What is Cryptocurrency, and is it a Good Investment?
Why is there all of this talk about cryptocurrencies, and should we be listening? Bitcoin began 2017 worth $1,000 per coin, but closed the year at more than $19,000. Other so-called cryptocurrencies—digital currency that is sent and received electronically—are also soaring in value. There are over 1,000 cryptocurrencies in existence.
The perceived value of one cryptocurrency over another is based on the notion that the holder of the digital currency gains exclusive access to a given type of blockchain technology,” says Mark Williams (Questrom’93), a Questrom School of Business master lecturer in finance and executive-in-residence. Blockchain uses a volunteer computer network, controlled by no one, to record cyber-currency transactions that while public, link to just an electronic address. Enthusiasts foresee blockchain technology being applied to stocks, bonds, contracts, and other assets.
Some speculators view this as a lottery ticket, and if the market adopts your blockchain type, the payday will be astronomical. But this has also created an extreme asset bubble. Betting on a particular cryptocurrency is fraught with uncertainty and high risk.
My advice to those contemplating buying cryptocurrencies: do your homework first, understand your personal risk tolerance, and if interested, commit only an amount of money that you are willing to lose and that won’t impact you financially if it is a total bust. For risk-adverse investors, stick with traditional stock and bond investing, companies that have real assets, real boards, real management, real cash flow, and real regulation.
A mandatory condition for safe investments in the crypto-economy is a basic computer literacy. If you don’t know how computers work, then think twice before putting your wealth into cryptocurrencies.
Instead of actually buying cryptocurrencies, or coins, you can invest in the building blocks of the currencies, blockchain technology. Blockchain technology powers Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies, but there are many ways to invest in blockchain tech without pouring your money into these digital currencies. The first place to look into blockchain startups. The second option is crowdfunding platforms, as blockchain startups in their infancy will often look into crowdfunding to get off the ground.
So, what does the Oracle of Omaha (Warren Buffet) have to say about cryptocurrencies? “In terms of cryptocurrencies, generally, I can say almost with certainty that they will come to a bad ending,” Buffett recently said on CNBC, noting that he didn’t understand Bitcoin and other blockchain-based digital assets. It’s not the first time Buffett has dismissed cryptocurrencies. In 2014, the octogenarian investor dubbed Bitcoin a “mirage,” warning investors to “stay away from it.”
If you have questions, we can help. We offer a no-obligation first consultation. You can schedule your appointment today by calling us at 216.521.1711, emailing us at Quarterback@Lineweaver.net, or by clicking here.
Terms and Conditions | Privacy Policy | Disclosures
Case studies are intended to illustrate the types of financial issues faced by actual clients. They should not be construed as a testimonial for or endorsement of Lineweaver Wealth Advisors. They do not represent the experience of any advisory client. Each client’s situation is different, and their goals may not always be achieved. Lineweaver Wealth Advisors, LLC, is not engaged in the practice of law or accounting. Tax information provided is general in nature and should not be construed as legal or tax advice. Always consult an attorney or tax professional regarding your specific legal or tax situation. Tax rules and regulations are subject to change at any time.
Crain's Cleveland Business is a print and online newspaper delivering local business news and information to Cleveland's business executives, which is published by Crain Communications Inc. The Crain's 2024 list may employ different methodology than described above for similar designations granted in other years. No clients were consulted and no fees were paid to determine the winners; the award is based on assets under management. Neither the participating candidates nor their employees pay a fee in exchange for inclusion on Crain's 2024 List. However, recipients may pay a fee to Crain, an affiliate, or an unaffiliated third party in exchange for plaques or article reprints commemorating the designation. The publication should not be construed by a client or prospective client as a guarantee that they will experience a certain level of results if the recipient is engaged, or continues to be engaged, to provide investment advisory services; and should not be construed as a current or past endorsement of the recipient by any of its clients. Lineweaver Wealth Advisors was ranked in the Top 25 of Crain’s of Cleveland’s annual list of Registered Investment Advisors. The award is based on assets under management in the years 2024. In 2023, Lineweaver Wealth Advisors was ranked in the Top 15 of Crain’s of Cleveland’s annual list of Registered Investment Advisors. The award is based on assets under management in the years 2023. In 2021 and 2022, Lineweaver Wealth Advisors was ranked in the Top 20 of Crain’s of Cleveland’s annual list of Registered Investment Advisors. The award is based on assets under management in the years 2021 and 2022 respectively.
Nominees in the Top 100 Magazine selections are not required to pay a fee for consideration. Individuals appearing in half and full page editorials, have paid a fee for additional exposure. Candidates for consideration are selected utilizing proprietary software. Top 100 Magazine analyzes the results before making their final selections. Financial Professionals and/or wealth managers must also met the following criteria; 1. Be registered with the SEC as a registered investment advisor or a registered investment advisor representative; 2. Have no more than 1 filed complaint with a regulatory agency; 3.Never been convicted of a felony. Third-party rankings and recognitions are no guarantee of future investment success and do not ensure that a client or prospective client will experience a higher level of performance or results. These ratings should not be construed as an endorsement of the Financial Professional by any client nor are they representative of any one client's evaluation. Participants for the Top 100 in Finance appearance were reviewed in 2022, and recognized in March of 2023. Lineweaver Financial Group appeared in Money magazine in 2015, Fortune Magazine in 2016, WTAM 1100 in 2018, Forbes in 2020, Channel 5 in 2020, and Top 100 in Finance in 2023.
Lineweaver Financial Group ©
Powered by 
Virteom