Glossary.

Altcoins are all crypto assets that are not Bitcoin. Altcoins (short for “alternative coins”) make up the vast majority of the crypto asset market and represent a wide range of use cases, technologies, and innovations. While Bitcoin was the first decentralized digital currency, altcoins were introduced to improve upon or offer alternatives to Bitcoin’s design. Some altcoins aim to increase scalability or speed (like Solana or Avalanche), others focus on smart contracts and programmability (such as Ethereum or Cardano), and some target privacy, interoperability, or stable value. Many investors choose altcoins to diversify their portfolio or support specific blockchain ecosystems. Through platforms like Cryptonow Invest®, users can easily access leading altcoins in a few clicks.

ARTs are crypto assets that aim to maintain a stable value by referencing multiple underlying assets.
Under MiCA (Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation), ARTs are a regulated category of stablecoins whose value is tied to a basket of assets such as fiat currencies, commodities, or other crypto assets. ARTs must meet strict requirements around governance, reserve management, and transparency. Unlike traditional stablecoins that may be pegged to a single currency, ARTs are designed to reduce reliance on any single asset. They play an important role in offering stability within a volatile crypto market and can be used for payments, savings, or as collateral in DeFi applications. ART issuers must be authorized under MiCA, and the public offering of ARTs is subject to regulatory approval throughout the EU. Cryptonow does not currently offer ARTs directly but complies with MiCA standards to ensure a secure and transparent user experience.

A bear market is a phase in the cryptocurrency market where prices of cryptocurrencies in general are falling. During a bear market, there is often pessimism and a decline in interest. Many investors sell their cryptocurrencies as they expect prices to continue to drop. It can lead to overall market weakness and reduced trading activity, with investor confidence decreasing and a cautious and somewhat uncertain sentiment prevailing.

Bitcoin is the first and most widely recognized crypto asset. Introduced in 2009 by an anonymous creator known as Satoshi Nakamoto, Bitcoin revolutionized digital finance by enabling peer-to-peer transactions without intermediaries. It operates on a decentralized blockchain and has a fixed supply of 21 million coins, making it deflationary in nature.

Bitcoin is often referred to as digital gold and is primarily used as a store of value, a hedge against inflation, and a long-term investment. With Cryptonow Invest®, buying and holding Bitcoin is fast, simple, and secure. For those who want to gift or store Bitcoin offline, the Cryptonow Starter Kit® offers a safe and intuitive entry point using cold wallet Features with the Cryptonow Wallet®.

The Bitcoin protocol defines the rules and operations of the Bitcoin network. It includes transaction validation, block creation, mining difficulty, and security measures through proof-of-work consensus. These protocols are enforced automatically and decentralized across all participating nodes. Understanding the protocol is essential for grasping how Bitcoin remains secure and reliable without a central authority.

The Bitcoin whitepaper is the original document that introduced the concept of decentralized digital money. Published in 2008 by Satoshi Nakamoto, the paper outlines the technical architecture of Bitcoin, including peer-to-peer payments, blockchain structure, and double-spending prevention. It serves as the foundation of the entire crypto asset industry. At Cryptonow, we believe in simplifying access to Bitcoin while honouring the whitepaper’s original vision of open, global finance.

Blockchain is a decentralized digital ledger that records all transactions across a network. Each transaction is grouped into a block and secured using cryptographic methods. Blocks are chronologically chained together, making the data tamper-resistant and transparent. Blockchains are the foundation of all crypto assets, enabling trustless peer-to-peer interactions without central intermediaries. Cryptonow products are built on blockchain technology, offering both transparency and reliability to users managing digital assets.

A 51% attack on a blockchain occurs when an individual or group controls more than 51% of the network's computing power. This could allow them to take control of the network and, for example, reverse transactions or perform double spending. A 51% attack is a problem specifically for small blockchain networks, as it can undermine trust in the system and the value of the cryptocurrencies based on it.

A crypto broker is a company or platform that allows users to buy or sell cryptocurrencies. Unlike crypto exchanges that enable actual trading of cryptocurrencies, a crypto broker typically offers a simplified buying and selling process, often associated with a higher price. A crypto broker may also offer additional services, such as the ability to exchange cryptocurrencies for fiat currencies or store cryptocurrencies in a wallet. In general, crypto brokers are particularly suitable for beginners with no experience in cryptocurrency trading.

A bull market in the cryptocurrency market is a sustained period where cryptocurrency prices, in general, are rising. In a bull market, optimistic market expectations prevail, and investors show great interest and confidence in cryptocurrencies. It can lead to overall market dynamism and increased trading activity, with investor confidence rising and a positive sentiment prevailing.

ADA is the coin of the Cardano blockchain, focused on security and sustainability. Cardano allows users to build smart contracts and apps, and it runs on an energy-efficient proof-of-stake system. ADA is available through Cryptonow Invest®, offering a simple and secure way to add this asset to your portfolio.

A central bank is an institution that implements monetary policy on behalf of a government or currency union. It is responsible for issuing fiat currencies, controlling interest rates, and overseeing the banking system. One of its main objectives is to ensure the stability of the currency and the economy.

CBDC stands for "Central Bank Digital Currency" and refers to a digital currency issued by a central bank. Unlike cryptocurrencies, which are decentralized and not controlled by any central authority, a CBDC is issued and regulated by a government or central bank.

Cold storage refers to keeping crypto assets offline to prevent unauthorized access. A cold wallet is a storage method where your Private Key is kept completely disconnected from the internet. This drastically reduces the risk of hacks, malware, and other cyber threats. Cold storage is considered the most secure method for long-term crypto holding. The Cryptonow Wallet® is a cold wallet solution that gives you full control over your crypto assets — you are the sole owner of your Private Key, and therefore the only person who can access or manage your crypto.

A crypto-asset is a digital representation of value built and secured on blockchain technology. It's a digital unit of value or right recorded on a distributed ledger using cryptographic validation. Unlike fiat or traditional financial products, crypto assets are designed to operate independently of a central authority, enabling peer-to-peer transfers and programmable financial logic. The term covers a broad spectrum — from payment coins like Bitcoin to tokens enabling access, governance, or value reference. Under MiCA, crypto assets are regulated categories (e.g. ARTs, EMTs, utility tokens), with clear obligations for issuers and service providers (CASPs). At Cryptonow, you can securely purchase, store, and manage crypto assets via Cryptonow Invest® or the Cryptonow Starter Kit® including the Cryptonow Wallet®.

Cryptography secures transactions, wallets, and communication within the crypto ecosystem. It uses mathematical algorithms to encrypt and decrypt data, ensuring that only authorized users can access or alter it. Crypto assets rely on public-key cryptography, where users have both a Public Key and a Private Key.
 

The Cryptonow Wallet® is an offline cold wallet that gives you full control over your crypto assets. It is designed for secure, internet-free storage and is included with every Cryptonow Starter Kit®. Your Private Key is never stored online, meaning you — and only you — have access to your crypto. The wallet is PIN-protected and enables cold storage without the need for a digital account or internet connection. Unlike custodial wallets, the Cryptonow Wallet® ensures full autonomy: you are the sole owner of your crypto, making it ideal for anyone who values privacy, security, and independence.

A cyber attack refers to illegal activities in which hackers or cybercriminals attempt to access computer systems or networks to steal information or cause harm. In the context of cryptocurrencies, a cyber attack may involve the theft of cryptocurrencies, attacks on crypto exchanges, or manipulation of transactions.

Decentralization distributes power and control across a network of participants rather than a single authority. In the world of crypto assets, decentralization is what makes blockchains transparent, censorship-resistant, and globally accessible. Each node in a decentralized system validates transactions, reducing the risk of manipulation or failure.

Deflation refers to a price correction occurring when there are more goods and commodities available on the market than there are buyers. The supply exceeds the demand. People no longer have enough money to purchase the goods, resulting in falling prices. Deflation can have positive effects like lower prices for consumers and higher profits for businesses, but it can also have negative impacts such as a downward spiral of low demand and declining economic activity. Governments and central banks often take measures to combat deflation and promote economic stability.

A digital currency is a type of currency that exists entirely in digital form and has no physical presence. Cryptocurrencies are an example of digital currencies that are secured and managed through the use of encryption technology.

Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT) is a method of storing and managing data across multiple computers in a network rather than storing it on a central server. A well-known example of DLT is blockchain technology, where transaction data is recorded in blocks connected through cryptographic mechanisms. DLT can help enhance the security and transparency of data by reducing vulnerabilities present in centralized systems.

DOGE is a community-driven crypto asset originally created as a lighthearted meme token. Dogecoin began as a fun, decentralized joke but quickly grew into a widely recognized digital asset. It features fast block times, low transaction fees, and a generous inflationary supply mechanism that distributes tokens to the community. DOGE is often used for tipping, micro-transactions, and grassroots social campaigns. While less technically complex than other blockchain projects, it has cultivated a passionate user base and real-world use cases through its low friction and strong liquidity. With Cryptonow Invest®, DOGE is available for easy buying and trading.

Double spending refers to the attempt to spend the same unit of cryptocurrency twice. In decentralized networks, this problem is solved through cryptographic mechanisms and confirmation of transactions to ensure that a unit of cryptocurrency can only be spent once.

The European Central Bank (ECB), headquartered in Frankfurt am Main, is the central bank of the Eurozone and is responsible for monetary policy in the currency union. The ECB plays a crucial role in setting benchmark interest rates and monitoring the growth of the money supply to maintain price stability in the Eurozone.

EMTs are crypto assets that are pegged to a single fiat currency and regulated under MiCA. Unlike ARTs, which reference multiple assets, EMTs are designed to maintain 1:1 parity with a national currency like the Euro or US Dollar. EMTs must be issued by an authorized institution and are subject to strict reserve and redemption requirements. Cryptonow currently does not issue EMTs but is fully aligned with MiCA requirements when listing such assets in the future.

ETH is the native crypto asset of the Ethereum blockchain. Launched in 2015, Ethereum is a decentralized platform for building smart contracts and decentralized applications (dApps). ETH is used to pay gas fees and interact with the network. Ethereum recently transitioned from proof-of-work to proof-of-stake, reducing its energy consumption significantly. ETH is one of the most popular assets available via Cryptonow Invest®.

A crypto exchange is a digital platform where users can buy, sell, and trade cryptocurrencies. There are centralized and decentralized exchanges, with centralized exchanges being a centralized company that has control over users' funds, while decentralized exchanges are based on blockchain technology and have no central control. Some exchanges also offer advanced features such as margin trading and staking.

FOMO is the emotional fear of missing a potentially profitable crypto investment opportunity. It often leads investors to act impulsively—buying assets at their peak due to hype or rising prices. FOMO is common during bull markets and social media-driven trends, but it can also expose users to risk if decisions are made without proper research.

Fiat money refers to a national currency such as the Euro, US Dollar, or Swiss Franc that is not backed by a commodity like gold or silver. The value of fiat money is largely based on public trust in the issuer of the currency, typically the government or central bank of the respective country.

Fiat money is government-issued currency that is not backed by a physical commodity. Its value is derived from trust in the issuing authority, such as a central bank. Euros, US dollars, and Swiss francs are examples of fiat currencies. Crypto assets are often positioned as alternatives to fiat due to their decentralized nature and limited supply. Cryptonow allows you to convert fiat into crypto in just a few steps via Cryptonow Invest®, bridging the gap between traditional and digital finance.

First-layer cryptocurrencies refer to digital currencies developed on their own blockchain platform, serving as the primary layer or base of the crypto ecosystem. These cryptocurrencies use their own native cryptocurrency as fuel to process transactions within the network and maintain network security through consensus mechanisms like proof-of-work or proof-of-stake. Some examples of first-layer cryptocurrencies are Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, Ripple, and Bitcoin Cash.

The goldstandard is a monetary system where the value of a currency is backed by a fixed amount of gold. In such a system, people can exchange their banknotes or coins with the central bank for an equivalent amount of gold. The gold standard has been applied in various forms throughout history, but its heyday was in the 19th and early 20th centuries.

Government bonds are debt securities issued by governments to borrow money from investors. They allow governments to finance their budgets and support projects. Investors receive interest payments and get back the invested capital at the end of the bond's maturity.

A hot wallet in the cryptocurrency market is a wallet that is connected to the internet and used for quick access to cryptocurrencies. It allows users to manage their cryptocurrencies online and perform transactions rapidly. However, since a hot wallet is connected to the internet, it carries a higher risk of hacks and theft compared to cold storage. Hot wallets are often used for daily use and small amounts, while larger amounts of cryptocurrencies are kept more securely in cold storage.

Inflation refers to the increase in the general price level of goods and services in an economy over a specific period. This leads to a decrease in the purchasing power of money. Inflation can have various causes, such as increased demand, rising production costs, or loose monetary policy. Moderate inflation can have positive effects, such as incentives for consumption and investment, while high or uncontrolled inflation can have negative impacts, like uncertainty and asset devaluation.

Investing refers to the purchase of assets such as stocks, bonds, or cryptocurrencies with the goal of making a profit in the long term. It involves a willingness to take risks and invest capital over an extended period.

The benchmark interest rate in the financial sector is the rate at which the central bank of a country lends or accepts money from commercial banks. The benchmark interest rate serves as a tool of monetary policy and influences the overall interest rate structure in the economy. When the central bank lowers the benchmark interest rate, money becomes more available and cheaper, stimulating lending and investment. Conversely, an increase in the benchmark interest rate makes borrowing more expensive and can dampen economic activity. The benchmark interest rate affects, among other things, interest rates for loans, mortgages, and investments, and has implications for the economic activity and financial market of a country.

KYC is the identity verification process required before using regulated crypto services. Under MiCA and other EU laws, users must provide identification to prevent fraud, money laundering, and terrorist financing. The process typically involves submitting a valid ID and completing a short video verification.

MiCA is the EU's regulatory framework for crypto assets. It introduces clear rules for asset issuers, service providers, and stablecoin operators, covering topics like licensing, consumer protection, and capital requirements. MiCA distinguishes between ARTs, EMTs, and utility tokens, ensuring that each category is regulated proportionally. Cryptonow operates in full compliance with MiCA to ensure a safe and transparent experience for EU-based users. 

The metaverse is a digital universe made up of immersive, interconnected virtual worlds. It combines elements of gaming, virtual reality, and blockchain-based economies where users can interact, trade, and own digital assets. Many crypto assets, such as Decentraland (MANA) and The Sandbox (SAND), are tied to metaverse projects.

Money creation refers to the process of introducing new money into an economy. In traditional fiat money systems, this is achieved through central banks and the credit process by commercial banks. In cryptocurrencies, money creation is achieved through mining or staking.

Nodes are participants in the network of decentralized systems like blockchain that receive, validate, and propagate data and transactions. Each node has a copy of the blockchain, which is constantly updated, and all transactions stored in the blockchain are verified by the nodes to ensure they comply with the network's rules. Nodes can be either full nodes, which hold a complete copy of the blockchain, or lightweight nodes, which store only certain parts of the blockchain to save storage space. Nodes play a vital role in maintaining the integrity and security of the network by ensuring all transactions are correct and consistent.

A peer-to-peer transaction is a direct transaction between two parties without a central authority acting as an intermediary. This means that the transaction takes place directly between the two parties without any third party monitoring or authorizing it. Peer-to-peer transactions can be used in various areas, including financial technology, where they enable users to send and receive payments without the need for a bank or other payment processor. In the context of Bitcoin, the peer-to-peer network of the Bitcoin protocol allows for direct transactions between users without requiring a central authority.

The private key is a secret code associated with your wallet that allows you to spend or send cryptocurrencies. If the public key is the account number, the private key is the password to it. It is crucial to keep your private key secure and never share it with others, as someone else could gain access to your crypto-assets. The Cryptonow Wallet® gives users full ownership of their Private Key, putting control entirely in your hands.

A public key is a long string of characters that serves as the address for your cryptocurrency wallet. You can think of it as your account number at the bank. You share your public key with other people or businesses when you want to receive cryptocurrencies.

XRP is a crypto asset focused on fast and low-cost international payments. It is used within the RippleNet network to facilitate cross-border transactions between financial institutions. XRP’s unique consensus mechanism allows for near-instant confirmation times. Available via Cryptonow Invest®, XRP is often chosen by users interested in financial infrastructure and banking integrations.

SOL is the native asset of the Solana blockchain, known for its high throughput and low fees. Solana supports thousands of transactions per second and is home to a growing ecosystem of DeFi, NFT, and gaming projects.
It uses a hybrid consensus model combining proof-of-stake and proof-of-history. SOL is available through Cryptonow Invest®, where users can easily buy and store the asset.

Stablecoins are crypto assets designed to maintain a fixed value, often pegged to fiat currencies. They reduce volatility and are used widely for trading, payments, and DeFi applications. MiCA classifies stablecoins into ARTs and EMTs, each with specific compliance obligations.

A token is a digital asset created on an existing blockchain. Unlike coins, tokens do not run on their own blockchain but inherit the security and structure of platforms like Ethereum or Solana. Tokens can represent utility, access rights, or real-world assets.
 

TRX is the coin of the TRON blockchain, used for fast and cheap digital transactions. TRON was built to support apps and digital content without high fees. Its network allows fast payments and hosts many tokens, including stablecoins. TRX is often used in Asia and for low-cost transfers. You can buy and store TRX with Cryptonow Invest®.