HOME

The Top Ten Cryptocurrency Blunders: A Must-Read Guide for All Investors

Leave a comment

The Top Ten Cryptocurrency Blunders: A Must-Read Guide for All Investors

Are you eager to maximize your returns in the cryptocurrency market? If so, it's crucial to avoid common pitfalls that could lead to significant financial losses. This comprehensive guide will delve into the ten most critical errors crypto investors often make, which can result in substantial monetary losses. By understanding and avoiding these mistakes, you can ensure that your investments not only avoid unexpected setbacks but also thrive, leading to significant profits that can potentially change your financial future.

#1. Not Doing Your Own Research (DYOR)

One of the most common blunders for investors is the lack of thorough research before diving into an investment opportunity. It's easy to get excited, especially when a friend boasts about a lucrative altcoin investment that promises astronomical returns. However, it's essential to avoid getting caught up in the frenzy and instead take a step back to educate yourself. 

This includes learning about reputable exchanges, secure cryptocurrency storage, and tax implications, as well as delving deeper into the specifics of individual crypto projects. By conducting your own research, you are taking control of your investments and empowering yourself with knowledge.

When evaluating research and projects, two crucial factors come into play. Firstly, verifying the project's authenticity and examining the token distribution is essential. To accomplish this, CoinmarketCap or CoinGecko can be used to analyze the coin or token. Delve into the data, focusing specifically on the price movement and trading activity. The trading volume should be substantial, indicating genuine interest and market participation. Additionally, the token should be listed on at least one reputable exchange.


Source: CoinGecko

With the basics covered, it's time to delve into more in-depth information from secondary sources. Explore cryptocurrencies on websites such as Messari, Binance Research, and CoinBureau, which provide comprehensive introductions to projects, their core teams, and objectives. Be sure to examine the profile section on Messari, which offers valuable insights into a project's background, token distribution, and other essential details.

It is essential to consider how tokens are allocated. It is favorable when tokens are distributed broadly among the community, indicating a healthy sign. Conversely, it raises concerns if a small group, often the founders, possesses most of the tokens. Additionally, it's essential to investigate the backgrounds and credentials of the founder, CEO, and other key team members. Videos featuring these individuals can provide valuable insight into their expertise and vision.


Source: Markethive.com

Previous interviews offer valuable insights into their progress in realizing their goals. Also, if they conduct regular meetings or webinars open to the public, it indicates transparency. Another key indicator of their credibility is their ability to follow through on their road map. At this stage, you should have gathered sufficient information to assess the project's authenticity and potential for long-term success.

#2. Opting For Inadequate Crypto Exchanges

Choosing the right exchange is a make-or-break decision. Many beginners and experienced cryptocurrency users fall into the trap of selecting the wrong exchange platform. The severity of this mistake can vary greatly, but it's crucial to start by verifying the exchange's authenticity. Unfortunately, many individuals are deceived by fraudulent crypto exchanges, underlining the need for vigilance in this crucial step.

Exercise caution when encountering sponsored advertisements for cryptocurrency exchanges, even when they appear on trusted news websites. Conduct thorough due diligence. Look into online discussions on Reddit, X, Bitcointalk, and other forums to see what users say about their experiences with these exchanges. 

Additionally, investigate the exchange's leadership, including the founders' backgrounds and the company's history. Just as you would carefully vet individual cryptocurrency projects, it's crucial to apply the same level of scrutiny when evaluating exchanges, particularly those that are less well-known.

Next, ensure the exchange aligns with your investment approach. This involves checking if the exchange provides the specific tokens you want to purchase. Most exchanges will meet your needs if you focus on investing in well-established large-cap tokens. However, if you're interested in smaller-cap tokens with greater risk but the potential for high returns, you'll need to be more discerning in choosing exchanges.

While specific cryptocurrency exchanges boast an extensive catalog of digital assets, others, like Coinbase, have a more limited selection, comprising only a few hundred options. Nevertheless, Coinbase's strict adherence to regulatory standards as a publicly traded company in the US ensures the implementation of rigorous security protocols. This sets it apart from many other exchanges, which lack similar oversight and may not inspire the same confidence level.

Beyond security and coin allocation, consider whether the exchange's features align with your trading style. As a beginner, you may prefer an exchange with a user-friendly interface. If you're more seasoned, verify that the exchange offers the advanced trading features you need. Many exchanges cater to diverse skill levels by providing basic and advanced platforms, but exploring your options is essential to finding the best fit.

Finally, ensure the platform you consider using accepts your currency and does not charge excessive trading fees. High fees can ruin a successful trading day, especially when more affordable options are available.

#3. Impulsive Decisionmaking With No Strategy

The third mistake to avoid is entering the crypto market without a strategic approach. As the saying goes, 'Failing to plan is planning to fail.' This adage holds particularly true in crypto, where impulsive decisions often lead to regret. By establishing a well-thought-out strategy, you can confidently navigate the market, making informed investment choices rather than relying on chance. With a solid strategy in place, you can feel secure in your decisions and confident in your ability to navigate the market. 

A solid strategy serves as a guiding framework, protecting you from making rash, emotional decisions and keeping you on track despite the influences of fear, uncertainty, and doubt (FUD) and the fear of missing out (FOMO). With a robust strategy and the discipline to stick to it, you can progress steadily without getting derailed.

Crafting a winning approach requires a tailored plan that suits your unique needs. Some general principles can serve as a guide. Start by setting clear and measurable goals rather than vague aspirations. Consider your comfort level with risk when setting these goals. For instance, someone in their early years without family responsibilities may be more inclined to invest heavily in cryptocurrency, whereas someone older with dependents may take a more cautious approach.

Regarding your cryptocurrency investments, you need to determine your comfort level with risk. Will you diversify your portfolio with smaller, more volatile altcoins, offering more significant growth opportunities but with higher uncertainty, or play it safer with established large-cap coins that provide more stability but limited upside? Additionally, should you hold onto your investments for the long term (HODL) or engage in active trading? This decision ultimately hinges on your personal risk tolerance and the trade-offs you're willing to make between security and potential returns.

Regardless of your investment approach, remember this crucial rule: never put in more money than you can comfortably part with, and refrain from taking on debt to fund your investments—it's simply not a risk worth taking. New investors, in particular, should resist the urge to amplify their bets with excessive borrowing, such as crypto leverage trading. Additionally, be sure to cash in on your gains periodically. Failing to do so is a common pitfall, so make it a deliberate part of your strategy, and you'll be grateful for it in the long run.

#4. Relying on a Centralized Exchange Instead of a Personal Wallet

Fourth on the list is a crucial security oversight: neglecting to self-custody one's crypto. To clarify, self-custody means having complete autonomy over your cryptocurrency by storing it in a personal wallet that only you can access and control. This approach is akin to keeping your physical cash in a personal safe rather than relying on a bank. For optimal security, self-custodial wallets are the recommended choice. Newcomers to the crypto world may wonder why they shouldn't simply store their funds on a centralized platform like Coinbase, Kraken, or KuCoin, but there are important reasons to avoid this approach.

Keeping some of your assets on these platforms for easy trading might be practical. However, there are risks when entrusting your assets to third parties online. Trusting the entity you are dealing with is essential, as some dishonest individuals are in the industry. A recent example is Sam Bankman Fried, who was once highly regarded in the crypto world but ended up causing significant financial losses to many. As a result, it's imperative to exercise extreme caution when dealing with online asset storage.

A second drawback of centralized exchanges is that, regardless of their trustworthy nature and rigorous security measures, they can never provide a guarantee against cyber-attacks. The cryptocurrency industry has witnessed a staggering $2.85 billion in losses due to theft from various exchanges and custodial services since 2012, demonstrating that no platform is entirely immune to breaches. Not even significant exchanges like Binance are immune, as evidenced by a hack they experienced in 2019 despite their robust security measures.

Cryptocurrency exchanges are attractive targets for cybercriminals due to the potential for substantial financial gains if their security measures are compromised. Malicious individuals seeking to take advantage of vulnerabilities in these platforms constantly threaten them. Additionally, regulatory uncertainties pose a risk for exchanges, as they may be subject to sudden closure or asset seizure by government authorities. An example occurred in 2021 when South Korea closed down 11 exchanges allegedly engaged in fraudulent activities.

Finally, there is a perpetual threat of financial collapse and insolvency. In such a scenario, users' assets could be at risk. The likelihood of this increases if an exchange fails to perform regular proof of reserve audits. Therefore, it is not advisable to keep assets on exchanges. Due to these concerns, the risks associated with storing assets on exchanges outweigh any potential benefits. As Benjamin Cowen, CEO of Intothecryptoverse.com, aptly puts it, "Treat exchanges like public toilets. Get in, do your business, and get out.”

So what should you do instead? You need to self custody your crypto by holding a non-custodial or self-custodial wallet. Non-custodial wallets are a broader category encompassing various wallets where users control their private keys. A non-custodial wallet can be browser-based or software-based, like Trust, Solflare, or Exodus, where users control their private keys. Although the wallet provider still bears some responsibility for safeguarding your assets, you have ultimate authority over your cryptocurrency.

Self-custodial wallets are a type of non-custodial wallet in which the user has complete control over their private keys and is responsible for managing their funds. They are hardware wallets like Ledger or Trezor in which the user has complete control over their private keys and is solely responsible for securing their assets. In both cases, the user controls their private keys and manages their funds. Still, the level of control and responsibility can vary depending on the type of wallet.

#5. Neglecting To Back Up Seed Phrases and Passwords

Another common security mistake is neglecting to create backups of seed phrases and passwords. A seed phrase is a set of words your cryptocurrency wallet generates and serves as the master key for managing and retrieving your funds. In the event of device failure, loss, or theft, your seed phrase is the only way to regain access to your assets stored in the wallet. 

Storing physical copies of your seed phrases and passwords may seem inconvenient to some people. However, considering the importance of safeguarding your finances, it is essential to prioritize security over convenience. It is crucial that these backups are kept in a tangible format. Avoid saving seed words digitally on your device at all costs, as this dramatically increases the risk of your cryptocurrency being stolen by malware or cyber criminals.

Consider choosing between a paper backup method or engraving the information on a steel card for added security. Ensure that you store this vital information in a secure location. Additionally, take into account the security measures for your cryptocurrency exchange accounts. Implement two-factor authentication, and remember to store the backup codes needed for account recovery securely. Losing access to your phone can lead to being locked out of your account, resulting in a cumbersome verification process to regain entry. Prevent this potential hassle by documenting and safeguarding the codes along with your seed phrases in a secure container or safe.

#6. No Risk Management Plan

Effective risk management is essential for achieving long-term success in the crypto market. It is commonplace to become impulsive and deviate from your initial investment strategy. Staying composed during a bullish market is crucial to avoid making hasty decisions. Therefore, having a risk management plan tailored to your investment approach is vital.

A crucial rule of thumb for all investors is investing only money you are comfortable potentially losing.  If you're an active trader, consider implementing risk management strategies such as stop-loss orders and profit-taking limits. These tools enable you to lock in gains when the market is favorable and limit potential losses when it turns sour. By doing so, you can avoid the need for constant market surveillance, providing peace of mind and a more hands-off approach to investing.

When managing risk, adopting a cautious mindset that extends beyond trading to include withdrawing your assets, also known as off-ramping, is essential. Many fall prey to a common mistake: sending funds to the wrong blockchain via an exchange. This mistake is easily preventable, but it can have irreversible consequences, and even with the help of wallet providers or exchanges, rectifying the situation is not always possible and can be highly stressful. To avoid this, take the precautionary step of sending a small test transaction to confirm the successful funds transfer. While this will incur some gas fees, it's a minor cost compared to the potential risks involved.

#7. Falling For Scams

Be cautious of fraudulent schemes, which are a significant concern in cryptocurrency and are closely related to managing risks. Conducting thorough research and remaining vigilant are essential to avoid falling prey to such schemes. Adopt a skeptical mindset and stay alert to potential red flags. Empowering yourself with knowledge of common fraudulent tactics is key to protecting your investments.

Some typical fraudulent schemes include Ponzi schemes, which rely on flimsy foundations and promise high returns but fail when new investments dwindle. Scammers may also attempt to attract victims to questionable investment platforms where funds are deposited but never returned. Another tactic is phishing attacks, where fraudsters create fake websites or emails to deceive individuals into revealing confidential information like private keys or wallet passwords.

Another insidious practice is pig butchering, a deceitful scheme in which individuals build a fake online connection with their targets and then manipulate them into divulging sensitive financial details or transferring funds. This deceptive tactic, akin to the tactics of the "Tinder Swindler," is prevalent in financial fraud. Moreover, cryptocurrency scams frequently exploit the influence of celebrities, using their images and names to deceive unsuspecting followers. Falling prey to such scams can have devastating consequences, not only draining your finances but also taking a heavy emotional toll on your well-being.

#8. Falling For FOMO 

The following three mistakes are rooted in emotional biases. Although intuition has its place in some regions of life, it's essential to separate emotions from rational thinking when making investment decisions. The fear of missing out (FOMO) is a common psychological trap, and it can cleverly manipulate investors into making impulsive choices.

Theodore Roosevelt once pointed out the negative impact of comparing oneself to others on happiness, quoting, “Comparison is the thief of joy.” “This concept can also be applied to investing. During times of positive market trends and when your peers are succeeding, it can be tempting to abandon one's investment strategy and lose focus.

The proliferation of social media has exacerbated the problem, as overnight successes and compelling forecasts of price surges create unrealistic expectations. For instance, many individuals were convinced that Bitcoin would soar to $100,000 during the previous market upswing despite falling short. The allure of this narrative led people to hold onto their investments for too long, neglecting to cash in when they should have. 

This reinforces the importance of developing a strategy tailored to one's risk tolerance and grounded in thorough research rather than following the crowd. Tuning out the noise and focusing on your approach is essential, a lesson closely tied to the following common pitfall: having inflated expectations, particularly among those new to the market.

#9. Inflated Economics

High hopes can sometimes result in significant letdowns. Viewing cryptocurrency investments as a means to rapid wealth can result in severe financial setbacks when reality fails to match these lofty expectations, particularly in the short term; investors often make ill-advised choices. Such mistakes include impulsively selling during market downturns or investing in high-stakes assets without adequately evaluating the risks.

It is crucial to have a solid strategy and adhere to it in order to succeed. By remaining patient and disciplined, your chances of success are higher. Should you experience good fortune in cryptocurrency, you must exercise humility and discretion. Boasting about your wealth can attract unwanted attention, and there have been disturbing instances where individuals who publicly flaunted their crypto gains online became targets of criminal activity. It's wise to keep your accomplishments private and avoid drawing unnecessary attention to yourself.

#10. Quitting Prematurely

Lastly, a common pitfall is surrendering too soon, which can cause investors to forfeit potential profits. The market's tendency to experience significant fluctuations can be intimidating, and those not prepared for such instability might quickly sell their assets during downturns, putting themselves at risk of losses. Exiting too early could result in missing opportunities for potential gains.

Successful investors are resilient and endure challenges, adapting their strategies and gaining knowledge along the way. Having a long-term perspective is key. While prices may experience significant fluctuations in the short run, it is essential to maintain a broader view. Viewing a bear market from a longer-term standpoint can offer a more positive outlook. 

Patience and holding onto investments can eventually lead to significant gains. Sometimes, you just have to “hold on for dear life” and wait for your fortunes to moon. Finding a balance and following the profit-taking strategy mentioned earlier is prudent. It is crucial not to let short-term market trends distract you from your crypto journey and to keep the perspective of how far the cryptocurrency industry has come since its inception. 

This article is provided for informational purposes only. It is not offered or intended to be used as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.

 


 

Editor and Chief Markethive: Deb Williams. (Australia) I thrive on progress and champion freedom of speech.  I embrace "Change" with a passion, and my purpose in life is to enlighten people to accept and move forward with enthusiasm. Find me at my Markethive Profile Page | My Twitter Account | and my LinkedIn Profile.

 

 

 

 

 

Tim Moseley

HOME

Gold Price News: Gold Climbs to Two-Week High Above 2370 An Ounce

Leave a comment

Gold Price News: Gold Climbs to Two-Week High Above $2,370 An Ounce

Gold prices rose for a second day on Thursday to reach their highest since May 23, taking support from data showing a higher-than-expected rise in US jobless figures.

Gold climbed as high as $2,378 an ounce on Thursday, and prices were quoted at around $2,370 to $2,375 an ounce by late afternoon. That compared with around $2,355 an ounce in late deals on Wednesday.

KAU/USD 1-hourly Kinesis Exchange

Thursday’s move represented a second straight day of gains for the yellow metal, after a lacklustre first half of the week, taking prices to a two-week high.

S initial jobless claims figures released Thursday showed a larger-than-expected increase in the number of Americans seeking unemployment benefits, coming in at 229,000 in the week to June 1, compared with market expectations of 220,000. Any signs of a weaker economy suggest increased pressure on the US Fed to cut interest rates – a bullish factor for non-yielding gold.

US 10-year treasury bond yields were broadly steady on Thursday, hovering at a two-month low, and this downward move has provided an additional supportive element for gold prices.

Elsewhere, the European Central Bank cut interest rates by 25 basis points to 4.25% as expected on Thursday, after nine months of steady rates. While the move is less significant for gold than a US Fed rate cut, it nevertheless highlights that recent expectations over the start of an interest rate-cutting cycle have started to materialise among major central banks.

Looking ahead, all eyes will be on the monthly US non-farm payrolls figures for May on Friday as well as the US unemployment rate for May, for further signals on possible interest rate changes in the coming months. ECB President Christine Lagarde is also set to give a speech on Friday afternoon, following Thursday’s decision to cut interest rates to 4.25%.

Kitco Media

Frank Watson

Time to Buy Gold and Silver

Tim Moseley

HOME

Gold prices will set new record highs in the second half of 2024 – Metals Focus

Leave a comment

Gold prices will set new record highs in the second half of 2024 – Metals Focus

Gold prices will set new record highs in the second half of 2024 – Metals Focus teaser image

Gold prices are once again flirting with resistance near $2,400 an ounce, and one research firm expects that it's only a matter of time before the precious metal sets fresh all-time highs.

In their weekly note published Thursday, analysts at Metals Focus said that the eventual monetary policy easing from the Federal Reserve will drive gold prices higher in the second half of the year.

“Later this year, we expect prices will rise again, with a new all-time high likely,” said Neil Meader, Director of Gold and Silver at Metals Focus. “After all, the recent $2,450 peak is lower, in real terms, than the 1980 one, which would have been around $3,000 in today’s prices.”

With a new record peak in sight, Metals Focus expects gold prices to average around $2,250 an ounce for the year, a 16% increase from last year’s record average price.

The comments come as disappointing economic data and growing slack in the U.S. labor market have raised market expectations for the U.S. central bank to start the new easing cycle in September.

Even if the Federal Reserve maintains its aggressive monetary policy stance, Metals Focus does not see much downside for gold through the rest of the year.

The analysts at the UK-based precious metals research firm noted several factors supporting gold’s breakout rally this year, even as the Federal Reserve has hesitated to lower interest rates.

Insatiable appetite from global central banks, a dire global fiscal outlook, geopolitical uncertainty, and China’s weakening economy have all boosted gold prices, helping them to weather headwinds generated by persistent strength in the U.S. dollar and higher bond yields.

“Whether they start this year or next, US rate cuts are coming,” Meader said. “It’s also hard to see the Middle East and Ukraine conflicts being resolved any time soon, and US/China tensions remain high. Lastly, as physical markets become more accustomed to higher prices, gold’s fundamentals should improve.”

Kitco Media

Neils Christensen

Time to Buy Gold and Silver

Tim Moseley

HOME

Franklin Templeton Eyes Altcoin-Focused Crypto Fund

Leave a comment

$1.5 Trillion Asset Manager Franklin Templeton Explores New Crypto Fund For Solana, XRP, Shiba Inu

By Brenda Ngari – June 6, 2024

$1.64 trillion Wall Street asset manager Franklin Templeton is mulling the launch of a new private fund that would invest in tokens other than Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH).

Franklin Templeton Eyes Altcoin-Focused Crypto Fund

According to a June 6 report from The Information citing anonymous individuals with knowledge of the plans, the private fund will target institutional investors and will be dedicated to altcoins like Solana, XRP, Shiba Inu, Cardano, and the like.

Franklin Templeton is no stranger to the crypto ecosystem. The Wall Street titan forayed into the digital assets world in 2018. It introduced a spot Bitcoin exchange-traded fund (ETF) in mid-January and has also applied to offer a similar offering for the industry’s second-largest cryptocurrency, Ethereum. In fact, Franklin Templeton was recently the first issuer to announce its sponsor fees for its spot ETH ETF in its updated S-1 statement.

“We are excited about ETH and its ecosystem. Despite the midlife crisis it’s recently experienced, we see a bright future with many strong tailwinds to push the Ethereum ecosystem forward,” the company previously stated in an X post.

By venturing beyond the top two major crypto assets, the asset management firm is signaling comfort with the class of tokens that the SEC has long deemed unregistered securities.

While the report does not indicate which altcoins in particular would be included in the new crypto fund’s basket, Franklin Templeton has publicly hailed the growth of the Solana network in 2024, commending Anatoly Yakovenko’s vision of “a single atomic state machine as a powerful use case of decentralized blockchains.”

Staking Rewards And Global Expansion

Franklin’s Thursday announcement comes after the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission’s shocking approval of key regulatory filings related to the spot Ether ETF applications in late May — despite the top financial cop having reportedly classed Ethereum internally as an unregistered security for more than a year.

Notably, staking rewards were not included in the proposed Ether funds when the SEC gave its regulatory blessing to the first stage of applications last month. However, Franklin Templeton is considering offering investors staking rewards with the new altcoin fund.

Although Franklin Templeton’s spot BTC ETF has not been as successful as the financial instruments offered by peers BlackRock and Fidelity, the report noted that the company is keen to grow its crypto assets business outside the US.

DISCLAIMER The views expressed in the article are wholly those of the author and do not represent those of, nor should they be attributed to, ZyCrypto. This article is not meant to give financial advice. Please carry out your own research before investing in any of the various cryptocurrencies available.

The original article written by Brenda Ngari and posted on Zycrypto.com.

Article reposted on Markethive by Jeffrey Sloe

** Loans, secure funding for business projects in the USA and around the world. Learn more about USA & International Financing at Commercial Funding International. **

Tim Moseley

HOME

Have You Lost Touch With Reality? Get Going on Creating a Better Future for Yourself

Leave a comment

Have You Lost Touch With Reality? Get Going on Creating a Better Future for Yourself

Have you lost touch with reality
 

Have You Lost Touch With Reality? Has someone ever advised you to move on from the past? When others want to encourage you to move on with your life, they often say things like this. Is it really as simple as it sounds?

It may not be as easy as it seems, particularly if there are strong motivations to hold on to the past. You may find it difficult to go on with life because of significant memories and experiences from your past, such as a tragic upbringing, a sad breakup, the loss of a loved one, etc.
 

But it's also possible that you're clinging to items that have lost all relevance to your life.
 

To truly enjoy the splendor of the here and now, you must release attachment to the past. Just deciding to do it and getting going is the hardest part of changing anything.
A little, healthy introspection is a good place to start.
Take some time out to compare your present situation and the emotions it evokes with what it could be. Things might get better, but very slowly, if you don't do anything. A better, more fulfilling existence can become your reality if you just do anything.

 

Here is the way to proceed.
 

Methods for Releasing the Past
Stay completely focused on the here and now.
Let go of the past and go on. No matter how much you try, the past will always remain fixed in place. Actually, all you can do is strive to live each day to the fullest. Act as though today were your final. Paying close attention in the here and now will leave you with less mental space for dwelling on the past.
 

There can be no place for optimism if you dwell too much on the past. Whether you want to keep injuring yourself or welcome the new day, which may be full of joy, is totally up to you.
Make a firm decision to stop worrying and start living your best life.
You must resolve to "let it go" and "move on" if you want it to succeed. Things will keep going in circles unless you do this, and you risk being trapped in the past once more. Take action after making a decision that will benefit you and your future.
 

ecosystem for entrepreneurs

Allow space for mercy.
 

It could be challenging to put behind you the wrongdoings of those who have gone before you. An important first step is to forgive others and get over your anger. The healing that comes from forgiving another person is more important.
Just because you can forgive someone doesn't mean you condone their actions. Even when you know they messed up, you can still choose to forgive them. Doing so is most assuredly not an indication of fragility. What this means is that you are ready to accept the present moment for what it is and go forward with your life.
Keep your distance from the person.
Stay detached from people and places that bind you to your present situation and frame of mind. Removing yourself from a toxic environment or toxic people can help alleviate depression. To aid with the "letting go" process, it can be helpful to put some mental or physical distance between yourself and the things that are holding you back.
 

The secret is to accept.
 

To go on, you must accept your history, including the individuals who were a part of it. No one of these things has to constitute the crux of your identity. Remake yourself, learn to accept yourself, and then break free.
It is up to you to ensure your own pleasure.
You have no right to hold another person responsible for how you feel. In doing so, you risk letting another person emotionally control you to an unhealthy degree. When you accept full responsibility for your emotional state, you'll experience an overwhelming surge of joy and strength. Regardless of the circumstances, your attitude is the most important factor.
 

Consider your feelings.
 

You need to be aware of the value that your emotions provide in order to evaluate them. Think back on it if you have any pleasant, upbeat memories. Stay away from the past if it's bringing you nothing but negativity and misery in the present. Swap it out for a more reasonable one.
 

Contribute in some way.
Helping other people and going above and beyond for them might make you feel good about yourself. Getting in touch with your authentic self is facilitated by this method. Smiling, greeting someone, or donating to a good cause are all great ways to brighten someone's (and your own) day. You may change your outlook for the better and make a lasting difference in the lives of those around you by performing these small acts of kindness.
Have You Lost Touch With Reality?
I hope this might assist you throughout the time when you are trying to move on. It will all be worthwhile if you put in the work. It is within your reach; here's to a better today and tomorrow.
 

Tim Moseley

HOME

Gold Price News: Gold Falls Back Below 2330 An Ounce

Leave a comment

Gold Price News: Gold Falls Back Below $2,330 An Ounce

Gold News

Market Analysis

Gold prices fell back on Tuesday, giving up Monday’s gains, as the US dollar rebounded from a two-month low seen the previous day.

Gold prices fell as low as $2,317 an ounce on Tuesday, before edging back up to $2,325 an ounce later in the session. That was down sharply compared with around $2,351 in late deals on Monday.

KAU/USD 1-hourly Kinesis Exchange

The sharp downward reversal came as the US dollar rebounded against other major currencies on Tuesday, making gold more expensive for buyers in other currencies, and weighing on demand. The US dollar had hit more than a two-month low against the euro on Monday, but found a firmer footing on Tuesday.

 

In addition, US factory orders figures for April came in on Tuesday showing a 0.7% increase compared with March, and slightly above market expectations of a 0.6% gain. Any signs of a stronge-than-expected economy suggest the need for central banks to maintain higher interest rates, which tends to be bearish for non-yield-bearing assets like precious metals.

On the geopolitical front, the US expects that Israel will accept a ceasefire deal with Palestinian militant group Hamas if it too approves the agreement, a White House official was quoted as saying this week. The deal, which would start with a six-week halt to hostilities, would help pave the way for a permanent end to the conflict, which has injected a risk premium into precious metals markets.

Looking ahead, the markets will be watching out for Wednesday’s US ISM Services PMI figures for May, for the latest reading on the state of the economy. Also of interest will be the European Central Bank’s expected interest rate decision on Thursday, which is widely expected to be a 25-basis point cut to 4.25%. The ECB in April maintained interest rates at record-high levels of 4.5% for a fifth consecutive time.

Frank Watson

Time to Buy Gold and Silver

Tim Moseley

HOME

Gold’s attractiveness to criminals forces market participants to shoulder the AML-KYC burden

Leave a comment

Gold’s attractiveness to criminals forces market participants to shoulder the AML-KYC burden

Gold's attractiveness to criminals forces market participants to shoulder the AML-KYC burden teaser image

The biggest gold-smuggling bust in Hong Kong’s history has brought the challenges of detecting illegal movements and transactions of precious metals into sharp relief, according to a June 2 report from consulting firm Alvarez and Marshall.

“On 27 March 2024, the Hong Kong Customs and Excise Department made its largest ever gold-smuggling bust — approximately 146kg, with an estimated market value of HKD 84 million — at the Hong Kong International Airport,” the report stated. “The gold was not smuggled as ingots or jewelry with serial numbers as one might expect, but was disguised as parts for air compressors.”

Authors Henry Chambers and Benjamin Teo wrote in ‘Following the Midas Trail – Laundering Money Through Gold and Precious Metals’ that cases such as this one raise an important question: “Can forensic practitioners trace the movement of luxury items, such as physical gold, and how are these valuable items controlled?”

“Money laundering is the process of making illegally obtained gains appear “clean,” and typically follows a three-stage process — placement, layering, and integration,” they said. “Because of the scrutiny given to bank transactions, criminals may turn to gold or other precious metals when they need to launder money.”

Chambers and Teo argue that precious metals are attractive assets for criminals who wish to conceal the origins of any illegally obtained money, using the process outlined in the following diagram:

The authors ask whether it is possible for forensic investigators such as themselves to trace the movement of illicit funds through the movement of gold.

“The international Financial Action Task Force (FATF) designates dealers in precious metals and precious stones, amongst others, as Designated Non-Financial Business Professionals (DNFBPs) and recommends implementing a risk-based anti-money laundering (AML) approach in these industries,” they wrote. “In this light, since 1 April 2023, the Hong Kong Customs and Excise Department has commenced a registration regime for dealers in precious metals and stones.”

The regime applies to businesses involved in “trading […] exporting or importing precious metals, precious stones or precious products; Manufacturing, refining or carrying out any value-adding work on precious metals, precious stones or precious products; Issuing, redeeming or trading in precious-asset-backed-instruments; or Acting as an intermediary in any of the above.”

The first step in the use of gold for money laundering is placement, they said.

“Essentially, in Hong Kong the use of cash to purchase gold valued above HKD 120,000 in a single transaction or several seemingly linked transactions triggers customer due diligence requirements,”the authors said. “The dealer is then obliged to obtain and verify information such as the beneficial owner’s identity. Based on the assessed risk, the dealer may also need to understand the customer’s source of wealth/funds or other additional information.”

“On gold bars, generally, details of its owner can be verified through engravings that detail its weight, purity and manufacturer, along with an accompanying certificate of authenticity,” Chambers and Teo note. “If the gold bar is sold by an intermediate dealer and not the manufacturer, the intermediate dealer will be subject to local AML requirements and will likely have records of its customers.”

Gold bars can also be “embossed with kinegrams or security holograms” similar to those found on modern banknotes. “These security devices provide an additional layer of comfort with regard to the authenticity of a gold bar’s declared weight, purity and serial number,” they said. “This, in turn, provides comfort as to the true identity of the buyer.”

The next step in the laundering process is layering, where the gold is moved through multiple transactions and jurisdictions to cover up the trail.

“If gold is purchased or sold from or to a non-reputable dealer, or over-the-counter from or to another individual, its subsequent movement may be difficult to track, especially if its serial number, security features and certificate of authenticity have been tampered with,” the authors wrote. “Tracking can be further complicated as large amounts of gold and other precious metals can easily travel between jurisdictions undetected in suitcases or pockets or openly in the form of jewelry.”

Once the gold has been moved through these steps and locations, the criminals will attempt different ways of fulfilling the final stage of the money-laundering process, integration, where the value is merged with other legitimate assets or funds.   from location to location,

“[C]riminals may try to liquidate the gold at other dealerships,” Chambers and Teo said. “Reputable dealers will care about the authenticity of the gold, and criminals may find liquidizing gold bars with no serial numbers to be relatively difficult. However, less scrupulous dealers in other countries may take the opportunity to undercut the seller, allowing the criminals to cash out their criminal proceeds as clean money.”

They said that these jurisdictions “may not have effective AML regulations, and less scrupulous dealers will not keep records of their buyers and sellers,” which makes tracking the flow of assets far more difficult.

“Alternatively, as in the Hong Kong Customs and Excise Department’s case, gold can also be easily melted by money launderers and remolded into other items or jewelry to sell,” the authors wrote. “This process necessarily removes the serial numbers, hence hiding the gold’s origins, and may allow for easier integration due to the lower absolute value of each item. This jewelry can subsequently be sold to customers directly or to other intermediaries.”

Chambers and Teo note that a large part of the AML-KYC burden in the present-day precious metals market system falls to the DNFBPs.

“As mentioned above, the FATF and the Hong Kong Customs and Excise Department issue guidelines on how gold dealers, manufacturers and intermediaries should adopt a risk-based approach and implement customer due diligence, ongoing monitoring, screening and staff training processes, as well as file suspicious transaction reports when necessary,” they said. “This is not unlike measures that the Hong Kong Monetary Authority requires financial institutions to carry out when dealing with customers. Therefore, as in banking, this puts the emphasis of maintaining a clean industry on its gatekeepers.”

“The attractiveness of gold as both an asset and as a vessel for money laundering not only requires its gatekeepers to remain vigilant, but also protect the market’s reputation by understanding its patterns and trends,” they concluded. “It is in these stakeholders’ interests to engage with the regulators and enforce relevant requirements, to avoid prosecution and pecuniary penalties, to maintain their status as a reputable business, and to prevent criminals from laundering gold.”

 Ernest Hoffman

Time to Buy Gold and Silver

Tim Moseley

HOME

Bitcoin Price At 100000 Still Possible in this Cycle

Leave a comment

Bitcoin Price At $100,000 Still Possible in this Cycle, On-Chain Analysis Reveals

By Olivia Brooke – June 4, 2024

The apex cryptocurrency remains in view, with analysts and investors fixating on price movements. Interestingly, Bitcoin at $100,000 is a hot conversation among market participants.

An analyst published under CryptoQuant has made an incredibly bullish analysis, validating the bullish outlook shared by proponents. Per his observation, Bitcoin is still on track to tap new highs this cycle, and $100,000 is still very much attainable.

Citing market indicators and historical data, the analyst outlines the multiple bullish possibilities for Bitcoin in the near term.

With a keen focus on the MVRV (Market Value to Realized Value) indicator, which signals Bitcoin price tops and bottoms, the analyst explains that an MVRV value under 2 indicates an ongoing accumulation zone, further revealing that prices do not reflect actual value.

On the other hand, an MVRV value above 2 is a sign that the market is well on its way to hitting a new price peak.

Citing previous cycle patterns, the analyst observed that a value above 3.5 or higher indicated a peak in price. Notably, market players typically begin a slow exit around this time.

However, with the current MVRV value sitting at 2.3, the price of Bitcoin is still poised to soar significantly until it hits a fair value, the analyst asserted.

“Even if the price drops, it’s a new opportunity to reinforce. Exiting should only start when the indicator approaches a value of 3. This means we are still somewhat far from the peak, and the price will achieve a new high in this cycle, which could be above $100k.” He added.

Bitcoin is attracting new investors, increasing the accumulation

Fundamental factors also seem to strengthen technical indicators. As Bitcoin and Ethereum have experienced price stability these past few days, more investors have shown interest in both assets, and the number of new participating accumulation addresses has reportedly soared over the past month.

At report time, Bitcoin trades for $68,959. Although market players had received Bitcoin’s stagnancy around the $69,000 price level positively, the asset retreated as losses piled up over the last 24 hours.

While leading altcoins like ETH outperform Bitcoin’s daily performance, a handful of altcoins remain in the red zone. The week ahead remains crucial for Bitcoin and the broader cryptocurrency market.

DISCLAIMER The views expressed in the article are wholly those of the author and do not represent those of, nor should they be attributed to, ZyCrypto. This article is not meant to give financial advice. Please carry out your own research before investing in any of the various cryptocurrencies available.

The original article written by Olivia Brooke and posted on ZyCrypto.com.

Article reposted on Markethive by Jeffrey Sloe

** Loans, secure funding for business projects in the USA and around the world. Learn more about USA & International Financing at Commercial Funding International. **

Tim Moseley

HOME

Gold Futures Regain Momentum as Economic Concerns Intensify

Leave a comment

Gold Futures Regain Momentum as Economic Concerns Intensify

Gold futures found renewed strength on Monday, closing back above the crucial 50-day moving average, as economic data fueled expectations of potential interest rate cuts by the Federal Reserve later this year.

Friday’s close took gold futures to its lowest price point since hitting the record high of $2477.10, and a record close of $2461.40 on Monday, May 20. What followed was a dramatic and strong three-day price decline reaching a low of $2351 on Thursday, May 23. Between Wednesday, May 22, and Thursday the 23rd, gold declined just over $88 per troy ounce and consolidated trading sideways until gold traded to its low last Friday.

This recovery was driven by a weaker U.S. dollar, which declined 0.53% to 104.09, its lowest level since April 9.

The first signs of a potential resurgence in gold prices was largely attributed to mounting concerns over the state of the U.S. economy. The Institute for Supply Management (ISM) reported that U.S. manufacturing activity slowed for the second consecutive month in May, with new goods orders dropping at the fastest pace in nearly two years.

This data point, coupled with a moderation in inflation as indicated by the Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) price index report released on Friday, has bolstered the notion that the Federal Reserve may implement one or two rate cuts this year to support the economy.

Historically, gold has been viewed as a safe-haven asset during periods of economic uncertainty and low interest rates, as it tends to perform well in such environments. The recent data releases have reignited optimism among investors that the Fed's aggressive rate hikes aimed at curbing inflation may have achieved their desired effect, paving the way for a potential shift in monetary policy later in the year.

According to Reuters, "U.S. manufacturing activity slowed for a second straight month in May as new goods orders dropped by the most in nearly two years, but a measure of input inflation fell back from the highest since mid-2022, a monthly survey showed on Monday."

The recent downturn in gold prices, which saw the precious metal dip below its 50-day moving average for the first time since late February, has been attributed to fluctuating expectations surrounding the Federal Reserve's rate decisions. However, the latest economic data has reignited bullish sentiment in the gold market, as investors anticipate a potential easing of monetary policy in the coming months.

As the Federal Reserve continues to navigate the delicate balance between supporting economic growth and managing inflationary pressures, the performance of gold will likely remain closely tied to the central bank's policy decisions and the broader economic landscape.

Kitco Media

Gary Wagner

Time to Buy Gold and Silver

Tim Moseley

HOME

100 oz of gold per Bitcoin? Peter Brandt says it’s inevitable

Leave a comment

100 oz. of gold per Bitcoin? Peter Brandt says it’s inevitable

Financial news headlines saw an explosion of comparisons between Bitcoin (BTC) and gold following the launch of the first spot BTC exchange-traded funds (ETFs) in the U.S. and the parallel rallies of both assets to new all-time highs that followed.

But over the past couple of months, chatter about the topic has quieted down as Bitcoin entered consolidation while gold surged to another record high. According to Bloomberg Intelligence senior commodity strategist Mike McGlone, on a relative basis, the surge in BTC price didn’t exceed the peaks it reached versus gold and the S&P 500 in 2021.

“The January US #ETF launches set records for inflows, enhancing Bitcoin's status as a leading indicator, and the hangover may have implications for risk assets,” McGlone tweeted. “It was a near-perfect storm for the benchmark crypto to make new highs in 1Q, but #Bitcoin didn't exceed peaks vs. #gold and the S&P 500 from 2021.”

“Highly volatile and speculative, the 24/7-traded crypto was rising vs. gold the last time the S&P 500 e-mini future crossed above its 50-week moving average in November, but this time the Bitcoin/gold cross is falling,” he added.

Despite this, most analysts agree that the launch of the first spot BTC ETFs has been a monumental success, with all the ETFs combined surpassing $50 billion in assets under management in record time, taking just 57 days to do what it took gold ETFs 5 years to accomplish.

Looking at the ETFs individually, the performance of BlackRock’s iShares Bitcoin Trust (IBIT) stands out as it became the fastest ETF in history to reach $20 billion in assets under management.

After surpassing the Grayscale Bitcoin Trust (GBTC) ETF in AUM earlier this week, IBIT is now targeting the iShares Gold ETF (IAU), which currently holds roughly $29 billion in AUM.

According to Nate Geraci, president of the ETF Store, IBIT could achieve that feat before the end of 2024.

While many analysts have argued that there is room in investor portfolios for both gold and Bitcoin as both offer protection against excessive money printing and currency debasement, data provided by Kaiko shows that the correlation between gold and BTC remains below the 2022 highs, suggesting investors still hold a differing view of the two assets, and Bitcoin may deliver more upside.

“Bitcoin’s 60-day correlation with safe-haven gold has been increasing in April, nearing a yearly high as of last week,” Kaiko said. “However, it remains significantly below its 2022 highs of nearly 50%.”

“Gold has rallied in recent months due to strong central bank demand, even as global gold ETFs have experienced outflows,” they added. “Gold ETF holdings dropped to 3,079 tons in April, the lowest level since February 2020.”

“In contrast, Bitcoin has been primarily driven by ETF demand,” Kaiko said. “Despite Bitcoin’s market cap of $1.3tn remaining low compared to gold’s $16tn, there is significant room for growth. This low correlation and potential for growth boost Bitcoin’s appeal as a portfolio diversifier.”
And according to legendary trader Peter Brandt, while it currently requires around 29 ounces of gold to purchase one Bitcoin, that number could increase to 100 over the next two years depending on how things develop in the markets.

By Jordan Finneseth

Time to Buy Gold and Silver

Tim Moseley

The Artist that came out of the Winter