward but may feel a bit unfamiliar. You verify the details on your screen, double-check the address, hit confirm, and then watch the interface tell you it's processing. 




And you wait, thinking: Did it go through? Did it actually get to the right place?




Almost everyone who’s used crypto for the first time has felt that. The good news is you don’t have to sit there wondering. Centralized exchanges provide status updates, and - if you wanted to - you can also check your transaction directly on-chain.


Blockchains are public. Every transaction that’s ever been processed is recorded in a shared ledger that anyone can view. The key is knowing where to find it and what you’re looking at.

Block explorers: your window into the blockchain

A block explorer is a search engine for a blockchain. You’re able to see network activity, search transactions, wallet addresses, and contract addresses. It takes all the raw data and turns it into something readable.




Think of it like tracking a package. You order something online, get a tracking number, and track it from the warehouse to your doorstep. A block explorer works the same way: you always receive a transaction ID (known as a hash) when you interact with crypto, and you can use it to follow that transaction from A to B.




Most blockchains have at least one dedicated explorer, and they’re free to use. No sign in or wallet connection needed. You just open the site, paste in a transaction ID or wallet address, and start looking around. 




You can scroll through the common block explorers (like Ethereum’s, The XRP Ledgers, or Solana’s) to get a feel of how reading a blockchain looks in practice. 

Checking your transaction

When you interact with crypto, you get what’s called a transaction hash: a long string of letters and numbers that works like a tracking number. No two transactions share the same one. That hash is the key to tracking your transaction on-chain.

If you’re looking for an Ethereum transaction, you can use a block explorer like Etherscan. Paste the transaction hash into the search bar to see a full breakdown, including what action was taken, where the funds came from and went, the amount, the fee, and the transaction status.

You won’t see personal details like a name attached to the transaction. Instead, activity is tied to wallet addresses, allowing transactions to be publicly verified while maintaining a level of user privacy.

Status is what most people check first. A transaction is either: 

Pending (still processing)

Confirmed (it went through)

Failed (something didn’t work)




If it fails, it means your funds didn’t leave your wallet, though you may still lose the small processing fee. A failure can happen for many reasons but the most common reasons are network congestion or bad service from your device.




What you should confirm before signing a transaction: 

Does the contract address or recipient address match the one you intended?

Does the amount look right? 




If both line up, you’re good to go. If you’re ready to make your first crypto transaction but want hands-on practice first, our crypto simulator is a great place to learn, as it walks you through the full process of sending and receiving risk-free. 

Contract addresses and why they matter for safety

Knowing how to read a transaction is one thing. Knowing you're interacting with the right token in the first place is another. Every token or project on a blockchain has a unique identifier called a contract address (CA). Think of it like a building’s street address: it tells you exactly where to find a specific token and confirms you’re dealing with the real thing. 




Always verify a contract address on the project’s official website before interacting with it and cross-check it on a block explorer. Centralized crypto exchanges will show you the top tokens and do not list copycats. 




But if you can’t find the CA through an official source, walk away. And watch for red flags: urgent language like “act now,” addresses shared only through DMs, tokens with very few transactions, or anything that pressures you to move fast.

Gas fees: the cost of using the network

Every transaction on a blockchain comes with a fee, sometimes called a gas fee. If you've looked up a transaction on a block explorer, you've probably already seen it listed. It's the cost of getting your transaction processed: the computers that verify and record it get paid from that fee. 




Think of gas fees like postage. Sending a letter costs money because someone has to deliver it. The cost depends on the size, the speed you want, and the post office's current workload. Gas fees work the same way: more complex transactions cost more, and when a lot of people are using the same blockchain at the same time, fees go up. 

It’s basically surge pricing. During quieter times, fees drop. Some people even time their transactions for off-peak hours, the same way you might book a flight on a Tuesday for a cheaper fare.




Fees also depend on what you’re doing. A simple transfer from one wallet to another typically costs less than a swap (trading one token for another), which costs less than more complex actions like using a smart contract to buy an NFT. On some blockchains, fees have two parts: a base fee (the minimum) and an optional priority fee you can pay to speed up your transaction. It’s like standard shipping vs. priority shipping.




The main thing to know: gas fees exist for a reason. They’re not random and once you understand the basics, they’re a lot less confusing. There’s plenty more to explore about how different blockchains handle fees and ways they keep costs low.

Key Takeaways

Understanding what happens on-chain gives you even more clarity, control, and confidence when using crypto. Block explorers let you track transactions, verify where funds moved, and confirm whether a transaction succeeded or failed. Checking the transaction hash, confirming addresses, and reviewing contract details can help you avoid mistakes and scams. And understanding how gas fees work explains why transactions cost what they do and why prices change with network activity. 




Once you know where to look, the blockchain becomes something you can verify, not just trust.

## 5 Major Crypto Networks and The Roles They Each Play

URL: https://nca.org/article/crypto-networks-5
Published: 2026-03-19

Not all crypto is built for the same job. Here’s what sets these five apart.

People often talk about cryptocurrencies as if they are all the same  thing. Bitcoin, XRP, Ethereum. They’re all just “crypto,” right?

No, actually. Calling all tokens and coins the same is like saying a savings account and a debit card are identical because they both involve money. They’re related, sure, but they’re built for different purposes.

Each major coin has its own blockchain, which is the underlying technology that records transactions and keeps the system running. Each blockchain has a native coin, the currency that powers that network. Bitcoin’s native coin is BTC. The XRP Ledger’s is XRP. Think of the blockchain as the highway and the coin as the car moving on it.

One important technical distinction: a coin is a cryptocurrency that runs on its own blockchain (like BTC on Bitcoin or XRP on the XRP Ledger), while a token is a cryptocurrency built on top of an already existing blockchain. For example, many popular tokens run on the Ethereum network - including but not limited to its native coin ETH. You’ll see both terms come up as you explore crypto, and I wouldn’t get too hung up on the difference since most people end up using the terms interchangeably.

With that in mind, here are five major networks and what makes each one useful.

1. Bitcoin (coin = BTC)

Bitcoin is the original cryptocurrency and is still the most well known. Its main purpose is straightforward: to serve as a long-term store of value. People often call it “digital gold.” Like gold, Bitcoin has a limited supply: there will only ever be 21 million BTC. No government or company can print more of it, which is part of what gives it value in the eyes of the people who hold it.

People use Bitcoin to store value over the long term without relying on a bank, to transfer value directly to another person without a middleman, and to hold an asset that can’t be controlled by a central authority.

Bitcoin’s blockchain wasn’t designed to run apps. Its strength is durability and security. 

2. XRP Ledger (coin = XRP)

If Bitcoin is about holding value, the XRP Ledger (XRPL) is about moving it. The XRPL and its native coin, XRP, were designed for speed and efficiency, particularly for cross-border payments. Transactions on the XRPL typically finalize in three to five seconds with minimal fees.

That speed matters. Sending money internationally through traditional banks can take days and involve multiple intermediaries, each adding cost and delay. XRP serves as a bridge between currencies, enabling quick conversions without routing through a chain of banks.

Banks and payment providers have adopted XRP for this reason. It’s built for institutions that need reliable, fast payment rails, but it’s also available to anyone who wants to move value quickly and affordably.

3. Ethereum (coin = ETH)

The Ethereum network introduced smart contracts, , which are programs that run automatically on the blockchain when certain conditions are met. 

Ethereum powers decentralized finance (DeFi) tools for borrowing, lending, and trading. It hosts NFTs for digital art, event tickets, and identity verification. It supports DAOs (Decentralized Autonomous Organizations), which are communities that govern themselves through code instead of a traditional board of directors. It operates gaming platforms, virtual worlds, and Layer-2 networks that help manage traffic on the main blockchain.

People sometimes call Ethereum “the world’s programmable blockchain.” It’s the foundation for thousands of decentralized applications (dApps), which run on a blockchain rather than on a single company’s server. Its native coin, ETH, is used by users to interact with these applications and keep the network running.

4. Solana (coin = SOL)

Solana is a smart-contract blockchain, similar to Ethereum in concept, but built with a focus on speed and low transaction costs. While Ethereum sometimes becomes congested during periods of heavy use, Solana was designed to handle high transaction volumes without slowing down. Its native coin, SOL, is used to pay for transactions and to secure the network through staking.

That performance makes Solana a popular home for consumer-facing crypto apps. It’s where you’ll find a growing number of memecoin communities, NFT marketplaces, gaming projects, and newer tools for payments and social platforms. If Ethereum is the established city with deep infrastructure, Solana is the fast-growing suburb that’s attracting builders who want room to move quickly.

5. Cardano (coin = ADA)

Cardano takes a slower, more deliberate approach to building its network. Changes are developed through academic research and peer review. Developers and researchers in the Cardano community can propose changes by publishing formal research papers. Other independent academics and developers then review and test those proposals before anything goes live. Think the way peer review happens in science or medicine. Outside experts check the work before it's approved. The goal is to get things right the first time. Its native coin, ADA, powers transactions and staking on the network.

Cardano explores real-world use cases beyond finance. Projects on the network explore identity verification tools for government services (think proving your identity to access public programs, renewing credentials, or verifying records across agencies) and financial infrastructure for communities where traditional banking is limited or unavailable.

Key Takeaways

Each of these five networks serve a different role. 

Bitcoin is built for long-term savings. 

The XRP Ledger is built for fast, affordable transfers. 

Ethereum is a platform for programmable applications. 

Solana prioritizes speed and low cost for everyday users. 

Cardano takes a research-first approach to building reliable, sustainable systems.

Together, they show that crypto is not a single product or experience. It’s a growing set of tools, each designed for a different purpose. Whether you want to save for the long term, send money across borders in seconds, explore new kinds of apps and digital ownership, or support infrastructure that expands access to financial services, there’s a network built for that.

## From Fear to Familiar: How new technologies earn trust over time

URL: https://nca.org/article/fear-to-familiar
Published: 2026-02-24

New technologies rarely arrive fully formed. When electricity spread into homes in the late 1800s, fires were common. Early railroads had frequent crashes. When online banking was introduced, many people refused to provide their financial information online. 

These technologies became trusted over time as systems improved, rules were established, and people learned how to use them safely. Cell phones are one of the clearest modern examples.

When cellphones were the problem 

In the early 1990s, every cell phone broadcast a unique identification number when it connected to the network. With the right equipment, that number could be intercepted and copied onto another device. The phone company couldn't tell the difference, and you'd only find out when the bill arrived. By 1996, this type of fraud was costing the wireless industry more than $650 million a year.




Wireless carriers tried warning customers with subway ads and flyers, but education campaigns alone couldn't fix what was fundamentally a technical flaw.

What changed

The technology itself improved first. Carriers introduced systems that regularly refreshed a phone's identifying information, so a copied ID would stop working almost immediately. They also began monitoring for unusual activity, like a sudden spike in calls to unfamiliar numbers. 




At the same time, states passed laws targeting wireless fraud, and law enforcement coordination improved. Fraud dropped from nearly 6% to 3% within a few years. Eventually, the conversation shifted from security fears to complaints about dropped calls. The risks hadn't disappeared, but they had become manageable.

A familiar pattern

Digital assets have undergone a similar early phase. Platforms failed. Scams targeted newcomers. High-profile losses made headlines. Those concerns came from real events that affected real people.




The response has followed a recognizable pattern. Security practices that didn't exist a few years ago are now standard at major platforms, including multi-signature wallets, cold storage, and insurance products. Regulatory guidance is taking shape in the United States and globally. The tools are becoming easier to use. Today's platforms resemble the banking apps people already have on their phones.





Key Takeaways 




Technology adoption tends to follow a pattern: early problems draw justified skepticism, then improvements in security, regulation, and usability gradually make the technology more accessible and reliable. Cell phones, electricity, railroads, and online banking all went through versions of this cycle.




Digital assets are in a comparable phase. None of this guarantees a specific outcome. But for people who are curious about where things are headed, history offers a useful reference point: early problems don't always predict the ending.




If you want to explore crypto in a risk-free environment, the NCA's Simulator is a great place to start.

## Crypto Payments: Merchant Adoption Report

URL: https://nca.org/article/merchant-adoption-report
Published: 2026-01-24

How U.S. merchants and shoppers are opting for crypto at checkout.

Nearly 4 in 10 U.S. merchants now accept crypto payments at checkout - and that number jumps to 50% (half!) among large enterprises. For businesses already on board (or in this case, on-chain), crypto accounts for about a quarter of their total sales.




These findings come from new research by the National Cryptocurrency Association and PayPal, surveying over 600 payment decision-makers across retail, hospitality, luxury goods, and digital gaming. The picture that emerges is one of widespread acceptance.




Customers are asking for crypto

Nearly 9 in 10 merchants say customers have asked about paying with crypto, and over two-thirds report getting those requests at least once a month - with Millennials and Gen Z leading the charge. 




Small businesses are seeing this play out most: 82% of small business owners report interest in crypto payments among Gen Z customers, compared with 67% of mid-size companies and 65% of large enterprises. The smaller the business, the closer the relationship with individual customers, and the clearer the signal.





Early adopters are seeing results

For merchants who've already integrated crypto as a payment option, the numbers are encouraging. Three-quarters saw increased crypto sales over the past year.




Faster transaction speed and access to new customers top the list of reasons merchants are turning to crypto. Traditional payment methods can take days to settle; crypto often clears faster, which matters for cash flow. Security and privacy also rank high. Blockchain creates a tamper-resistant record that reduces fraud risk, and customers who prefer not to share card details with every merchant have an alternative.




Four in five merchants agree that accepting crypto could help them attract new customers, and some industries are already seeing results.




Hospitality and travel leads with over 8 in 10 merchants accepting crypto. These industries frequently handle international transactions and currency conversions, and their customers are already comfortable with digital payments.




Digital goods, gaming, and luxury retail follow closely behind, serving customers who already hold crypto and prefer to spend it directly. Retail and e-commerce are also well represented, with speed and global reach creating natural advantages.




The gap that remains

So what's keeping the rest of the merchants on the sidelines?




As with consumers, some merchants think crypto seems complicated. Nine in ten merchants say they would try accepting crypto if the process were as simple as accepting credit cards. The interest is there, but the friction is in getting set up - and closing the knowledge gap. 




Traditional finance and crypto platforms are working to close this gap, but for now, it remains the biggest barrier to broader adoption.

Key Takeaways

Merchants are anticipating where things are headed. More than 8 in 10 believe crypto will become a common payment method within five years, and about a third expect that shift to come this year.




For many merchants across industries, crypto is already part of the checkout experience. Customers are showing up ready to pay with it, and the businesses that have said yes are seeing real returns. The only thing left to solve is the crypto knowledge gap, which is exactly what we’re doing here.




Survey Methodology: 




This survey was conducted online within the United States by The Harris Poll on behalf of The National Cryptocurrency Association from October 21-27, 2025, among 619 payment strategy decision makers in the retail/e-commerce, hospitality/travel, luxury/specialty, and digital goods/gaming industries. The sample data is accurate to within +/- 3.9 percentage points using a 95% confidence level.

## Layer 1 vs. Layer 2: A Simple Guide

URL: https://nca.org/article/layer-1-layer-2
Published: 2026-02-09

Understanding how blockchains evolve for efficient speed, cost, and usability

Before diving into blockchain layers, it helps to define one term. A protocol is the rulebook that tells a blockchain how to work, how to send transactions, how they’re verified, and how the network stays secure. Every blockchain has its own rulebook. From there, “layers” are just a way of describing what gets built on top of that rulebook. 

Think of it like this: Layer 1 blockchains are like the main highways of the crypto ecosystem. Layer 2 networks act like express lanes that handle traffic more efficiently. Even though transactions move faster on Layer 2, they still rely on Layer 1 for security, just like express lanes rely on the main highway.

What “layers” really are

An easy way to understand blockchain “layers” is to look at something you already use every day, like your smartphone.

Think of your phone’s operating system as the base layer. It provides the core software, security, and foundation you trust. Then think of the apps you download. They’re built on top of your phone’s operating system. They add new features, connectivity, and convenience, but they still rely on that base layer to function.

Blockchains work the same way:

Layer 1 (L1) is a blockchain - the core operating system that powers everything.

Layer 2 (L2) is what gets built on top of a Layer 1 to help transactions run faster, cost less, and handle more activity.

Layer 1s: Base networks

Layer 1s are the leading blockchains people know by name: Bitcoin, the XRP Ledger, Ethereum, Solana, and others. They process transactions, secure the networks, and record the official history of all transactions on the blockchains. 

They’re designed first for security and reliability, but because every transaction goes through the base chain, activity can slow down, and gas fees (the cost to process a transaction) can rise during busy periods. Not all blockchains are Layer 1s, some are known as Layer 2s.

Layer 2s: Built for speed and scale

Layer 2s are designed to address speed and cost limits through enhanced infrastructure on top of Layer 1 blockchains. Instead of sending every action directly to the base chain, a Layer 2 can process activity “off-chain” or in batches, then record the final results back to Layer 1. It’s similar to how apps on your phone run smoothly without needing to rewrite your phone’s entire operating system.

To put it simply: Layer 2s help make transactions faster and more cost-efficient while still relying on the base chain for final settlement and security. 

Why layers matter

Most people never need to know which layer they’re using - exchanges and wallets handle those details behind the scenes.

They help explain things like:

Why some networks are faster than others 

Why certain apps or services run on different blockchains

Why fees vary on each blockchain

Layers are tools to help blockchains scale as more people use them. Let's look at how this actually plays out in practice.

Examples you may have heard of

Some major blockchains support a layered approach for different use cases. 




Lightning Network (runs on Bitcoin): Lightning is a Layer 2 built on top of Bitcoin’s blockchain. It helps Bitcoin handle everyday, low-cost payments by letting people send minimal amounts (even pennies) faster and with very low fees. The final settlement still occurs on the Bitcoin blockchain, but day-to-day activity takes place on Lightning’s faster payment channels.




Arbitrum and Optimism (runs on Ethereum): Arbitrum and Optimism are Layer 2 networks that help make Ethereum activity faster and more cost-efficient. They run Ethereum-style apps and smart contracts on their own networks and bundle many user transactions together. They post the results back to Ethereum’s blockchain for security and final settlement.




XRPL EVM Sidechain (runs on XRP Ledger): A strong example of an L2-style extension is the XRPL EVM Sidechain, a connected network that brings Ethereum-compatible smart contracts to the XRPL ecosystem without changing the XRP Ledger itself. 

Across these examples, the pattern is the same: the base layer (Layer 1) handles security and final settlement, and the upper layer (Layer 2) focuses on speed, scale, and ease of use.

Do you need to understand layers to use crypto?

You don’t have to fully understand layers to send, spend, or hold crypto. Just like you don’t need to know how internet protocols work to send an email, the technical details can stay in the background. At the same time, certain Layer 2s, like apps on your phone, can unlock additional things you may want to do with your crypto.

Exchanges and wallets will let you know what blockchain (Layer 1) you are utilizing when making a transaction. If you are using a stablecoin like USDC it will tell you if you’re using USDC on the Ethereum blockchain, Solana blockchain, or another. 

Having a sense of how layers fit together can make crypto make more sense. It helps explain why developers build on existing networks instead of starting from scratch and why crypto keeps getting even faster and easier to use, in even more ways.

Key Takeaways

Layer 1s and Layer 2s aren’t competing. They’re complementary. Layer 1s provide the foundation while Layer 2s help scale that foundation.

Together, they make it possible for blockchains to support more people, more applications, and more everyday use. You may not need to understand layers to use crypto day to day, but having a basic picture of them can give you a clearer view of how crypto works behind the scenes and how the technology keeps evolving.

## On-Ramps and Off-Ramps 101

URL: https://nca.org/article/on-and-off-ramps
Published: 2026-02-09

Getting your money in and out of crypto

Getting started with crypto doesn’t require technical expertise or special tools. Today, many apps are built to make buying and selling crypto feel familiar, similar to using other financial apps you already know.

At its core, moving money into and out of crypto is about two simple actions: buying crypto with dollars, and turning crypto back into dollars when you’re ready.

That’s where on-ramps and off-ramps come in. On-ramps and off-ramps are the bridges between crypto and traditional finance, helping the two work together in real life.

What on-ramps and off-ramps actually mean

An on-ramp is any method that lets you buy crypto using U.S. dollars. This might include a bank transfer, debit card, or a payment method like Apple Pay.

An off-ramp works in the opposite direction. It allows you to sell your crypto and have the dollars sent back to your bank account or payment app.

The terms may sound technical, but the actions themselves are straightforward: dollars in, crypto out, and back again when needed.




Where people typically use them

Most people encounter on-ramps and off-ramps inside platforms designed to make the process simple.

For beginners, this often means using a crypto exchange such as Coinbase. You create an account, connect your bank or card, and buy or sell crypto within the same app. Think of it like linking your bank account or credit card to Apple Pay or Venmo.The platform handles pricing, identity checks, and transactions behind the scenes.

Others use everyday payment apps that now offer crypto features. These allow people to buy and sell crypto alongside other familiar financial activities, without needing a separate exchange account.

For those who already use a crypto wallet, there are also services such as MoonPay that let you fund a wallet directly with a card or bank transfer. This option is more common among people who already feel comfortable managing their own crypto wallets.

No matter which route you choose, the service manages important steps like compliance and processing so the experience stays consistent and secure.




Practicing before using real money

To help people learn how to use crypto without any pressure, the NCA created a hands-on Crypto Simulator. It lets you practice buying, sending, and selling crypto in a guided, risk-free environment.

You can explore how exchanges and wallets work, understand the steps involved, and get comfortable with common screens and actions like buying and selling crypto - all without being connected to real funds.




Key Takeaways

There are multiple ways to move money into and out of crypto, including exchanges, payment apps, and wallet-based services.

You don’t need to understand every technical detail to get started. What matters most is choosing the option that feels clear, familiar, and right for your needs.

Crypto should feel accessible, not intimidating. Learning how on-ramps and off-ramps work is another step in your journey from crypto-curious to crypto-confident..

## Tokenization 101

URL: https://nca.org/article/tokenization-101
Published: 2026-01-09

Turning Real-World Value Into Digital Ownership

One practical use case for blockchain is turning assets and ownership into something digital. A work of art, a piece of real estate, or a batch of loyalty points can all be represented as tokens on a blockchain. Those tokens can be easier to send, split, and track than the actual physical item—without changing what they stand for in the real world.

What is tokenization? 

Tokenization means creating a blockchain token that stands in for a real-world asset (RWA)—something that exists or has value outside the blockchain, like cash, real estate, art, or commodities. RWAs can include physical items (a gold bar, a property title) or financial instruments (a bond, an equity share, or an invoice).

The token acts like your numbered claim ticket, and the blockchain is the shared, time-stamped log that records which wallet holds that ticket—and every transfer of it. Instead of passing around the physical item or paper contract, people can trade, split, or verify ownership digitally while the real asset remains securely held or managed off-chain.

One emerging application is banks issuing tokenized deposits—digital representations of bank deposits held with FDIC insurance and governed by KYC/AML rules—so transfers can be faster and on-chain while still under regulated protections.

There are two common types of tokens:

Fungible tokens: These tokens are interchangeable 1-for-1 units (like dollars). For example, any 1 USDC—short for USD Coin, a popular stablecoin pegged to the U.S. dollar—equals any other 1 USDC. They’re helpful for stablecoins, loyalty points, or revenue shares.

Non-fungible tokens (NFTs): These tokens are unique and non-interchangeable, meaning each one represents a distinct item, like a one-of-a-kind digital artwork. NFTs are commonly used for unique digital items such as artwork, collectibles, membership passes, or in-game items. Most NFTs are purely digital and are not real-world assets (RWAs). Simply put, NFTs are unique digital assets, while RWAs are digital representations of ownership of something tangible in the real world.

How it works 

Putting an asset on-chain generally follows these steps: 

Identify the asset & the rights. A company (the issuer) decides what’s being tokenized and how holders’ rights are defined (terms, disclosures, redemption rules).

Set up custody & controls. The real-world asset is kept safe with a trusted third party—like a bank, transfer agent, or records system—that tracks who owns it. This custodian (together with the issuer) backs the tokenized asset, ensuring that every digital token corresponds to a real, verifiable off-chain asset.

Mint the tokens. Smart contracts create a fixed supply and encode rules (who can hold, how transfers work, how redemptions happen).

List & transfer. Tokens move between wallets on a blockchain. This record-keeping system or ledger provides a shared, time-stamped history.

Redeem or settle. When a holder wants to sell, the issuer or custodian follows the terms—paying cash proceeds, swapping for another asset, or dissolving the token.

The benefits 

There are many benefits to tokenization, including: 

Fractional ownership. You can split the ownership of a high-priced asset (think: a building, a fund, a piece of art) into affordable portions, so more people can own a bit of it. 

Transparency. Every transfer lives on a public ledger, and that helps with provenance (proving ownership), audits, and faster checks.

Faster transfers, fewer intermediaries. Moving a token often takes minutes, not days, with clear settlement and programmable rules, like who can hold it.

Programmability. Payouts, vesting, and access rights can be encoded into the smart contract, reducing paperwork and manual steps.

These benefits are already playing out across industries, take a look below at real-world use cases.

Real-world use cases

Tokenization already powers many valuable tools. In each case, the token is your digital claim, while the underlying asset remains with a regulated custodian or a trusted records system.

Treasuries and funds: Some companies turn shares of short-term government bond funds (cash-like funds that earn a little interest) into tokens so that you can buy or sell on a blockchain in minutes while the real bonds and cash stay with a regulated bank or trust company.

Real estate slices: Properties are organized into legal entities and then represented by on-chain tokens you buy from a crypto wallet; you hold a digital claim to your share, and rent or sale proceeds for the property are paid out per the terms recorded in the smart contract.

Loyalty & brand programs: Points and passes become tokens, which makes them easier to issue, verify, and redeem. Perks can be IRL (in-store discounts, event access) or digital (gated content, online discounts), and activate the moment your wallet holds the token.

Ticketing & passes: Event tickets as NFTs reduce counterfeiting and enable instant resale, with rules or perks (like merch drops) for verified holders.

Supply chain records: Certificates (origin, compliance, sustainability) serve as on-chain proofs that accompany goods from source to shelf, creating a shared audit trail.

Banks, asset managers, retailers, and fintechs are rolling out real tokenization products—not just pilots—bringing clearer audit trails, faster settlement, and 24/7 service.

What to evaluate before buying

If you decide to explore a tokenized product, treat it like any financial product and review the basics first:

Issuer & disclosures: Who’s behind the token, and what rights do holders actually have regarding income, redemption, and access? Make sure you read the terms.

Custody & redemption: Where is the underlying asset held, how do you redeem it, and what are the timelines/fees? 

Eligibility & rules: Some offerings are limited (for example, to accredited investors or certain states), and transfers may be restricted by design. 

Costs & networks: Check gas/transaction fees, as well as platform fees; they vary by blockchain and provider.

Considerations to keep in mind

Whenever you’re thinking about buying a tokenized asset, remember the potential risks: 

Counterparty & legal: You rely on the issuer/custodian and the legal terms that tie the token to the tangible asset. If the issuer fails, changes terms, or the custodian has any issues, you may face delays or be unable to redeem.

Price & liquidity: Liquidity means how easily you can sell at a fair price. In a quiet market, you may need to accept a discount, and the token’s price can move even if the underlying asset is steady.

Operational: Tokens run on software and wallets. Bugs, smart-contract mistakes, key mishandling, or bad oracle (off-chain data) inputs can lead to losses or stuck transactions.

Regulatory: Rules vary by asset and location and can change over time. New guidance may limit who can buy, where trading can take place, and how and when you can redeem.

Key Takeaways 

Tokenization does not change what an asset is. It changes how it is owned and exchanged. By giving real-world value a digital wrapper, it can make records harder to tamper with, transfers faster and simpler, and access more flexible for investors. If you explore it, start small, read the terms, and make sure the issuer, custody, and redemption path are crystal clear.

## Staking 101

URL: https://nca.org/article/staking-101
Published: 2026-01-09

How Proof-of-Stake Lets You Earn While Supporting the Network

Staking is like earning a reward for helping a blockchain run. On proof-of-stake (PoS) blockchains, people help secure the network by locking up their tokens. You can "delegate" your tokens to a validator—a computer that checks and adds new blocks of transactions.

When you stake, you support that validator with your tokens while still owning them and seeing them in your wallet. In return, you earn more of that token as a reward. Validators that stay online and follow the network’s rules earn rewards, which are shared with the people who stake with them. This process helps keep the blockchain accurate and secure—without using the heavy energy of mining.

How staking rewards work

Rewards appear as an estimated annual percentage yield (APY) of return, similar to how interest is displayed on a savings account. It reflects what you might earn over a year, these are paid out on a schedule (anywhere from minutes to days depending on the chain). They’re paid in crypto, not cash. When you stake, you earn more of the same token.

Typical staking rewards vary by network, validator fees, and the number of stakers at any given time. On large networks like Ethereum, returns are around 3% per year. Other blockchains can range from 2% to 18% depending on supply and demand, with many averaging around 5–7%.

Where do they come from?

Network issuance & fees: Many proof-of-stake networks automatically create new tokens and distribute them as rewards through their code—there’s no central authority deciding this. When a validator adds a valid block, the network’s software mints the reward and sends it directly to that validator’s wallet. Those rewards usually include newly created tokens, along with a portion of the transaction fees users pay when they send, swap, or interact with smart contracts on the network. Validators then share these rewards with the people who staked with them.

Compounding: If you re-stake what you earn, your balance can grow faster over time (some platforms auto-compound; others require a tap to restake). This is like earning interest on your interest.

After fees: Validators usually take a small fee before sharing rewards with you—check this percentage before you choose one.




Remember: reward rates can change, and token prices can rise or fall—staking helps the network, but it’s still an investment that moves with the market.

What to know before you stake

Lock-ups & unstaking: Some networks “lock” your staked tokens for a set period, meaning you can’t move or sell them until that lock period ends. If you change your mind and want to reaccess your tokens, you’ll need to “unstake”—a process that can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks, depending on the blockchain. If you might need your tokens soon, start with a small amount or pick a network with shorter unlock times.

Slashing: If a validator is offline for too long or doesn’t follow the network’s rules, the network can remove a small part of the tokens they staked. Sometimes the people who staked with them also lose a little, but the validator takes most of the hit.

Price swings: Earning rewards doesn’t protect you from price drops, so your tokens can still lose value if the market falls. If the token price drops, your total value can still fall - even while you’re earning.

(Note: in the U.S., rewards may count as income for tax purposes, and selling later can create a gain or loss. Keep records and check with a tax professional.)

How to stake using an exchange: 

Many people start by staking through a popular exchange:

Buy a supported PoS token (ETH, SOL, ADA availability varies by platform).

Find the Stake or Earn option on the asset's page.

Review the reward rate, validator fee, and lock-up period.

Start with a small amount and observe how rewards appear.

Understand how and when you can unstake, especially before committing more.

Key Takeaways 

Staking turns passive holding into active network participation with the potential for financial rewards. Start with a modest amount, understand the unstake timeline, and choose reputable validators or platforms. As with any investment, the value of your stake can go up or down regardless of the rewards you earn.

## Miners & Validators 101

URL: https://nca.org/article/miners-and-validators
Published: 2026-01-09

How blockchains stay secure and how you can participate 

A blockchain is a shared record that thousands of computers, called nodes, can agree on without a central gatekeeper. This system for keeping everyone in sync is called consensus. The three most common ways to reach consensus are:

Proof of Work (PoW) — In this model, “miners” spend computing power—meaning they use energy-intensive computers to solve puzzles and confirm transactions. The miner who successfully adds a new block earns newly minted coins plus transaction fees. Competing to add the next block keeps the network secure because it would cost a considerable amount of real-world energy and money to attack or rewrite it. Bitcoin uses PoW.

Proof of Stake (PoS) — Here, “validators” lock up coins as a security deposit—meaning participants set aside some of their crypto as collateral to help confirm transactions. If they follow the network’s rules, they earn rewards; if they make mistakes or stay offline too long, they can lose part of that deposit (a penalty called slashing). ETH uses PoS.

Federated Consensus — The XRP Ledger reaches consensus without proof of work or staking by having independent validators agree on transactions. Each validator checks transactions and compares its view with a trusted set of other validators; when a strong majority agree, the transaction closes. This process typically takes 3–5 seconds and provides immediate finality, meaning confirmed transactions cannot be reversed. Because there are no miners or stakers to pay, transactions are fast, inexpensive, and energy-efficient.

PoW, PoS, and Federated Consensus use different methods but share the same goal: ensuring only valid transactions are added to the ledger. Think of it like a sports game—the refs (validators or miners) make sure the plays are fair, and the scoreboard (the blockchain) shows the official record. But instead of one ref, everyone participating in the blockchain governance are relied on to confirm that the rules are being followed. 

In any case, they don’t own or “back” your funds—they just enforce the network’s rules so the ledger stays accurate. Even when you stake, you assign your tokens to help a validator operate while retaining full ownership. Only your private keys can move your crypto.

Let's look at how each system works under the hood.

Proof-of-Work: why miners solve “puzzles”

Miners group recent transactions into a candidate block and repeatedly run a math puzzle called a hash function, changing a number (the nonce) until the result meets the network’s target. Miners don’t do this manually—it’s handled automatically by mining software that runs on high-powered computers, often ASICs (Application-Specific Integrated Circuits). 

ASICs are custom-built machines designed to do one thing extremely fast: compute these hash puzzles. The “puzzle” itself is a test of work—the software keeps trying random nonce values until the hash output starts with a required number of zeros, known as the network’s difficulty target. This target adjusts over time to keep new blocks appearing at a steady pace. When a miner’s machine finally finds a valid hash, that miner earns the right to add the block to the blockchain and collects rewards in newly created coins plus transaction fees. 

Why does this system work? 

It makes attacks expensive. Creating a valid block uses real electricity and special hardware. In theory, someone could try to rewrite past data, but because every block links to all the ones before it, they’d have to redo all that work—using an enormous, visible amount of power and money. On large networks, this would be nearly impossible, which is what keeps the record secure.

It rewards participation and reliability. When a miner successfully adds a valid block, they earn a block reward—a set amount of newly created coins (which can be a fraction of a coin) plus the transaction fees from that block. On large networks, these rewards are often shared among mining pools, so each participant earns a proportional share. These incentives encourage miners to continue contributing computing power and to follow the protocol’s rules, which keep the network secure and running smoothly.

Who mines today? On large Proof-of-Work networks like Bitcoin, mining has become mostly industrial-scale—data-center rooms full of specialized hardware running nonstop. These operations are often organized into mining pools, which are groups of miners that combine their computing power and share rewards among members. Pooling helps even out earnings so everyone gets small, steady payouts instead of waiting on a rare solo win.

Smaller Proof-of-Work networks still attract hobbyist miners. They usually join mining pools too, since mining alone is like buying a single lottery ticket: you might win the full reward, but it’s rare. Pooling makes the process more predictable with smaller, steadier payouts instead of waiting (and probably never hitting) a big jackpot on your own.

Proof-of-Stake: what validators actually do

On Proof-of-Stake (PoS) chains, participants can lock up their coins on the blockchain to help secure the network. Some run their own validator nodes, but most people simply delegate their tokens to an existing validator—earning rewards while keeping ownership and control of their crypto.

The protocol selects validators through a process that's randomized but the more you stake the more likely you will be selected. Think of it like a raffle. I may win if I have one raffle  ticket, but I have a better chane of winning if I have a thousand raffle tickets. The selection process is transparent so everyone can verify the selection was fair.

Assemble and check blocks. By collecting transactions, verifying signatures and rules, and broadcasting proposals.

Vote on others’ blocks. These votes, or attestations, are sent automatically by validator software when it’s online and functioning, helping the network finalize the next block.

Stay reliable. Validators earn rewards—like new tokens and transaction fees—for staying online and running up-to-date software that correctly processes blocks. If a validator goes offline for too long, signs two blocks at once (called double-signing), or breaks network rules, it can face a penalty called slashing, where part of its staked coins are permanently lost. These penalties usually apply to the validator’s own stake, not to regular users who delegate tokens to it. However, some networks may share a small portion of the penalty with delegators.

Federated Consensus - a trusted voting system

Federated consensus is a validator-based agreement model in which each node maintains a unique set of trusted and reliable validators (often called a Unique Node List, or UNL). Consensus is reached through voting: once a supermajority of trusted validators agree that a transaction is valid it is recorded on the blockchain, meaning the agreed state is final and cannot be reorganized. Validation does not depend on mining power or token ownership, but on sufficient overlap among trusted validators across the network; so that no single actor or small group can force an outcome. This approach prioritizes fast settlement, low fees, and predictable finality while allowing decentralization through independently operated validators rather than economic competition.




This raises a question beginners often ask: Do miners or validators control crypto?

Nope, no one controls crypto. Miners and validators keep the record up to date by checking transactions and adding new blocks. They can’t alter the data or access your money.

Your wallet’s private keys—the passcodes that let you move your crypto—are visible only to you during setup and in your wallet's settings. The people or computers helping run the blockchain never see them. Only you, with your private key or recovery phrase, can access your crypto.

Key Takeaways 

These three systems serve the same purpose: keeping the blockchain accurate and tamper-resistant. Operators keep score while your keys keep control. If you want to participate, delegating a small stake is the simplest way to start. If you choose to run a validator, research thoroughly, secure your keys, and monitor continuously.

## Building On-Chain 101

URL: https://nca.org/article/building-blockchain-easya
Published: 2025-12-18

In Partnership With EasyA

More people are learning how to build on blockchain networks. Behind every wallet, payment tool, or digital game is something simple: software written by real people.

When that software runs on a blockchain, we call it building on-chain. Anyone with an idea - and the knowhow - can create new ways for people to interact with and use crypto. 

Over the past few years, developers have used the blockchain to innovate existing industries like traditional finance (by facilitating cheaper money transfers on-chain) to healthcare (by putting medical records on-chain so they are transparent and immutable), to real estate (by putting titles on-chain), and beyond. 

What Building On-Chain Means

Blockchains act as shared databases. Nobody owns it and no one controls it. It is governed by a predetermined set of coded rules. Those rules determine not only how the blockchain operates, but what can be built on top of the chain. For example, certain blockchains have rules for  building and adding smart contracts.

The absence of centralized control allows anyone to contribute to the blockchain as long as they follow the rules in doing so. You don’t need to be a coder or an engineer to hold or use crypto, but if you are interested in learning more about developing “on-chain” EasyA is a great resource for new learners to dive into different ecosystems and find out how they can launch their projects on the world’s leading blockchains from the XRP Ledger to Solana.

Examples of On-Chain Applications

Builders are already creating tools people use in everyday life, including apps that help people send money to family and friends, digital marketplaces where users trade directly with each other, NFTs that show ownership of art, tickets, or memberships, games where players own the items they earn or purchase, and community groups that use blockchain voting, often called DAOs (Decentralized Autonomous Organizations).

All across the EasyA ecosystem, developers are leading the way and building the future of on-chain apps. Here are just a few examples of how EasyA developers are using the blockchain:

Axal - backed by a16z Crypto and founded by Harvard students, Axal allows users to earn yield on their crypto. Axal puts users’ deposited crypto into a set of low-risk, interest-generating tools in the crypto ecosystem. It works a bit like a high-yield savings account, but built on blockchain. As with any crypto product, it’s important to take time to understand how it works before using it.

BlindPay - backed by YCombinator, BlindPay is a stablecoin API that lets any company worldwide send and receive money using stablecoins.

RMD Wallet - backed by Draper University, RMD Wallet is a mobile wallet that makes it easy for anyone to buy, sell, and trade memecoins.

Why On-Chain Innovation Matters

When people build on-chain, they expand what blockchain can do and, in many cases, make it more practical for everyday life. Each new application adds value for the people using it. 

Who Is Becoming a Builder Today

Blockchain development is no longer limited to experts or people with highly technical backgrounds. Students learning new skills, people exploring opportunities in technology, designers applying creativity to interactive experiences, entrepreneurs testing new ideas, and developers expanding into blockchain for the first time are all becoming part of the builder community.

If you’re fascinated by what the blockchain can do or want to learn more, the EasyA app or NCA explainer videos are two great places to start your journey. There’s never been a better (or easier!) time to learn about blockchain. 

How EasyA Makes Building More Accessible

EasyA teaches people how to build on-chain by guiding them through hands-on challenges directly on their phone. Instead of requiring complex setup, learners can try real code, follow step-by-step tutorials, and explore blockchain concepts through practical experience. They also host in-person hackathons and demo days where top users go to launch their projects in real life!

While EasyA helps people learn how digital tools are built, NCA helps people understand what crypto is, how it works, and why it matters so they can use it with confidence in their everyday lives. Together, the goal is to make blockchain education practical, human, and accessible so more people can participate in meaningful ways.

“We could not be more excited to partner with the NCA to bring crypto to billions of new people and supercharge the industry’s growth from the ground up. The key to mass adoption has always been making education more accessible and there are no two teams better placed than EasyA and the NCA to make this a reality. Together, we will unlock the full potential of one of the fastest growing industries in the world and bring crypto to billions.” - Dom Kwok, Co-Founder of EasyA

Where to Go from Here

As more people learn how on-chain tools work and how to create them, those tools become more practical, more inclusive, and more relevant to everyday life. EasyA is lowering the barrier to building, while NCA is helping more people understand crypto clearly so they can participate with confidence.

If you are curious about starting your crypto journey, NCA has resources to help guide you, from a Crypto 101 course to the NCA Crypto Simulator. And if you are already familiar with crypto and want to challenge yourself to build on-chain, the EasyA app is a great place to begin. Start where you are, learn what matters to you, and take your time.

## Securities and treasuries 

URL: https://nca.org/article/securities-treasuries
Published: 2025-12-10

Understanding securities and treasuries without the jargon. 

Before We Dive In

The words “securities” and “treasuries” can sound like insider finance talk used only on Wall Street. What does it mean and what does it have to do with crypto? In this guide, we’ll try to explain them in plain English. No jargon, no confusing charts. 

What are Securities?

Securities are what is traditionally used to prove you own a financial interest in something. If you own a share of stock, it proves you own part of a company; if you hold a bond it shows you are owed money (by the entity that issued - sold you - the bond). Both are “securities” and both represent a financial right that you have.  

What Are Treasuries?

Treasuries are a type of security issued by the U.S. government. When you buy a treasury, you are essentially lending money to the government. In return, the government agrees to pay that money back later, with a bit of extra interest.

There are a few main Treasuries, based on how long the government keeps the money before paying it back:

Treasury Bills (T-Bills): Short-term, usually less than a year.

Treasury Notes (T-Notes): Medium-term, ranging from 2 to 10 years.

Treasury Bonds (T-Bonds): Long-term, stretching out 20 to 30 years.

When you hear “Treasuries” in the news, it’s just a way of talking about government IOUs that come with different timeframes and different interest rates depending on those time periods.

What This Means for Crypto

So, what does all of this have to do with crypto? 

First, it’s important to understand that most crypto assets aren’t considered “securities” under U.S. law. That’s because they often don’t meet all parts of the legal standard used to determine whether something is an investment contract (a particular type of security).




Second, treasuries play a major role in stablecoins. Stablecoins are a type of crypto that are designed to maintain a “stable” value and it does that by setting aside reserves that are stable. If I spend one dollar to buy a stablecoin I should be able to sell my stablecoin back to you for a dollar. How does that happen? U.S. stablecoins are backed by assets like U.S. dollars or government treasuries held in separate, protected accounts. In those cases, the issuer takes the dollar you pay and holds an equivalent amount in reserve to maintain stability.

Key Takeaways 

Securities and treasuries may sound like heavy financial jargon, but at their core they’re essentially different kinds of financial promises. Securities are the broad category, covering things like ownership in companies or loans made through bonds. Since crypto generally does not make any “financial promises,” they are generally not considered securities. 

Treasuries are a specific type of security issued by the U.S. government, and widely used as a tool for both traditional finance and now are being used to help keep stablecoins “stable.” 

Understanding these terms gives you a clearer picture of how money moves in both worlds and the confidence to continue your journey into crypto.

## Smart contracts

URL: https://nca.org/article/smart-contracts
Published: 2025-12-10

Self-executing code that runs “if this, then that” on the blockchain

In the beginning, cryptocurrencies were designed to send value from one person to another without a middleman. Then developers realized something else: they could also use new blockchain networks to run small programs of code to unlock different values, provided agreed-upon conditions were met. These are called smart contracts. 




This guide explains what smart contracts are, how they work, where they appear, and what to know before you confirm your first on-chain transaction. 




What is a Smart Contract?

A smart contract is like a next-generation digital vending machine. A regular vending machine gives you a snack when you insert the right amount of money. A smart contract, by contrast, doesn’t just check for payment—it checks for conditions. Smart contracts wait and see if a transaction was signed, a delivery was confirmed, or a milestone was completed before unlocking the contracts value or payment. It does all this by relying on on-chain data. 

Only when all the programmed conditions are met does it “release” the digital asset—whether that’s a payment, loan disbursement, NFT, or escrowed funds. It’s automation with rules, but no middlemen. Once a smart contract’s rules are set  on the blockchain, they are locked in and enforced. Think of the code as an “if this, then that” recipe. 

For example: A smart contract can hold an NFT until two things happen: you pay for it, and you sign a digital agreement (like a Non Disclosure Agreement). Once the blockchain confirms that you've completed both, the NFT is automatically moved to your wallet. The agreement lives on the blockchain itself.

Depending on the blockchain you use, creating and later using the contract may require a gas fee—a “toll” paid to validators, the computers that verify transactions and record them on the public ledger. 

Common Use Cases




NFT royalties: Each time a piece of digital art is sold and transferred, the smart contract can automatically send a cut of the sale price back to the original artist, without a gallery or lawyer required.

Instant loans (DeFi lending): Users deposit crypto, often stablecoins, into a lending pool, which is a pooled smart-contract “vault” where many people park their assets to earn interest. When users borrow funds, a smart contract calculates interest in real time and adjusts loan rates based on supply and demand. Assets are then returned automatically the moment repayment is made.

Flight-delay insurance: Buy a tiny on-chain insurance policy, and if an oracle (data feed) shows your flight lands late, the smart contract sets an automation to your wallet for a payout when specified conditions are met – no paperwork, no waiting.

Supply-chain automation: Sensors upload timestamps as goods move from factories to ports to retailers. Once a shipment arrives and the data is confirmed, the smart contract automatically releases payment to the manufacturer.

Gaming and loyalty: Blockchain games use smart contracts to mint unique in-game items like special character skins or accessories, while loyalty platforms drop reward tokens when a wallet reaches certain milestones, like spending a certain amount in the game.




Why Use Smart Contracts?




Smart contracts are popular because they offer:

Automation: They cut out paperwork and office hours.

Transparency: Anyone can read the code and see how it works.

Speed: Transfers can settle in seconds rather than days.

Global Reach and Accessibility: Because a smart contract lives on a public blockchain, it follows the same rules everywhere—no matter your country or time zone. Anyone with an internet connection and a compatible wallet can interact with them, giving people in places with limited banking access the same opportunity as those in major financial centers.

Bottom line: Treat smart-contract the way you would any serious transaction online—read the details, start with a small test, and factor in gas fees (if they are being charged) before you click “confirm.”

Staying Safe When You Click “Confirm”




Read the pop-up: Your wallet will show what the contract is requesting, such as spending tokens, granting permissions, or minting NFTs. If the action seems broad or unclear, cancel it to avoid errors.

Use trusted sources: Stick to official sites or verified pages. Never click random links in group chats, texts, or social media DMs.

Clean up approvals: Revoke old token permissions you no longer need. Think of it like giving your gate code to someone working in your house. When the work is done, change the code. 

Start small: Test with a tiny amount before sending more.




These are the same simple habits you follow for digital banking or online shopping, just adapted for a world where the “storefront” is a line of permanent code.




Try It Yourself




Want to see a smart contract in action? Open a reputable wallet, load it with a few dollars’ worth of crypto, and head to a beginner-friendly dApp—a decentralized application that runs on a blockchain instead of a company’s private servers—to do things like:




Mint a free or low-cost NFT on a well-known collection’s official site.

Visit a blockchain game’s demo and claim your first item.




When the pending transaction pops up in your wallet, it’ll show the contract address, the associated gas fees, and the request the contract is making. Once you hit “confirm,” your transaction will be added to the blockchain, and the contract will run as written. 




Key Takeaways 




Smart contracts can automatically send an artist a royalty when a song resells, trigger a payout the moment a flight lands late, or let two people who’ve never met trade one token for another in seconds—with just the contract doing what it was programmed to do.




The flip side is that you must stay alert, like with any digital financial transaction: double-check wallet addresses, limit permissions, and interact only with trusted code. With these habits in place, smart contracts open a door to a more seamless way of doing business, one that anyone with an internet connection can tap into. That makes them one of the most essential building blocks in the growing world of digital assets.




For more plain-English guides on crypto basics, keep exploring the National Cryptocurrency Association’s learning hub.

## Crypto donations: Giving that goes further

URL: https://nca.org/article/crypto-donations
Published: 2025-12-02

How digital assets are helping donations move faster

Giving Tuesday is about supporting the causes that matter most, and donors are looking for simple and flexible ways to give. This is one reason why some donors are turning to crypto as a way to give back. Crypto donations can get to the causes that need them faster, with more transparency - and fewer middlemen taking a cut along the way, so more of the donation actually gets to the intended charity

Why Crypto Giving Is Growing

Traditional donations often pass through several hands like banks and processors before reaching a nonprofit. Each step can take time and introduce fees.

With crypto, donors can send value directly to a nonprofit’s wallet in minutes. There are no bank hours and no waiting for wire transfers to clear. For nonprofits, this means faster access to funds and fewer organizations involved in the process. 

Crypto giving is growing because it removes friction. Funds can move directly from donor to organization and settlement that used to take days can be completed in minutes. For donors who want to act quickly during a crisis or before a deadline, speed and reliability matter.

More of Your Gift Can Reach the Cause

Traditional donations often come with processing costs. Credit card donations typically carry fees before the funds reach the nonprofit. Crypto donations can reduce those costs because transfers can move directly to the organization with fewer intermediaries involved.

Over time, that difference matters.

Movember, the global men’s health charity, began accepting crypto to lower fees, receive funds faster, and connect with digital-first donors. For them, crypto is another way to make sure more of each donation supports programs and communities.

When fewer resources go to processing and transaction costs, more of the donation can support the mission.

Transparency You Can See for Yourself

Crypto offers something you do not get with most traditional donations. Every transaction is recorded on a public ledger (called a blockchain). After you send a donation, you can verify when it moved, when it arrived, and the exact amount. Your identity stays private, but the transaction is still visible. It is like a receipt anyone can double-check, but no one can change.

For nonprofits, that built-in transparency supports:

Audits and reporting

Internal controls and tracking

Donor communication and trust

For donors, it offers a level of visibility that’s rare in traditional payment systems and can strengthen confidence in how funds are handled.

Big Organizations Are Already Using It

More established nonprofits are beginning to use blockchain in their operations, not only for accepting donations but also for moving funds where they are needed.

Ripple, for example, works with nonprofits like World Central Kitchen, Water.org, GiveDirectly, and Mercy Corps to move funds across borders using blockchain-based payment rails and a U.S. dollar-backed stablecoin. The goal is simple: send money in seconds instead of days, with more transparency and fewer intermediaries.

For disaster response and financial inclusion, time and reliability matter. Faster settlement means local partners can buy supplies sooner, pay vendors on time, and provide support to people when it is needed most.

These pilots show how crypto and stablecoins can support not just how donations are made, but how nonprofits operate from start to finish.

What to Know About Taxes and Crypto Giving

Crypto donations have specific tax considerations that are different from donating cash. In some cases, donating crypto directly to a qualified nonprofit can change how the donation is treated for tax purposes.

For example, when crypto that has increased in value is donated directly, donors may be eligible for a charitable deduction based on the fair market value. Selling the crypto first and then donating the cash can lead to a different tax outcome, depending on the situation.

The key idea is that the way you donate can affect how your gift is processed and how much ultimately reaches the nonprofit.

Tax rules vary by location and individual circumstances. It is always best to consult a tax professional for advice about your own situation. 

Tools Making Crypto Giving Simple

You do not need technical experience to donate crypto. Exploring a single donation can help make the process familiar. It shows how the transaction works, what fees look like, and how confirmations appear on a blockchain.

Crypto offers another option for supporting the causes that matter, with a simpler and more direct way to move funds.

There are also platforms like The Giving Block that simplify crypto donations by managing the technical details in the background, making the process smooth for both donors and nonprofits. Keep in mind, however, that using third-party platforms may come with associated fees.

## Crypto is on the gift list this holiday season

URL: https://nca.org/article/crypto-gifting-for-holidays
Published: 2025-11-24

A look at the evolving role of digital assets for holiday gifting and shopping.

The holiday season is upon us, and something different is showing up on gift wish lists this year: crypto.

Crypto conversations are moving beyond investing into other practical use cases, including gifting, spending, and donating. The NCA just teamed up with PayPal to release the 2025 Holiday Crypto Report, which provides fresh insight into how shoppers are thinking about crypto this season.

A New Way to Gift

We polled 2,000 U.S. adults and learned that this year, crypto is showing up on holiday gift lists in a meaningful way. Nearly one in four (24%) have given or are considering giving crypto as a holiday gift. 

And among current crypto holders, interest is even higher: almost two-thirds (65%) have given, plan to give, or are considering gifting crypto – and half expect to receive it themselves.

We already send money to family, give gift cards to friends, and hope to avoid the stress of picking out the perfect item for everyone special in our lives. Crypto simply adds another option, one that travels instantly, doesn’t require wrapping paper, and can even gain value over time.

Crypto is Competing with Gift Cards

Gift cards have been a holiday staple for decades. But this year, the data shows interest in crypto as an alternative.

Almost one in five (17%) would prefer to receive crypto over a gift card, with that number rising to 54% among crypto holders

More than one in ten (11%) have already gifted crypto and 13% have received it, while 14% plan to gift crypto in the next year

Over two-thirds (68%) say they’re always looking for exciting new gift ideas

There’s another factor at play too: unused gift cards. Americans left an average of $90 unspent on gift cards last year. Instead of a gift card that might sit in a drawer, a crypto gift can hold lasting value and can be used anytime, anywhere a recipient chooses. And 31% of Americans say crypto gifts are less likely to go unused than gift cards.

The other reasons people are turning to crypto instead of gift cards?

More than half see potential for crypto gifts to increase in value over time (58%) and appreciate the greater flexibility crypto offers for spending or investing (54%)

Almost half say crypto is easier to store and manage digitally (49%) and think it feels more exciting (45%) and faster (40%) to receive

Shopping With Crypto: Coming Into View

Crypto isn’t just showing up as a gift: it’s appearing in-store and online, too.

When it comes to shopping, holders are eager to see crypto as a payment option at checkout. For those who are already embracing digital assets:

About four in five (82%) would consider paying with crypto if more retailers accepted it as a payment option, and more than half (55%) even say they are more likely to shop at merchants that do accept crypto

Almost one-quarter (23%) are likely to use crypto for holiday shopping this year

Beyond the holidays, almost two-thirds (62%) plan to shop with crypto in the next 12 months

So, what do they want to buy with crypto?

Clothing (53%)

Jewelry (49%)

Everyday essentials (48%)

Direct crypto gifting (50%)

Why? Top reasons include opportunity to earn crypto rewards (42%), enhanced privacy (38%), lower fees (36%), and fast processing (34%).

Barriers to Crypto Spending

One major barrier for people who want to spend with crypto is merchant acceptance. In fact, 35% of crypto holders say “not enough stores accept it.” Moves from major payment providers like PayPal are helping bridge that gap by making it easier to spend digital assets at checkout, even when a store doesn’t natively support crypto yet.

Another barrier for those curious about gifting crypto is a lack of understanding (38%) and not knowing how to gift crypto yet (36%).

Gifting a small amount to your crypto-curious friends and family can be a gentle introduction as a way to get:

Hands-on experience using the technology in practical, everyday ways 

Opportunities to learn about digital wallets and transfers 

More comfortable engaging in the crypto economy

This is where trusted guidance matters. Helping people understand how to participate and use crypto with confidence is a core focus for the NCA. In case you missed it, we just launched even more crypto learning resources on our website here. 

Final Thoughts

Crypto is finding a place at the holiday table — as a gift, a shopping tool, and a conversation starter about the digital economy. As a modern take on a classic holiday gift, it’s fast, secure, and can be used or saved – while also potentially growing in value. 

And although millions are already using crypto today, there is opportunity for millions more to get on-chain. In fact, 30% of consumers said they could be convinced to gift crypto if they had better information about its benefits and safety measures. If you’re one of them, check out our explainers on how to safely store your crypto and all the ways you can actually use it.

## Retail crypto adoption is gaining momentum

URL: https://nca.org/article/retail-crypto-adoption
Published: 2025-11-04

How major brands are making crypto payments feel familiar and fast 

How major brands and trusted payment platforms are making crypto payments feel familiar and fast

From grocery aisles to fast-food counters, shops of all types and sizes across the U.S. are accepting crypto payments. Paying with crypto is now as seamless as using Apple Pay or Venmo, whether online or in-store. That’s because services automatically convert crypto into dollars in the background, so businesses can accept it just like cash or card.

The Power Behind the Scenes: Crypto Payment Processors

A growing number of big-name retailers now let you pay with crypto, right alongside credit cards or Apple Pay. Behind the scenes, apps take care of instantly turning your crypto into dollars so the store gets paid smoothly. 

Some of the most popular apps are:

Flexa: A payments network that lets you spend crypto instantly at stores, with built-in support for loyalty points and rewards.

Spedn: A mobile app that works through the Flexa network to let users spend crypto at stores.

Bakkt & Fold: Allow customers to pay with crypto while earning rewards in the process.

BitPay: One of the earliest and most widely used processors, powering crypto payments.

MoonPay: Makes it easy to buy crypto using familiar payment methods such as Apple Pay or credit cards.

PayPal: Supports over 100 cryptocurrencies, connects to major wallets, and instantly converts crypto into USD at checkout with a 0.99% fee.

These platforms offer familiarity, security and reliability by plugging directly into existing checkout systems to instantly convert crypto into dollars so neither the merchant nor the shopper feels a difference.




Merchants Embracing Crypto Payment Options




From coffee runs to big-box shopping, crypto is going mainstream with businesses across the country.




Food & Beverage: Restaurants like Chipotle and Steak ’n Shake, along with food markets such as Whole Foods and Sheetz, are now accepting crypto payments directly at checkout.

Retail: Major retailers are experimenting with digital assets, too. In 2024, Walmart tested Bitcoin payments in 50 stores, while apparel brands like Alo accept crypto for online purchases.

E-Commerce: Crypto has been part of online commerce for years. Overstock was one of the first large e-commerce companies to accept Bitcoin, while Amazon supports payments through integrated processors like BitPay. Shopify works with multiple providers—including BitPay, Coinbase Commerce, and Crypto.com Pay—enabling thousands of independent stores to accept crypto instantly.




PayPal: Bridging Crypto and Everyday Payments




PayPal is making it easier to spend crypto, letting U.S. merchants accept over 100 different cryptocurrencies at checkout. Payments go through quickly and usually cost less than traditional methods. Users can pay with crypto stored in PayPal, choosing to spend with a stablecoin or cash. Holding PayPal’s stablecoin earns 4% interest for users. The result is a consumer checkout experience that feels modern, yet familiar.




What This Means for Everyday Shoppers

From everyday essentials to leisure shopping, people can now use digital assets just like any other payment method—giving them more choice and a greater sense of ownership. 

Crypto payments offer speed, lower costs, and transparency, though volatility and tax considerations remain. That’s why stablecoins, which are tied to steady currencies like the US dollar, are gaining traction with retailers as a way to deliver the benefits of crypto without the price swings.

As a bonus: some retailers are even layering in rewards and promotional perks, giving shoppers extra incentives to try crypto payments—like Fold’s Bitcoin-back rewards, Sheetz offering discounts and loyalty points when paying with crypto, or Bakkt’s ability to spend and earn through points.

Final Thoughts

What makes crypto payments powerful is the added value: new incentives like rewards programs for consumers, lower fees for merchants, and the convenience of paying anytime, anywhere for all. 

Together, these shifts signal that crypto is moving further into the mainstream and being embraced in everyday ways by everyday people. 

The trend is already taking hold: 39% of current holders in the U.S. are using crypto to shop today, while 23% of non-holders say they would use crypto if they could shop with it (Good news for them: They can! They just don’t know it yet, which is why the NCA is here to help everyday Americans understand and use crypto with confidence).

## Crypto in America: Policy Pulse

URL: https://nca.org/article/policy-pulse
Published: 2025-09-03

Here’s how people really feel about the Trump administration’s latest directives on crypto regulation.

The White House recently issued its "Strengthening American Leadership in Digital Financial Technology” report outlining priorities and recommendations for national policy on crypto, so we polled everyday Americans to see whether they agree with the direction we’re heading in. 




Our Crypto Policy Pulse shows that most are looking forward to the government creating clearer crypto rules, especially when it comes to:




Consumer Safeguards: About three-quarters (73%) support stronger consumer protections for people investing in, holding, or using crypto. The White House report suggests added steps to ensure safeguards for individuals and businesses alike, like making sure stablecoins are fully backed, requiring regular reserve reports, banning misleading ads, and putting everyday users first.

Comprehensive Legislation: 71% support comprehensive crypto legislation to close the gaps in current law and make rules easier to understand. The White House report also calls for a full set of rules that clear up confusion, improve oversight, and clarify roles and responsibilities for regulators.

Global Leadership: 69% support strengthening American leadership in digital financial technology, ensuring the U.S. remains competitive globally. The report stresses the importance of advancing American innovation and setting high regulatory standards to remain competitive in global markets. And as we know from our earlier survey, 73% of crypto-holding Americans want to see the U.S. become the “Crypto Capital of the World.” 

Personal Finance Clarity: Almost half (42%) believe clearer crypto rules would improve their personal finances. Among current crypto holders, that number rises to 71%. This optimism tracks with the report’s vision that regulatory clarity can foster both safety and innovation in ways that benefit everyday users.




What This Means for Policymakers

While most Americans support stronger government action around crypto, there are also caveats - including what some believe to be gaps in policymakers’ crypto literacy.

Nearly two-thirds (65%) are not confident that U.S. lawmakers truly understand how cryptocurrency impacts everyday Americans. But the knowledge gap goes both ways: just 1 in 4 polled said they had read the White House’s recent crypto report, showing the need to educate both policymakers and constituents on what’s happening with crypto across the country. 

Washington is taking notice: the report itself acknowledges there are big knowledge gaps in both government and the industry, and it lays out some ways to close them through better education and real reforms.

About 9 in 10 crypto holders say it’s important to understand how cryptocurrency policies will affect their daily lives. Clarity is the goal, and progress is being made. 

Final Thoughts




There’s strong bipartisan support for action. People support crypto safeguards, security, and leadership. Clarity on these issues isn’t just good for Washington - it’s good for the Americans asking for it. At the end of the day, clear U.S. regulation isn’t really a policy issue - it’s about protecting all Americans.





Survey Method

This survey was conducted online within the United States by The Harris Poll on behalf of The National Cryptocurrency Association from August 5-7, 2025, among 2,086 adults ages 18 and older. The sampling precision of Harris online polls is measured by using a Bayesian credible interval. For this study, the sample data is accurate to within +/- 2.5 percentage points using a 95% confidence level. For complete survey methodology, including weighting variables and subgroup sample sizes, please contact media@nca.org.

## Crypto taxes 101

URL: https://nca.org/article/crypto-taxes-101
Published: 2026-02-15

Plan now, breathe easier in April.

We polled 10,000 U.S. crypto holders to learn more about how they’re using crypto and how the NCA can support them. The results were clear: many want more guidance when it comes to filing their taxes based on their crypto holdings. 




If you’re one of them, this guide is for you. We’ll cover how the IRS and other tax agencies look at digital assets, what blockchain actions trigger taxes, common mistakes to avoid, and easy habits that can make tax time way less stressful.




How and why is crypto taxed?




In the U.S., the IRS treats cryptocurrency like property, similar to stocks or real estate. That means every time you sell, trade, or spend your crypto, you may owe capital gains or be entitled to deduct a capital loss. That’s because you’re “disposing” of an asset, and the government wants to know if you made a profit or a loss—the difference between what you originally paid for the asset and what you got when you disposed of it. 




Here's how it works:

If you made money, it’s called a capital gain

If you lost money, it’s called a capital loss

For capital gains, the amount you owe depends on how long you held the crypto:

More than 12 months? You may qualify for lower long-term tax rates

Less than 12 months? It’s a short-term gain, taxed like regular income




Everyday actions that can trigger taxes




Some crypto moves feel routine but they still count as taxable events:




Trading one coin for another: Swapping one coin for another is a “taxable sale” in the eyes of the IRS, even if you never cash out. You’ll owe tax on the difference between what you originally paid for the coin and what the value you got for the coin when you traded it. That’s your gain or loss. 

Buying items with crypto: Paying for coffee or a concert ticket in crypto? That also counts as a sale. You’ll owe tax on any gains between what you originally paid for the crypto (your “cost basis”) and the price of the item when you spent it. (Note: Congress is currently considering making these transactions exempt)

Earning tokens: Getting crypto through mining, staking rewards, airdrops, and referral bonuses is treated as income. You owe tax on the coin’s dollar value when you receive it, even if you don’t sell it right away because the IRS treats it like interest  income on your bank account.

Redeeming stablecoins: Even stablecoins can trigger small tax events. If you buy one for $1 and later redeem it (by selling it) for $1.01, that 1-cent gain is technically taxable. 

While moving crypto between wallets you own is not a taxable event, it’s still smart to keep good records, if ever questioned. Before you file, check the latest IRS rules. Tax laws can change, especially around new tools and technologies like crypto. 

Smart record-keeping: making tax time easy

Crypto platforms don’t always track everything you need for taxes, especially if you move assets between wallets or exchanges. That’s why keeping your own records is key. Track the basics for every transaction, including: 




When it happened: Date, time, and the dollar value at the time

What was involved: Type and amount of crypto involved

Costs and fees: Network or trading fees, which may affect your gain/loss

Where it happened: The wallet or exchange used




You can handle this two ways. Many holders download CSV/spreadsheet files from each exchange or wallet and then upload them to a tax tool that reconciles duplicates, calculates gains or losses, and generates Form 8949 (the attachment the IRS expects alongside Schedule D). 

You can also use crypto-tax services that connect directly to your wallets and exchanges—typically via read-only APIs or public address lookups—to pull transactions automatically, keep running totals, and produce the same reports, spreadsheets, and tax documents for filing or for your accountant.

Tax forms to familiarize yourself with




Form 1040: At the top of your main tax return, you’ll see a yes/no question: “Did you receive, sell, exchange, or otherwise dispose of any digital asset?” Answer honestly, marking “yes” if you’ve bought, sold or traded crypto. This alerts the IRS that you had crypto activity to report.

Form 1099-B or 1099-DA: Some crypto platforms now send these to report your proceeds from crypto trades. They may leave out your cost basis, so review carefully and fill in missing details.

Form 8949: This is where you report each taxable event, separated into short-term and long-term. Your totals from this form flow into form Schedule D, which is your capital gains summary.

Schedule C: Use this form if mining, staking, or validating is part of a business you run regularly. It lets you deduct related expenses, but profits are also subject to self-employment tax. Small, hobby-level gains can stay on Schedule 1.




Losses still count




Down on a trade? Realized losses can offset gains elsewhere, and up to $3,000 of net capital losses can reduce your taxable income each year. Any remaining losses roll over and can be used in future years. 




Losses from potential hacks or exchange failures may also be deductible in certain cases, so save any incident reports or correspondence for your records.




International considerations




While many countries tax crypto as property like the U.S. does, rules vary widely around the world. In some countries, occasional crypto trades may be treated as tax-free personal transactions, especially if they’re below certain thresholds. 




In others, every crypto transaction is taxable, regardless of the amount. If you spend time abroad frequently or hold dual citizenship, be sure to check guidance from each country’s relevant tax authority.




Simple habits to make tax filing easier




Good tax hygiene practices are similar to everyday security practices when it comes to interacting with digital assets:




Consult a licensed tax professional: If you’re unsure about your crypto reporting, book a short meeting with a tax advisor who works with digital assets; doing so early in the year can save major headaches later. Plan another check-in whenever your situation changes significantly, such as after a big portfolio gain, starting a new business, or relocating to a different state.

Tag transactions as they happen: A quick label in a spreadsheet or an expenses tracking app (“staking reward”, “NFT mint”, “gift to cousin”, etc) can save hours of detective work next tax season.

Download monthly statements: Some platforms limit how long you can access your transaction history. Archiving PDFs now prevents surprises later.

Stick to one cost-basis method: The IRS lets you choose how to match sales to prior purchases, and that choice can affect your tax bill. FIFO (first-in, first-out) is the simplest and is often the default. “Specific ID” lets you pick the exact lots you’re selling—typically the highest-cost ones—to manage gains, but you must document the lots at the time of the trade and keep careful records. Whatever you choose, apply it consistently year after year.

Set aside a tax cushion: Crypto gains realized in May can create a tax bill that comes due as soon as the next tax deadline. Plan ahead, so you have some money set aside to pay taxes when they come due. You may also want to lock in losses in the same tax cycle you expect to realize gains. 




Final thoughts




Paying crypto taxes doesn’t have to be confusing or cumbersome. Treat every trade or spend as the sale of a small slice of property, keep clear records, and revisit your approach if and when local tax rules evolve. 




Start early—well before peak tax season—to save yourself time (and potential headaches) next April.




For more plain-English guides on crypto basics, keep exploring the National Cryptocurrency Association’s learning hub.

##  ETFs 101

URL: https://nca.org/article/etfs-101
Published: 2025-08-06

A guide to “basket investing” and where crypto fits in.

Exchange-traded funds, or ETFs, sit at the crossroads of stocks, mutual funds and digital assets. Whether you’re already familiar with index funds or just hearing the term “ETF” for the first time, this article will walk you through what they are, how they work, the main types you’ll come across, and how crypto ETFs fit into the picture–and maybe even your portfolio.

What is an ETF, exactly?

Imagine a shopping cart already filled with dozens of items. Instead of checking them out one by one, you wheel the whole cart to the register. That cart is an ETF share—a single security (often a stock or bond) that packages everything in your cart.

Traditional ETFs come in several flavors. Many buy a basket made up of S&P 500 companies and automatically readjust whenever a company is removed or added to the S&P. Others hold baskets of bonds, gold and oil, so one click gives exposure to various markets. 

Some use more sophisticated strategies to multiply an index’s daily moves for short-term trades rather than long-term holds. And others go narrower, targeting specific sectors like clean-energy producers, AI chip makers, or any other industries.

Crypto-focused ETFs operate similarly but with digital assets instead:

Spot crypto funds keep real tokens in cold storage, so each share moves almost penny-for-penny with the market price of the coin.

Futures-based crypto ETFs don’t hold the coin itself; instead, they buy regulated futures contracts—agreements to purchase or sell the asset at a set price on a future date—to mirror price movements, though rolling those contracts can create small tracking gaps over time.

Blockchain-equity ETFs skip tokens entirely and invest in the companies building the defi ecosystem, from miners to chipmakers to crypto exchanges.

Multi-asset “digital-economy” ETFs blend crypto futures with blockchain-related stocks, aiming for steadier swings than pure-play coins but more upside than broad stock indexes.

Regardless of what sits inside the basket—physical gold bars, stock certificates, crypto tokens held in cold wallets, or a mix of blockchain equities and futures—all these ETFs are registered investment products that trade on stock exchanges. You can buy or sell during trading hours just like any other publicly listed share.

How ETFs differ from mutual funds and individual assets




Mutual funds pool investor money too, but they trade only once per day after markets close, while ETFs update in real time. Individual assets (like a single stock, bond, or crypto token) represent ownership in just one company or instrument, so they rise or fall on that single asset’s fortunes rather than a diversified basket.

Real-time trading: Mutual funds only trade once a day after markets close. ETFs trade all day so you can set limit orders, place stop losses or simply lock in a price during lunch.

Built-in diversification: Each ETF share holds a mix of assets so no single stock or coin drives your returns, which helps smooth out normal daily price fluctuations.

Generally lower costs: Because most ETFs simply track a preset index instead of paying experts to pick and trade holdings every day, they have fewer research and trading expenses, so they can charge much smaller annual fees.

Tax efficiency: Mutual funds sell holdings for cash when investors leave, creating capital-gains taxes that hit every shareholder. ETFs use “in-kind” swaps, (large partners trade baskets of stocks or bonds for ETF shares) so the fund itself rarely sells anything. That means you typically owe capital-gains tax only when you sell your ETF shares.




How ETFs differ from crypto “treasury” companies

A crypto ETF gives you regulated exposure to underlying crypto itself. As explained, it may trade at a small premium or discount to the actual price of the crypto’ price, depending on market demand, but it's designed to track the price of the crypto as closely as possible.

A crypto treasury company like MicroStrategy holds Bitcoin on its balance sheet, but when you buy MicroStrategy's stock, you’re buying into the Company—not the Bitcoin. Its share price can swing much more than Bitcoin’s, because the company’s stock is not designed to track the price of Bitcoin. The stock price is based on business performance overall, not just crypto prices.

Why people use crypto ETFs




The arrival of crypto ETFs gave mainstream investors a way to gain exposure to crypto without setting up a wallet. Most brokerages that support stock and bond ETFs now also offer crypto ETFs under simple ticker symbols. Even retirement accounts like 401(k)s and IRAs can include crypto coins, just like a traditional index fund. 




Institutions benefit too. Some pension plans and university or charitable endowments can’t hold crypto tokens directly, but they can invest in SEC-registered securities like ETFs. That extra institutional buying power adds liquidity, and with more buyers and sellers competing, the “spread”—the tiny gap between the price someone will pay and the price someone will sell for—narrows so everyday investors get closer, more transparent pricing in the digital-asset market.

Pros

Ease of access: Buy and sell crypto through the same brokerage you use for stocks. No crypto wallet or new tools required.

Regulatory clarity: Crypto ETFs follow strict custody, disclosure, and audit rules, so you know exactly what you’re holding.

Retirement-account compatibility: Crypto ETFs fit neatly into tax-advantaged accounts, allowing long-term investors to defer capital-gains taxes, so they keep more of their profits upfront.

Lower learning curve: For anyone intimidated by block-explorer addresses (the long strings of letters and numbers you look up on a public ledger to verify a transaction’s details) and gas fees (the network charges paid to miners or validators each time you move or trade crypto), an ETF ticker feels familiar—just a regular stock symbol you can buy or sell inside the brokerage account you already know.

Cons

ETF Premium/Discount: Crypto ETFs often trade at a premium or discount to the actual value of the underlying cryptocurrency. In other words, you may end up paying more or less for the ETF than if you bought the crypto directly, depending on market conditions and investor demand.

Management fees: Even a 0.20% expense ratio (an annual percentage the fund deducts from your investment to cover its operating costs) adds up over time. Holding crypto directly (without an ETF) has no ongoing fee.

No on-chain utility: An ETF doesn’t live on a blockchain and has no “on-chain capability." 

Custody concentration: Most crypto ETFs rely on a small number of custodians. If one were to fail, though unlikely, it could impact multiple funds simultaneously.




Questions to ask before you buy




What’s my goal and time horizon? Do I want to make a trade soon for quick profit or invest longer-term to save for the future?

Am I better off buying crypto directly or am I just not comfortable doing that?

How do these ETF fees compare to similar products, or to buying and holding crypto directly?

Will this ETF fit inside my tax strategy?

Am I comfortable with the disconnect between the price of the ETF and the price of the crypto behind it?




How to get started




Log in to your brokerage account.

Enter the ticker symbol for the ETF you want, or a broader blockchain-equity fund.

Decide how many shares you want, then choose a market order to buy at the current price, or a limit order to buy only if the price drops to a level you’ve set and confirm the trade. 

After the purchase settles, monitor your portfolio. Crypto prices can fluctuate, so rebalance your investments if any ETF grows beyond your comfort zone.




Final thoughts




ETFs turn complex baskets of assets into a single, one-click trade. Whether the fund bundles hundreds of blue-chip stocks, a portfolio of green-energy bonds, or futures contracts tied to commodities, an ETF offers a quick, convenient path to diversification.

For veterans, it can sit alongside the crypto they store in their own private wallets (​“self-custodied” coins where they alone hold the keys) ​and serve as a tax-advantaged part of a broader strategy.

As always, do your own research, read each fund’s official summary carefully, and choose products that match your goals and risk tolerance. If you’re unsure, consider talking with a licensed financial advisor who can help fit ETFs into your broader plan. 

With clear expectations (and the same good habits you apply to any investment) crypto-linked ETFs can be a practical addition to your financial toolkit.

For more plain-English guides on digital-asset basics, visit the National Cryptocurrency Association’s learning hub.

## Crypto momentum across the U.S.

URL: https://nca.org/article/crypto-momentum
Published: 2025-07-25

Real progress is happening at the state level.

Note: This post reflects developments and legislation as of July 31, 2025. As crypto policy is evolving quickly, some details may change after this date.

Crypto momentum is growing across the country. As federal crypto laws move forward in Washington, state governments are also developing crypto frameworks. This shows a coordinated effort at both levels to shape the future of digital assets.

There have been 160 crypto-related bills introduced by 48 states. Addressing payments, taxes, budgets, and record keeping. 

Most states are moving in similar ways, matching the direction of federal policy.

States are holding crypto

New Hampshire became the first state to allow its government to buy and hold Bitcoin as an investment, and up to 5% of state funds can now be invested into digital assets. Texas passed a similar bill creating a strategic Bitcoin reserve. Think of it like a savings account but instead of dollars, they’re holding crypto. Illinois, Michigan, and Pennsylvania also have proposals seeking to establish a Bitcoin Strategic Reserve and diversify their financial holdings. 

This activity builds on recent federal progress. A March executive order laid the groundwork for a national Bitcoin reserve. The CLARITY Act and Anti-CBDC Surveillance Act have passed the U.S. House of Representatives, and the GENIUS Act became law this month. Most recently, the White House released a major report outlining its approach to crypto policy in the U.S. These show an effort in Washington to create clear rules for crypto.

States are moving with federal laws, exploring how crypto can fit into long-term financial planning. What’s important is that these decisions are made by the same boards that manage teacher pensions, emergency funds, and other public investments. This shows that crypto is increasingly being seen as a serious tool for how governments manage and protect public funds.

Governments are accepting crypto for payment

Louisiana became the first state to let residents pay government fees with crypto so property taxes, business licenses, motor vehicle registration, and more are payable with digital assets.

The system works as easy as paying with a credit card. Residents pay with crypto, and a payment processor instantly converts it into dollars so the state receives the exact amount it’s owed. This gives residents another fast, easy, and cost-effective way to pay.

Ohio is launching a similar program this fall while California approved a five-year pilot program starting in 2026. The appeal is practical: lower processing fees and more payment options for residents, which means funds get to where they need to go faster, governments can operate more efficiently, and there are more ways for residents to participate.

States are setting the rules for crypto

Oklahoma passed a "Bitcoin Rights" bill saying yes, you can hold crypto without special licenses and transact with coins freely. Kentucky, Montana, and Utah have similar laws protecting holding and using Bitcoin as basic property rights.

Wyoming has taken its crypto leadership further: the state now lets crypto companies apply for a special state banking license, allowing them to offer services like a financial institution. It’s also preparing to launch a state-backed stablecoin around August 2025.

Final thoughts

Federal agencies continue to shape national crypto rules as states move ahead with implementation. They’re already putting ideas into action, from accepting tax payments in digital assets to protecting everyday crypto ownership and use.

Crypto is becoming part of how local governments operate. Three quarters of holders believe it is important for America to have clear crypto laws, and 73% believe it's important for the U.S. to become the global leader in crypto.

These early steps give policymakers something valuable: real-world examples of crypto in action. State programs are already demonstrating how crypto fits into daily life. 

For more plain-English explainers, keep exploring the National Cryptocurrency Association’s learning hub.

## Tokenizing real estate

URL: https://nca.org/article/tokenization-of-real-estate
Published: 2025-09-03

How crypto turns properties into digital shares.

The Old Roadblocks

Ever imagined owning a condo in Chicago, a mountain lodge in Colorado, or a rental in Palm Springs? Traditional real‑estate investing can make that dream expensive. Down‑payments run into the tens of thousands of dollars, closings take weeks, and selling often means another long wait plus added fees. For people without deep cash reserves or spare time, property still feels like a members‑only club.

A Real‑World Example

Brandon Frans, a long‑time real estate investor in Omaha, wanted to branch out beyond Nebraska but found it impractical to manage distant rentals. Tokenized property changed the math:

“When I first saw real‑estate tokenization, I thought—what if I could own a piece of property in all 50 states?”
— Brandon Frans

Today he spreads smaller sums across tokenized listings—a multifamily in Texas, a retail space in Florida, a student‑housing project in Arizona. Each purchase settles on‑chain within minutes, and his dashboard shows rent distributions and resale activity in real time. 

“It’s given us more control of our time and, most importantly, control over our future destiny.”

What Blockchain Improves

Tokenization converts the ownership rights of a building (or even a single rental unit) into digital tokens on a blockchain. Every transfer is time‑stamped and visible to all participants, so records stay transparent and hard to tamper with. This unlocks several practical benefits:

Lower entry costs: Many platforms now sell property tokens for as little as $50–$100, replacing a traditional five‑figure down payment for a piece of property with a far smaller first step.

Faster closings: Once identity checks clear, transactions settle on the blockchain in minutes rather than weeks.

Any‑time trading: Blockchains operate 24/7, so you can buy or sell tokens whenever the market suits you.

Global access: After standard Know Your Customer (KYC) checks to verify identities, investors from many jurisdictions can participate, expanding both funding and opportunity.

Easier exits: Regulated secondary markets let holders resell tokens without waiting months for a traditional buyer (volume still varies by project).

Shared transparency: Title data, inspection reports, and rent ledgers can be written to the chain, giving everyone the same true information. 

Automatic payouts: Smart contracts send rent or dividends directly to token holders on schedule, cutting paperwork.

Pro‑rata voting rights: Most issuers give token holders voting power proportional to their stake (for matters like major repairs, refinancing, or property management hires) so even small investors still get a say.

Built‑in diversification: Because tokens are crypto assets backed by real estate, a single purchase adds exposure to both markets—a useful mix for holders whose average crypto balance (55% hold under $10,000) might not cover whole properties the old‑fashioned way.

Getting Started

Choose a licensed platform: Look for audited financials, plain‑English property sheets, and clear redemption rules.

Verify your identity: Just like opening a brokerage account, you’ll upload a photo ID and, for some deals, proof of income or net worth.

Fund your wallet: Most platforms accept bank transfers; many also let you deposit stablecoins like USDC.

Start small and test liquidity: Buy one or two tokens, watch how rent distributions arrive, and try reselling a fraction to gauge market depth.

Monitor voting notices: Platforms typically send proposals to token holders; casting a vote is often as simple as clicking “approve” in your dashboard.

Tips From the Field

Pick platforms that disclose past rent payouts and maintain active secondary‑market trading.

Check that income is handled by vetted property managers.

Read the smart contract terms—some issuers can pause transfers during renovations or legal disputes.

The Takeaway

Tokenization doesn’t replace traditional deeds; it adds a new lane with lower buy‑ins, faster settlements, and transparent ownership records. For seasoned investors like Brandon, it means nationwide reach without extra headaches. For first‑timers, it finally puts real estate within realistic financial range and even grants a seat at the decision‑making table. 

If property has always felt out of reach, tokenized shares may be the key to a door you’ve been waiting to open.

## Using blockchain to track beef from ranch to table

URL: https://nca.org/article/blockchain-beef
Published: 2025-07-25

How a digital ledger brings new transparency to the cattle industry.

The longstanding pain point for ranchers

For more than a century, cattle have changed hands with nothing more than a paper bill of sale and a handshake at the auction barn. Once an animal leaves the ranch, the trail goes cold: packers, retailers, and, most importantly, shoppers can’t see how that cow was raised or treated. Ranchers who invest in better genetics, humane handling, or “never‑ever” health protocols have little proof to justify higher prices, while consumers are left guessing about the quality of the beef on their plates.

Enter blockchain

Blockchain—the same distributed ledger that enables cryptocurrencies—solves this traceability gap. Process‑verified programs such as CattleProof  Verified now log each animal’s vital data (birth date, breed, pasture moves, vaccinations) onto a trackable, traceable, transparent blockchain. 

Every entry is time‑stamped and shared across the network, so no single party can rewrite history. As the calf travels from ranch to feedlot to processor, its digital record travels with it, giving everyone in the supply chain a single, tamper‑proof history to check, creating an unbroken chain of custody that anyone in the supply chain can see.

“Blockchain is really at the crossroads of the Old West and new tech.”
— Rob Jennings, President & Co‑founder of CattleProof  Verified

What transparency delivers

This level transparency has many benefits, including: 

Proof of origin: Retailers and restaurants can verify that “Oklahoma‑raised Angus” means exactly that.

Animal‑welfare validation: Humane‑treatment claims become facts, not just sales tactics.

Faster food‑safety recalls: If a problem ever arises, the source information can be pinpointed in minutes instead of days.

Verified claims: Because every feeding regimen or health protocol is logged on‑chain, retailers and consumers can see—rather than just take the seller’s word for it—that a steer was truly grass‑fed or raised without hormones.

“Our ranchers’ stewardship of the land and humane treatment can be validated on a blockchain, and that information can be passed on to the consumer.”
— Mark Tague, fourth‑generation Oklahoma cattleman and Chief Revenue Officer at CattleProof  Verified

How it works in practice

Tagging: Every calf receives an RFID ear tag (a small electronic device that sends signals to other devices using radio waves) to connect it to a unique record on the blockchain. 

Data capture: Vets and ranch hands scan the tag whenever they vaccinate, weigh, or move the animal; the event uploads to the ledger.

Transfer of ownership: At auction, the digital record on the blockchain transfers automatically along with the physical animal.

Pack & ship: Processors add important data, such as grade and weight, before boxed beef heads to distributors.

Retail scan: A QR code on the package lets a shopper review the animal’s story in seconds, often right at the meat counter.

The takeaway

Blockchain doesn’t change the hard work of ranching—it enhances the work and provides transparency for the entire supply chain. By turning animal histories into a transparent digital ledger, ranchers gain leverage in markets that reward quality, and consumers gain confidence in the beef they serve at dinner. 

From heritage family operations in the country to high‑end grocers in big cities, the technology brings the old cattle trail publicly into the 21st‑century supply chain.

## Everyday crypto security

URL: https://nca.org/article/crypto-security
Published: 2025-07-25

Practical steps to keep your digital assets safe.

Strong online security habits are a lot like smoke alarms: you set them up, maintain them, and they work quietly in the background to keep you safe. And if used right, they will alert you when something seems wrong. These habits should be followed whether you are protecting your email password or access to your bank account. Crypto is no different: a handful of repeatable routines you set up at the start will protect your digital assets. Let’s review these good habits together. 




Lock down entry points

Start with the accounts you visit every day. Turn on two-factor authentication for every exchange, wallet, and recovery email. An authenticator app, like the free Google Authenticator, is safer than text messages because it can’t be hijacked if someone gets hold of your phone number, but authenticating text messages is better than no two-factor authentication at all. Some users even create a separate email address just for financial sites so that if a social-media leak ever occurs, their financial email address stays safe. 




Verify URLs

Phishing schemes are masters of disguise. They can clone a logo, match support-chat pop-ups, and register domain names that differ by a single character. Beat them by bookmarking official pages for every service you depend on—then always reach those services through the bookmark bar, never through a link in an ad or direct message (DM). Internet browsers flash warnings for fishy-looking sites, but those alerts work only if you have them activated. A quick glance at the URL address bar can prevent a security issue later. 




Keep “hot” and “cold” money in the right places

A hot wallet is an app or browser extension that stays online and works like a checking account. It’s perfect for managing smaller expenses like daily spending, small trades, or splitting dinner. Larger balances belong in cold storage, where private keys remain offline until you plug in a hardware wallet. 




During setup, you’ll receive a “seed phrase,” which is a 12 or 24-word recovery phrase that acts as a master key, giving you access to your wallet even if you lose the hardware device or forget your password. Hand-write your seed phase somewhere safe and store it in two separate secure spots (think a fire-safe at home and a bank deposit box), and never take a photo of it with your phone. 




To recap: keep your coins online in hot wallets for quick and easy access, store your bigger savings offline in cold wallets, and always have a paper backup of your seed phrase in case of any issues. If that all seems too complicated, storing your crypto with a trusted exchange provides good security, as long as you follow the other advice in this article. 




Test before you trust large transfers

Blockchains are unforgiving of typos. A single wrong character in a wallet address can send funds into limbo forever. Whenever you pay a brand-new address, send a tiny test amount first. Wait for confirmation, verify the recipient sees it, then move the full balance. One extra minute prevents an irreversible mistake. 




Keep software and firmware current

Phone makers fix bugs to keep your info safe, wallet apps get stronger to stop hackers, and hardware wallets get updates so new tricks can’t fool them, so let your laptops and phones install updates automatically overnight. Also, plug your hardware wallet into its dashboard every few weeks to check for firmware notices, and delete browser extensions you no longer use as abandoned plug-ins sometimes get repurposed by attackers looking for a shortcut onto your machine.




Guard your keys and phrases 

Your recovery phrase or private key plus with your password (or pin if you use a cold wallet) will unlock your digital assets. Never store either in a cloud drive, email draft, or phone screenshot. If you want a digital backup, use encrypted storage on a device that never connects to the internet, or better still, write the phrase on durable paper, seal it, and store it safely. Keep antivirus tools active, close extra browser tabs before making transactions, and avoid public Wi-Fi when accessing your crypto—healthy devices help protect healthy wallets. If anyone claiming to be “support” asks for your key or phrase, end the conversation immediately; legitimate companies will never request it.




Stay skeptical of “too good to be true”

Crypto scammers recycle the same tactics used in traditional fraud: urgency and promises of guaranteed profit. They might offer double-digit weekly yields or warn that your wallet will freeze unless you act now. Pause, open a new browser tab, and check the official site or social-media feed yourself. Real opportunities wait; fake ones vanish when you try and verify the info.




Review activity regularly

Reviewing a bank statement catches fraud early, and the same works for crypto. Glance through your wallet history every week. Many mobile wallets push notifications whenever funds leave, so leave those alerts on. You can also use blockchain scanners or create a new wallet to transfer your funds if you believe your current wallet may be compromised. 




Keep learning

Blockchains evolve quickly, and so can attackers. Follow reputable sources—including the National Cryptocurrency Association’s learning hub—for guidance on how to keep your crypto secure. The more familiar these habits become, the less effort they require and the safer your digital assets will be.




The bottom line

Crypto’s freedom comes with personal responsibility, but that doesn’t mean you need a computer-science degree to manage your coins. Just remember to:

Enable two-factor authentication

Bookmark official sites

Split holdings between hot and cold storage or use a trusted exchange

Keep recovery phrases offline

Test small before sending big




These are common practices you already use every day. Now, they play an even more important role in protecting your digital assets. By making them part of your crypto hygiene routine, you’ll stay confident and fully in control.

## The ABCs of NFTs

URL: https://nca.org/article/nfts
Published: 2025-07-25

A clear guide to non-fungible digital ownership.

What is an NFT? 

NFT stands for “non-fungible token.” It is a snippet of code written (or “minted”) on a blockchain that establishes a unique ID, a current owner, all on a permanent public record of every transfer. 




Because that record can’t be altered, an NFT works like a digital certificate of authenticity and ownership for any unique thing that can be represented in a digital form, like art, tickets, gaming, loyalty badges, or even real-estate deeds.




Common use cases

Digital art and collectibles: Artists mint limited-edition pieces. Collectors own the original and creators can program royalties so every resale automatically sends a cut back to the artist.

Gaming assets: Games like Axie Infinity and Gods Unchained treat in-game characters or cards as NFTs. Players can truly own them, trade them, lend them, or port them into new titles. Ownership no longer disappears when the game is over. 

Event tickets and membership passes: Coachella issued lifetime-access NFT festival passes and Ticketmaster is experimenting with token-gated presales and collectable stubs. Blockchain tickets reduce counterfeits, cap scalping, and can unlock special rewards like backstage access or exclusive merch drops.

Brand loyalty and digital merchandise: Starbucks Odyssey turned coffee-shop check-ins into collectible stamps that unlock exclusive drinks and experiences. Nike’s .SWOOSH platform allows shoppers to collect and co-create virtual sneakers and jerseys. Brands are turning to NFTs to build community and keep their customers engaged beyond the stores. 

Real-world assets and records: Propy facilitated a U.S. home sale via NFT transfer, completing title change in minutes. Universities are piloting diploma NFTs to cut credential fraud, and hospitals are exploring tokenized medical certificates for staff. Using the blockchain to track physical assets and important documentation can make tedious processes more efficient and transparent, with no middlemen needed.

Music and media: The band Kings of Leon released an album as an NFT bundle with vinyl and concert perks. Platforms like Sound.xyz let independent musicians sell limited editions that share streaming revenue with fans. Web3 technology is making it possible for more artists to build and connect with fans in new ways.




Pros and cons

With NFTs, ownership is provable, royalties are automatic, perks are programmable, and 24/7 access means anyone anywhere with a digital wallet can participate. 




But every NFT project comes with its own terms and conditions so check the details carefully before making a purchase or sale. Also, NFT prices—especially for things like art or gaming—may be volatile. And with anything else online, there can be attempts at fraud or phishing. Remember to follow these simple steps to stay safe and avoid scams. 




Getting started 

Install a reputable crypto wallet 

Check which tokens are accepted for the NFTs you want to buy

Fund your wallet with a small amount of those accepted tokens 

Connect to verified marketplaces or a creator’s official mint page, which is the webpage or in-app screen where an artist, game studio, or project team first releases their new NFTs

Practice with lower-priced items before making any larger purchases

Confirm the price and all transaction fees

Complete the transaction and voila: view your new NFT in your wallet

You can keep your NFT in your hot online wallet or move it to a cold wallet hard drive/USB




Final thoughts

NFTs turn digital files into unique, ownable assets verified on an open, permanent ledger. Whether you want to collect art, trade gaming items, unlock event perks or more, the rules stay simple: confirm originality, understand the rights you’re buying, and protect your wallet just like you would protect any other account or asset you value. 




Master those basics and NFTs shift from buzzword to real world tool, redefining ownership in a digital world.

## Memecoins explained 

URL: https://nca.org/article/memecoins
Published: 2025-07-25

Coins born from viral culture and online communities.

What is a memecoin?

Memecoins are a category of crypto tokens built around internet memes, like celebrity catchphrases or viral jokes. 




A meme token’s value typically rises and falls based on what is trending in pop culture and on social media. It is less an asset with real-world value or everyday use, and more of a digital collectible. 




Pros

Novelty: Putting a bulldog or cartoon alien on a token gives holders a fun brand to rally around. That community spirit keeps social media chatter lively and fuels small purchases of memecoins that can have a big impact. 

Speed: Memecoins often live on fast, low-fee blockchains, so trades confirm in seconds. Pair that speed with extremely low per-coin prices (fractions of a cent) and you get dramatic percentage moves. A jump from $0.000001 to $0.000003 feels tiny in dollar terms yet triples someone’s holdings almost instantly, but it can go the other direction just as quickly. 

Low barrier to entry: When a single coin costs a fraction of a penny, newcomers can be lured into buying thousands (or even millions) of tokens for the price of a cup of coffee. But keep in mind that those purchases can add up. 

Limited practical utility (sometimes): While it’s rare for memecoins to have real use beyond serving as digital souvenirs, some may allow users to “tip” each other and some may be redeemed for giveaways. 




Cons

No practical utility (most of the time): Most memecoins have no real-world applications or steady demand, so their prices can bounce up or down with every headline or social post about the meme. 

Volatility: One tweet can send a memecoin’s value soaring just like a rumor that it might be removed from an exchange can slash the price before lunch. If interest fades, trading can dry up and late buyers may find no one to sell to. The price depends on popularity, so once the early excitement dies down, there’s nothing solid to keep the value from dropping.

Scams: The ease of launching a memecoin is also the ease of launching a scam: Copy and paste code, list it on an exchange, hype it on social media, and fraudsters can pull in unsuspecting buyers before disappearing after the initial hype - leaving others left in the dust, holding worthless tokens. 




Security basics still apply

The usual crypto safety habits matter just as much with memecoins. Always verify before you buy, since scammers can copy names and logos. Stick to well-known trading platforms, enable two-factor authentication on any exchange account, and keep larger balances in wallets where you hold the keys. And beware “airdrops” of free memecoins as they’re often traps: approving a fake token’s transaction or giving it permission to access your wallet can let attackers drain your funds. Remember: if something seems too good to be true, it probably is! 




Are memecoins right for you?

To figure out whether memecoins make sense for you, ask yourself:

Are you comfortable treating this purchase like entertainment or a collectible, as opposed to something that may rise in value? 

If you want to sell the memecoin later on, are other people actually trading it on trusted exchanges?

Would you lose sleep if the value of the token fell to zero tomorrow? 




If any answers raise any doubt, consider sitting out or allocating only what you would spend on a collectible like a Pokémon card. Think: fun money.




Final thoughts

Memecoins are the souvenir shop of crypto: eye-catching, culturally relevant, and occasionally profitable for early adopters, but not designed for long-term financial planning or real-world utility. 




Enjoy them if you like the joke, keep your investment small, and remember that their value lives entirely within internet buzz. Treat them as digital collectibles, not valuable assets, and you can share in the fun while minimizing potential risks.

## What non-holders really think about crypto

URL: https://nca.org/article/non-crypto-holders
Published: 2025-07-22

A look at their perception, hesitation, and why it matters.

Four out of five U.S. adults don't currently own any cryptocurrency. To understand what's holding them back from embracing the blockchain, the National Cryptocurrency Association (NCA) surveyed non-holders for its 2025 Crypto Confidence Pulse. 

The results show that it isn't skepticism that is keeping most people away: it's uncertainty and a lack of know-how. In fact, nearly one in three have already considered using crypto, but confusion is keeping them on the fence. 

A wide knowledge gap 

Nearly nine in 10 non-holders admit they don't know how to buy, use, or sell crypto, and almost half (49%) cite that lack of understanding as the single biggest barrier. Think of it like unboxing a powerful new gadget with no instructions. You may be intrigued—but without instructions you're probably inclined to shove it back in the box rather than risk pressing the wrong button and breaking something. Until clearer, step-by-step guidance is everywhere, curiosity alone won't flip these numbers. Education isn't a side issue: it's the main hurdle  



Trust is unsettled



Once people move past the "How does this even work?" stage, a second question pops up: "Can I really trust this?" Headlines about high-profile exchange hacks and unclear regulations have left many unsure where the safe on-ramps are. The survey makes that hesitation clear:

43% worry about crypto security or fraud

36% don't trust current crypto platforms and exchanges 

41% say they don't know who or what is "backing" crypto assets

Misperceptions play a big role here. [76%] of the 55 million Americans that own and use crypto say its had a positive impact on their life, and only 3% of existing holders report negative experiences with crypto, and fewer than one-third of those involve fraud or security breaches (that's less than 1% overall)...yet fears persist. 

Until those trust gaps close, even the curious tend to stay on the sidelines.

Five mind-sets, one common thread

Non-holders aren't all the same - they cluster into five general personas, each with it's own mix of motivations and hesitations

Curious: They're leaning in, eager to learn and maybe already exploring wallets or tokens - and 42% of this group are likely to acquire crypto this year

Cautious: Interested but still gathering facts, they prefer to watch friends or family succeed before jumping in themselves

Trendwatchers: Following headlines from a distance, they worry crypto could fade but will reconsider if it proves staying power. 

Traditionalists: Comfortable with stocks, bonds, and savings accounts, they see no pressing reason to change what already works.

Skeptics: Put off by stories of hacks or scams, they doubt crypto's safety until they see stronger consumer protections.

Despite their differences, every group circles back to the same trio of barriers: limited familiarity, fear of fraud, and uncertainty about everyday use. Address those pain points, and the path to broader adoption clears for all.


Crypto isn't a dinner-table topic (yet)

Only 14% of non-holders have ever talked about crypto with friends or family. That silence is hardly surprising. Jargon like "gas fees" and headlines about hacks can make the subject feel intimidating, so many people steer clear rather than risk feeling uninformed. 

Yet the same survey shows that the moment a real-world conversation happens, interest rises sharply: the small group who have discussed crypto are far more willing to give it a try. 

Skepticism is nuanced

Only 14% of non-holders think crypto is a scam, and just 10% dismiss it as a passing fad. Their hesitation is practical. They want clear guidance on everyday matters: straightforward tax checklists at filing time, step-by-step wallet-security instructions, and plain-English explanations of who backs each stablecoin or exchange. 

In short, solid answers are the key to transforming curiosity into first-time ownership. 

FOMO and curiosity co-exist

Among non-holders who still want to learn more about crypto, emotions are mixed. While 80% consider crypto a legitimate asset, half worry they've "missed the boat" and 68% are curious but don't know where to begin. Regardless, almost half (42%) of this group are likely to acquire crypto this year.

They takeaway: a large, motivated audience is waiting for clarity so they can feel comfortable taking their first steps. They need simple how-tos, trusted on-ramps, and real-life use cases to convert their curiosity into confidence and begin dipping their toes into crypto. 

Turning findings into action

The path forward is clear: we must meet people where their questions begin. The NCA is rolling out plain-English explainers and an expanded Learning Hub to do exactly that, but here's how anyone in the industry can help:

Demystify the basics. Almost everyone who stays out of crypto cites a lack of understanding as the #1 reason why. Short, jargon-free explainers on wallets, private keys, and everyday payments can help bridge that gap.

Show real-world utility. Nearly a quarter (23%) of non-holders say they'd use crypto to pay for goods and services, but many don't realize they already can at thousands of merchants. Spotlighting simple use cases like shopping turns new digital tools into something tangible. 

Lead with security walk-throughs. Demos of two-factor authentication, hardware-wallet storage, and trustworthy on-ramps replace vague reassurances with safety steps people can follow. 

Spark conversation. Shareable graphics and myth-busting videos give early adopters something to pass along, fueling discussions that can also help move curiosity into confidence. 

The NCA's new resources tackle each of these pain points, proving that when understanding rises, barriers fall—and the next wave of holders can step in with eyes open and wallets secure.

Final thoughts

Crypto's next wave will be powered by everyday individuals and businesses who need to see clear instructions, trusted sources, and visible benefits. The 2025 Crypto Confidence Pulse pinpoints exactly what they are missing and shows educators, platforms, and policymakers where to concentrate their efforts. 

The promise of crypto hasn't changed: it offers open value transfer to anyone with an internet connection. What still needs work is how clearly that promise is explained. The more we can share simple and straightforward resources, the quicker we can turn today's crypto hesitation into tomorrow's widespread adoption.

About the study

The online survey of 2,000 U.S. adults who do not own crypto was conduction May 22-30, 2025, by The Harris Poll for the NCA. Results are accurate to a ± 2.9 percentage points at a 95% confidence level and weighted to reflect national demographics.

## Stablecoin 101

URL: https://nca.org/article/stablecoin-101
Published: 2025-05-21

The steady-value tokens that bridge cash and crypto.

Stablecoins are digital tokens that you own. They’re called “stable” because they’re designed to keep the same value. If you pay one dollar for a stablecoin, you should always be able to trade it back for one dollar. Some stablecoins are tied to other currencies like euros or assets like gold. In the crypto world, stablecoins help manage price changes of tokens like Bitcoin as you trade in and out of them.  

Like crypto, stablecoins travel across blockchains in seconds, and each stablecoin can be redeemed - one for one - for the asset that backs it. Trusted issuers of stablecoins securely hold an equal value of whatever currency that token is “pegged” to (like U.S. dollars or gold) - that’s called “reserves.” Independent auditors should be regularly checking those reserves.

This guide explains how price pegs work, how stablecoins are different from other crypto, how people use them and what to think about before buying and using them,  


Four main types of stablecoins


There are four basic types of stablecoins–each defined by what keeps the price steady.




Dollar-backed: The most common type of stablecoin. These tokens are backed one-for-one by U.S. dollars (or another national currency) held in bank accounts or short-term treasuries. Because you can always redeem a coin for a dollar, the price stays close to $1. 

Crypto-backed: Here, other cryptocurrencies serve as the collateral. The backing is usually over-reserved (over-collateralized) to cushion price swings. 

Asset-backed: Instead of cash, these tokens are tied to real-world items such as gold or government bonds. Some, for example, represent ounces of gold, so the pricing of those tokens follows the metal’s market value.

Algorithm-managed: These tokens rely on smart technology versus physical reserves to define their value. The software automatically increases or reduces supply to keep the price near the target. 




For many newcomers, starting with dollar-backed stablecoins is an easy first step as they’re straightforward and the most popular ones are widely supported by exchanges and crypto wallets – but each type has its own appeal and trade-offs. 




Why people use stablecoins




There are a few reasons people like using stablecoins. First, there’s the speed and low cost compared to traditional finance. A stablecoin payment can clear in seconds and cost only a few cents to send, whether you’re paying a freelancer or splitting a dinner bill. The same dollar peg makes international payments cheaper and faster than traditional wire payments, which charge fees and require several days to settle. Crypto traders will sometimes park value in stablecoins (leave it in an exchange or wallet) when crypto prices start to go up or down, locking in gains or hedging against losses without cashing out to a bank.

In decentralized finance (aka DeFi, which refers to financial tools that run on the blockchain), stablecoins act as the steady “digital dollars” that power many services. To generate a return like rewards or interest, some stablecoins are deposited into lending apps, savings protocols, or “liquidity pools,” which are a pot of tokens that many users contribute to. 

Businesses use stablecoins for supplier payments, marketplace settlements, and working capital—and they’re super useful across time zones, because the blockchain is open 24/7. 




Pros and cons




There are some big upsides to stablecoins. Prices barely move, so there’s no surprising dips to watch out for, and near-instant, low-fee transfers make everyday spending and payouts easy. Because the value tracks another asset (usually the dollar), budgeting and accounting are straightforward too. Finally, they are a quick bridge between “dollars” and crypto apps.




But there are also some trade-offs. The financial upside to stablecoins is minimal; they’re designed to stay “stable” so unless you are participating in a program that earns interest or rewards, you won’t be making any money by holding them - just like you don't make money holding a physical dollar in your pocket.




You also need to make sure you are dealing with a trusted stablecoin issuer who actually holds the promised reserves and has regular audits. And the more complex stablecoins like those algorithmic ones - can more easily “de-peg” and drop below its target value. Lastly, if for any reason the reserves or algorithms were to fail, a coin can “de-peg” and drop below its target value. 




Remember, stablecoins–unlike bank deposits–are not insured. 

Are stablecoins right for you?

To figure out whether stablecoins make sense for you, take a look at what you actually want from your money day-to-day. Do you pay freelancers in another country? Or perhaps you are trading crypto and you want to keep the proceeds of your sales on the blockchain in a stable asset until your next trade. 

Before you pick a stablecoin, DYOR (do your own research). Check that the issuer is trusted and audited - if they don’t publish independent proof of the dollars (or other assets) backing each token, you should move on. Also, make sure the stablecoins can be easily turned back into traditional money when you need them. For example, are they regularly traded on exchanges? 

Finally, match the coin to your goal. For short-term needs (paying bills, holding profits between trades, or sending money overseas) price stability is a big advantage. For long-term investments, you may want a mix of assets with more upside potential.

If you want the speed of crypto without price swings, a stablecoin is worth considering.

Getting started


So you’ve decided you want to hold some stablecoins—what are the steps to getting some? To start, download a well known (and vetted) wallet or open an exchange account that lists stablecoins. Next, fund the account with a bank transfer, convert a small amount of dollars to the coin, and test-send a few tokens to a friend or another wallet you own. The transfer should confirm in seconds and show exactly the amount you sent on the other side. Once you confirm you’re secure, you can easily send, buy and use stablecoins going forward. 




Final thoughts




Stablecoins combine the stability with the speed of crypto. They can make paying, saving, and moving money easier, especially internationally or inside apps. Do your research, and if you’re comfortable, stablecoins can add another practical tool in your financial toolkit.




For more plain-English guides on crypto basics, continue visiting the National Cryptocurrency Association’s learning hub.

## Faster payments, fewer fees

URL: https://nca.org/article/accept-payments
Published: 2025-03-04

Crypto makes payments quick, easy & direct.

Helping donations go further.

From daily essentials to global giving, people want to pay with crypto. In fact, our research shows that 39% of crypto holders already use it to buy goods and services. Major brands like McDonald’s, Nike, and Home Depot now accept crypto, giving customers the flexibility to pay how they want. 

As online payments continue to evolve, forward-thinking organizations - like Movember - that offer crypto as a payment option are opening their doors to a growing audience and standing out from competitors. But it’s not just about keeping up with consumer demand.

The benefits are clear.

Get paid instantly. Crypto payments arrive in seconds, so you’re not stuck waiting for transactions to clear like with credit cards.

Keep more of what you earn. Credit cards take 2-3% per transaction, while crypto fees are usually under 1%. That adds up to big savings over time.

Reach customers anywhere. Crypto is borderless, letting you accept payments worldwide without extra fees or currency conversion hassles.

Tap into new audiences. Crypto attracts younger, digital-first customers, helping you reach a wider audience.

Crypto also helps more money reach good causes. Movember, a charity that raises funds and awareness for men’s health, uses it to cut down on fees, so donations go where they’re needed most. As Max shared in our Spotlight video, crypto makes giving easier, faster, and open to more people.


“For our clients, there was nothing but good benefits, less fees, more transparency - but more than anything, being able to tap into this new blockchain movement of crypto donors.” 


How to accept crypto payments.

Set up a crypto payment processor. Platforms like BitPay, Coinbase Commerce, and The Giving Block work like PayPal or Stripe, handling transactions securely. They’ll guide you through the process.

Choose how to receive funds. Keep payments in crypto or automatically convert them into local currency.

Start accepting payments! Customers can pay with crypto online or in person. Many stores display a QR code at checkout, making payments instant and hassle-free.

Whether you’re running an online store, a local business, or a nonprofit, crypto payments can help you reach more customers, lower transaction costs, and offer a modern, flexible way to pay.

## All about crypto wallets

URL: https://nca.org/article/crypto-wallets
Published: 2025-05-21

Hot wallets, cold wallets, and how to keep your crypto secure.

A crypto wallet is a place where you keep your private keys—your passcodes that allow you to look at your crypto (how much you own) and also access and transfer your crypto.

There are different kinds of crypto wallets.

You can hold your own wallet on a hardware device, like a USB stick—that's called a cold wallet. Think of it like a lockbox you keep offline and only connect to the internet when you want to make a transaction. Cold wallets are very secure because they are offline most of the time, but if you lose the device or your passcodes (private keys or recovery phrase), you could permanently lose access to your crypto.

Because of that risk, some people prefer to use what's called a hot wallet, which is connected to the internet and easier to access.

There are two main types of hot wallets:

Custodial hot wallet:
You can keep your crypto on a crypto exchange. You’ll still need a username and password to log in, but the exchange controls your private keys and handles all the technical storage for you. This is called a custodial wallet because the exchange acts as a custodian. Keep in mind that your rights and protections will depend on the exchange’s terms of service.

Non-custodial hot wallet:
If you don’t want to use a cold wallet and don’t want an exchange to hold your crypto, there’s a third option: a non-custodial hot wallet. These are apps or browser extensions that let you control your own crypto, including your private keys, but you don’t have to worry about also safeguarding a physical device like an UBS stick. The wallet provider doesn’t have access to your funds—you do. 

Understanding private keys and recovery phrases  

We’ve talked a lot about private keys and recovery phrases. Think of these as your crypto passcodes—but with even more power and responsibility.

Your private key is like the master key to your digital safe. It proves that you own your crypto and lets you send or move your funds. If you lose your private key, you lose access to your crypto—forever. This is why some people are just more comfortable using an exchange because all you need to do is log in with a password, and the exchange stores everything else. 

Your public address (also called your wallet address) is the part you can share with others. It’s like your email address for crypto—people use it to send you funds. But no one can move anything out of your wallet unless they have your private key. So while the public address is safe to share, the private key must stay completely secret.

Your recovery phrase is a backup copy of your private key. It’s usually a list of 12 or 24 random words. You can use this phrase to restore your wallet. These phrases are especially important if you’re using a non-custodial hot wallet—because you are the one holding the keys, not a company.

## What you can actually do with crypto

URL: https://nca.org/article/what-can-you-do-with-crypto
Published: 2025-09-04

How crypto is being used for payments, shopping, investing, and more.

We surveyed people who aren’t yet using crypto to find out what’s holding them back and learned that while curiosity is high, understanding is low. 

Many non-crypto holders said they would turn to crypto if they were able to use it to pay for goods and services. Good news: they actually can do that, and so much more (beyond just trading)! 

Here’s a closer look at what 55 million everyday Americans are already doing with crypto – and what you can do, too.

Shop, Dine, and Travel 




From big box stores to small businesses, retailers are using crypto to make their transactions go further, faster. Through PayPal, ecommerce sites, third party apps and QR codes, consumers can now make payments with crypto directly from their phones in-store and in-person at hundreds of clothing stores, hardware shops and beyond. 




Restaurant chains and local mom-and-pop shops are also embracing crypto, allowing customers to pay their bills with digital assets. When it comes to entertainment, you can buy movie tickets and popcorn at the theater with crypto and top up gift card balances at gaming stores. 




The music industry is also taking advantage of the technology, from letting festival-goers buy badges with crypto to venues offering lifetime passes and special perks powered by blockchain technology. Some event companies now issue secure, scannable tickets on the blockchain to combat counterfeiting and scalping. Ticketing through NFTs takes this further, connecting fans directly with the artist. Each resale automatically shares a portion of the revenue with the creator, while the experience remains familiar: just scan a QR code for entry. Beyond access, NFT tickets open a direct channel between artists and fans for private events, exclusive drops, or even surprise airdrops. 




Travel websites let you pay for hotels and flights with a number of different digital

currencies, and some accept crypto for tickets at checkout. You can also book tickets for

planes, trains and automobiles with various online travel agencies using your crypto. For many travelers, the draw isn’t credit card points or cash back. It’s the flexibility, security, and control that comes with choosing exactly how they pay.




As merchants continue coming on-chain, spending crypto will become as effortless as swiping a credit card, checking out with PayPal, or tapping with Apple Pay.

Invest, Save, and Earn  

Many people see crypto as an investment alternative and a way to diversify their assets, including more than half of current crypto holders in America. Some are saving up and aiming for long-term value or steady passive income, while others may turn to crypto in hopes of monetary gains. 

But there are also ways to earn with crypto. Users can stake their coins and temporarily agree not to withdraw their funds to help support the functioning of a blockchain. The more coins that are staked, the harder it is for bad actors to cheat the system. By leaving your funds in place, you’re helping keep the network secure and running smoothly, and you can earn 3-8% a year in rewards for providing that safety net.

Other users earn by lending out their tokens  which can pay interest similar to a high-yield savings account. And some contribute crypto to liquidity pools, which are shared pots of tokens used by traders to swap one asset for another. The traders then  pay a small fee to the pool’s liquidity providers.

Buy Art, Sell Art, and Collect Royalties 

For artists and creators, crypto offers a new way to benefit without relying on systems that can come with high fees and lengthy timeframes. Creators like Autumn are using blockchain to sell their artwork directly to clients and stay in control of their creation’s ownership. By turning her art into NFTs, she automatically earns royalties every time her piece is not just sold but resold, automatically.

For many, crypto provides a powerful way to protect creative work and continue to earn profits over time.

Gaming

Blockchain is adding a whole new dimension to gaming and transforming what it means to "own" a digital asset. Tina uses crypto to collect, trade, and resell in-game items, giving her more power over the virtual items she’s acquired. She can transfer assets from one game to another, and won’t lose everything if a server glitches. Some players cash out rare items and earn money.

One in five crypto holders participate in blockchain gaming, and nearly 30% more plan to explore it over the next couple of years, demonstrating how crypto offers a level of flexibility and freedom for gamers that wasn’t possible before.

Pay (and Get Paid) 

Crypto isn’t just for buying goods, it’s for services, too. Hunter, a content creator who manages almost 100 video editors, pays his employees in crypto so they receive their payments in minutes, with low transaction costs and no need to worry about exchange rates because everyone transacts in the same digital currency. 

About one-third of crypto holders use it for business transactions and even more believe that expanding crypto payment options like real-time payroll will be one of its largest benefits moving forward.  

Send Money to Anyone, Anywhere

Sending money internationally can be slow and expensive: funds can take days to settle and platforms typically charge between 5% and 10% in fees. But many digital assets let users send money in minutes – and fees hover around a fraction of a percent. 




For families, friends or vendors sending money overseas, crypto can be  a more convenient option. In an emergency, it can be a more reliable way to get much-needed support across the globe 24/7 – you’re not restricted by traditional banking hours and can access your assets whenever you need to.




Nearly a third of crypto holders use it to send money to their family and friends, and unlike other methods of peer-to-peer payments, crypto transactions are transparent and can only get lost or stuck if the sender enters the incorrect wallet address (but then again the same can happen with Zelle). 




Remember, crypto transactions are final and can’t be reversed, so always take your time and double check the details before you click send.

Support Causes and Give Back  

Crypto makes it easier for donors to give to the nonprofits and causes they care about. 




Max at Movember found that accepting crypto donations opened up the charity to entirely new donors. Crypto can make philanthropy easier by offering lower transaction fees and helping donors see exactly where their contributions go. Other non-profits now accept crypto donations as well.




Build




Crypto is powering a new wave of tools. Developers, startups and even ranchers are relying on the blockchain as a new way to solve old problems. 

Mark and Rob are using the technology to track where their livestock are coming from and going to, along with health records to trace potential diseases in their cattle. This also helps buyers verify the authenticity of what they’re purchasing, and allows consumers to know exactly what they’re eating by the time it reaches their plates.

In real estate, investors like Brandon buying tokenized property – slices of shares of rental properties as opposed to purchasing a whole home – opening up property ownership to far more people.

Cheat Sheet: Where You Can Already Spend Crypto

Swipe-and-go (pay straight from your wallet)

AMC Theatres • BitPay Travel for flights and hotels • Chess.com memberships • Chipotle • CyberGhost & ExpressVPN subscriptions • Dallas Mavericks ticket office • Home Depot • JM Bullion precious metals • Newegg electronics • Whole Foods … plus a growing list of boutique jewelers, hosting services, and local merchants that plug into BitPay or similar processors.

Final Thoughts

Crypto is moving beyond speculative trading. Today you can spend it at checkout counters, earn yield by staking or lending, collect royalties on digital art, pay freelancers across borders, back your favorite causes, and even buy fractional shares of real estate. 

Each of these uses draws on the same core advantage: an open network that settles value in minutes, works 24/7, and costs a fraction of traditional fees. If you’re curious but haven’t tried crypto yet, start small: set up a wallet, add a small amount of crypto to it, send some to a family member or friend, or explore a beginner-friendly NFT marketplace. 

The more you try crypto in different ways, the clearer its benefits become—and the easier it is to see where this technology fits into your everyday life.

## Crypto without the jargon

URL: https://nca.org/article/crypto-jargon
Published: 2025-05-21

A simple breakdown of the crypto terms you need to know.

If crypto phrases like “diamond hands,” “whale moves,” and “to the moon” leave you scratching your head, you’re not alone. Just like bankers have their own terms, crypto does too. Did you know that bankers call a “billion” a “yard.” Know these terms and you’ll be speaking crypto with confidence in no time.

Building blocks

Crypto (cryptocurrency) – A digital asset that can work like money, or a store of value (like gold), or a unique collectible (like art). What makes it truly special is that it’s completely yours–no middlemen control it.

Blockchain – A public system that operates under a set of rules no one can change. That system guarantees that if someone says they own a crypto asset they really do own it. It also prevents them from spending the same asset twice.

DeFi (decentralized finance) – Financial tools (borrowing, trading, lending) that run on the blockchain. There are no “working hours” or physical banks here.

Token / Coin–A unit of value on a blockchain. 

Wallet – An app, browser extension or hardware device that holds your tokens. You can control your own wallet or have an exchange hold it for you. 

Private key – Your wallet’s master password; a secret string of letters and numbers that proves you own the coins at a given address. If you lose it (or someone else gets a hold of it) your coins can be stolen. 

Seed phrase (recovery phrase) – An added passcode, usually 12 or 24 random words. This should be written down on paper and stored in a safe location. This is used if for any reason you lose or forget your private keys.

Stablecoin – A token designed to track a steady asset (typically the U.S. dollar), usually with the aim to combat price fluctuations. Trusted stablecoins are backed 1:1 with dollars.

Memecoin – Crypto tokens created for humor or internet culture, rather than for a serious purpose like being able to pay with it. Memecoins (like Dogecoin or Shiba Inu) often start as jokes or social-media trends. Their prices tend to rise and fall based on online hype and people buy and trade them as digital collectibles–they don’t usually have real world utility like other cryptocurrencies.

DYOR (do your own research) – A reminder, often in forums or chat groups, that crypto can be full of hype; read up before you invest.

Gas fee – The fee that sometimes attaches to a crypto transaction so the blockchain network processes it.

Bullish talk (optimistic slang)

Whale – A big holder of crypto. 

Pump – A rapid price surge, often hyped on social media.

HODL – “Hold on for dear life.” Originated from a typo, now a rallying cry for crypto enthusiasts who believe you should never sell your crypto. 

Lambo – Short for Lamborghini. A shorthand for “get‑rich payoff,” as in “Wen Lambo?” i.e. “When will this cryptocurrency's value increase enough so I can afford a Lamborghini?"

Moon / Mooning – A crypto token’s price shooting upward fast like a rocket i.e. “BTC is going to the moon.”

Diamond hands – Refusing to sell, no matter how rough the market gets.

Flippening – The hypothetical moment when one crypto (for example XRP) overtakes another (for example ETH) in total market value.

Sats (satoshis) – The smallest unit of Bitcoin (0.00000001 BTC). “Stacking sats” means accumulating tiny bits over time.

Bearish talk (cautionary slang) 

Degen (degenerate) – Someone who dives into ultra‑risky bets with little research.

Bagholder – Someone stuck with coins that have crashed, hoping they bounce back.

FOMO (fear of missing out) – The urge to buy because everyone else seems to be making money.

FUD (fear, uncertainty, doubt) – Negative rumors (true or not) that shake confidence.

Paper hands – Selling at the first sign of trouble. Opposite of diamond hands.

REKT – “Wrecked.” Taking a big financial hit from a bad trade or leverage.

Rug pull – A project that vanishes with investor money, leaving holders empty‑handed.

Dead cat bounce – A brief price uptick that quickly fizzles, giving false hope during a downtrend.

New lingo will continue to surface as you explore crypto—but there’s no need to be intimidated. Crypto isn’t limited to coders or day‑traders; it’s a toolkit anyone can learn to use. Focus on the fundamentals, tune out the hype, and you’ll find its benefits are truly for everyone.

## Getting started with crypto

URL: https://nca.org/article/getting-started
Published: 2025-12-10

A step-by-step guide to setting up, buying, and storing crypto safely.

Why Start Now?

Crypto has evolved from niche finance to everyday utility. One in five U.S. adults already own some form of digital asset. If beginning your crypto journey feels overwhelming, breaking the process down into smaller, concrete steps can help.

Whether your goal is faster payments, lower-cost transfers, or simply a new way to diversify your portfolio, the path from crypto-curious to crypto-confident has never been easier.

At a glance 

Pick the right platform 

Create and verify your account

Add dollars and check fees

Make your first crypto purchase

Decide where to store your coins (hot vs. cold wallet)

Put your crypto to work 

Stay safe and compliant 

Step 1 — Pick the Platform That’s Right for You

Your first task is choosing where to open an account. A centralized crypto exchange (CEX) is the gateway that converts dollars into crypto. Start with this quick checklist:

Availability: Confirm that the platform is licensed in your area, as some states have regional restrictions.

Coins you care about: Check that they offer widely traded tokens (BTC, XRP, ETH, SOL) or your stablecoin of choice.

On-ramp/off-ramp to convert to dollars: Compare speed and cost for ACH, wire, debit card, and PayPal to find the option that best fits your needs. Some methods are faster for urgent transfers, while others are cheaper for larger or recurring deposits.

Check if your exchange has deposit limits or ACH holds: Many platforms set lower limits for new users, so you might not be able to deposit large amounts right away. And with ACH bank transfers—whether you’re adding or withdrawing funds—it usually takes a few business days (often 3–5) for the transaction to fully clear.

Fees and pricing: Look for a clear fee page with detailed pricing so you know exactly what you’re paying for.

Withdrawals: If you have created your own wallet off the exchange, make sure you can send coins out to your own wallet. And note any time limits or fees, as there can sometimes be delays in how quickly you'll receive your crypto.

Security basics: Enable 2FA with an authenticator app. Look for offline (“cold”) storage and proof-of-reserves—a public audit that shows the platform holds enough crypto to cover customer balances.

Support and education: Not all exchanges have fast customer service or plain-English guides. We recommend reading their FAQ and then checking out our learn page to learn more.  

Tax docs (U.S.): Look for platforms that offer year-end summaries or IRS forms, such as 1099s. These documents make it easier to report your crypto activity when you file taxes. (It’s one less thing to track manually).

Step 2 — Create and Verify Your Account

All reputable U.S. platforms follow Know Your Customer (KYC) rules. Verification is straightforward; you will typically:

Upload a driver’s license or passport.

Take a brief selfie for an identity match.

Provide a utility bill or bank statement. (NOTE: not all platforms require this step). 

You should then see approval in minutes! These checks satisfy Know Your Customer (KYC) and Anti-Money Laundering (AML) rules and help keep you protected.

Step 3 — Add Dollars and Check Fees

Open your app and go to Assets, Portfolio, or Wallet. You’ll see an Add Cash, Deposit, or Transfer button (the label varies by platform). At this stage, you’re choosing how to fund your account—each method has its own balance of speed, cost, and limits. Here’s how they typically compare:

ACH bank transfer: Usually the lowest fees; funds should hit your bank account/crypto wallet within 1–3 business days.

Wire transfer: Fast for larger amounts; bank fees are higher; wires are typically irreversible.

Debit card: Near-instant funding; fees are higher; per-transaction limits may apply.

PayPal: Quick, if you already use it; fees and limits vary by account and region.


Before you fund, take a close look at the platform’s fee page.

Crypto platforms use different pricing models, and understanding how they charge can help you avoid surprises:

Flat fees: Some apps charge a small fixed amount per transaction—like $1 or $2—no matter how much crypto you buy.

Percentage spread: Other platforms don’t show a separate fee; instead, they add a small markup to the price. For example, they might offer to sell you Bitcoin at a premium over the market price. That difference is the spread, and it’s how they make money. Before you trade you should independently check out the going crypto price.

Maker-taker fees: Fees can vary by order type.

A maker adds liquidity to the platform by placing a buy/sell order that isn’t filled immediately (for example, a limit order).

A taker removes liquidity by accepting an existing order (like a market buy).

Makers usually pay lower fees, and both maker and taker fees drop as your trading volume grows each month.

If you’re just getting started, these details may seem complex—but they can add up over time. That’s why it helps to compare a few platforms and choose one with transparent, easy-to-understand pricing. Also, remember to start small and just invest enough to practice funding, buying, and withdrawing.

Step 4 — Make Your First Crypto Purchase

Go to the Buy or Trade section of your app, choose which crypto you want to purchase, and then pick the order type—this just means how and when you want the transaction to go through. Most apps let you choose from:

Market order (aka One-Time Purchase):
This buys the crypto right away at the best available price. It’s the most common and simplest option for beginners. Just tap buy, and the order goes through at the current market price.

Limit order:
This lets you set the price you’re willing to pay (or accept). Your order will go through if the market price reaches that level or better. Meaning if you’re buying, it could fill at a lower price, and if you’re selling, it could fill at a higher one.

It’s useful if you want more control over your trade, but keep in mind: it might not fill right away, or at all, if the market never reaches your chosen price.

Recurring buy:
This sets up automatic purchases—daily, weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly. It’s often used for dollar-cost averaging, a strategy in which you buy a fixed amount regularly to smooth out the ups and downs of the market over time.

Once you place an order, you may see it marked as “Pending”—this is normal. It just means the blockchain is processing the transaction. Depending on the network (like Solana vs. Bitcoin), this could take anywhere from a few seconds to several minutes. 

Step 5 — Decide Where to Store Your Coins (Hot vs. Cold Wallet)

Many crypto beginners start by leaving their coins on the exchange where they bought them. This is known as a custodial hot wallet—because the platform holds the private keys on your behalf and keeps them on internet-connected servers. It feels similar to online banking: you log in, see your balance, and the platform manages everything behind the scenes.

The trade-off is control. If the exchange experiences an outage or a security breach, you may lose temporary access—or, in worst-case scenarios, risk losing your funds entirely. That’s why some people eventually move all or part of their funds to self-custody wallets they control.

Here are the two main self-custody options:

Self-custody hot wallet (software wallet):

This is an app you download on your phone or as a browser extension. It stays connected to the internet, making it fast and easy for everyday use.

You hold the keys yourself, meaning you’re in full control. When you set one up, you’ll receive a 12–24-word recovery phrase—write this down and store it offline, not in your email or cloud storage.

Cost: Free to download and use.

Cold hardware wallet (offline wallet):
This is a small physical device—like a USB stick—that stores your crypto offline and only allows transaction data to pass through when connected to your device. Because it’s not connected to the internet, it’s considered more secure, especially for larger or long-term savings. 

Cold wallets are especially popular with people who want to hold crypto for years or manage high-value assets.

Cost: Usually around $50-200.

Safety tips: Buy the device directly from the seller themselves, never from a third-party website like Amazon. Keep the device and your recovery phrase in two separate, fire-safe locations. 

Practical setup tips:

Use a hot wallet (either custodial through a reputable exchange or self-custody) for small, everyday balances.

Use a cold wallet for larger, long-term savings.

If you’re staying on the exchange for now, protect your account with two-factor authentication (2FA), a strong, unique password, and make a small test withdrawal to a wallet you control to get comfortable with the process.

Step 6 — Put Your Crypto to Work

Once your first purchase completes, you can use your crypto in several ways, like:

Send: Send some crypto to your cousin as a birthday gift to learn the flow.

Spend: Try a small purchase with a merchant that accepts crypto, like Shopify or Overstock. 

Save: Set aside a portion of your funds with a long-term mindset. This could mean holding your crypto in your wallet (or on an exchange) rather than spending or trading it right away. Even just watching how balances move and settle between accounts can help you get comfortable with transfers and wallet tools before making larger moves.

Stake (where available): Some blockchains use a system called “proof of stake,” where users can help run the network by locking up (or “staking”) their coins. In return, they may earn rewards—kind of like earning interest. Staking is available for certain coins (like ETH, SOL, ADA) and can be done directly or through your exchange. Be sure to read the terms carefully—your crypto may be locked for a period, and rewards can vary depending on the platform and network.

Practice exercise: Buy a small amount, then send a tiny test to another wallet you own. This builds confidence without taking risks.

Step 7 — Stay Safe and Compliant

Good habits reduce risk. Keep these simple routines.

Security: Enable 2FA (authenticator app), bookmark official URLs, and avoid links from random emails, ads, or DMs.

Recovery: Write your recovery phrase on paper and store it in two secure places. Never share it.

Test first: Send a small test amount before larger transfers.

Device hygiene: Keep software (and hardware for cold storage wallets) up to date and remove unused extensions similar to browser extensions

Fees: When blockchains get congested, some transaction fees for certain blockchains can spike—and stablecoins don't avoid these costs since they still operate on the same network. Stablecoins maintain a stable $1 value but don't eliminate transaction (gas) fees on certain blockchains. For example, transaction fees on the Ethereum blockchain can rise significantly during periods of high network traffic, while fees for sending or trading XRP are typically very low and predictable due to the design and consensus mechanism of the XRP Ledger. 

Taxes (U.S.): Selling or spending crypto can create a capital-gains or capital-loss event. Rewards and interest can be seen as income, while losses can be seen as write-offs. Download spreadsheets and summaries at year-end. When unsure, consider a quick check-in with a licensed tax professional.

Key Takeaways 

The best way to learn is by doing. Once you are comfortable with the basics of crypto, enable advanced security options, consider a cold hardware wallet for savings, and explore simple spending or saving tools at your own pace.

Above all, stay informed. The crypto environment changes quickly. By practicing good habits and using reputable resources, you can feel confident engaging in the digital economy.

Extra Credit — A Glossary for Newcomers

Blockchain: a record-keeping technology where transactions and data are grouped into blocks and permanently linked in a chain with unique identifiers – like fingerprints.

Gas fee: A small, but variable, network charge paid to transact on certain blockchains to process your transaction.

Stablecoin: A token pegged one-to-one to a stable asset, usually the U.S. dollar. 

Private key: A string that controls access to a wallet address; never share it.

Seed phrase: a master key to your crypto wallet—usually 12 or 24 random words that let you recover all your funds if you lose access to your wallet.

Fiat: Government-issued money such as dollars or euros.

DCA (Dollar-Cost Averaging): Buying small, fixed amounts on a schedule to smooth out volatility.

Crypto comes with its own vocabulary, and learning the lingo can feel like a new language. To make it easier, we’ve put together a glossary that breaks down the terms in plain English so you can navigate crypto with confidence.

## Staying safe and avoiding scams

URL: https://nca.org/article/staying-safe
Published: 2025-05-21

What to watch out for, and how to stay one step ahead of bad actors.

Crypto means greater ownership of your digital assets, and with that comes even greater responsibility. If you send your crypto to a scammer, it's highly unlikely you can recover it. According to the NCA’s 2025 State of Crypto Holders Report, most holders report a positive experience with digital assets—but security is still top of mind. Protecting yourself starts with recognizing common scams, and, most importantly, practicing smart online habits.




Here’s what you need to know to stay safe.




Common crypto scams to watch for




A properly secured wallet gives your crypto a solid defense. But, just like an online bank account, staying safe also requires smart day‑to‑day habits. Below are the most common financial scams to watch for so you can keep your assets protected.




1. Pig butchering  

Fraudsters build trust with victims over weeks or months by pretending to be a romantic interest or friend, before pressuring the user to send money or crypto. These schemes can be super convincing and play on people’s emotions or sometimes come with polished fake websites and apps that appear legit, encouraging bigger investments) before a final "slaughter.”  It sounds awful because it is. 




2. Pump and dump schemes  

These scams are as old as the stock market and again, crypto is not spared when it comes to these scams. In crypto they may be called “rug-pulls.” Groups inflate the price of a lesser known crypto coins by hyping it online. When enough buyers join in and spike the price, organizers quickly sell their holdings for a profit— leaving others in the dust and holding worthless tokens. These scams often spread through private channels (WhatsApp, Signal, etc.) and are fueled by a false sense of urgency to “get in early,” which leaves participants with no time to thoroughly research. Before you buy, research. Don’t rely on speculation and gamble to advance your personal financial goals. If it seems too good to be true, it probably is. 




3. Crypto giveaways 

Scammers impersonate public figures promising "free" crypto if users send a small amount first. To be convincing, these fake giveaways often use real logos, stolen videos, and manipulated deepfakes (hyper-realistic fake videos or images generated by AI to mimic real people). Some scams even run paid social media ads pointing victims to professional-looking fake websites. If someone asks you to send crypto in order to receive crypto, it’s always a scam—there’s no legitimate giveaway that works this way. No one will ever give you 2 (or more) for 1!




4. Impersonation  

Fraudsters pose as companies, government officials or trusted brands, using fake emails, phone calls or websites to demand crypto payments. Some may claim there’s fraud on your account, while others offer fake crypto-related job opportunities. For crypto, someone may pretend to be contacting you from your exchange. Scammers increasingly use deepfake videos to impersonate executives and create a false sense of trust, making it even harder to catch an imposter in the act. 




5. Phishing  

Phishing messages are almost as old as the internet itself. They’re designed to steal your private keys, passwords, or personal information. They may appear to come from your wallet provider, a crypto exchange or even a friend, and ask you to click a link or share login details. Don’t do it! Always type official URLs directly into your browser and double-check site addresses before logging in, sharing passwords or sending funds.




How to protect yourself




With so many scams, it can feel a little spooky out there whether you are logging into your bank account or your crypto wallet. But with good habits in place, your chance of falling for them is very low. Here’s a quick, practical guide to help you move forward confidently in your crypto journey. 

Guard your private keys and recovery phrase.  Your private key = full access to your crypto. No legitimate company will ever ask for your private key or recovery phrase. So treat it like a master password, make physical backups in secure locations, and never share it. 

Verify information directly / only interact with trusted sources. Don’t click links from random emails, texts or social media posts. Instead, go straight to the company’s official website or social media.

Be wary of urgency or pressure tactics.  Scammers create a false sense of urgency to rush you into making mistakes. Real financial opportunities don’t require instant decisions. Take your time. 

Watch out for deepfakes, fake websites and scam ads.  Modern scams are sophisticated and can appear real at first glance. Always double-check news, giveaways, or investment offers through multiple trusted sources before doing anything. Remember if it seems too good to be true, it probably is. 

Pay attention to small signs of fraud.  Check the details. Weird looking email addresses from the sender, sloppy spelling and grammar or odd logos can tip you off to a scam. Hype is enticing—but jargon like “guaranteed profits,” “double your crypto instantly” or “free giveaways” are almost always scams. 

Double-check every transaction.  This is a non-negotiable habit. Before you send crypto, verify the wallet address, network and amount. Crypto transactions are final and mistakes or fraud can’t be reversed. 

Research before you invest or send funds.  Like you would with any major financial decision, do your homework before taking action. Look up companies, projects and individuals involved with the cryptocurrency online. One tip is to add terms like  "complaint," "review," or even "scam," after the company name or individual to see what others may be saying about them. 




Final thoughts




Fraudsters will always evolve and crypto scams will keep evolving as well—but with good habits our ability to spot them will evolve too. Good habits, like guarding your private keys, verifying everything independently, taking all “too good to be true” offers with a grain of salt, and of course, never rushing into financial decisions. By staying informed and practicing these smart security tips, you can enjoy the benefits of crypto, all while keeping your assets protected. 




Here at the NCA, we encourage everyone to keep learning, stay alert, and help build a safer crypto future. 


You can report scams and suspicious communications to the Federal Trade Commission. The FTC also has guidance on avoiding cryptocurrency scams.

## What is crypto?

URL: https://nca.org/article/what-is-crypto
Published: 2025-05-21

An introduction to digital currencies, blockchain, and why they matter.

There’s been a lot of talk about crypto—some good, some bad, and some confusing. But, at its core, crypto is simple: something you own and can use in digital form.

More than 55 million Americans already use crypto every day to send money, save for the future, and run businesses. Not because it’s trendy, but because it works.

If you’re curious to learn more, this guide breaks down what crypto actually is, how it’s being used, and how to try it for yourself.

A quick definition 




Crypto—short for cryptocurrency—is a digital form of money, or a store of value (like gold), or a unique collectible (like art). What makes it truly special is that no middlemen control it and you own it. 




Crypto runs on something called a blockchain, a public system that operates under a set of rules no one can change. That system guarantees that if someone says they own a crypto asset they really do own it. It also prevents them from spending the same asset twice.   




Here’s a simple way to understand it:




Imagine the blockchain as a giant public notebook. Every time someone sends or receives crypto—the rules of the blockchain write that transaction in the notebook. Once it’s recorded, it can’t be erased or edited. Everyone can see it, and no one can go in and change it.

Because everyone’s using the same notebook, there’s no need for a middleman to confirm what happened. That’s the big idea behind crypto: it can move directly between people, without back-office delays or middlemen taking control.





The tech 

When you send crypto, a group of computers called validators work together under a set of rules that can’t be changed to check the transaction. Their job is to confirm that the sender owns the crypto and isn’t trying to spend the same funds twice.

If everything checks out, the transaction is approved and permanently added to the blockchain (that giant public notebook).

No single company or institution is in charge. 

Can people see my crypto transactions? 




Yes, but not in a way that ties directly to you.

All crypto transactions are recorded on the blockchain (that giant public notebook). These transactions are linked to wallet addresses (a string of unique numbers), which are not publicly tied to your real name or personal information. 

Each wallet is controlled by a pair of special keys—a public key and a private key: 

The public key (called a wallet address) is like your email address—you can safely share it with others so they can send you crypto. 

The private key is like your password, but even more secure and sensitive. It’s known only to you, and it’s what allows you to access your wallet and send crypto. You have two choices with your private key: You can hold it yourself, using a personal wallet which gives you full control but also full responsibility, or you can let someone else (like a crypto exchange) hold it for you, in which case you're trusting them to manage and protect your assets. 

Why do people use crypto? 

Crypto offers control and 24/7 instant access.

Ownership: You control your crypto directly. 

Easier payments: Crypto can make sending money faster and more affordable and the blockchain is available at all times–including nights, weekends and holidays. 

Access to tools: You don’t need a credit score, bank account, or approval process. Anyone with a smartphone can set up a crypto wallet. (If you ask an exchange to set up your wallet they will ask you for information.)

What can you do with it?

Crypto is being used every day in ways that are practical, creative, and accessible:

Artists are selling digital art and earning royalties each time their work is resold.

Gamers are buying, selling, and trading in-game items, creating digital economies where virtual assets hold real value.

Musicians and content creators are getting paid directly by their audiences—with no one else taking a cut.

Everyday users are borrowing, lending, saving, and even shopping for digital and physical goods—often without a traditional bank account.

Is it risk-free?




No. Like any financial tool, crypto comes with risks. And with greater control and ownership comes greater responsibility. There’s no bank to reverse a transaction if you send your crypto to the wrong address or fall for a scam, so it pays to be extra diligent—just as you would with any sensitive information online.

Staying safe with crypto means building smart habits. Some simple steps—like using trusted platforms (exchanges, apps or websites where you buy, sell, or store your crypto), keeping passwords secure, and avoiding “too good to be true” offers—can go a long way in protecting your funds.

We’ll explore these topics in more depth in future articles.

How do I get started?




Getting started with crypto doesn’t require a big financial investment, technical background, or a lot of time.




You’ll need a crypto wallet—a secure app or device that lets you send, receive, and store crypto.  




And very soon, the National Cryptocurrency Association will be adding more content to help you get the most out of crypto safely and confidently, no matter your starting point. The NCA also will be exploring partnerships with trusted service providers to help you get started. Stay tuned. 

Jen & Jason’s crypto story

Here’s one example of how crypto is being used in real life. Jen and Jason didn’t come to crypto as early adopters or financial experts. In fact, Jason jokingly called crypto “nonsense nickels” when he first heard about it.

But like many people, they were curious. So they started small, buying a little through an app, learning how to store it safely, and exploring how crypto actually works.

What they discovered wasn’t just a new kind of investment, it was a new way to think about money, savings, and financial flexibility.

During a time of major life transitions, crypto became a key part of their family’s plans for the future. As Jen put it, maybe one day they’ll even use crypto to pay for their son’s college tuition. 

Final thoughts




Crypto won’t replace the entire financial system—but it’s already reshaping it, offering new ways for people to send money, build, and participate.

It marks a shift in how we think about ownership and opportunity in a digital-first world. And while it’s still early, the best way to understand it is to start.

## Common myths about crypto

URL: https://nca.org/article/crypto-myths
Published: 2025-05-21

Separating fact from fiction and explaining crypto’s real-world potential.

Cryptocurrency has been called many things: a fad, a bubble, and a fraud. But like other game-changing technologies in their early days, crypto is often misunderstood. A recent 2025 Harris Poll report, the largest survey ever conducted of U.S. crypto holders, showed how wrong ideas about crypto can overshadow the very real benefits—benefits that a growing group of Americans experience. To help clear up crypto’s bad reputation, let’s tackle some of the most common myths below.

1. “Crypto is just a fad for tech bros”

The myth
You may think that crypto is only for a narrow, tech-savvy crowd, namely “bros” looking to strike it rich or ride the latest hype train.

The reality
The NCA’s 2025 State of Crypto Holders Report paints a much bigger picture. Roughly 21% of American adults (1 in 5) now own some form of crypto. They come from a wide range of industries and income levels, and nearly a third (31%) are women. More crypto holders are over the age of 55 than under 25, showing that that crypto is being adopted across generations.

People get involved with crypto for many reasons, from saving for the future to exploring new technologies. Remarkably, more than half of those surveyed hold less than $10,000 worth of crypto, going against the stereotype that it’s only for big spenders aka “whales.”

Crypto is being woven into the everyday lives of students, parents, retirees, and beyond, who see it as a tool to diversify investments or make convenient digital payments. 

2. “It’s just scams and get-rich-quick schemes”

The myth
Headlines about dramatic price swings, fraudulent schemes, or “pump and dump” coins lead many to believe that crypto is a lawless Wild West. In short, it can feel dangerous out there!

The reality
While there are bad actors everywhere in society, the vast majority of crypto owners are using it in positive ways. In fact, 76% of American crypto holders say it has had a positive impact on their lives. Meanwhile, only 3% report a negative experience (like fraud or security breaches).

Just like traditional finance has famous scandals, crypto has had some high-profile missteps. Governments, companies, and organizations are actively working together to improve consumer protections and regulations so that people can use crypto responsibly and securely. These  measures make everyday use more secure, but no system is completely foolproof. 

Just as you protect your online-banking password, you should enable two-factor authentication, stick to trusted wallets, and walk away from “too good to be true” offers. When used carefully, with trusted  platforms and  strong security practices, crypto can be part of a well-rounded financial toolkit. 

Bad actors are the exception, not the rule. And while schemes or scams may grab the headlines, investing is just one of many things crypto can do. Most holders actually use it for more practical tasks. Which brings us to our next myth… 

3. “It has no real utility, it’s just speculation”

The myth
Skeptics argue crypto is purely about speculation: intangible, unbacked, and without helpful use cases.

The reality
The data show otherwise. Nearly 39% of crypto holders regularly use it to pay for goods and services, and 31% use crypto to send money to family. These aren’t niche or one-off cases, people use crypto for everyday purchases, donations, art, and more. 

In gaming, crypto lets players truly own in-game assets, trade them freely, and carry them across platforms, making the experience more immersive and rewarding. Artists use blockchain to connect directly with their communities, sell work without middlemen, and even earn royalties every time their work changes hands. And beyond what’s already happening today, new use cases are still being uncovered—from smart contracts that automate business deals to blockchain-powered identity and supply chain tools. 

4. “You have to completely understand crypto to benefit from it” 

The myth
Between specialized terms like “blocks,” “consensus,” and “hashing,” plus what feels like countless new tokens, crypto can seem overwhelming. Many people assume that unless you understand every technical detail, you can’t (or shouldn’t) use it.

The reality
You don’t need to be a developer, or even fully grasp how blockchain works, to benefit from crypto. Just like you don’t have to understand how email servers function to send a message, crypto tools are becoming more user-friendly every day. Many platforms have simple interfaces, easy onboarding, and clear instructions targeted to beginners.

People are already using crypto for practical reasons (think shopping, sending money to family, and getting paid for work) without the need to understand every workflow. 

If you’re curious, the best place to start is with trusted, plain-English resources like those provided by the NCA. You can start small, learn at your own pace, and still experience crypto’s real-world value. 

5. “It’s a regulatory free-for-all and totally unchecked”

The myth
Some believe crypto has no oversight, with regulators either ignoring it or unable to keep up.

The reality
Crypto isn’t unregulated. Many of the platforms people use today are licensed and already follow strict rules, including identity verification and anti-fraud measures. Just like crypto itself is evolving, regulation around crypto will also continue to evolve–and that’s a good thing. 

In the United States, 64% of crypto holders say government regulation is either “very” or “somewhat” important. At the same time, 67% worry that overly tough rules could limit innovation. This tension reflects a growing feeling: we need smart regulations that protect consumers but not at the expense of crushing the tech’s awesome growth potential. 

Major financial institutions (from payment processors to banks) are stepping into the crypto space. Their involvement means they usually use Know Your Customer (KYC) and Anti-Money Laundering (AML) measures, which are well-regarded protections in the traditional financial world.

6. “Crypto has no long-term future”

The myth
Over the years, many have predicted crypto will come and go like a passing fad.

The reality
The study revealed that 76% of owners believe crypto will improve the financial system, noting clear benefits like reduced fees, faster payments, and greater transparency. These aren’t abstract promises—they’re real advantages people are already experiencing today, whether they’re sending money across borders, getting paid for freelance work, or making purchases without traditional go-betweens. And as more industries adopt blockchain technology, it’s becoming a pivotal part of how value moves in a digital world. 

New, disruptive technologies have always faced skepticism. From railroads in the 1800s to dot-com companies in the 2000s, critics initially dismissed these breakthroughs as unnecessary or overhyped. Crypto’s trajectory follows a similar path. What once seemed niche is now making everyday tasks (like shopping, gaming, and sending money) more efficient. Almost half of crypto users in the U.S. say it already makes their lives more fun and exciting, and many point to increased financial independence as a major benefit.

Where some see hype, others see real progress.

Moving beyond the myths

Crypto is gaining traction for good reason. Over 55 million Americans now hold some form of digital currency, are using it in practical ways, and are eager to both play more in the space and continue learning more about the tech. 

As you encounter hype, criticism, and rage-bait headlines surrounding crypto, remember that it’s not just a fad. This technology is transforming how everyday Americans move, manage and invest money. By diving into the basics, staying on top of changing regulations, and leaning on resources like the NCA (shameless plug), you can keep an open mind and hopefully find a valuable new way to participate in this exciting space.

## Manage your money

URL: https://nca.org/article/money-management
Published: 2025-03-04

More ways to spend, save, and send.

Managing money their way.

Jen and Jason, like many others, started out skeptical. Jason even gave crypto a name - 'nonsense nickels' - at first. But the more they learned, the more they realized crypto wasn’t just for tech insiders or Wall Street traders. 

They weren’t financial experts, just a couple curious about how to use their money. So they began with a small amount, just to see how it worked. They used an app to buy a little, learned how to store it safely, and began discovering how it’s being used in everyday life. 

“I’m fascinated to see how cryptocurrency is going to show up in different parts of the world as the way people can spend and save money.” Jen, Parent

Jen and Jason aren’t the only ones. Millions are already finding simple, practical ways to use crypto every day:

Sending money to family and friends, without delays.

Paying at stores and websites, just like using a debit card, without expensive fees.

Buying digital collectibles, art, and in-game items securely.

Start your own crypto journey.

The biggest misconception when it comes to crypto? That you need to fully understand the technology before you begin. 

Many apps make it easy to buy, store, and use crypto safely. Whether you want to use it for payments, save for the future, or are just curious to try it out, popular crypto platforms like Coinbase Wallet or Meta Mask are designed to be simple and user-friendly. 

The best way to begin is simply to get familiar with how it works. You can start by purchasing a small amount - think the cost of a dinner out - not as an investment, but as a way to learn. You may think crypto is just for the 1%, but in fact, half of all crypto investors in the U.S. hold less than $5,000.

Staying safe is simple.

Crypto, like any financial tool, requires smart security habits. A few simple steps can keep your crypto safe: using trusted platforms, keeping passwords secure, and avoiding “too good to be true” offers, can go a long way.

Crypto is already helping people spend, save, and send money on their own terms. Perhaps it’s time to make the first move.

## A simpler way to send money

URL: https://nca.org/article/making-crypto-payments
Published: 2025-03-04

Send money instantly, with lower fees, to anyone, anywhere.

Faster payments, fewer fees.

For creators like Hunter, speed is everything. The faster their work gets made, the more relevant it is. In fact, it often takes a team of people working quickly to create content that stands a chance of getting seen before people move on.

“At my peak, I was paying six or seven editors a month, producing up to 90 videos. Crypto allowed me to pay them instantly, something traditional platforms couldn’t match,” - Hunter, Content Creator

But traditional payment methods can’t always keep up with the speed and flexibility these creators need. It’s not unusual to have to wait days for payments they’ve already earned.

Easier way to get paid.

Payments arrive in minutes. No waiting days for transfers to clear, crypto payments arrive almost instantly.


Keep more of what you’ve earned. Unlike traditional payment systems, crypto has fewer middle men and therefore fewer fees. 


Work globally. Crypto makes it easy to get paid globally, even in countries with limited banking options.


24/7 access. No bank hours, no delays - no need to even leave your couch. Just direct payments at your fingertips whenever you need them.

How to get paid in crypto. 

If you’re interested in getting paid in crypto for the first time, the process is simple.

Set up a digital wallet, such as Coinbase Wallet. This allows you to receive and store crypto safely. 

Share your wallet address with your employer. Explain that it helps you avoid high fees and get paid faster.

Agree on the cryptocurrency type and the amount. There are lots to choose from, but  Bitcoin, Ethereum, USDC are popular choices.  

Check your wallet. Once paid, make sure payment has arrived by looking at your wallet balance. Payments usually process within minutes.

Getting paid should be simple. For freelancers and creators, crypto means no waiting, no extra fees, just fast and flexible payments that keep up with the way they work.

## A new way to game

URL: https://nca.org/article/gaming
Published: 2025-03-04

A deeper, more immersive way to play.

From playing to owning.

Tina has always loved collecting characters and items in games, but she never expected she’d be able to own them in a meaningful way.

In traditional games, when players buy or unlock characters, weapons, or skins, those items are tied to their game account. They can’t sell them, trade them, or take them to another game. If they stop playing, those items become useless.

When Tina discovered blockchain gaming, she realized things worked differently. Instead of being locked into one game, she could trade items with other players, sell rare collectibles, or even use certain assets across multiple games.

For the first time, the things she earned actually belonged to her.

“I used to just unlock things and move on, but now, I can actually choose what to do with the items I earn.”

For Tina, this added a whole new dimension to gaming. She wasn’t just playing. She was building a collection she could manage on her own terms.

Why gamers are exploring blockchain?

Gamers are used to buying in-game items, but blockchain brings real ownership into the picture. Here’s how it’s different:

Own your items for real – Instead of purchases being tied to a single account, blockchain stores them securely so they belong to you, even if the game shuts down.

Trade or sell when you’re done – On completing a game, instead of leaving old items behind, you can sell them to another player or swap them for something else.

Make money while playing – Some players cash out rare items, turning gaming into a side hustle.

Use items across games – Some blockchain games allow characters, weapons, or skins to be used across different games by the same developer.

Where is blockchain gaming headed?

Blockchain gaming is still evolving, but major studios are paying attention. Epic Games has already welcomed blockchain-based games to its platform, and other developers are experimenting with how digital ownership can fit into mainstream gaming.

Right now, many blockchain games are browser-based or on PC, but as the technology improves, we may see blockchain-powered experiences on consoles like Xbox and PlayStation. Games such as Gods Unchained and Off The Grid are already offering console-esque experiences - with all the benefits of blockchain tech behind them.

For players like Tina, blockchain isn’t just a way to game - it’s a way to gain control over what they’ve earned. Whether it’s trading a rare item, selling collectibles, or simply keeping hold of digital assets long-term, blockchain gaming offers a level of flexibility and freedom that wasn’t possible before.

Gaming is changing - and for players who want more control over what they own, blockchain is offering exciting new possibilities.

## Story: 

URL: https://nca.org/stories/ansylla
Published: 2026-08-28

“I never realized that this could be an option for me.” (Ansylla, Educator)

Coaching Financial Freedom Through Crypto

Meet Ansylla, Crypto Confidence Coach




Ansylla has built the life she has always wanted: the flexibility to set her own schedule (nothing before 10 a.m., of course) and maintain just a few commitments, rather than busy days packed with back-to-back clients at the salon. 




This sense of ease and control over her day-to-day life was a long time coming. Before moving to North Carolina, she spent 17 years as a natural hair stylist, stressing over when her time would actually be her own. Some of her services ran 12 to 15 hours at a stretch, and between clients, she'd have to scarf down food to keep up with the pace of the environment. She felt like she was meant to do something else, like something was pulling at her. But she felt stuck with hair as all she knew, and the reality that the bills would keep coming.




She started thinking of new ways to work and make money, with a schedule that would work for her. Instead of putting in more hours at the salon chair, she started looking into crypto as a way to earn money on a timeline she could control. 




What crypto taught her




In the middle of one of her appointments, she suddenly experienced her first panic attack. This was a wake-up call, and she took it as her sign to close the salon and take a much-needed vacation.




When she got home, she was ready to explore crypto more seriously. Since investment was new to her, she went headfirst into learning. And the resources that exist today weren’t around back then, so she had to spend extra time tracking down answers on her own. For those starting today, check out our Learning Hub to help guide you through your learning journey - without any confusing hype or jargon.




Ansylla started to learn through her everyday life. With the market climbing, her investment gains from crypto covered new appliances, a new laptop, and even a vacation, proving that she could keep earning, even if she wasn’t behind a chair. 




The student becomes the coach




As she began to understand crypto, Ansylla noticed that some people were missing from the conversation. Older women, in particular, were overlooked. The communities that were supposed to welcome beginners talked over their heads instead, treating a simple question as something to be embarrassed about rather than answered.




Instead, she decided to become that answer herself. Ansylla started small, focusing on teaching her friends before expanding to educational webinars. And in 2019, she founded Crypto Confident Over 40. Now, her coaching clients span the globe - mostly seniors who also consider themselves non-techy. 




“There needs to be a space where someone can come in, ask the stupid questions, get the simple, jargon-free answer so that they can move on.”

– Ansylla, Crypto Confidence Coach




Protecting what people build




The work with her clients starts with getting organized, making sure newcomers have a handle on their holdings and recovery phrases. She has also become a trusted first call on scams - the person clients forward a too-good offer to evaluate before acting on it - and she teaches them to recognize the patterns so they can stay protected. 

Over time, her clients' questions have shifted toward family. What happens to their crypto when they're gone, and would their loved ones even know how to find it?. Crypto held directly belongs entirely to the holder, which means passing it on requires careful planning, because a beneficiary needs to know what exists and how to access it. 

When a longtime client facing a serious health diagnosis asked her to help him put that exact plan in place, the request became her current focus. She now helps clients prepare their crypto for the people they love, and she is exploring how digital assets can fit into trusts and estate planning so a family is never locked out of what a loved one built.

Key takeaways

Ansylla believes that everyone deserves access to financial opportunity, whatever their age, gender, or background. Crypto gave her the room to redefine what success looks like, and education is what turned her curiosity into confidence she could stand on. These days, she spends that confidence on the people the conversation usually skips, one jargon-free answer at a time. 

Her story is an open invitation to anyone the conversation has skipped. It's easy to start with the fundamentals in the Learning Hub, even if it's just ten minutes at a time. And once you start to hold crypto, she encourages everyone to write down what you have and make sure someone you love knows how to access it.

## Story: 

URL: https://nca.org/stories/clayton
Published: 2026-08-28

“Crypto allows us to have a tool for payment.” (Clayton, Small Business Owner, George Plumbing)

In San Antonio, Texas, Clayton runs George Plumbing Company, the business his grandfather built in 1947, which is approaching its 80th anniversary. 

Tradespeople spend their careers understanding the value of a specific tool and how to use it wisely. They take the time to size up whether the tool will accomplish the fix that they're aiming for and if it will earn a place in their toolbox. This is the same mentality that Clayton has about crypto. In his words, “What is a better way to control your financial future than to own the asset yourself?” 

Where curiosity started

He stumbled upon an online conversation about Bitcoin and the functionality of crypto. He isn't much of a tech guy, but he got the part that counted: that crypto is like a self-balancing system that nobody single-handedly controls. From there, he read and researched to get a firmer grasp of how to use crypto, which led him to his first purchase in January 2014. And he held on to that position for the next 12 years, with plans to continue holding.

For anyone looking to get the same footing he spent those months building, the NCA's Crypto 101 course covers the basics - no tech degree required.

Making the case at home

Getting a plumbing company that had been around since 1947 to hold crypto as a company asset, right there alongside the trucks and the equipment, took some convincing, but Clayton was confident. He started by helping his team understand the tool, comparing a blockchain to plumbing: the asset moves across it like water through pipes, and the blockchain itself serves as the underground infrastructure that makes it all run. It landed, and crypto was added to the company's balance sheet, where it has stayed for the better part of a decade.

That decision has paid off in a very practical way. Using its crypto as collateral, the company has been able to take out loans to purchase vehicles and reinvest in training without ever having to sell the position, which meant real room to grow what it could take on - and to put more back into the people who work there. Other small business owners like Jake have found similar flexibility in running things on their own terms.

"Crypto allows us to have a tool for payment. It allows us to grow our family business and also reinvest into our community and our employees." 

– Clayton, Master Plumber & Small Business Owner

Paying the plumber in crypto

The company also accepts crypto as payment for plumbing work, right alongside cash, checks, and cards. It sets the business apart from everyone else in town, and there is something fun about a shop founded in 1947 being the one that will take crypto for a water heater.

Key takeaways

Clayton's story shows crypto working as one tool inside a business that predates it by decades. He spent months learning how it worked before he ever bought any of it, and years holding it before it did much for the company. 

When it finally did, that value went back into the shop and into the people who work there, funding new vehicles and training along the way. The independence and ownership he sees in crypto are the same things the trade has always run on.

Small business owners curious about crypto do not need Clayton's conviction to borrow his approach. Learn how the tool works first. Start small. Then explore how it could work for your business.

## Story: 

URL: https://nca.org/stories/victoria
Published: 2026-08-28

“There are so many possibilities available with crypto.” (Victoria, Supply Chain Manager)

Crypto Confidence Stems From Education

Meet Victoria, Global Supply Chain Manager




Victoria works in clinical trials, coordinating with teams that oversee data privacy and the regulations governing every step. Assessing potential risk is a core part of her job, and that experience comes in handy when she’s evaluating financial decisions, including crypto.




Starting the learning journey




When growing up in Brazil, Victoria saw her parents work tirelessly as missionaries. Since money was short after moving back to the United States, she started learning about financial security at a young age. Having gone through financial struggles, she thought to hold onto her money in other ways whenever possible, keeping it a lifelong interest of hers. As a kid, she imagined herself as a stockbroker when she was older, and ended up dealing in bank lending for a decade. This led her to talk about markets with her family for as long as she can remember. 




Her son grew up in those conversations, and took his first job with the goal of buying his first crypto with his own earnings. The two of them have been watching that investment grow for over a decade, and they continue to hold. He went on to study cybersecurity, and between his training and her eye for risk, they keep each other protected. 




Blockchains and supply chains

Blockchain fascinated Victoria long before crypto entered the picture. The security built into the technology piqued her interest so much that she almost went back to school to study it. After years of learning how trading worked, she made her first investment.

And her learning didn't stop at the purchase. 

Once she dug into how crypto works and the intricacies of trading, she started noticing the overlap with her own field, where secured contracts are the whole game. In her line of work, every step needs a record that all the teams involved can trust. Blockchain works similarly, keeping every transaction on a public shared ledger that cannot be altered. The philosophy she brings to her work, assessing potential risk, came with her, and crypto became another place to put it to use.

“I've sort of used that same philosophy in my own life. It's become part of my natural way to assess risk, whether it's at work, at home, or in my finances.”

— Victoria, Global Supply Chain Manager




Confidence built for the long haul




Having security to combat risk is what keeps Victoria’s attention on crypto. With blockchain, she can see when and where a transaction occurs. That type of security is hard to find. She believes that expanding the regulatory space in crypto would help people feel safer using crypto every day, and crypto is now part of her long-term financial plan.




Coming from a background of financial insecurity, she wants to leave her sons and her granddaughter with assets and the knowledge of how to use them.




Key takeaways

Victoria monitors risk for a living, and crypto has entered her life to meet the moment by providing stronger financial security. Her story shows that it's okay to not know where to start, and that confidence will grow over time.

It also shows that nobody has to take crypto on faith, hers included. Victoria gave it her trust after she did the homework, and that homework is open to anyone. Start yours with the fundamentals in the NCA's Learning Portal, ask the questions she would ask, and let your own answers decide what happens next.

## Story: 

URL: https://nca.org/stories/kristina
Published: 2026-08-28

“Crypto allows freedom of financial movement.” (Kristina, Photographer)

Kristina is a headshot photographer and Photoshop educator based outside Washington, D.C. She has spent over a decade helping people look their best on camera and teaching other creatives how to refine their digital craft.

She grew up in Africa, where her father worked as an economist focused on underserved communities. His career meant the family moved between countries where access to financial services looked very different from what most Americans experience. 

Kristina saw what it meant when families had limited choices over how to save, move, or protect their money. She carried that awareness with her when she moved to the United States, even as she built a career unrelated to economics.

When her own finances shifted

COVID changed Kristina’s photography business almost overnight. Inflation started reshaping her household budget in ways that were hard to pin down. As the primary earner, she felt those shifts deeply. 

And as AI tools began generating headshots and portraits, her profession started facing questions about its future that she hadn’t anticipated.

These pressures didn't come with obvious answers. But they made Kristina start looking for financial options beyond the ones she'd always used.

Crypto offered a solution

Kristina began hearing about crypto through conversations in her circle. She was curious, but as the breadwinner, she wasn't going to put her family’s money into something she couldn't fully understand. So she started learning.

She watched documentaries, read articles, and spent hours talking with people who understood digital assets better than she did. She wanted to understand what crypto actually did before deciding whether it belonged in her financial life.

It's a path many Americans can relate to. According to the NCA's Crypto Confidence Pulse, curiosity about crypto is high, but confidence often lags behind.

Her primary interest was financial due to her circumstances. After watching inflation reshape her household budget, she wanted to diversify her family's savings with a tool that worked differently from the accounts she'd always relied on. Crypto provided that: an additional option she could hold alongside her traditional accounts.

But she also recognized something relevant to her profession. Blockchain technology can also verify who created digital artwork and track its ownership history. For artists, that opens the door to proving authenticity, earning on resale, and protecting work from being copied without credit. It's a use case that other creatives like Autumn are already benefiting from.

“I realized pretty quickly that you have to understand the problems first. You can’t appreciate what crypto is solving if you don't know what’s broken.”

Kristina, Photographer & Educator

For anyone starting that same journey, the NCA's Crypto 101 course is built for taking your first step.

Where she is now

Today, Kristina holds crypto as part of her family's long-term savings. It sits alongside their traditional investment and savings accounts, not instead of them. After watching inflation reshape what her income could buy, she wanted another choice. Crypto gave her that.

She also accepts crypto payments for her photography business. Understanding crypto as a tool has shifted how she thinks about what's available to her and her family.

"People should be able to protect what they've earned," she says. "That's not a radical idea. It's a basic one."

Key takeaways 

Kristina’s story shows how curiosity can lead to understanding. Rather than replacing her existing financial tools, crypto became an additional option alongside them. It also introduced new possibilities in her work, like proving ownership and tracking how her content is used. Taking the time to learn helped her decide how, and if, crypto fit into her life.

## Story: 

URL: https://nca.org/stories/karin
Published: 2025-07-05

“Crypto gave me a way to rebuild.” (Karin, Trader)

When her marriage ended, Karin had to start over with no financial roadmap and little experience managing money on her own. Learning about cryptocurrency gave her a way to rebuild from scratch, and as her confidence grew, she began investing toward long-term goals like her children's private school education. Now she credits those investments with the independence and security that keep her close to her four kids in a home of her own.

## Story: 

URL: https://nca.org/stories/brandon
Published: 2025-07-05

“I can go anywhere I want and have the sovereignty to spend how I choose.” (Brandon, Realtor)

Tokenizing Real Estate: How crypto turns properties into digital shares

The Old Roadblocks

Ever imagined owning a condo in Connecticut, a mountain lodge in Colorado, or a rental in California? Traditional real‑estate investing can make that dream expensive. Down‑payments run into the tens of thousands of dollars, closings take weeks, and selling often means another long wait plus added fees. For people without deep cash reserves or spare time, property ownership still feels like a members‑only club.

A Real‑World Example

Brandon Frans, a long‑time real estate investor in Omaha, wanted to branch out beyond Nebraska but found it impractical to manage distant rentals. Tokenized property changed the math:

“When I first saw real‑estate tokenization, I thought—what if I could own a piece of property in all 50 states?”
— Brandon Frans

Today he spreads smaller sums across tokenized listings—a multifamily in Texas, a retail space in Florida, a student‑housing project in Arizona. Each purchase settles on‑chain within minutes, and his dashboard shows rent distributions and resale activity in real time. 

“It’s given us more control of our time and, most importantly, control over our future destiny.”

What Blockchain Improves

Tokenization converts the ownership rights of a building (or even a single rental unit) into digital tokens on a blockchain. Every transfer is time‑stamped and visible to all participants, so records stay transparent and hard to tamper with. This unlocks several practical benefits:

Lower entry costs: Many platforms now sell property tokens for as little as $50–$100, replacing a traditional five‑figure down payment for a piece of property with a far smaller first step.

Faster closings: Once identity checks clear, transactions settle on the blockchain in minutes rather than weeks.

Any‑time trading: Blockchains operate 24/7, so you can buy or sell tokens whenever the market suits you.

Global access: After standard Know Your Customer (KYC) checks to verify identities, investors from many jurisdictions can participate, expanding both funding and opportunity.

Easier exits: Regulated secondary markets let holders resell tokens without waiting months for a traditional buyer (volume still varies by project).

Shared transparency: Title data, inspection reports, and rent ledgers can be written to the chain, giving everyone the same true information. 

Automatic payouts: Smart contracts send rent or dividends directly to token holders on schedule, cutting paperwork.

Pro‑rata voting rights: Most issuers give token holders voting power proportional to their stake (for matters like major repairs, refinancing, or property management hires) so even small investors still get a say.

Built‑in diversification: Because tokens are crypto assets backed by real estate, a single purchase adds exposure to both markets—a useful mix for holders whose average crypto balance (55% hold under $10,000) might not cover whole properties the old‑fashioned way.

How Is This All Regulated?

In the U.S., most tokenized real-estate deals are treated like regular investments aka securities. The property is placed inside a legal entity (usually a trust or limited liability company aka “LLC”) and that entity’s name is on the deed. In other words, the LLC or trust owns the deed, not individual token holders. When you buy tokens, you’re buying shares in that entity, not the deed itself.

Platforms verify your identity using standard KYC/AML checks and follow SEC rules about who can invest and how tokens can be resold:

Some deals are limited to “accredited” investors—typically people with higher income or net worth—under rules, which allows private companies to raise money. 

Others are open to a broader audience under a different set of rules, which allow more everyday investors to participate, though often with lower investment limits.

Your ownership rights are spelled out in the offering documents: what you can vote on (if voting is included), how cash flow is paid out, and when/where you can resell. A manager or trustee named in the documents controls the property day to day and is the one who can sign on behalf of the LLC or trust. Changing who holds tokens doesn’t change the deed—the entity stays on title unless the property is fully sold.

Taxes depend on how the investment is set up behind the scenes:

If the property is owned through an LLC, you’ll likely receive a tax form called a Schedule K-1, which shows your share of the income and expenses

If it’s structured more like a corporation or a REIT (real estate investment trust), you might get a 1099 form instead, similar to what you’d receive from a brokerage account. 




Each setup works a bit differently when it comes to taxes, so if you’re not sure how yours is structured—or what forms to expect—it’s smart to ask a licensed tax professional.

And the usual real-estate rules apply—zoning, leases, maintenance—blockchain doesn’t change that. Always read the offering summary so you know exactly what you’re buying.

Getting Started

Choose a licensed platform: Look for audited financials, plain‑English property sheets, and clear redemption rules.

Verify your identity: Just like opening a brokerage account, you’ll upload a photo ID and, for some deals, proof of income or net worth.

Fund your wallet: Most platforms accept bank transfers; many also let you deposit stablecoins like USDC.

Start small and test liquidity: Buy one or two tokens, watch how rent distributions arrive, and try reselling a fraction to gauge market depth.

Monitor voting notices: Platforms typically send proposals to token holders; casting a vote is often as simple as clicking “approve” in your dashboard.

Tips From the Field

Pick platforms that disclose past rent payouts and maintain active secondary‑market trading.

Check that income is handled by vetted property managers.

Read the smart contract terms—some issuers can pause transfers during renovations or legal disputes.

The Takeaway

Tokenization doesn’t replace traditional deeds; it adds a new lane with lower buy‑ins, faster settlements, and transparent ownership records. For seasoned investors like Brandon, it means nationwide reach without extra headaches. For first‑timers, it finally puts real estate within realistic financial range and even grants a seat at the decision‑making table. 

If property has always felt out of reach, tokenized shares may be the key to a door you’ve been waiting to open.

## Story: 

URL: https://nca.org/stories/chrissi
Published: 2025-07-05

“Everybody has access.” (Chrissi, Consultant)

Chrissi's days are built around her daughter's care — medical appointments, therapies, and a schedule that rarely fits regular banking hours. Crypto gave her access on her own terms, at 2 a.m. on a Saturday if that's when the moment comes.

## Story: 

URL: https://nca.org/stories/jake
Published: 2025-06-19

“Crypto gives me more autonomy over my own life and my finances.” (Jake, Contractor)

After leaving the fire service, Jake wanted more control over his time, his money, and his future. Crypto gives him the flexibility to run his business, invest in his family, and build long-term wealth on his terms. He sees it as part of the same journey, taking life back and building something better.

## Story: 

URL: https://nca.org/stories/rob-and-mark
Published: 2025-06-17

“Blockchain and crypto are transforming the way cattle are traded.” (Rob & Mark, Cattle Farmers)

The longstanding pain point for ranchers

For more than a century, cattle have changed hands with nothing more than a paper bill of sale and a handshake at the auction barn. Once an animal leaves the ranch, the trail goes cold: packers, retailers, and, most importantly, shoppers can’t see how that cow was raised or treated. Ranchers who invest in better genetics, humane handling, or “never‑ever” health protocols have little proof to justify higher prices, while consumers are left guessing about the quality of the beef on their plates.

Enter blockchain

Blockchain—the same distributed ledger that enables cryptocurrencies—solves this traceability gap. Process‑verified programs such as CattleProof  Verified now log each animal’s vital data (birth date, breed, pasture moves, vaccinations) onto a trackable, traceable, transparent blockchain. 

Every entry is time‑stamped and shared across the network, so no single party can rewrite history. As the calf travels from ranch to feedlot to processor, its digital record travels with it, giving everyone in the supply chain a single, tamper‑proof history to check, creating an unbroken chain of custody that anyone in the supply chain can see.

“Blockchain is really at the crossroads of the Old West and new tech.”
— Rob Jennings, President & Co‑founder of CattleProof  Verified

What transparency delivers

This level transparency has many benefits, including: 

Proof of origin: Retailers and restaurants can verify that “Oklahoma‑raised Angus” means exactly that.

Animal‑welfare validation: Humane‑treatment claims become facts, not just sales tactics.

Faster food‑safety recalls: If a problem ever arises, the source information can be pinpointed in minutes instead of days.

Verified claims: Because every feeding regimen or health protocol is logged on‑chain, retailers and consumers can see—rather than just take the seller’s word for it—that a steer was truly grass‑fed or raised without hormones.

“Our ranchers’ stewardship of the land and humane treatment can be validated on a blockchain, and that information can be passed on to the consumer.”
— Mark Tague, fourth‑generation Oklahoma cattleman and Chief Revenue Officer at CattleProof  Verified

How it works in practice

Tagging: Every calf receives an RFID ear tag (a small electronic device that sends signals to other devices using radio waves) to connect it to a unique record on the blockchain. 

Data capture: Vets and ranch hands scan the tag whenever they vaccinate, weigh, or move the animal; the event uploads to the ledger.

Transfer of ownership: At auction, the digital record on the blockchain transfers automatically along with the physical animal.

Pack & ship: Processors add important data, such as grade and weight, before boxed beef heads to distributors.

Retail scan: A QR code on the package lets a shopper review the animal’s story in seconds, often right at the meat counter.

The takeaway

Blockchain doesn’t change the hard work of ranching—it enhances the work and provides transparency for the entire supply chain. By turning animal histories into a transparent digital ledger, ranchers gain leverage in markets that reward quality, and consumers gain confidence in the beef they serve at dinner. 

From heritage family operations in the country to high‑end grocers in big cities, the technology brings the old cattle trail publicly into the 21st‑century supply chain.

## Story: 

URL: https://nca.org/stories/jen-and-jason
Published: 2025-02-28

“You don’t have to understand it all in order to benefit from it.” (Jen & Jason, Parents)

Managing money their way.

Jen and Jason, like many others, started out skeptical. Jason even gave crypto a name - 'nonsense nickels' - at first. But the more they learned, the more they realized crypto wasn’t just for tech insiders or Wall Street traders. 

They weren’t financial experts, just a couple curious about how to use their money. So they began with a small amount, just to see how it worked. They used an app to buy a little, learned how to store it safely, and began discovering how it’s being used in everyday life. 

“I’m fascinated to see how cryptocurrency is going to show up in different parts of the world as the way people can spend and save money.” Jen, Parent

Jen and Jason aren’t the only ones. Millions are already finding simple, practical ways to use crypto every day:

Sending money to family and friends, without delays.

Paying at stores and websites, just like using a debit card, without expensive fees.

Buying digital collectibles, art, and in-game items securely.

Start your own crypto journey.

The biggest misconception when it comes to crypto? That you need to fully understand the technology before you begin. 

Many apps make it easy to buy, store, and use crypto safely. Whether you want to use it for payments, save for the future, or are just curious to try it out, popular crypto platforms like Coinbase Wallet or Meta Mask are designed to be simple and user-friendly. 

The best way to begin is simply to get familiar with how it works. You can start by purchasing a small amount - think the cost of a dinner out - not as an investment, but as a way to learn. You may think crypto is just for the 1%, but in fact, half of all crypto investors in the U.S. hold less than $5,000.

Staying safe is simple.

Crypto, like any financial tool, requires smart security habits. A few simple steps can keep your crypto safe: using trusted platforms, keeping passwords secure, and avoiding “too good to be true” offers, can go a long way.

Crypto is already helping people spend, save, and send money on their own terms. Perhaps it’s time to make the first move.

## Story: 

URL: https://nca.org/stories/jouell
Published: 2025-01-30

“Crypto became a bridge for me to connect to communities.” (Jouell, Educator)

## Story: 

URL: https://nca.org/stories/tina
Published: 2025-01-30

“Crypto brings a whole new dimension to gaming.” (Tina, Gamer)

From playing to owning.

Tina has always loved collecting characters and items in games, but she never expected she’d be able to own them in a meaningful way.

In traditional games, when players buy or unlock characters, weapons, or skins, those items are tied to their game account. They can’t sell them, trade them, or take them to another game. If they stop playing, those items become useless.

When Tina discovered blockchain gaming, she realized things worked differently. Instead of being locked into one game, she could trade items with other players, sell rare collectibles, or even use certain assets across multiple games.

For the first time, the things she earned actually belonged to her.

“I used to just unlock things and move on, but now, I can actually choose what to do with the items I earn.”

For Tina, this added a whole new dimension to gaming. She wasn’t just playing. She was building a collection she could manage on her own terms.

Why gamers are exploring blockchain.

Gamers are used to buying in-game items, but blockchain brings real ownership into the picture. Here’s how it’s different:

Own your items for real – Instead of purchases being tied to a single account, blockchain stores them securely so they belong to you, even if the game shuts down.

Trade or sell when you’re done – On completing a game, instead of leaving old items behind, you can sell them to another player or swap them for something else.

Make money while playing – Some players cash out rare items, turning gaming into a side hustle.

Use items across games – Some blockchain games allow characters, weapons, or skins to be used across different games by the same developer.

Where is Blockchain Gaming Headed?

Blockchain gaming is still evolving, but major studios are paying attention. Epic Games has already welcomed blockchain-based games to its platform, and other developers are experimenting with how digital ownership can fit into mainstream gaming.

Right now, many blockchain games are browser-based or on PC, but as the technology improves, we may see blockchain-powered experiences on consoles like Xbox and PlayStation. Games such as Gods Unchained and Off The Grid are already offering console-esque experiences - with all the benefits of blockchain tech behind them.

For players like Tina, blockchain isn’t just a way to game - it’s a way to gain control over what they’ve earned. Whether it’s trading a rare item, selling collectibles, or simply keeping hold of digital assets long-term, blockchain gaming offers a level of flexibility and freedom that wasn’t possible before.

Gaming is changing - and for players who want more control over what they own, blockchain is offering exciting new possibilities.

## Story: 

URL: https://nca.org/stories/autumn
Published: 2025-01-30

“When most of us have access, we'll see a lot of new ways of doing things.” (Autumn, Artist)

Taking Ownership of Her Art.

For many artists, making a living from their work has never been easy. Once a painting or sculpture is sold, the artist rarely earns from it again. Collectors resell for higher prices, galleries take commissions, and many struggle with their work being copied without credit.

Blockchain is helping artists take control. It allows them to sell directly to buyers, track where their work goes, and get paid whenever it resells. For artists like Autumn, it’s opening up new opportunities.

A New Way to Sell and Protect Their Work.

Autumn, a multidisciplinary artist, often collaborates with others to bring her creative vision to life. In the past, ensuring fair pay for every contributor was difficult, with revenue often split unevenly or lost over time.

When she discovered blockchain, she saw a way to securely record ownership, split earnings automatically, and ensure everyone involved was credited forever.

“The fact that profits can be shared automatically—and that it’s all recorded permanently—means the impact of our work can last beyond our lifetimes.”

Blockchain keeps a permanent record of every sale, so artists can track where their work goes, prove authenticity, and earn royalties whenever it resells.

Why Artists Are Turning to Blockchain.

Artists are using blockchain to take control of their work and earnings in new ways:

Earn royalties over time – Instead of just making money from an initial sale, artists automatically receive a percentage whenever their work is resold.

Sell directly to buyers – Online platforms like Magic Eden, OpenSea, and Zora make it easy to connect with collectors without relying on galleries or agents.

Prove authenticity and ownership – Blockchain provides a public, verifiable record of each piece, reducing forgery and ensuring artists get credit for their work.

Reach a global audience – Artists can sell to buyers anywhere in the world, expanding their opportunities beyond local markets.

“I feel like I’m using creativity in a way that benefits me, benefits my community, and preserves the art—not just the piece itself, but the ideas behind it.”

How to get started.

Whether you create paintings, sculptures, or digital artwork, blockchain can help you secure and monetize your work. Here’s how to begin:

Register your work – Create a digital certificate (NFT) that verifies authenticity and ensures provenance.

Choose a platform – Sites like Magic Eden, OpenSea, and Zora act as marketplaces for blockchain-based art.

Sell and track your art – Whether selling a digital piece or linking a physical artwork to a blockchain record, the technology ensures ongoing ownership verification and resale royalties.

Blockchain is still new in the art world, but more artists are embracing it as a tool to protect their work and create new opportunities. Could it work for you?

The future of digital art.

Major auction houses like Sotheby’s and Christie’s have embraced blockchain, selling digital pieces for millions. But for most artists, the real opportunity isn’t in record-breaking sales—it’s in gaining more control over their work.

Instead of relying on galleries or third parties, artists can now build direct relationships with collectors, ensure fair payment, and protect their creative legacy.

More artists are discovering how blockchain can help them sell and safeguard their work. Could it work for you?

## Story: 

URL: https://nca.org/stories/hunter
Published: 2025-01-30

“Given the option, half the people who work for me choose to be paid in crypto.” (Hunter, Content Creator)

Faster payments, fewer fees.

For creators like Hunter, speed is everything. The faster their work gets made, the more relevant it is. In fact, it often takes a team of people working quickly to create content that stands a chance of getting seen before people move on.

“At my peak, I was paying six or seven editors a month, producing up to 90 videos. Crypto allowed me to pay them instantly, something traditional platforms couldn’t match,” - Hunter, Content Creator

But traditional payment methods can’t always keep up with the speed and flexibility these creators need. It’s not unusual to have to wait days for payments they’ve already earned.

Easier way to get paid.

Payments arrive in minutes. No waiting days for transfers to clear, crypto payments arrive almost instantly.


Keep more of what you’ve earned. Unlike traditional payment systems, crypto has fewer middle men and therefore fewer fees. 


Work globally. Crypto makes it easy to get paid globally, even in countries with limited banking options.


24/7 access. No bank hours, no delays - no need to even leave your couch. Just direct payments at your fingertips whenever you need them.

How to get paid in crypto. 

If you’re interested in getting paid in crypto for the first time, the process is simple.

Set up a digital wallet, such as Coinbase Wallet. This allows you to receive and store crypto safely. 

Share your wallet address with your employer. Explain that it helps you avoid high fees and get paid faster.

Agree on the cryptocurrency type and the amount. There are lots to choose from, but  Bitcoin, Ethereum, USDC are popular choices.  

Check your wallet. Once paid, make sure payment has arrived by looking at your wallet balance. Payments usually process within minutes.

Getting paid should be simple. For freelancers and creators, crypto means no waiting, no extra fees, just fast and flexible payments that keep up with the way they work.

## Story: 

URL: https://nca.org/stories/max
Published: 2025-01-30

“Crypto connects younger donors with causes that truly matter.” (Max, Movember Community Manager)

Helping donations go further.

From daily essentials to global giving, people want to pay with crypto. In fact, our research shows that 39% of crypto holders already use it to buy goods and services. Major brands like McDonald’s, Nike, and Home Depot now accept crypto, giving customers the flexibility to pay how they want. 

As online payments continue to evolve, forward-thinking organizations - like Movember - that offer crypto as a payment option are opening their doors to a growing audience and standing out from competitors. But it’s not just about keeping up with consumer demand.

The benefits are clear. 

Get paid instantly. Crypto payments arrive in seconds, so you’re not stuck waiting for transactions to clear like with credit cards.

Keep more of what you earn. Credit cards take 2-3% per transaction, while crypto fees are usually under 1%. That adds up to big savings over time.

Reach customers anywhere. Crypto is borderless, letting you accept payments worldwide without extra fees or currency conversion hassles.

Tap into new audiences. Crypto attracts younger, digital-first customers, helping you reach a wider audience.

Crypto also helps more money reach good causes. Movember, a charity that raises funds and awareness for men’s health, uses it to cut down on fees, so donations go where they’re needed most. As Max shared in our Spotlight video, crypto makes giving easier, faster, and open to more people.


“For our clients, there was nothing but good benefits, less fees, more transparency - but more than anything, being able to tap into this new blockchain movement of crypto donors.” 


How to accept crypto payments.

Set up a crypto payment processor. Platforms like BitPay, Coinbase Commerce, and The Giving Block work like PayPal or Stripe, handling transactions securely. They’ll guide you through the process.

Choose how to receive funds. Keep payments in crypto or automatically convert them into local currency.

Start accepting payments! Customers can pay with crypto online or in person. Many stores display a QR code at checkout, making payments instant and hassle-free.

Whether you’re running an online store, a local business, or a nonprofit, crypto payments can help you reach more customers, lower transaction costs, and offer a modern, flexible way to pay.