Cryptocurrencies offer unique opportunities to expand people’s economic freedom around the world. Their essential borderlessness enables trade even in places with tight government control over citizens’ finances. They can also be used as a store of value, enabling long-term price appreciation. Investors can use these assets as part of a diversified portfolio, or trade them for profit within short periods. Traders must monitor market sentiment, and keep updated on events that affect prices. For example, positive regulatory news may boost investor confidence and drive prices up, while unfavorable news such as security breaches can lead to a price decline. Technological advancements that enhance a cryptocurrency’s functionality and appeal can also impact prices.
Crypto exchanges are the stock markets of the digital world, and they make it possible to buy, sell, and swap hundreds or thousands of different coins and tokens. The prices of these currencies rise and fall, according to supply and demand – just like stocks do.
A key metric that helps traders identify potential trading opportunities is a cryptocurrency’s trading volume. This measures the amount of tokens that have been traded over a certain period, and is an indicator of market activity and liquidity. High trading volume implies a healthy market with plenty of interest from traders, while low volume can indicate an inactive market and a lack of liquidity. It’s important to understand the factors that influence trading volumes, as they can have a direct impact on your investment returns.