Crypto Trading for Beginners

What is Cryptocurrency?

Cryptocurrency is digital money secured by cryptography and running on decentralized networks (blockchains). Bitcoin, created in 2009, was the first. Today there are thousands of cryptocurrencies with different purposes.

Key Concepts

Blockchain

A distributed ledger that records all transactions. It's decentralized—no single entity controls it. This makes crypto censorship-resistant and transparent.

Wallets

Software or hardware that stores your crypto. You have a public address (like an email) and a private key (like a password). Never share your private key.

Exchanges

Platforms where you buy, sell, and trade crypto. Examples: Coinbase, Binance, Kraken. Centralized exchanges (CEX) hold your funds; decentralized exchanges (DEX) let you trade directly from your wallet.

Types of Crypto

• Bitcoin (BTC): The original, "digital gold," store of value
• Ethereum (ETH): Smart contract platform, powers DeFi and NFTs
• Stablecoins: Pegged to $1 USD (USDT, USDC), used for trading
• Altcoins: Everything else—some legitimate, many speculative

How to Start Trading

1. Choose an Exchange

Start with a reputable exchange like Coinbase (beginner-friendly) or Binance (more options). Complete identity verification (KYC).

2. Fund Your Account

Deposit fiat (USD, EUR) via bank transfer or card. Only invest what you can afford to lose—crypto is volatile.

3. Start Small

Begin with established coins like BTC or ETH. Learn the market before exploring smaller altcoins.

4. Learn to Read Charts

Understand candlesticks, support/resistance, and basic indicators like RSI and MACD. Strykr can help explain these concepts.

Trading Strategies

HODLing

Buy and hold long-term. Simple strategy—you believe the price will be higher in years, not days. Less stressful, lower fees.

Dollar-Cost Averaging (DCA)

Invest a fixed amount regularly (e.g., $100/week) regardless of price. Removes emotion and smooths out volatility.

Swing Trading

Hold positions for days to weeks, capturing medium-term moves. Requires more attention but more opportunities.

Day Trading

Buy and sell within the same day. High risk, requires significant time and skill. Not recommended for beginners.

Risk Management

• Never invest more than you can lose
• Use stop losses to limit downside
• Diversify across multiple assets
• Don't use leverage until you're experienced
• Secure your funds with 2FA and hardware wallets

Common Mistakes

• FOMO buying: Chasing pumps leads to buying tops
• Panic selling: Selling dips locks in losses
• No plan: Know your entry, exit, and risk before trading
• Overtrading: Fees add up; patience beats activity
• Ignoring security: Enable 2FA, use strong passwords

How Strykr Helps

Strykr gives you AI-powered insights without the learning curve:

• Ask questions in plain English
• Get real-time market signals
• Understand what's moving and why
• Track economic events that affect crypto
• No signup required—just open and ask