Monzo Bank Achieves Twofold Revenue

red image of Wybo Wiersma oxford student hacker

Oxford Ph.D. student jailed in £2M crypto theft scam

green image of weave logo on laser pattern background

Weave Token: What You Need to Know 

pink image of hyperverse logo on image of futuristic city

A quick look at the Hyperverse crypto project

yellow image of panama with crypto bitcoins falling from sky

Panama crypto bill Awaits Supreme Court verdict

What is today's Bitcoin price?

pink image of tezos logo on abstract image

Tezos NFT Marketplace Explained

Best Cryptos to Buy Now Revealed

Droppp NFT Platform Explored

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Baby Doge Mining Revealed

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How to Buy FTM Easily

Reddit NFT: What is it and where can I buy one?

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UK FCA Explains Low Crypto Firm Approval Rate

red image of ruja ignatova in front of onecoin logos

Has Ruja Ignatova, Crypto Queen, Reappeared? 

Green image of computer network with ramp logo

Ramp Network - Accelerating Crypto Adoption

How to Buy SNX

red image of blockchain with FTX, coinbase, apple and netflix logos shown

FTX Creditors Include Google, Apple, Netflix

red image of hacker stealing crypto with bitcoins falling

Crypto Hacked: Blockchain Bandit Active Again

A former Oxford University student has admitted crypto theft charges after stealing more than £2 million in cryptocurrency.

Wybo Wiersma, a 40-year-old computer genius who dropped out of a Ph.D. class at Oxford University, will serve [four and a half years in jail](https://serocu.police.uk/man-jailed-for-2m-cryptocurrency-theft/) after admitting he stole more than £2.1 million in cryptocurrency in a scam that affected over 100 people. The Dutchman created a bogus website – iotaseed.io – that would generate an 81-character 'seed' password for people interested in an online currency called Iota.

## Inserted a malicious code

A ‘seed’ refers to a private key consisting of 81 random characters that allow only the user to access their [crypto wallet](/news/article/best-crypto-wallet-uk-top-picks). However, Wiersma inserted a malicious code so that instead of random seeds, the system delivered predetermined ones that enabled him to access his victims' Iota crypto and unlawfully transfer them to his web of personal trading accounts. Wiersma programmed the site to appear on top of Google searches when victims searched for the phrase 'Iota seed generator'.

Prosecutor Julian Christopher KC revealed that the accused created the [scam](/news/article/crypto-scams-failing) iotaseed.io website between 2017 and 2018 and started transferring his victims’ cryptocurrency in early 2018. He would later set up four accounts with Bitfinex cryptocurrency exchange, where he would keep the stolen crypto funds. Bitfinex would become suspicious of the account’s activities and froze them, despite Wiersma working hard to convince them otherwise.

## Crypto theft due to greed and deception

Judge Michael Gledhill KC of Oxford Crown Court sent Wiersma to jail, noting that he abused his skills to steal, terming it dishonesty at the highest level and adding that he committed the offense of crypto theft due to greed and deception. The accused was due to stand trial in early March but pleaded guilty on the day the jury was supposed to be sworn in. Wiersma was first arrested in January 2019 but fled to his native Netherlands after being released on bail. He was extradited to England in April 2021 to face the law at Oxford Crown Court.

Noting that the investigation covering the crypto theft was complex as it involved more than 100 victims from different parts of the world, Detective Inspector Rob Bryant of the South East Regional Organized Crime Unit (SEROCU) stated that as Wiersma cools his heels in jail, SEROCU would try and ensure as much of the money they seized from his wallets is returned to the owners.


According to an investor update seen by Moni Talks, [UK-based Monzo bank](https://monzo.com/) experienced a record 250% revenue in 2022 and is on track to attain annual profitability by the end of this calendar year.

![monzo.png](https://s3.eu-west-2.amazonaws.com/prod-monitalks-media/monzo_8465c9275b.png)
 
Source: [Monzo](https://monzo.com/)

The digital bank recorded an annualised revenue of £440m in 2022 (January to December) and expects to break even in 2023 - a feat not many European neobanks have achieved. According to the investor update, the neobank has been "cash flow positive", with ingoings outpacing outgoings.

## Monzo bank turns it around

In the digital bank's annual report for 2020-21, Monzo bank reported £114M in pre-tax annual loss - a similar loss rate to 2019-2020.

Monzo's accountants posed grave concern over the future of the neobank, stating that there was "significant doubt" regarding Monzo's ability to continue.

Fast forward to today, and Monzo has nearly doubled its customer base from 3.9M in February 2020 to 7M, generated record revenue in 2022, and may obtain profitability in 2023 - comeback kings indeed.

[Starling was the first European neobank](/news/article/starling-bank-bans-crypto) to attain annual profitability, in July 2022. Revolut CEO Nik Storonsky 'claims' that they have been profitable for two years, but Moni Talks cannot substantiate these claims. Revolut has missed the deadline to file accounts twice now.

If we compare Monzo to these industry stalwarts, Starling has 3.5M UK customers, while Revolut has 5.75M UK customers. The potential is clear to see.

The neobank claimed its personal account sign-ups averaged around 150k monthly in 2022. These numbers are likely to bode well for the company in the near future.

## What is Monzo?

Monzo is a [UK-based digital bank](/news/article/which-uk-banks-allow-cryptocurrency-purchases) enabling you to open a full UK bank account within 15 minutes from the comfort of your phone. You can earn up to 3.55% gross fixed/AER interest on your savings, set spending budgets, and obtain loans and overdrafts, amongst several other stellar features.

Its programs include Premium, Plus, Abroad, and Flex - take your pick.

At the time of writing, the company's revenues are heavily focused on its famous coral-pink cards.


Bitcoin has now completed its 11th straight day outside the "Fear" zone on the Crypto Fear and Greed Index, extending its longest stretch since late March. What is today's price?

## What is today's Bitcoin price?

Today's Bitcoin price reached $23,955, its highest level of the year. It has now dropped marginally to $23,687 as of this writing. Meanwhile, sentiment is solidly in the Greed zone, with a score of 61, its highest level since bull run peak on around 16 November, 2021, when it was about $65,000.

## Will the Bitcoin price last? 

Despite the coin's recent strong rebound, market players continue to discuss whether the current price rise is part of a [bull trap](https://seekingalpha.com/article/4573410-bitcoin-bull-trap-fully-loaded-technical-analysis) or whether there is a genuine opportunity for a [bull run.](/news/article/bitcoin-forecast-2023)

The current rise has brought many more holders back into the green. 64% of BTC investors are currently profiting, [according](https://app.intotheblock.com/coin/BTC) to statistics from the blockchain intelligence portal IntoTheBlock. According to on-chain analytics firm Glassnode, those who initially purchased BTC in 2019 are also back in profit. 

## What will be today's BTC price?

The average first-time purchase price for [BTC](/news/article/bitcoin-to-pounds) investors in 2019 was $21,800, implying that those investors are up nearly 9% at $23,687. 

Meanwhile, according to a [survey](https://twitter.com/coingecko/status/1619790705567895552) conducted on 29 January by crypto market platform CoinGecko, 57.7% of 3,725 respondents expect BTC will reach $25,000 this week, while just 21.2% believe BTC will fall below $22,000.

## Analyst views on BTC resurgence

Dr Jeff Ross, the founder and CEO of Vailshire Capital, also gave a technical analysis, predicting that a short-term spike toward $25,000 is possible. 

On 29 January, Blockware's head analyst Joe Burnett warned his 43,900 Twitter followers that BTC will not reach and surpass its all-time high of $69,000 until after the second halving event, which takes place in March 2024.

According to Lyn Alden, a macroeconomist and financial consultant, there may be significant danger ahead, with [potentially risky liquidity circumstances](https://www.coindesk.com/markets/2023/01/10/poor-bitcoin-market-liquidity-keeps-crypto-whales-at-bay/) predicted to jolt the market in the second half of 2023.


Ruja Ignatova, the infamous name placed on the FBI's Ten Most Wanted Fugitives List, has reappeared due to the listing of a luxury London penthouse flat bought by the crypto scammer, a [BBC](https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-london-64407723) report disclosed. 

Details of the £12.5 million listing were revealed as part of new transparency rules in the UK, which require owners of properties to be publicly displayed.

The "Crypto Queen" and her associates made off with around £3.2 billion (around $4 billion) from her [cryptocurrency](/news/article/what-is-future-of-cryptocurrency), OneCoin. The BBC estimates that investors from the UK alone lost more than £100 million.

UK authorities believe she is trying to facilitate the sale of her property from the shadows. The reappearance of the name Ruja Ignativa - who did so much harm to stakeholders in her fake cryptocurrency - has reignited hope that some lost funds could be recouped.

A former investor in OneCoin, Layla Begum, said her family lost more than £54,000 after she was persuaded by a friend to risk money on the emerging crypto project. She said that UK authorities could help British investors who lost money in OneCoin since the purchase of the London flat undoubtedly came from proceeds in the crypto scam.

## Reward for information on Ruja Ignatova

While UK prosecutors are trying to avoid proceeds of the sale going back to the coffers of the scammers, the FBI has placed an £80,600 ($100,000) bounty on the head of Ruja Ingatova. 

In 2019, a federal jury in New York found [Mark Scott](https://www.bbc.com/news/technology-50509299), a former lawyer with links to OneCoin, guilty of conspiracy to commit bank fraud and money laundering after helping route more than £300 million out of the US.

The brother of the Crypto Queen, Konstantin Ignatova, also pled guilty to the same charges.

The latest guilty plea came from [Sebastian Greenwood](/news/article/onecoin-scam-co-founder-admits-fraud), co-founder of the worthless cryptocurrency, in December when he admitted engaging in fraud and money laundering.


Hyperverse, amongst other crypto projects, has raised curiosity and concerns in equal measure. And with every passing day, there are more raised eyebrows and questions regarding its legitimacy.

In part, it's a result of the plummeting cryptocurrency value this year. The [FTX debacle](/news/article/ftx-bankrupt-who-to-blame) hasn't helped, either.

The scandal of FTX and its demise has revived conversations around the validity of crypto projects. Exposed to the recent searchlight is the [Hyperverse](https://thehyperverse.net/index.html), and we're about to take a sneak peek.

## So, what is the Hyperverse crypto project?

![hyperverse1.png](https://s3.eu-west-2.amazonaws.com/prod-monitalks-media/hyperverse1_4bd03f9813.png)
  
Picture of The Hyperverse

Visit the Hyperverse.net website and you're greeted with the following words against a backdrop of star systems and futuristic cityscapes.

### Where Reality Ends and Imagination Begins

According to the team, Hyperverse is a virtual metaverse with player voyagers residing on millions of planets and interacting with one another in the commerce of tokenized items.

So the story goes that this is 2078AD, and we've mastered interstellar travel. Kicking off the age of interstellar migration, the first human voyagers on the Proxima Centauri star system created the Hyperverse.

There's even a cool video of a space vehicle, Apollo, docking into what I can only describe as a space city enclosed in a glass bubble just off the rocky rings of a mars-like planet. The video ends with a panoramic view of the glass bubble attached to a spaceship.

And then, the word HYPERVERSE comes into focus.

## So why should we have the Hyperverse?

Catchy lore, cool videos, and a buzzing community are nice and typical in the crypto space, but so is the tendency to be more community than a commodity.

## Features

![hyperverse2.png](https://s3.eu-west-2.amazonaws.com/prod-monitalks-media/hyperverse2_08e6f06d0e.png)
 
Picture of The Hyperverse

The [Hyperverse](https://thehyperverse.net) claims to bring users value through a combination of features from themes in gaming, Metaverse, crypto economy, [DeFi](/news/tag/defi), and governance.

![Screenshot 2023-01-30 at 09.20.02.png](https://s3.eu-west-2.amazonaws.com/prod-monitalks-media/Screenshot_2023_01_30_at_09_20_02_3a4a35a64a.png)

![hyperverse3.png](https://s3.eu-west-2.amazonaws.com/prod-monitalks-media/hyperverse3_5c61fdf2d2.png)

Picture of The Hyperverse

## Concerns

The one question that many Hyperverse crypto project critics feel the team doesn't answer clearly is how the Hyperverse claims to make money. The team promises returns of 0.5% per day for 600 days, where investors can look to make as much as 300% returns on their initial investments. They say that these returns are gotten from their savvy investments in crypto currencies and other Web3 projects.

But the thing is that no one can guarantee such returns for that long. Also, the assets they claim to make money from have dropped in value, with many at around 3% to 10% of their original value. As we speak, Bitcoin trades for $16,000, 80% down from its all-time high in October last year.

There are other complaints as well. Investors lament the difficulty, and sometimes inability, to sell their HU cryptocurrencies. All the while, the Hyperverse crypto project keeps changing its name, from Hyperfunds to Hyperverse and then to Hypernation. What is steady across these changes is the increasing skepticism around the hype. 

It seems to be a Ponzi scheme dressed in the latest garb of the times - web 3.0. However, remember to do your own research.


A disagreement has arisen between the Panama National Assembly and the government regarding a proposed crypto law.
In April, Panama legislators passed a legislative draft aimed at controlling cryptocurrencies, including [Bitcoin](/news/article/jim-cramer-says-ignore-bitcoin-hype), in the country. 

Nevertheless, President Cortizo warned a few weeks later that he would only sign it if it incorporated extra Anti-Money Laundering (AML) regulations.

On 26 January, Panamanian President Laurentino Cortizo referred the crypto law enacted last year to the Supreme Court for examination, asserting that the [crypto](/news/article/best-cryptos-to-buy-now) bill contradicts fundamental aspects of the constitution and cannot be implemented. 

## What is the controversy with the Panama crypto bill?

In September 2021, a Panama crypto bill was introduced to align the nation with the digital economy, blockchain technology, cryptocurrency, and the internet. According to the legislation, Panamanians are allowed to use [cryptocurrency](/news/article/cryptocurrency-books-guide), including but not limited to Bitcoin and Ethereum, as a substitute form of payment for any commercial or civil transaction. 

The government's innovation authority would also examine blockchain or distributed ledger technology for digitising identity.
The Financial Action Task Force, which aims to enhance financial transparency and prevent money laundering, proposed legislation permitting private and public usage of cryptocurrency assets.

The Panamanian National Assembly approved the bill on 28 April, 2022, with a vote of 38 in favour and none against. With this, Panama could soon become the third country in the world to treat cryptocurrencies on equal footing with fiat currency.

A definitive statement from the president's office stated that the provisions of articles 34 and 36 in the bill, which establish administrative structures within the government, infringe upon the state's separation of powers and therefore are invalid. After partially rejecting the legislation in June, President Cortizo also expressed that the approval process for the bill was inadequate.

At the time, the president [stated](https://www.presidencia.gob.pa/Noticias/Ejecutivo-remite-a-la-Corte-Suprema-proyecto-de-ley-que-regula-uso-de-criptomonedas) that further amendments were needed to the legislation to align it with the latest regulations. It is now up to the Supreme Court to determine whether to declare Bill No. 697 unenforceable or to give it the green light with modifications.


Weave token is the native crypto asset of Weave Financial, a next-generation yield farming platform that allows yield farmers to create custom strategies and harvest yield and use it as they want.

## The platform

Key features enable the yield farming platform Weave to stand out:

### Passive

A platform built and designed for absolute beginners or inexperienced yield farmers. It features a simple interface for ease of use and copy farming service that allows users to find Pro users from whom they want to copy yield farming strategies. Other features include:

•	Audited contracts.

•	Risk-rated strategies.

•	Auto-compounding.

•	Community support.

•	Education for those that want to graduate to Pro level.

### Pro

A platform designed for experienced yield farmers, or pros. It also features a simple but powerful user interface. Other benefits include:

•	Users can build their own smart contracts using the strategy builder.

•	Fully customizable auto-compounding features.

•	Up to 50% performance fee profit share from copy farmers.

•	Cross-chain strategies.

•	Risk management tools.

•	Low fees.

•	Community engagement and support.

There are more benefits for the most successful Pro users. For example, pro users with the highest value of passive users copying their strategy earn additional Weave token rewards. [NFT](/news/category/nft-news) rewards are also up for grabs for top Pro weavers.

## The token

The native Weave token is a BEP-20 crypto asset. It has several use cases, can be used to vote on strategic decisions, and can be used to reduce platform fees. It is also utilized to reward users for using the platform and for staking. Liquidity providers also get awarded the tokens.

The tokens can also be used to pay for various services, including auto-compounding. Pro users have to use them to pay to share their strategies. According to the platform, more token use cases will be added in the future.

The tokens have a max supply cap of 200,000,000. According to [Coingecko](https://www.coingecko.com/en/coins/weave), there are currently 13,889,813 of them in public circulation. Each is worth $0.100063. They are available for purchase on PancakeSwap.

## Are the tokens a good investment?

There are a few reasons they might or might not be a good investment option. They might be a good investment because of the project behind them and the many use cases.

Weave Financial offers what many yield farming platforms don’t, a strategy builder that allows users effortlessly create custom yield farming strategies and harvest yields. The project gives users complete control over their funds. Its use of smart contracts also helps with security, making it more secure.

Other reasons to consider investing in the crypto asset are its relatively low price and how several crypto prediction platforms view it. Their low price makes it easy to invest in the crypto space without breaking the bank. Several prediction platforms foresee a promising future for the coins.

A few reasons to think twice before investing in the coin include its young age, accessibility, and the recent staking smart contract hack. The tokens haven’t been in the market long enough to prove their worth. They are also not easily accessible. PancakeSwap is the only recommended place to buy them.

The tokens also can't be bought directly with fiat currency.

Another reason to be wary of $Weave is the recent [hack on a staking smart contract](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r_d4jw51Zd0) that exposed some of the project’s security weaknesses. According to Jonathan Platts, the project's COO and one of its co-founders, a staking contract of the tokens was hacked on 10 November, 2022, and funds were stolen. Not much about the hack has been revealed as it is an ongoing criminal case, again, according to Jonathan.

## Conclusion

$Weave token looks like a great crypto asset. However, considering the recent hack and what the project is planning as a way forward, it might not be the best investment option for now. You might want to look into other crypto assets if you are looking to invest in the crypto space.


Reddit NFT continued to trend online in December 2022 due to its massive impact on the non-fungible token (NFT) market. It is a kind of avatar that can be bought on the Reddit marketplace. Launched in July 2022, the Reddit NFT marketplace provides users of Reddit (a popular network site where contents are shared and various topics discussed), known as Redditors, a platform to buy blockchain-based images for a set price.

## What are some of the types of Reddit NFT? 

Unlike NFT projects such as the Bored Ape Yacht Club (BAYC), Mutant Ape Yacht Club (MAYC), Bored Ape Kennel Club (BAKC), and Otherside for Otherdeeds, which is backed by a huge developer like Yuga Labs, Reddit has forgone mainstream companies. Instead, Reddit has partnered with several independent artists to create diverse designs which can be patronized by the billions of people across the globe that visit Reddit.com.

Despite several NFT types on Reddit, the main and exclusive NFT collection launched by the popular networking site is CryptoSnoos.

Like other NFTs, CryptoSnoos has different features that help determine scarcity. CryptoSnoos are grouped into Rare, Epic, and Legendary. While Epic CryptoSnoos NFTs are limited and Rare CryptoSnoos NFTs are extremely limited, Legendary CryptoSnoos NFTs are unique. This is why prices of Legendary NFTs are higher than Epic and Rare NFTs. 

## What blockchain houses the Reddit NFT

The team behind the NFT chose Polygon to house the digital collectibles. Polygon was selected because it is a layer 2 scaling solution that has found an answer to the blockchain trilemma of decentralization, security, and scalability. Once a particular protocol finds an answer to the blockchain scalability problems, transaction costs related to the use of blockchain are reduced to the barest minimum.

As of 17 December, 2022, collectibles on Reddit have contributed to the [$40 billion](https://www.cryptoslam.io/blockchains/polygon) in sales Polygon-based NFTs have generated in the six months to December. In addition to Reddit collectibles, some of the avatar collectibles minted on Polygon include, but are not limited to, Doodle Collection, Cute Snacks, and 5 Boro Bodega. 

As of December 2022, the total sales volume from Reddit collectible avatars was [$11.95 million](https://dune.com/polygon_analytics/reddit-collectible-avatars), and there were more than [four million collectible avatar holders](https://dune.com/queries/1428687/2423544). There are more than four million single collectible avatar holders, and more than five million [collectible avatars](https://dune.com/queries/1428579/2423370) are in the market.  

## Where to buy NFTs from Reddit?

NFTs can be bought and sold on different NFT marketplaces. While some of the best NFTs to invest in can be found on multiple platforms such as Nifty Gateway, LooksRare, Rarible, and X2Y2, the best NFT marketplace to buy digital images is OpenSea - aside from Reddit’s marketplace. Bank cards can be used to buy NFTs on Reddit, but OpenSea is crypto only.

Before you purchase digital art that can be used as a profile picture on your social media channels on OpenSea, you need to have a crypto wallet. Some of the crypto wallets that support
OpenSea includes Rainbow Wallet, MetaMask, Coinbase Wallet, and TrustWallet. Since the digital collectibles are housed in the ecosystem of Polygon, you need the native asset of Polygon, MATIC. You can also hold Ether (ETH), the native asset of Ethereum, since most of the NFTs sold on OpenSea are priced in that cryptocurrency.

Once you have MATIC, you can connect your wallet to OpenSea, search for NFTs with links to Reddit, make a purchase, and your digital collectible with be deposited into your crypto wallet. 

## Conclusion

NFTs by Reddit continue to see huge liquidity due to the popularity of Reddit as a networking website. As a result, you can invest in the NFTs with an eye on future sales due to the increasing usage and patronage of Reddit and its collections.

But, like all investments, you should consider the pros and cons of investing in digital collectibles from Reddit before you risk your hard-earned money on digital collectibles. 


Amid uncertainties in the digital currency market, you may be contemplating the best cryptos to buy now. This selection process can be easier when you know your desired goals.

A lot has happened in the crypto industry in the past year. Several cryptocurrencies, such as Bitcoin and Ethereum, have dropped almost 75% from their all-time high (ATH) values.

While developers have doubled down on their building efforts, other firms such as Celsius, Three Arrows Capital (3AC), FTX, Alameda Research, and [BlockFi](/news/article/ftx-collapse-blockfi-suspend-withdrawals) have all gone bankrupt.

Lower crypto values could be the result of the bearish market intensified by the collapse of the Terra ecosystem and [FTX trading protocol](/news/article/ftx-bankrupt-who-to-blame). Nonetheless, there are solid crypto assets investors can buy and earn some profits. This guide encompasses some coins to buy now and hold either short or long-term.

## Seven best cryptos to buy now

The current crypto winter has had some far-reaching effects on the industry. Investors wanting to buy crypto for investment sakes may opt for less volatile assets, such as stablecoins or wrapped tokens.

In the same way, you may decide to invest in diverse crypto assets. 

The rationale behind this is to have a diversified portfolio to minimize risk. Investing in just one crypto asset may be extremely risky, given the volatile nature of cryptocurrencies.

Thousands of crypto assets exist in the market, making it challenging to choose the best investment. However, this guide simplifies the selection process. Below are eight digital coins investors can buy now.

## Bitcoin (BTC)

Bitcoin has remained at the forefront of the crypto market since the release of its white paper in 2008. With a market capitalization of more than $321 billion, Bitcoin represents about 36% of the entire cryptocurrency market.

Currently, Bitcoin trades at $16,696, 75% down from its all-time high (ATH) value of $68,000 in October 2021. While Bitcoin does not show any potential of rising to double its current price, it remains the safest bet for most investors.

Even though the price of Bitcoin is highly speculative, it still dominates thousands of other existing crypto assets in the market. This is all thanks to the Bitcoins Lighting Network, which prompts lower fees and higher transaction speed.

Bitcoin currently maintains a resistance level of $17,000, and failure to break through may result in a downside movement. An hourly relative strength index (RSI) of above 50 points and resistance levels at $16,800 and $17,000 could make this a good time for "buy the dip" investors to step in. Nonetheless, Bitcoin has shown significant growth since the beginning of the year.

### Ethereum (ETH)

Ethereum has shown significant consistency in the last few years. It not only trails Bitcoin as the second-largest cryptocurrency based on market capitalization, but is also a central hub for crypto developers.

This is evident in the development of decentralized autonomous organizations (DAOs), decentralized finance (DEFI), and non-fungible tokens (NFTs).

With a market capitalization of about $144 billion and a price of $1,184, [Ethereum](https://ethereum.org/en/) is down some 69% off its all-time high (ATH) value of more than $4,000, reached in October 2021.

Currently, thousands of crypto-based projects are built on the Ethereum network, which makes it extremely valuable among crypto developers. In addition, regular upgrade such as the  EIP 1559 and the "[Merge](/news/article/ethereum-merge)” makes Ethereum reliable and faster, and deflates the native Ether token.

### Dogecoin

[Dogecoin](/coins/doge) is the fastest-rising memecoin in the crypto industry, all thanks to the push by Tesla founder Elon Musk. Created by Billy Markus and Jackson Palmer, this open-source coin was forked from Litecoin in December 2013 as a fun crypto.

Currently trading at $0.077, Dogecoin is about 89% down from its all-time high (ATH) value. Nonetheless, Dogecoin is highly speculative and has turned several investors into millionaires and billionaires.

Doge's success story is closely linked to Musk's love for it. In early 2021, the billionaire tweeted about Dogecoin by sharing a Lion King DOGE meme, prompting a strong rally with intermittent dips. Several months later, the coin's price tanked by more than 70% following Musk's seeming lack of interest. Nonetheless, occasional tweets by Musks show he still has power over the price of Dogecoin.

For instance, when [Musk announced his intentions to acquire Twitter](/news/article/elon-musk-twitter-dogecoin), the popular microblogging platform, the price of DOGE briefly spiked by 10%. If you are looking for quick gains, DOGE may be one of the top cryptos to buy now.

### Cardano (ADA)

Considered an Ethereum killer, Cardano (ADA) boasts a whooping market capitalization of more than $9 billion. Currently trading at $0.26, the ADA token is in excess of 80% down from its all-time high (ATH) price of $3, reached in October 2021.

Charles Hoskinson, the network's founder, announced the Alonzo hard fork in August 2021, prompting Cardano to surge by more than 116% the following month. The hard fork launch in September 2021 ushered in smart contracts deployed in just 24 hours.

Even though Cardano’s rate of developing products may be slow compared to other projects in the crypto market, it still promises to launch “gigantic” products. And its investors pride themselves on this.

### Ripple (XRP)

Ripple (XRP) currently boasts the position of the seventh-largest coin in the industry, with a market capitalization of roughly $17 billion. The XRP coin currently trades at $0.34, 85% down from its all-time high value of $3.40, achieved more than five years ago.

The price of XRP has struggled for years due to the l[ingering legal battle](/news/article/elon-musk-twitter-dogecoin) between the company and the Securities and Exchange Commission( SEC). The contention is whether or not XRP is a security.

The SEC filed a lawsuit against Ripple and two of its executives in December 2020 on the allegation that they traded $1.3 billion worth of XRP tokens as security without being registered with the commission.

The current interest is whether or not the SEC will file for reconsideration of summary judgment. Investors believe XRP will have a favorable outcome, ultimately leading to a bullish run. This explains why XRP is being closely watched by crypto investors.

### Binance (BNB)

Binance has been in the news lately, especially with the collapse of the FTX trading protocol. The largest crypto trading protocol also stated that it will build Proof-of-Reserves to drive transparency in the crypto industry.

Build and Build (BNB), the native coin of the [Binance](https://www.binance.com/en) exchange, currently trades at $247, more than 65% down from its all-time high value of $600, reached in October 2021. One of the advantages of Binance is its developmental strides as it strives to not only be an exchange, but to become an infrastructure service provider for the entire blockchain ecosystem.

Unlike Bitcoin, which suits the need of aspiring investors whose aim is a long-term investment, Binance is ideal for short-term investors. In addition, Binance's stablecoin, BUSD, has maintained optimum stability as its books show that the token is tied to real-world assets.

### Polygon (MATIC)

Polygon is a popular blockchain infrastructure built on the Ethereum protocol to enhance scalability and lower transaction fees. As a layer-2 solution, [Polygon](https://polygon.technology/) enables developers to build optimistic rollup chains, ZK rollup chains, and other stand-alone chains. Over time, Polygon has transformed the Ethereum network into an internet of blockchains.

Polygon is well known for its partnership with companies such as Meta, Robinhood, and Starbucks. These partnerships serve as a frontier to scale its native token, MATIC.

MATIC currently trades at $0.8, about 60% down from its all-time high of $2.32 a year ago. Investors believe that a bullish run may result in a surge in the price of MATIC.

## Best cryptos to buy now - what to consider

Before buying any cryptocurrency, some factors must be considered. These include:

•	What is the risk involved?

•	Do I store the coins in a hot or cold wallet?

•	Does the coin fit into my long-term or short-term portfolio goals?

If, after answering these questions, you feel convicted to invest, then you should. But do not compromise on security.

Holding crypto is risky. Losing your recovery phrase, sharing your password with third parties, physical damage to your hardware wallet, or even a malicious attack on your hot wallet or exchange wallet may result in the loss of coins. Caution must be taken at all times.

## Best cryptos to buy now - conclusion

It is essential to understand that there is no perfect cryptocurrency to invest in at the moment. It all depends on individual choices and the risk level each investor can take.

The issue of speculation must not be overlooked. Major news in the industry could affect the market positively or negatively, ultimately leading to a profit or loss. With cryptocurrency investments being tricky, every investor must research adequately before deciding to invest.


It’s no secret that digital art and pop culture go hand in hand. Still, you won’t find many [marketplaces](/news/article/nft-art-marketplaces) dedicated explicitly to these art pieces. Nonetheless, one platform which has made its name in pop industry NFTs is [Droppp](https://droppp.io/). 

It leverages one of the most popular blockchains for Web3 projects, [WAX](https://www.wax.io/). The platform offers various collections of popular culture-related digital collectables. It's a beginner-friendly platform, and even those with limited knowledge of crypto and NFT can easily navigate it. 

## What is the Droppp NFT marketplace?

A leading lifestyle brand, Funko, backs the Droppp marketplace. The brand deals with various fandom-related toys and other accessories and extended its product line by including digital collectables on this platform. You can find NFTs based on fandom themes like [Game of Thrones](https://droppp.io/drop/75/game-of-thrones-series-1/), [DC](/news/article/the-batman-cowl-nft), [The Matrix](/news/article/matrix-nft), Nickelodeon cartoons, and others.

It not only allows you to hold a digital asset, but also gives you a chance to get physical collectables. There are redeemable NFTs for which you can get Redemption tokens. With these tokens, you can get any physical item.

Dealings within the marketplace are pretty straightforward. You can create an account with your email, Google, or [Apple account](https://support.apple.com/guide/healthregister/create-an-apple-id-apdfe783ba7c/web) to get a free version. However, you must get the premium version to access a personalised wallet address. Transactions on the platform are in USD, so you don’t have to deal with crypto.

## How do I buy from Droppp?

To buy an NFT from its marketplace, you would need a Droppp wallet, which can be either a free or premium account. Premium one can give instant access to a customisable “.dp" wallet. It also allows you to purchase NFTs from other markets, and the assets are transferable with it. You can acquire all these features for $4.99 only.

The free version has limitations, like not offering a wallet until you purchase a pack directly from the launch. You also have to deal with a support member to activate the address.

After choosing an option and activating the wallet, you can buy assets from NFT collections. You can use your credit card, [Apple Pay](/news/article/stablecoin-issuer-circle-apple-pay), or [Google Pay](https://pay.google.com/) to buy it.  

## Is Droppp.io safe?

It is a secure option built with a trusted blockchain, WAX. Moreover, the transactions are transparent and verifiable with various pop brands’ affiliations, which speaks for its credibility.


Though a central hub for developers, the exorbitant cost of gas on the Ethereum network has diverted the attention of [non-fungible token](/news/article/the-merge-ethereum-nft-impact) (NFT) enthusiasts to other platforms. One such platform is the Tezos NFT marketplace.

In the last three years, the blockchain ecosystem has experienced significant growth, especially with the development of decentralized applications (Dapps). The Tezos network is no exception. Since September 2018, the platform has risen to a hub for Dapps, moving its focus to green technology and eco-friendly governance.

Similarly, NFTs have gained significant popularity in the past few years. The Tezos blockchain now has a marketplace where NFTs can be sold, bought, and exchanged. This guide explores the NFT marketplace on Tezos.

## What is the Tezos NFT marketplace?

The Tezos marketplace for NFTs is an interface where users can create trades and buy NFTs. This blockchain can store tokens under stable and secure conditions. This, however, is made possible through gateways, otherwise known as a group of participants that will run nodes compatible with the blockchain and interact with other blockchains.

It must be understood that the Tezos ecosystem does not support the stringent requirement that a blockchain needs to be secure and decentralized. Instead, it relies on the community to create Dapps with NFTs. 

For the effective storage of the NFTs, a centralized exchange or an entirely different blockchain can be used. The smart contract protocol enables users of the Tezos marketplace to use a blockchain application or another application that has already been created. With smart contracts running on their resources, users do not have to worry about the cost of transactions.

The Tezos NFT marketplace uses the Proof-of-Stake (PoS) consensus mechanism, enhancing efficiency and equality in the staking process.

The platform is designed to give its members greater power over the network's rules. Compared to other blockchains, Tezos is self-governing, enabling growth and efficiency.

With the PoS, users can stake a certain amount of tokens to stand the chance of becoming a block validator. And the entire process requires less computing power. This explains why Tezos is efficient and has lower transaction fees.

## Tezos NFT marketplace - what to consider

When investors come in contact with NFT marketplaces, they must consider factors such as ease of use, transaction costs, creativity, available NFTs, and security. Just as criteria exist for selecting crypto exchanges, the same strategies apply when picking an NFT marketplace.

## These strategies include:

•	The kind of NFT - To evaluate the type of NFTs being sought, investors must ask themselves questions like what NFT they need, if the tokens are in the gaming or creative industry, or if they need a fan token. Knowing what kind of NFT is required will help investors understand the best marketplace to secure it.

•	The central currency - Each NFT marketplace has its base currency. Some marketplaces may accept fiat, or even crypto assets such as Ethereum (ETH), Build and Build (BNB), or Solana (SOL). In addition to central currency, some marketplaces require a specific wallet for optimum functionality.

•	The cost of gas - Different NFT marketplaces charge variable amounts for gas fees, making this factor quite significant. Opting for a marketplace with the least gas price will help investors maximize their returns.

Using the NFT marketplace on Tezos comes with several benefits, such as:

•	Lower cost of transactions.

•	Maximum security with verification at the protocol and application level using the OCaml and Michelson languages.

•	Decentralization with active community enrollment.

•	Eco-friendly since the PoS consensus mechanism is involved.

## Tezos NFT marketplace - top five platforms

There are several NFT marketplaces in the Tezos ecosystem. Below are the top five that investors may consider.

### Objkt 

[Objkt](https://objkt.com/) is the topmost NFT marketplace on Tezos based on sales volume and user activity. The platform has some unique features, such as:

•	A 2.5% service charge.

•	Royalties for creators.

•	Divisible royalties.

•	Vast listing options from marketplaces like Hic et Nunc, Rarible, and Kalamint.

### OneOf 

The OneOf NFT marketplace deals with entertainment tokens, particularly sports and [music.](/news/article/music-nfts-fans-community) Having ties with mainstream artists and platforms such as the Grammy and Warner Music, users can have unlimited access to special NFTs.

Features that make [OneOf](https://about.oneof.com/) unique include:

•	Links with musicians.

•	Periodic auction listings.

•	Drop calendar.

### Kalamint

Kalamint users have had security warnings in the past, even though it is a dedicated closed platform where artists can gain access only after application. This allows users to access only quality tokens.

Some features of [Kalamint](https://kalamint.xyz/) include:

•	Creator royalties.

•	Diverse listing options.

### FxHash 

The platform is an open marketplace where investors can mint and collect NFTs. In some instances, the quality of the art piece may seem questionable. This is because the platform focuses on generic art only.
Notable features of [FxHash](https://www.fxhash.xyz/) include:

•	Diverse listing options.

•	A service charge of 2.5%.

•	Collections can be ranked.

### Rarible 

The platform is well-known in the Tezos marketplace and also ranks in the Ethereum NFT marketplace.

[Rarible](https://rarible.com/) features include:

•	Decentralization.

•	Active users are rewarded with tokens.

•	Has the $RARI native token.

•	Numerous listing options.

•	A service charge of 2.5%.

## Tezos NFT marketplace - conclusion

Tezos, within a short period, has established itself as a useful blockchain for NFT enthusiasts to access both valuable and generic tokens without spending a fortune on transaction fees. In addition, the platform boasts a variety of marketplaces within its NFT support.

Tezos has a simple user interface and is a secure place for new NFT investors to begin their journey in the crypto industry. Nonetheless, nothing beats adequate research, a must-have skill for potential crypto investors.


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