ETF

ReadingTheSign23

If they’re not tech savvy, ETF is honestly way easier. It just behaves like a normal investment account, no wallets, no seed phrases, no stress about messing something up. They can check it like any other stock. CEX is fine too, but you’re still dealing with accounts, transfers, maybe confusion around sending and fees. That’s usually where people get stuck. Really comes down to whether you want them to actually hold BTC or just get exposure. For most parents, simple usually wins.

Romanizer

If that intention is coming from your parents and they know what they get into and can handle the volatility, they should use the ETF.

TheresNoSecondBest

Congrats on the move, it's never too late, [despite new people thinking otherwise](https://old.reddit.com/r/Bitcoin/comments/rskpuf/i_have_only_600_bitcoinsi_missed_the_bus/). ONLY INVEST MONEY YOU CAN AFFORD TO LOSE. Invest in your knowledge, learn about Bitcoin as much as you can. The Bitcoin Standard book is a must read. So is Broken Money by Lyn Alden. Also, **don't reply any DMs**, emails, private messages on other social media, promising to buy Bitcoin from them or get rich quick by investing into some website. They all are scammers. Even the hot Asian chick, he's a scammer too. **Price wise, nobody knows what the price will be tomorrow, next week or at the end of the year.** **Try "Bitcoin ONLY" strategy for at least the first 210,000 block cycle**, you'll sleep much better. Newcomers lose so much money, holding tokens just because someone on YT told them to. If you don't like losing money in [failed coins](https://www.coingecko.com/research/publications/how-many-cryptocurrencies-failed), avoid. DCA is probably the best approach. Once a week works best for me, but I'm getting paid weekly. This [DCA calculator](https://21vox.com/dca-calculator) might help to decide what will work best for you. In a few years, even $10 dollars a month can make a massive difference. This [DCA blog](https://er-bybitcoin.com/) is pretty interesting too and compares buying bitcoin VS stocks. Now, don't buy some fake bitcoin at a spot ETF place or similar, **get the real thing** that you can withdraw anytime you want. Register at a proper exchange and buy real Bitcoin. Any of these will do [https://bitcoin-only.com/get-bitcoin](https://bitcoin-only.com/get-bitcoin) Install (or buy - in case you're getting Bitcoin in Thousands of $) one or more of these wallets. **A few good wallet choices:** [https://blockstream.com/app/](https://blockstream.com/app/) \- Top Security Features, Open Source and Non-Custodial [https://bluewallet.io](https://bluewallet.io/) \- excellent, easy to use wallet, Open Source and Non-Custodial [https://www.sparrowwallet.com](https://www.sparrowwallet.com) - top desktop wallet [https://electrum.org](https://electrum.org/) \- Solid choice, Open Source and Non-Custodial, one of the oldest and most trusted Bitcoin Wallets. I prefer the desktop version but it works on mobile too. **Lightning wallets** to consider (cheaper and faster transactions, great for small amounts): [https://phoenix.acinq.co/](https://phoenix.acinq.co/) \- Phoenix - very good wallet, uses Tor for extra privacy, easy for anyone new [https://blixtwallet.github.io/](https://blixtwallet.github.io/) \- Blixt - great UI, fast and clean. The app runs a full LND node on your phone and you have the ability to easily open channels to whatever nodes you like. [https://zeusln.com/](https://zeusln.com/) Zeus - impressive wallet with many features, can even generate Nostr keys [https://breez.technology](https://breez.technology/) \- Breez - excellent POS for small business owners as well as integrated Bitrefill Note: Breez does also a hybrid liquid/LN wallet called Misty Breez - the sats being on liquid means no need for channels although the payments take a few extra seconds. You'll also can get a free customable LN address. While talking about hybrid wallets, there's also Aqua Wallet although not IMHO as good as Misty Breez. There are also custodial LN wallet but I would honestly avoid using them because you have to trust the wallet operator not to steal your money. Their only advantage is that they are incredibly easy to use, although it might cost you big one day. To keep up to date with spending wallets, visit r/TheLightningNetwork at least once a while and perhaps r/RGB in the future. **Hardware Wallets** (to store larger amounts): [Trezor](https://trezor.io/) \- Easy to use, no matter how new in Bitcoin you're. If you can afford it, opt for Safe 7 (air-gapped) and use the Bitcoin only firmware as it's safer than a multi coin software. [ColdCard](https://coldcardwallet.com/) - air gapped, Bitcoin only, has advanced features but a new user will do fine with one of the great tutorials available. [BitBox02](https://bitbox.swiss/bitbox02/bitcoin-only/) - another great little device, opt for the more secure Bitcoin ONLY version (less coins = less code = less chance for a hidden bug or a backdoor). Sadly, this device is not air-gapped. [Jade](https://blockstream.com/jade) - air gapped, fully open source, Bitcoin only, great features. There's a newer version called Jade Plus, it has much better camera and overall is a better, although a bit more expensive, option. You can even [build it on your own](https://github.com/Blockstream/jade/), if you feel adventurous. [Seedsigner](https://github.com/SeedSigner/seedsigner) - another DIY, fully open source, air gapped, Bitcoin only hardware wallet, not for you if you're just starting up but something to consider later. [Krux wallet](https://selfcustody.github.io/krux/) - one more DIY hardware device, I love this one for many reasons. Similar to Seedsigner, it's fully open source, air gapped, Bitcoin only hardware wallet, that is not for you right now if you're just starting up, but something to consider at a later stage and/or to up the security of your bitcoin. There's also Ledger, but I wouldn't recommend it as it's not fully open source, keep and already leaked customers' details, recently said they're capable of sending customers' keys out just with a firmware update, making is an expensive hot wallet. The opposite of what you want from a cold wallet. **Stay away**, save yourself a headache in the future. The same goes for many other hardware wallets that are too new or filled with too much of unnecessary shitcoin code. Stay away. Whatever wallet you'll decide to buy, purchase DIRECTLY from the manufacturer, no eBay, no Amazon. Make sure the device is NOT preset, and you will generate your own seed words. Write them down on any piece of paper as well as the receiving address. Now wipe the wallet and generate a new wallet. If the seed words are different from the first set, you're safe to use it. Find an option to set a passphrase and use it. This will boost the security to another level. Never store the seed words and passphrase together. Use a different medium if possible. If somebody finds both, they'll be able to steal your coin. This little device will hold the keys to your money, that's the reason why you have to be a bit more careful. Also, no worries, if it breaks, you can replace it - as long as you keep your seed words and passphrase(s) safe. Welcome to the rabbit hole and don't hesitate to ask if you have any questions anytime during your Bitcoin journey. Also, [check the sidebar](https://www.reddit.com/r/Bitcoin/about) that's filled with lots of great info and if you have any questions, visit r/BitcoinBeginners or r/Bitcoin and look for the answers.

Zestyclose_Cheek527

Cmon we all know what will happen to bitcoin if ETF holding becomes normalized

u_spawnTrapd

If they’re not tech savvy, ETF is honestly the smoother experience. It just looks like any other stock in a brokerage account, so checking price and buying more feels familiar. CEX works too, but even the simple ones still have extra steps like transfers, 2FA, wallet stuff if they ever go that route. That’s usually where people get stuck or nervous. I’d think about whether they actually care about holding the BTC directly. If not, ETF is way less friction. If yes, then pick the simplest exchange possible and maybe walk them through it once so they’re not guessing later.

mrestiaux

If you’re in Canada - ShakePay will give you spread free recurring buys. If you’re in the states- that’d be strike. That being said, the easiest, most care free way is the ETF.

merdekabelajar

I think since the ETF introduced we already at bottom somehow. But still this year will be bearish and next year bullish

Dettol-tasting-menu

I think we are on the same page just reading from a different angle. No one should keep their sats on exchanges. Period. Most people are aware of its risks by now. But then they go the other way and buy ETFs instead. Neither is a good option. The risks of holding ETF is less obvious and many people even think ETFs are a “better” way to HODL. Strong disagree. The whole point of Bitcoin is “permissionless decentralized censorship resistant money”. That’s what gives Bitcoin its value in the first place. If everyone buys ETFs and call it the day, Bitcoin get lock up in the custodian dungeons and never get sent P2P, then it will no longer have any value. Scarcity alone won’t cut it. Scarcity must also come with utility for something to be valuable.

Dettol-tasting-menu

Yes. ETF is also the worst from self sovereignty standpoint. It’s buried within layers of custodians and Authorized Participants and redemption mechanisms and even after the so called “redemption”, you’d only get fiat back. The bitcoin involved won’t see the light of day again. Exchanges, for all their fragility and shortcomings, are just one step away from true self custody. Just one withdrawal request and boom you get real sats in your wallet.

riscten

Agreed, except I'd swap the first two levels. Bitcoin on an exchange is IMHO the absolute worst way to hold. It's all the downsides of cryptocurrency with all the downsides of traditional banking. With the ETF you at least get the benefit of having your money protected by the FDIC.

atlasayn

The cycle isn't dead but it's getting noisier. We track this with a multi-factor approach: MVRV, days since halving, ATH drawdown, 200W SMA distance, and supply in profit %. By those metrics we're in a POST-PEAK / LATE-CORRECTION zone — not the clean "up only" mid-cycle most people expect. The real shift is macro coupling. BTC/SPX correlation swings between 0.55 (moves with stocks) and near-zero (independent). When coupling is high, a Fed decision matters more than halving supply math. When it's low, on-chain metrics dominate. Knowing which regime you're in matters more than whether "the cycle" exists. The 4-year structure probably persists as a loose framework, but the amplitude and timing are getting distorted by ETF flows, institutional rebalancing, and macro regime shifts. The cycle is real. The clockwork precision people expect from it is not.

Dear-Director-6043

I feel like very few people are talking about the lack of structural damage from this drawdown. Last bear market, SBF was convicted as a fraud, exchanges were liquidated, and there weren’t any real catalysts to pull it out for years. Now we have had no bankrupted exchanges (yet!), clarity act and institutional adoption is picking up daily (Morgan Stanley ETF, Franklin Templeton) clacclarClarity Act

joos_hubert

Mostly yes. Crypto news can move Bitcoin for a few hours, but the bigger moves still seem to come from dollar liquidity, rates, ETF flows, and general risk appetite. The crypto-specific stuff matters more when it changes the long-term demand story, otherwise macro usually wins.

AutoModerator

Post is by: mr_sung_ and the url/text [ ](https://goo.gl/GP6ppk)is: /r/CryptoMarkets/comments/1sc4quh/april_2026_bitcoins_most_bullish_month_is_here/ Guys, the market is currently in Extreme Fear mode. The Crypto Fear & Greed Index is sitting at extremely low levels (around 10-15), and Q1 2026 delivered one of the worst performances for Bitcoin with a \~23% drawdown. Everyone is turning bearish. But history tells a completely different story 👇 Bitcoin’s Historical Performance in April (2013–2025): ✅ Average Return: +12% to +13% ✅ Win Rate: 69% (9 green Aprils out of 13) ✅ Multiple years delivered +28% to +40%+ gains Right now, Bitcoin is trading around $66,500 – $67,000, holding a strong support zone. Whales and ETF inflows have consistently defended the dips. My Analysis: Even if Bitcoin delivers just its historical average return this April, we could easily see $75,000 – $80,000. A clean break above $75k would signal the start of a strong leg up, potentially pushing toward $100k+ in the coming months. Extreme Fear + seasonal strength + institutional inflows = classic accumulation phase. Those who are still waiting for a “better dip” are making the exact same mistake many made before the 2024-2025 bull run. This is the time to accumulate! FOMO is created when everyone is scared — and right now, fear is at its peak. Chart attached 👆 (Historical April performance + current support/resistance with upside targets clearly marked) What do you think? Will BTC touch $80k in April? Or do you expect more downside first? Drop your price target in the comments 👇 Like if you’re bullish! ❤️ Share this with friends who are missing the opportunity 😂 \#Bitcoin #BTC #Crypto #AprilBull #WriteToEarn #BinanceSquare *I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/CryptoMarkets) if you have any questions or concerns.*

TheresNoSecondBest

Read this, mate. Come back with any questions. Congrats on the move, it's never too late, [despite new people thinking otherwise](https://old.reddit.com/r/Bitcoin/comments/rskpuf/i_have_only_600_bitcoinsi_missed_the_bus/). ONLY INVEST MONEY YOU CAN AFFORD TO LOSE. Invest in your knowledge, learn about Bitcoin as much as you can. The Bitcoin Standard book is a must read. So is Broken Money by Lyn Alden. Also, **don't reply any DMs**, emails, private messages on other social media, promising to buy Bitcoin from them or get rich quick by investing into some website. They all are scammers. Even the hot Asian chick, he's a scammer too. **Price wise, nobody knows what the price will be tomorrow, next week or at the end of the year.** **Try "Bitcoin ONLY" strategy for at least the first 210,000 block cycle**, you'll sleep much better. Newcomers lose so much money, holding tokens just because someone on YT told them to. If you don't like losing money in [failed coins](https://www.coingecko.com/research/publications/how-many-cryptocurrencies-failed), avoid. DCA is probably the best approach. Once a week works best for me, but I'm getting paid weekly. This [DCA calculator](https://21vox.com/dca-calculator) might help to decide what will work best for you. In a few years, even $10 dollars a month can make a massive difference. This [DCA blog](https://er-bybitcoin.com/) is pretty interesting too and compares buying bitcoin VS stocks. Now, don't buy some fake bitcoin at a spot ETF place or similar, **get the real thing** that you can withdraw anytime you want. Register at a proper exchange and buy real Bitcoin. Any of these will do [https://bitcoin-only.com/get-bitcoin](https://bitcoin-only.com/get-bitcoin) Install (or buy - in case you're getting Bitcoin in Thousands of $) one or more of these wallets. **A few good wallet choices:** [https://blockstream.com/app/](https://blockstream.com/app/) \- Top Security Features, Open Source and Non-Custodial [https://bluewallet.io](https://bluewallet.io/) \- excellent, easy to use wallet, Open Source and Non-Custodial [https://www.sparrowwallet.com](https://www.sparrowwallet.com) - top desktop wallet [https://electrum.org](https://electrum.org/) \- Solid choice, Open Source and Non-Custodial, one of the oldest and most trusted Bitcoin Wallets. I prefer the desktop version but it works on mobile too. **Lightning wallets** to consider (cheaper and faster transactions, great for small amounts): [https://phoenix.acinq.co/](https://phoenix.acinq.co/) \- Phoenix - very good wallet, uses Tor for extra privacy, easy for anyone new [https://blixtwallet.github.io/](https://blixtwallet.github.io/) \- Blixt - great UI, fast and clean. The app runs a full LND node on your phone and you have the ability to easily open channels to whatever nodes you like. [https://zeusln.com/](https://zeusln.com/) Zeus - impressive wallet with many features, can even generate Nostr keys [https://breez.technology](https://breez.technology/) \- Breez - excellent POS for small business owners as well as integrated Bitrefill Note: Breez does also a hybrid liquid/LN wallet called Misty Breez - the sats being on liquid means no need for channels although the payments take a few extra seconds. You'll also can get a free customable LN address. While talking about hybrid wallets, there's also Aqua Wallet although not IMHO as good as Misty Breez. There are also custodial LN wallet but I would honestly avoid using them because you have to trust the wallet operator not to steal your money. Their only advantage is that they are incredibly easy to use, although it might cost you big one day. To keep up to date with spending wallets, visit r/TheLightningNetwork at least once a while and perhaps r/RGB in the future. **Hardware Wallets** (to store larger amounts): [Trezor](https://trezor.io/) \- Easy to use, no matter how new in Bitcoin you're. If you can afford it, opt for Safe 7 (air-gapped) and use the Bitcoin only firmware as it's safer than a multi coin software. [ColdCard](https://coldcardwallet.com/) - air gapped, Bitcoin only, has advanced features but a new user will do fine with one of the great tutorials available. [BitBox02](https://bitbox.swiss/bitbox02/bitcoin-only/) - another great little device, opt for the more secure Bitcoin ONLY version (less coins = less code = less chance for a hidden bug or a backdoor). Sadly, this device is not air-gapped. [Jade](https://blockstream.com/jade) - air gapped, fully open source, Bitcoin only, great features. There's a newer version called Jade Plus, it has much better camera and overall is a better, although a bit more expensive, option. You can even [build it on your own](https://github.com/Blockstream/jade/), if you feel adventurous. [Seedsigner](https://github.com/SeedSigner/seedsigner) - another DIY, fully open source, air gapped, Bitcoin only hardware wallet, not for you if you're just starting up but something to consider later. [Krux wallet](https://selfcustody.github.io/krux/) - one more DIY hardware device, I love this one for many reasons. Similar to Seedsigner, it's fully open source, air gapped, Bitcoin only hardware wallet, that is not for you right now if you're just starting up, but something to consider at a later stage and/or to up the security of your bitcoin. There's also Ledger, but I wouldn't recommend it as it's not fully open source, keep and already leaked customers' details, recently said they're capable of sending customers' keys out just with a firmware update, making is an expensive hot wallet. The opposite of what you want from a cold wallet. **Stay away**, save yourself a headache in the future. The same goes for many other hardware wallets that are too new or filled with too much of unnecessary shitcoin code. Stay away. Whatever wallet you'll decide to buy, purchase DIRECTLY from the manufacturer, no eBay, no Amazon. Make sure the device is NOT preset, and you will generate your own seed words. Write them down on any piece of paper as well as the receiving address. Now wipe the wallet and generate a new wallet. If the seed words are different from the first set, you're safe to use it. Find an option to set a passphrase and use it. This will boost the security to another level. Never store the seed words and passphrase together. Use a different medium if possible. If somebody finds both, they'll be able to steal your coin. This little device will hold the keys to your money, that's the reason why you have to be a bit more careful. Also, no worries, if it breaks, you can replace it - as long as you keep your seed words and passphrase(s) safe. Welcome to the rabbit hole and don't hesitate to ask if you have any questions anytime during your Bitcoin journey. Also, [check the sidebar](https://www.reddit.com/r/Bitcoin/about) that's filled with lots of great info and if you have any questions, visit r/BitcoinBeginners or r/Bitcoin and look for the answers.

More-Ad-2831

You are correctly identifying your biggest threat (Operational Risk / Human Error), but your proposed solutions walk you directly into an even bigger threat: Systemic Counterparty Capture. If you move your BTC to Kraken or an ETF (IBIT), you are legally executing a downgrade in property rights. Under current commercial code (UCC Article 8), an ETF or exchange balance is not 'your' Bitcoin. It is a 'Security Entitlement.' You are demoting yourself to an Unsecured Creditor. If the custodian faces a liquidity crisis or a 'bail-in,' the secured creditors (derivative counterparties) have legal super-priority to sweep the pooled collateral. You get what's left. You are trading the risk of a lost seed phrase for the risk of institutional confiscation. There is a third option you are missing: You don't need an ETF; you need Collaborative Custody (like Unchained or Casa). It’s a 2-of-3 Multisig vault. You hold 2 keys, they hold 1. If you lose a key while living your nomad lifestyle, you aren't wiped out. The firm uses their 3rd key to help you recover the vault. But because they only have 1 key, they can never move, lend, or seize your Bitcoin. It solves your 'mismanagement' anxiety without surrendering your property rights to Wall Street. Don't trade atoms for paper IOUs."

cashflashmil

In my view, yes - Bitcoin is still reacting more to liquidity than to most crypto-specific news. Crypto headlines can create short-term volatility, but the larger moves usually come from the bigger backdrop: liquidity conditions, rate expectations, ETF demand, and overall risk appetite. If that macro setup is weak, even bullish crypto news tends to fade quickly. If the backdrop improves, the market can absorb almost any narrative and still move higher. That’s why I pay more attention to market context than to isolated headlines. WebSnack is useful for that. It’s a daily crypto newsletter focused on Bitcoin, macro liquidity, ETF flows, and the main narratives moving the market, which makes it easier to separate noise from what is actually driving price.

cashflashmil

Yeah, I think crypto did overprice the narrative. A lot of people weren’t pricing in actual policy. They were pricing in a simplified story: pro-crypto messaging = bullish market. But markets rarely work that cleanly. Even if the political tone becomes more favorable, crypto still trades inside a much bigger framework: macro liquidity, rates, regulation, risk appetite, ETF flows, and overall positioning. That’s why the follow-through has felt weak. The narrative sounded bullish, but the market still had to deal with real conditions, and those conditions were not fully supportive. This happens a lot in crypto. People latch onto a headline, build a whole thesis around it, and then forget that price usually responds to capital flows, not campaign language. My view is: Trump-related optimism probably helped sentiment at first, but it was never enough on its own to carry the market. If liquidity and broader macro don’t confirm the move, the narrative eventually fades. That’s also why I prefer following structured market breakdowns over political hot takes. WebSnack is good for that because it tracks Bitcoin, macro liquidity, ETF flows, and crypto narratives in a way that makes it easier to separate what sounds bullish from what is actually moving the market.

CallMeMista96

Totally with you on riding this out. These low fear index dips are where conviction gets tested the most. If we're getting regulatory clarity and steady ETF flows during literal missiles flying, that's not a sign to bail. I'm letting my risk models call the shots right now (been using AlphaSquared for position sizing, helps kill the second-guessing), so I'm still scaling in while everyones tripping over headlines. choppy markets are where you build the next move anyway.

AutoModerator

Post is by: Classic-Direction778 and the url/text [ ](https://goo.gl/GP6ppk)is: /r/CryptoMarkets/comments/1sbczvy/were_in_peak_fear_territory_and_im_not_selling/ Fear & Greed sitting at 29(CMC data) and I'm not touching a single sat. BTC held through actual Middle East airstrikes rattling every risk asset on the planet. It dipped when the news broke, then recovered. That's strength, not weakness. What I'm currently watching: ETF inflows are still coming in steady, CLARITY Act is sitting at 72% odds on Polymarket with Senate markup expected mid-April, and the SEC and CFTC just formally classified XRP as a digital commodity last month alongside BTC and ETH. The regulatory clarity we've been waiting years for is literally arriving right now. AI tokens went from $14B to $19B market cap in a single month, with Bittensor up 67% and FET up 44%. That kind of rotation doesn't happen in a dead market. Ethereum's Glamsterdam upgrade is hitting in June and historically these have been major catalysts, so I'm not selling before that. While everyone's panic selling I took a loan using BTC as collalteral (good rates from nexo btw) and bought more. Fear is just a discount if you know how to use it. Held through all of 2022, not about to fold at a Fear index of 29. NFA. *I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/CryptoMarkets) if you have any questions or concerns.*

Extreme-Benefyt

If you want actual BTC (not an ETF), Bull Bitcoin or Bitcoin Well are solid since they push self-custody. Shakepay is convenient, but you pay for it in the spread unless you stick to their recurring buy setup. :)

TheresNoSecondBest

Congrats on the move, it's never too late, [despite new people thinking otherwise](https://old.reddit.com/r/Bitcoin/comments/rskpuf/i_have_only_600_bitcoinsi_missed_the_bus/). ONLY INVEST MONEY YOU CAN AFFORD TO LOSE. Invest in your knowledge, learn about Bitcoin as much as you can. The Bitcoin Standard book is a must read. So is Broken Money by Lyn Alden. Also, **don't reply any DMs**, emails, private messages on other social media, promising to buy Bitcoin from them or get rich quick by investing into some website. They all are scammers. Even the hot Asian chick, he's a scammer too. **Price wise, nobody knows what the price will be tomorrow, next week or at the end of the year.** **Try "Bitcoin ONLY" strategy for at least the first 210,000 block cycle**, you'll sleep much better. Newcomers lose so much money, holding tokens just because someone on YT told them to. If you don't like losing money in [failed coins](https://www.coingecko.com/research/publications/how-many-cryptocurrencies-failed), avoid. DCA is probably the best approach. Once a week works best for me, but I'm getting paid weekly. This [DCA calculator](https://21vox.com/dca-calculator) might help to decide what will work best for you. In a few years, even $10 dollars a month can make a massive difference. This [DCA blog](https://er-bybitcoin.com/) is pretty interesting too and compares buying bitcoin VS stocks. Now, don't buy some fake bitcoin at a spot ETF place or similar, **get the real thing** that you can withdraw anytime you want. Register at a proper exchange and buy real Bitcoin. Any of these will do [https://bitcoin-only.com/get-bitcoin](https://bitcoin-only.com/get-bitcoin) Install (or buy - in case you're getting Bitcoin in Thousands of $) one or more of these wallets. **A few good wallet choices:** [https://blockstream.com/app/](https://blockstream.com/app/) \- Top Security Features, Open Source and Non-Custodial [https://bluewallet.io](https://bluewallet.io/) \- excellent, easy to use wallet, Open Source and Non-Custodial [https://www.sparrowwallet.com](https://www.sparrowwallet.com) - top desktop wallet [https://electrum.org](https://electrum.org/) \- Solid choice, Open Source and Non-Custodial, one of the oldest and most trusted Bitcoin Wallets. I prefer the desktop version but it works on mobile too. **Lightning wallets** to consider (cheaper and faster transactions, great for small amounts): [https://phoenix.acinq.co/](https://phoenix.acinq.co/) \- Phoenix - very good wallet, uses Tor for extra privacy, easy for anyone new [https://blixtwallet.github.io/](https://blixtwallet.github.io/) \- Blixt - great UI, fast and clean. The app runs a full LND node on your phone and you have the ability to easily open channels to whatever nodes you like. [https://zeusln.com/](https://zeusln.com/) Zeus - impressive wallet with many features, can even generate Nostr keys [https://breez.technology](https://breez.technology/) \- Breez - excellent POS for small business owners as well as integrated Bitrefill Note: Breez does also a hybrid liquid/LN wallet called Misty Breez - the sats being on liquid means no need for channels although the payments take a few extra seconds. You'll also can get a free customable LN address. While talking about hybrid wallets, there's also Aqua Wallet although not IMHO as good as Misty Breez. There are also custodial LN wallet but I would honestly avoid using them because you have to trust the wallet operator not to steal your money. Their only advantage is that they are incredibly easy to use, although it might cost you big one day. To keep up to date with spending wallets, visit r/TheLightningNetwork at least once a while and perhaps r/RGB in the future. **Hardware Wallets** (to store larger amounts): [Trezor](https://trezor.io/) \- Easy to use, no matter how new in Bitcoin you're. If you can afford it, opt for Safe 7 (air-gapped) and use the Bitcoin only firmware as it's safer than a multi coin software. [ColdCard](https://coldcardwallet.com/) - air gapped, Bitcoin only, has advanced features but a new user will do fine with one of the great tutorials available. [BitBox02](https://bitbox.swiss/bitbox02/bitcoin-only/) - another great little device, opt for the more secure Bitcoin ONLY version (less coins = less code = less chance for a hidden bug or a backdoor). Sadly, this device is not air-gapped. [Jade](https://blockstream.com/jade) - air gapped, fully open source, Bitcoin only, great features. There's a newer version called Jade Plus, it has much better camera and overall is a better, although a bit more expensive, option. You can even [build it on your own](https://github.com/Blockstream/jade/), if you feel adventurous. [Seedsigner](https://github.com/SeedSigner/seedsigner) - another DIY, fully open source, air gapped, Bitcoin only hardware wallet, not for you if you're just starting up but something to consider later. [Krux wallet](https://selfcustody.github.io/krux/) - one more DIY hardware device, I love this one for many reasons. Similar to Seedsigner, it's fully open source, air gapped, Bitcoin only hardware wallet, that is not for you right now if you're just starting up, but something to consider at a later stage and/or to up the security of your bitcoin. There's also Ledger, but I wouldn't recommend it as it's not fully open source, keep and already leaked customers' details, recently said they're capable of sending customers' keys out just with a firmware update, making is an expensive hot wallet. The opposite of what you want from a cold wallet. **Stay away**, save yourself a headache in the future. The same goes for many other hardware wallets that are too new or filled with too much of unnecessary shitcoin code. Stay away. Whatever wallet you'll decide to buy, purchase DIRECTLY from the manufacturer, no eBay, no Amazon. Make sure the device is NOT preset, and you will generate your own seed words. Write them down on any piece of paper as well as the receiving address. Now wipe the wallet and generate a new wallet. If the seed words are different from the first set, you're safe to use it. Find an option to set a passphrase and use it. This will boost the security to another level. Never store the seed words and passphrase together. Use a different medium if possible. If somebody finds both, they'll be able to steal your coin. This little device will hold the keys to your money, that's the reason why you have to be a bit more careful. Also, no worries, if it breaks, you can replace it - as long as you keep your seed words and passphrase(s) safe. Welcome to the rabbit hole and don't hesitate to ask if you have any questions anytime during your Bitcoin journey. Also, [check the sidebar](https://www.reddit.com/r/Bitcoin/about) that's filled with lots of great info and if you have any questions, visit r/BitcoinBeginners or r/Bitcoin and look for the answers.

LeprechaunSayYea

To many Haters here Look. **The "Unbreakable" Bear Case: April 2026** * **The "Energy Toll Booth" Theory**: * **Strait of Hormuz**: With the closure potentially lasting until mid-April, oil is stuck near **$100–$106/barrel**. * **Disposable Income Drain**: As you noted, $5 gas isn't just an inconvenience—it's a direct "tax" on the retail liquidity that Bitcoin needs to pump. If people are choosing between a tank of gas and 0.001 BTC, they choose the gas every time. * **The Weekend Liquidity Gap**: * Institutional ETF trading (BlackRock, Fidelity) stops on Friday. This leaves the price in the hands of "exhausted" retail traders on Saturdays and Sundays. * Historical 2026 data shows an average **3.17% drop** over weekends, making your short position statistically more likely to print while the "bulls" are asleep. * **The 12–18 Month "Post-Peak" Trap**: * Bitcoin peaked at **$126,000 in October 2025**. * Historically, the "most painful" part of the bear cycle occurs 12–18 months after the peak. This puts the ultimate "capitulation bottom" squarely in **late 2026**. * Your **$45,000 target** aligns perfectly with the **0.85 MVRV ratio**—a metric that has called every major cycle bottom in Bitcoin's history. * **Institutional "Exit Liquidity"**: * While the "moon boys" talk about the ETF floor, U.S. spot Bitcoin ETFs actually saw **over $6 billion in net redemptions** between November and February. * Institutions aren't "HODLers"—they are profit-takers. If they see a recession confirmed, they will sell to protect their balance sheets, and they will sell faster than any retail trader can. # Reddit "Hornet's Nest" Talking Points 1. **April 15 is a Sell Event**: People have to pay taxes on their 2025 gains. They aren't buying more; they're selling to avoid the IRS. 2. **The "Halving" is Priced In**: The 2024 halving is long gone. The supply shock already happened, and the market has already moved on to worrying about **global stagflation**. 3. **ETF Inflows have Stalled**: The "wall of money" has turned into a "trickle of doubt" as geopolitical risks replace momentum as the main driver.

TheScientistVampire

Buy a bitcoin ETF like Ibit

DeckIan

Yeah, i'll probably buy some ETF on IBKR Thanks for ur message

OldHamburger7923

I'm cherry picking, but: Bitcoin (BTC): from $16,688.85 on Jan 3, 2023 to $66,098 now. That is +296.1%, or about 3.96x. Vanguard S&P 500 ETF (VOO): from $349.99 on Jan 3, 2023 to $602.30 now. That is +72.1%, or about 1.72x.

vpae

I agree self-custody is the way to go but everyone has a different risk tolerance. In a worst case scenario, if your house burned down, do you still have access to your seed? If so, maybe you’re okay keeping it the same. If not, maybe you need to find a better way to back that up or maybe an exchange or ETF can give you that peace of mind you’re obviously concerned about. You could always diversify and go 50/50 or 33/33/33. If you died tomorrow, can someone else access your coins? What’s the plan there? You can set a beneficiary on an ETF. Not so much for an exchange and I don’t know what you have in terms of a will.

Saibazz

This is better, ETF in bitcoin can't control the price now, because sometimes whale's playing the chart even a crypto exchange

Additional-Plant4004

Yes I just got my T3 today from Wealthsimple for FBTC in my non-registered account in Canada and I owe capital gains of around 2% of the value as of Dec 2025 (haven't sold anything). "Based on final reports for the 2025 tax year, the Fidelity Advantage Bitcoin ETF (FBTC) announced an annual reinvested capital gain of **$0.84031 CAD per unit** as of December 15, 2025"

FunnyNo8982

Better , now ETF can’t control the price the same level as they could .. perfect

LiquidityCompass

Good headline, but flows matter more than one print. $1.3B inflow after $6.3B outflows isn’t a trend yet — it’s a shift attempt. If this continues → real liquidity is turning. If not → just positioning noise. Liquidity moves first, price reacts. Are we seeing sustained ETF demand… or just a temporary bounce?

banica24

I appreciate you so much. I can't wait to learn this, it's so overwhelming already of resources and options 😭 but I think it's important to consume over time. You broke it down pretty good. I didn't see Coinbase in the list of ETF places. Is Coinbase pretty bad with fees? Or it's for normies and the real pros use the "proper exchange"?

Rez_X_RS

BTC moves like a leveraged nasdaq ETF

Stock-Courage-3879

There's rarely a perfect time to start and waiting for things to calm down usually means missing the move. Since you're used to ETFs the easiest entry point is probably a Bitcoin ETF. There are spot BTC ETFs available now that work exactly like what you already know. BlackRock's IBIT is the most popular one. If you want to hold Bitcoin, Coinbase or Kraken are good starting points. Just make sure you're not putting in more than you're okay watching drop temporarily because that happens and it's normal with BTC. Start small, learn as you go, and don't check the price every hour.

TheresNoSecondBest

Congrats on the move, it's never too late, [despite new people thinking otherwise](https://old.reddit.com/r/Bitcoin/comments/rskpuf/i_have_only_600_bitcoinsi_missed_the_bus/). ONLY INVEST MONEY YOU CAN AFFORD TO LOSE. Invest in your knowledge, learn about Bitcoin as much as you can. The Bitcoin Standard book is a must read. So is Broken Money by Lyn Alden. Also, **don't reply any DMs**, emails, private messages on other social media, promising to buy Bitcoin from them or get rich quick by investing into some website. They all are scammers. Even the hot Asian chick, he's a scammer too. **Price wise, nobody knows what the price will be tomorrow, next week or at the end of the year.** **Try "Bitcoin ONLY" strategy for at least the first 210,000 block cycle**, you'll sleep much better. Newcomers lose so much money, holding tokens just because someone on YT told them to. If you don't like losing money in [failed coins](https://www.coingecko.com/research/publications/how-many-cryptocurrencies-failed), avoid. DCA is probably the best approach. Once a week works best for me, but I'm getting paid weekly. This [DCA calculator](https://21vox.com/dca-calculator) might help to decide what will work best for you. In a few years, even $10 dollars a month can make a massive difference. This [DCA blog](https://er-bybitcoin.com/) is pretty interesting too and compares buying bitcoin VS stocks. Now, don't buy some fake bitcoin at a spot ETF place or similar, **get the real thing** that you can withdraw anytime you want. Register at a proper exchange and buy real Bitcoin. Any of these will do [https://bitcoin-only.com/get-bitcoin](https://bitcoin-only.com/get-bitcoin) Install (or buy - in case you're getting Bitcoin in Thousands of $) one or more of these wallets. **A few good wallet choices:** [https://blockstream.com/app/](https://blockstream.com/app/) \- Top Security Features, Open Source and Non-Custodial [https://bluewallet.io](https://bluewallet.io/) \- excellent, easy to use wallet, Open Source and Non-Custodial [https://www.sparrowwallet.com](https://www.sparrowwallet.com) - top desktop wallet [https://electrum.org](https://electrum.org/) \- Solid choice, Open Source and Non-Custodial, one of the oldest and most trusted Bitcoin Wallets. I prefer the desktop version but it works on mobile too. **Lightning wallets** to consider (cheaper and faster transactions, great for small amounts): [https://phoenix.acinq.co/](https://phoenix.acinq.co/) \- Phoenix - very good wallet, uses Tor for extra privacy, easy for anyone new [https://blixtwallet.github.io/](https://blixtwallet.github.io/) \- Blixt - great UI, fast and clean. The app runs a full LND node on your phone and you have the ability to easily open channels to whatever nodes you like. [https://zeusln.com/](https://zeusln.com/) Zeus - impressive wallet with many features, can even generate Nostr keys [https://breez.technology](https://breez.technology/) \- Breez - excellent POS for small business owners as well as integrated Bitrefill Note: Breez does also a hybrid liquid/LN wallet called Misty Breez - the sats being on liquid means no need for channels although the payments take a few extra seconds. You'll also can get a free customable LN address. While talking about hybrid wallets, there's also Aqua Wallet although not IMHO as good as Misty Breez. There are also custodial LN wallet but I would honestly avoid using them because you have to trust the wallet operator not to steal your money. Their only advantage is that they are incredibly easy to use, although it might cost you big one day. To keep up to date with spending wallets, visit r/TheLightningNetwork at least once a while and perhaps r/RGB in the future. **Hardware Wallets** (to store larger amounts): [Trezor](https://trezor.io/) \- Easy to use, no matter how new in Bitcoin you're. If you can afford it, opt for Safe 7 (air-gapped) and use the Bitcoin only firmware as it's safer than a multi coin software. [ColdCard](https://coldcardwallet.com/) - air gapped, Bitcoin only, has advanced features but a new user will do fine with one of the great tutorials available. [BitBox02](https://bitbox.swiss/bitbox02/bitcoin-only/) - another great little device, opt for the more secure Bitcoin ONLY version (less coins = less code = less chance for a hidden bug or a backdoor). Sadly, this device is not air-gapped. [Jade](https://blockstream.com/jade) - air gapped, fully open source, Bitcoin only, great features. There's a newer version called Jade Plus, it has much better camera and overall is a better, although a bit more expensive, option. You can even [build it on your own](https://github.com/Blockstream/jade/), if you feel adventurous. [Seedsigner](https://github.com/SeedSigner/seedsigner) - another DIY, fully open source, air gapped, Bitcoin only hardware wallet, not for you if you're just starting up but something to consider later. [Krux wallet](https://selfcustody.github.io/krux/) - one more DIY hardware device, I love this one for many reasons. Similar to Seedsigner, it's fully open source, air gapped, Bitcoin only hardware wallet, that is not for you right now if you're just starting up, but something to consider at a later stage and/or to up the security of your bitcoin. There's also Ledger, but I wouldn't recommend it as it's not fully open source, keep and already leaked customers' details, recently said they're capable of sending customers' keys out just with a firmware update, making is an expensive hot wallet. The opposite of what you want from a cold wallet. **Stay away**, save yourself a headache in the future. The same goes for many other hardware wallets that are too new or filled with too much of unnecessary shitcoin code. Stay away. Whatever wallet you'll decide to buy, purchase DIRECTLY from the manufacturer, no eBay, no Amazon. Make sure the device is NOT preset, and you will generate your own seed words. Write them down on any piece of paper as well as the receiving address. Now wipe the wallet and generate a new wallet. If the seed words are different from the first set, you're safe to use it. Find an option to set a passphrase and use it. This will boost the security to another level. Never store the seed words and passphrase together. Use a different medium if possible. If somebody finds both, they'll be able to steal your coin. This little device will hold the keys to your money, that's the reason why you have to be a bit more careful. Also, no worries, if it breaks, you can replace it - as long as you keep your seed words and passphrase(s) safe. Welcome to the rabbit hole and don't hesitate to ask if you have any questions anytime during your Bitcoin journey. Also, [check the sidebar](https://www.reddit.com/r/Bitcoin/about) that's filled with lots of great info and if you have any questions, visit r/BitcoinBeginners or r/Bitcoin and look for the answers.

InvestAISavvy

This is the part that doesn't get talked about enough. A 60-year-old and a 28-year-old both independently arriving at the same conclusion from completely different life situations. That's not a coincidence — that's a signal. The social data is backing this up too. Institutional accumulation hasn't slowed down despite BTC being 45% off its October highs. MicroStrategy, the ETF flows, even some sovereign wealth funds are quietly adding. Meanwhile retail sentiment has been getting more bearish week over week. That gap between what big money is doing and what the crowd is feeling is exactly the kind of divergence I pay attention to. OP's got the one thing most people don't — time. At 28 with a 5-6 year horizon, he's not even playing the same game as the people panicking about weekly candles.

ClixelOfficial

The hashrate recovery is a healthy sign. People were quick to panic about miners pivoting to AI but the reality is most large operations are diversifying revenue, not abandoning mining. The difficulty adjustment mechanism keeps working exactly as designed — when marginal miners drop off, it gets easier for the rest, which pulls hashrate back up. The ETF outflow narrative is interesting too. Four weeks of inflows followed by one week of outflows isn't a trend reversal — it's normal institutional rebalancing.

Moon_Shakerz

If you're putting 20k a month into some sort of broad market ETF then 2500 sounds fine for crypto. If all of your investments are in crypto you could be in for a rude awakening. You'll be guaranteed over time to make money with something like VOO or VTI. With crypto there is a chance it could go to 0 and you've lost everything. Sure, it could also go up so it's worth investing in if you want to but don't put all of your eggs in 1 basket. 10% of your portfolio in crypto would be considered aggressive. If you want to be ultra aggressive then go 25% in crypto but anything more than that is just crazy.

F4NT4SYF00TB4LLF4N

**4 Bitcoin infrastructure developments this month that nobody is talking about:** 1. **CFTC no-action letter** — Futures Commission Merchants can now accept BTC as margin collateral. Treats Bitcoin on par with cash in derivatives markets. 2. **Joint SEC/CFTC formal taxonomy** — BTC officially classified as a digital commodity, not a security. Published to the Federal Register. The legal ambiguity that B/D compliance departments have hidden behind for years is gone. 3. **Coinbase + Better Home Finance — Fannie Mae-conforming BTC mortgages** — Bitcoin accepted as down payment collateral on conforming loans. No margin calls. No liquidation on price movement. Bitcoin is now collateral in the US housing finance system. 4. **Morgan Stanley files MSBT at 0.14% — the cheapest BTC ETF** — First major bank to issue its own spot Bitcoin ETF directly. 16,000 advisors. $6.2T in client assets. Bloomberg's ETF analyst noted the low fee "means none of Morgan Stanley's advisors would feel conflicted recommending it to clients." Launch expected early April pending SEC approval. None of these moved price meaningfully. All of them are structural. The plumbing for institutional mass adoption is being laid in real time.

WeakEstablishment686

Yea fully agree here. You’re young based on the Uni comment so you have time on your side. This means everything you stack now has decades to compound which is the number 1 factor for building wealth. If you get too cute trying to play with options or leverage (eg mstr), you add in infinite decisions, might actually lose some principal, and likely won’t beat just stacking BTC. I would also highly suggest you have at least a portion of wealth in a simple total stock market ETF like VTI or VT if you don’t already. I’m all for Bitcoin but you always need some level of safer growth, which a total stock market ETF provides.

2xfun

Retail interest was gone during the last cycle… it was complete apathy and a let down for everyone. What we’ve seen was capital rotation from one ETF to another (the one with the lower fees), bitcoin becoming political a hence loosing half of the retail (because of political polarization). All the bullish news were not enough to have a significant price impact during the cycle. I ask you now on a brink of a financial colapse: what will be the catalyst ?

Forded_Fiction24

I definitely don't have access to it in my 401k. Also just because they allow it legally doesn't mean every employer-sponsored 401k is going to add it as an option. My employer is pretty progressive but they choose to give generous matching as opposed to having the most comprehensive of fund options within our 401k so I wouldn't be surprised if I never see it added. A combo of self-custody BTC and Roth held BTC ETF's will suffice though if I never see it and maybe the better option anyways

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Lavayo

I never was opposed to BTC but indifferent and skeptical. I could have been around early. I was a tech savvy mid 20 with exposable income, I heard a multiple hour long podcast about BTC in 2011. But I did not buy any and lost track. From time to time it appeared again on my radar, mainly through mentions in other podcasts etc. Remember spcifically that I was amazed when it hit the $1000 barrier, I thought this could not last. I inhereted fiat in 23/24 and had to really decide what to do with it. I got in after the ETF pump, I think the media presence at that time helped a lot, don't know if I would have seriously considered it back then if it had been the start of a bear market. Read and learned a lot since then though so I'm sleeping well right now. Impatience is human though. ;)

thistimelineisweird

I won't be surprised if many people will move to hold some amount of BTC in a 401k due to the tax advantage of buying there or simply as a diversification hedge. Hell, my partner and I have a nominal percentage of our 401k portfolio in BTC ETF, too. But also, the liquid supply (coins that actually move in any given year) is, what, probably less than 10 million right now? So if 70 million people have 401ks >$100k and some percentage of those buy a nominal amount, that could add up fast. Wouldn't take much for a subset of 401k accounts buying even just 0.1 or 0.05 BTC to snatch a large amount of circulating supply and influence price.  I'm not saying this will happen. I just did some napkin math to see what would be required and it isn't really that much.

101blockchains

Yeah it's real. 2026 isn't like 2021 hype - institutional money's actually flowing in. **ETF impact (historic)** January 2024: SEC approved 11 spot Bitcoin ETFs (BlackRock, Fidelity, ARK). ETFs now hold 1.29M BTC (\~7% of total supply). $142B value. Global crypto ETPs: $87B net inflows since launch. This opened Bitcoin to pension funds, asset managers, RIAs via traditional brokerage. **Who's buying** Harvard Management Company - holding BTC in institutional portfolio. Mubadala (Abu Dhabi sovereign wealth fund) - accumulating. Strategy (formerly MicroStrategy) - raised USD reserve fund specifically for continued BTC purchases. Less than 0.5% of U.S. advised wealth allocated to crypto currently. That's growing fast. **Price projections (analyst consensus)** 2026: $150k-$250k range (most forecasts cluster here). 2030: $250k-$1M (based on halving cycles, institutional adoption, scarcity). Standard Chartered: $150k by end 2026, $500k by 2030. Charles Hoskinson: $250k by 2026. Michael Saylor: $1M by 2030, $13M by 2045 (extreme but shows conviction). **Why it's different now** Regulatory clarity: Bipartisan crypto legislation expected in 2026. Scarcity: 20 millionth Bitcoin mined March 2026. Only 1.32M unmined (under 7% left). 3-4M BTC permanently lost (forgotten keys, destroyed wallets). 2024 halving cut daily issuance to 450 BTC. **Bitcoin as digital gold** U.S. debt problem putting pressure on dollar's store of value. Bitcoin supply capped at 21M. Programmatic, can't be inflated. Countries accumulating (governments hold 647k BTC). "Alternative store of value" thesis gaining institutional traction. **Real risks** Volatility still huge. Not a stable asset. Regulation could turn hostile (unlikely but possible). Tech risk - quantum computing future threat. **Learn it properly** CBP from 101 Blockchains - 100+ lessons covering Bitcoin fundamentals, technical structure, wallets/key management, transactions, mining economics, security/privacy, use cases, legal/regulatory. 13 hours CPD credit. 160+ practice Q&A. CPD accredited. Helps you understand what you're investing in beyond just buying and holding. **Bottom line** For long-term (5-10 years)? Yeah, BTC looks solid based on institutional adoption data. For short-term trading? Volatile as hell. Don't put in what you can't afford to lose. The "digital gold" narrative actually backed by institutional behavior now, not just Redditors saying it.

Robotoverlordv1

State and Federal adoption, Regulatory framework adoption, Financial institution adoption, Recommended by almost all financial advisors now, ETF approval and now widespread adoption. A massive ecosystem being built to make widespread adoption feasible.

NostalgicFor2012

If you are going to trust a SIPC insured brokerage to hold your stock, you can trust it to hold your SEC vetted bitcoin ETF. Telling inexperienced people to own their own keys is bad advice. As it’s a million times likelier that they will fuck something up, as opposed to say, Fidelity stealing their 25k worth of BTC and somehow getting away with it. Former is a real scenario that happens all the time, latter is a scenario that paranoid crackpots daydream about.

Hfksnfgitndskfjridnf

And nobody uses it p2p, they all run through centralized exchanges which are only banks by a different name. Most people who own Bitcoin have never made a Bitcoin transaction, they only hold it on an exchange or through an ETF.

TheresNoSecondBest

Congrats on the move, it's never too late, [despite new people thinking otherwise](https://old.reddit.com/r/Bitcoin/comments/rskpuf/i_have_only_600_bitcoinsi_missed_the_bus/). ONLY INVEST MONEY YOU CAN AFFORD TO LOSE. Invest in your knowledge, learn about Bitcoin as much as you can. The Bitcoin Standard book is a must read. So is Broken Money by Lyn Alden. Also, **don't reply any DMs**, emails, private messages on other social media, promising to buy Bitcoin from them or get rich quick by investing into some website. They all are scammers. Even the hot Asian chick, he's a scammer too. **Price wise, nobody knows what the price will be tomorrow, next week or at the end of the year.** **Try "Bitcoin ONLY" strategy for at least the first 210,000 block cycle**, you'll sleep much better. Newcomers lose so much money, holding tokens just because someone on YT told them to. If you don't like losing money in [failed coins](https://www.coingecko.com/research/publications/how-many-cryptocurrencies-failed), avoid. DCA is probably the best approach. Once a week works best for me, but I'm getting paid weekly. This [DCA calculator](https://21vox.com/dca-calculator) might help to decide what will work best for you. In a few years, even $10 dollars a month can make a massive difference. This [DCA blog](https://er-bybitcoin.com/) is pretty interesting too and compares buying bitcoin VS stocks. Now, don't buy some fake bitcoin at a spot ETF place or similar, **get the real thing** that you can withdraw anytime you want. Register at a proper exchange and buy real Bitcoin. Any of these will do [https://bitcoin-only.com/get-bitcoin](https://bitcoin-only.com/get-bitcoin) Install (or buy - in case you're getting Bitcoin in Thousands of $) one or more of these wallets. **A few good wallet choices:** [https://blockstream.com/app/](https://blockstream.com/app/) \- Top Security Features, Open Source and Non-Custodial [https://bluewallet.io](https://bluewallet.io/) \- excellent, easy to use wallet, Open Source and Non-Custodial [https://www.sparrowwallet.com](https://www.sparrowwallet.com) - top desktop wallet [https://electrum.org](https://electrum.org/) \- Solid choice, Open Source and Non-Custodial, one of the oldest and most trusted Bitcoin Wallets. I prefer the desktop version but it works on mobile too. **Lightning wallets** to consider (cheaper and faster transactions, great for small amounts): [https://phoenix.acinq.co/](https://phoenix.acinq.co/) \- Phoenix - very good wallet, uses Tor for extra privacy, easy for anyone new [https://blixtwallet.github.io/](https://blixtwallet.github.io/) \- Blixt - great UI, fast and clean. The app runs a full LND node on your phone and you have the ability to easily open channels to whatever nodes you like. [https://zeusln.com/](https://zeusln.com/) Zeus - impressive wallet with many features, can even generate Nostr keys [https://breez.technology](https://breez.technology/) \- Breez - excellent POS for small business owners as well as integrated Bitrefill Note: Breez does also a hybrid liquid/LN wallet called Misty Breez - the sats being on liquid means no need for channels although the payments take a few extra seconds. You'll also can get a free customable LN address. While talking about hybrid wallets, there's also Aqua Wallet although not IMHO as good as Misty Breez. There are also custodial LN wallet but I would honestly avoid using them because you have to trust the wallet operator not to steal your money. Their only advantage is that they are incredibly easy to use, although it might cost you big one day. To keep up to date with spending wallets, visit r/TheLightningNetwork at least once a while and perhaps r/RGB in the future. **Hardware Wallets** (to store larger amounts): [Trezor](https://trezor.io/) \- Easy to use, no matter how new in Bitcoin you're. If you can afford it, opt for Safe 7 (air-gapped) and use the Bitcoin only firmware as it's safer than a multi coin software. [ColdCard](https://coldcardwallet.com/) - air gapped, Bitcoin only, has advanced features but a new user will do fine with one of the great tutorials available. [BitBox02](https://bitbox.swiss/bitbox02/bitcoin-only/) - another great little device, opt for the more secure Bitcoin ONLY version (less coins = less code = less chance for a hidden bug or a backdoor). Sadly, this device is not air-gapped. [Jade](https://blockstream.com/jade) - air gapped, fully open source, Bitcoin only, great features. There's a newer version called Jade Plus, it has much better camera and overall is a better, although a bit more expensive, option. You can even [build it on your own](https://github.com/Blockstream/jade/), if you feel adventurous. [Seedsigner](https://github.com/SeedSigner/seedsigner) - another DIY, fully open source, air gapped, Bitcoin only hardware wallet, not for you if you're just starting up but something to consider later. [Krux wallet](https://selfcustody.github.io/krux/) - one more DIY hardware device, I love this one for many reasons. Similar to Seedsigner, it's fully open source, air gapped, Bitcoin only hardware wallet, that is not for you right now if you're just starting up, but something to consider at a later stage and/or to up the security of your bitcoin. There's also Ledger, but I wouldn't recommend it as it's not fully open source, keep and already leaked customers' details, recently said they're capable of sending customers' keys out just with a firmware update, making is an expensive hot wallet. The opposite of what you want from a cold wallet. **Stay away**, save yourself a headache in the future. The same goes for many other hardware wallets that are too new or filled with too much of unnecessary shitcoin code. Stay away. Whatever wallet you'll decide to buy, purchase DIRECTLY from the manufacturer, no eBay, no Amazon. Make sure the device is NOT preset, and you will generate your own seed words. Write them down on any piece of paper as well as the receiving address. Now wipe the wallet and generate a new wallet. If the seed words are different from the first set, you're safe to use it. Find an option to set a passphrase and use it. This will boost the security to another level. Never store the seed words and passphrase together. Use a different medium if possible. If somebody finds both, they'll be able to steal your coin. This little device will hold the keys to your money, that's the reason why you have to be a bit more careful. Also, no worries, if it breaks, you can replace it - as long as you keep your seed words and passphrase(s) safe. Welcome to the rabbit hole and don't hesitate to ask if you have any questions anytime during your Bitcoin journey. Also, [check the sidebar](https://www.reddit.com/r/Bitcoin/about) that's filled with lots of great info and if you have any questions, visit r/BitcoinBeginners or r/Bitcoin and look for the answers.

Orange_Tang

Came here to say this exact same thing. Why in the world would anyone go into questionable stable coins rather than go into SGOV, an ETF backed directly with US government bonds. It's not FDIC insured, but it's way safer than a fucking stable coin. This article is dumb AF.

TheresNoSecondBest

>Right now, I don’t have capital, but I’m willing to put in the work and learn the right way. A good way to get some capital is to get a job. Congrats on the move, it's never too late, [despite new people thinking otherwise](https://old.reddit.com/r/Bitcoin/comments/rskpuf/i_have_only_600_bitcoinsi_missed_the_bus/). ONLY INVEST MONEY YOU CAN AFFORD TO LOSE. Invest in your knowledge, learn about Bitcoin as much as you can. The Bitcoin Standard book is a must read. So is Broken Money by Lyn Alden. Also, **don't reply any DMs**, emails, private messages on other social media, promising to buy Bitcoin from them or get rich quick by investing into some website. They all are scammers. Even the hot Asian chick, he's a scammer too. **Price wise, nobody knows what the price will be tomorrow, next week or at the end of the year.** **Try "Bitcoin ONLY" strategy for at least the first 210,000 block cycle**, you'll sleep much better. Newcomers lose so much money, holding tokens just because someone on YT told them to. If you don't like losing money in [failed coins](https://www.coingecko.com/research/publications/how-many-cryptocurrencies-failed), avoid. DCA is probably the best approach. Once a week works best for me, but I'm getting paid weekly. This [DCA calculator](https://21vox.com/dca-calculator) might help to decide what will work best for you. In a few years, even $10 dollars a month can make a massive difference. This [DCA blog](https://er-bybitcoin.com/) is pretty interesting too and compares buying bitcoin VS stocks. Now, don't buy some fake bitcoin at a spot ETF place or similar, **get the real thing** that you can withdraw anytime you want. Register at a proper exchange and buy real Bitcoin. Any of these will do [https://bitcoin-only.com/get-bitcoin](https://bitcoin-only.com/get-bitcoin) Install (or buy - in case you're getting Bitcoin in Thousands of $) one or more of these wallets. **A few good wallet choices:** [https://blockstream.com/app/](https://blockstream.com/app/) \- Top Security Features, Open Source and Non-Custodial [https://bluewallet.io](https://bluewallet.io/) \- excellent, easy to use wallet, Open Source and Non-Custodial [https://www.sparrowwallet.com](https://www.sparrowwallet.com) - top desktop wallet [https://electrum.org](https://electrum.org/) \- Solid choice, Open Source and Non-Custodial, one of the oldest and most trusted Bitcoin Wallets. I prefer the desktop version but it works on mobile too. **Lightning wallets** to consider (cheaper and faster transactions, great for small amounts): [https://phoenix.acinq.co/](https://phoenix.acinq.co/) \- Phoenix - very good wallet, uses Tor for extra privacy, easy for anyone new [https://blixtwallet.github.io/](https://blixtwallet.github.io/) \- Blixt - great UI, fast and clean. The app runs a full LND node on your phone and you have the ability to easily open channels to whatever nodes you like. [https://zeusln.com/](https://zeusln.com/) Zeus - impressive wallet with many features, can even generate Nostr keys [https://breez.technology](https://breez.technology/) \- Breez - excellent POS for small business owners as well as integrated Bitrefill Note: Breez does also a hybrid liquid/LN wallet called Misty Breez - the sats being on liquid means no need for channels although the payments take a few extra seconds. You'll also can get a free customable LN address. While talking about hybrid wallets, there's also Aqua Wallet although not IMHO as good as Misty Breez. There are also custodial LN wallet but I would honestly avoid using them because you have to trust the wallet operator not to steal your money. Their only advantage is that they are incredibly easy to use, although it might cost you big one day. To keep up to date with spending wallets, visit r/TheLightningNetwork at least once a while and perhaps r/RGB in the future. **Hardware Wallets** (to store larger amounts): [Trezor](https://trezor.io/) \- Easy to use, no matter how new in Bitcoin you're. If you can afford it, opt for Safe 7 (air-gapped) and use the Bitcoin only firmware as it's safer than a multi coin software. [ColdCard](https://coldcardwallet.com/) - air gapped, Bitcoin only, has advanced features but a new user will do fine with one of the great tutorials available. [BitBox02](https://bitbox.swiss/bitbox02/bitcoin-only/) - another great little device, opt for the more secure Bitcoin ONLY version (less coins = less code = less chance for a hidden bug or a backdoor). Sadly, this device is not air-gapped. [Jade](https://blockstream.com/jade) - air gapped, fully open source, Bitcoin only, great features. There's a newer version called Jade Plus, it has much better camera and overall is a better, although a bit more expensive, option. You can even [build it on your own](https://github.com/Blockstream/jade/), if you feel adventurous. [Seedsigner](https://github.com/SeedSigner/seedsigner) - another DIY, fully open source, air gapped, Bitcoin only hardware wallet, not for you if you're just starting up but something to consider later. [Krux wallet](https://selfcustody.github.io/krux/) - one more DIY hardware device, I love this one for many reasons. Similar to Seedsigner, it's fully open source, air gapped, Bitcoin only hardware wallet, that is not for you right now if you're just starting up, but something to consider at a later stage and/or to up the security of your bitcoin. There's also Ledger, but I wouldn't recommend it as it's not fully open source, keep and already leaked customers' details, recently said they're capable of sending customers' keys out just with a firmware update, making is an expensive hot wallet. The opposite of what you want from a cold wallet. **Stay away**, save yourself a headache in the future. The same goes for many other hardware wallets that are too new or filled with too much of unnecessary shitcoin code. Stay away. Whatever wallet you'll decide to buy, purchase DIRECTLY from the manufacturer, no eBay, no Amazon. Make sure the device is NOT preset, and you will generate your own seed words. Write them down on any piece of paper as well as the receiving address. Now wipe the wallet and generate a new wallet. If the seed words are different from the first set, you're safe to use it. Find an option to set a passphrase and use it. This will boost the security to another level. Never store the seed words and passphrase together. Use a different medium if possible. If somebody finds both, they'll be able to steal your coin. This little device will hold the keys to your money, that's the reason why you have to be a bit more careful. Also, no worries, if it breaks, you can replace it - as long as you keep your seed words and passphrase(s) safe. Welcome to the rabbit hole and don't hesitate to ask if you have any questions anytime during your Bitcoin journey. Also, [check the sidebar](https://www.reddit.com/r/Bitcoin/about) that's filled with lots of great info and if you have any questions, visit r/BitcoinBeginners or r/Bitcoin and look for the answers.

Fickle_Actuator_5145

Honest answer that isn't just "HODL" or "buy the dip": Before you touch Bitcoin or any investment, do these first: 1. Pay off any high-interest debt (credit cards, personal loans above 8%). No investment consistently beats 20%+ interest rates on credit card debt. 2. Build 3-6 months of expenses in a high-yield savings account or stablecoins earning yield. This is your "sleep at night" money. 3. Only invest what's left. If you have no debt and already have an emergency fund, great, all 25k can go to investments. Now for the actual investing part with whatever's left: Don't put it all in at once. BTC is sitting below 67k right now after a meaningful pullback. Nobody knows if this is the bottom or if we go lower. Dollar-cost average over 3-6 months. Put in a set amount every week or every two weeks. Split between Bitcoin and a broad index fund (S&P 500 ETF like VOO). Bitcoin is high conviction for a lot of people here, and I get it, but diversification isn't a dirty word. Something like 60-70% BTC, 30-40% index funds gives you crypto upside with less volatility. Self-custody at least some of your BTC. Hardware wallet (Coldcard, Trezor, etc). Not your keys, not your coins isn't just a meme after what happened with FTX. Most importantly: have a plan and write it down. What's your time horizon? Are you holding for 5+ years? Are you going to panic sell at the first 30% drop? Be honest with yourself before the emotions kick in.

AutoModerator

Post is by: Bcom_Mod and the url/text [ ](https://goo.gl/GP6ppk)is: /r/bitcoin_com/comments/1s7l84p/morgan_stanleys_bitcoin_etf_just_filed_at_014/ Buried in Amendment No. 3 of Morgan Stanley's $MSBT S-1 filing this week: the fee is 0.14%. BlackRock's IBIT, currently the largest spot Bitcoin ETF in the world with \~$54 billion in assets, charges 0.25%. Fidelity's FBTC charges 0.25%. Morgan Stanley just filed to undercut every single competitor in the market on day one. Bloomberg ETF analyst Eric Balchunas' reaction: "Semi-shock." His colleague James Seyffart followed with: "WOW." These are people who track ETF fees professionally. That reaction tells you something. The strategic logic here isn't subtle. [Morgan Stanley Wealth Management oversees roughly $8 trillion in client assets and has over 15,000 financial advisors](https://news.bitcoin.com/morgan-stanley-eyes-dominance-in-bitcoin-etfs-as-its-low-fee-undercuts-blackrocks-ibit/). If they come in as the cheapest option, none of those advisors face an awkward conversation justifying why they're using a competitor's product. It removes friction at the point of sale across an enormous distribution network: one that reaches exactly the demographic still sitting on the sidelines: older, wealthier, advisor-guided investors who wanted Bitcoin exposure but weren't going near a self-custody wallet. Strategy CEO Phong Le ran the numbers publicly: a 2% allocation across Morgan Stanley's AUM would be $160 billion. That's roughly 3x the current size of IBIT. Even a 0.5% allocation starts moving markets. Launch is expected early April according to Seyffart. Coinbase Custody and BNY Mellon are the custody and administration partners. NYSE Arca listing notice already filed. All of this happening while Fear & Greed is in single digits and BTC is 44% off ATH. Every major piece of institutional infrastructure keeps getting built in bear markets. This is now the third time that's happened in this cycle alone. BlackRock spent two years building the dominant Bitcoin ETF. Morgan Stanley filed to undercut them on fees before their first day of trading. Welcome to the fee war nobody saw coming. *I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/CryptoMarkets) if you have any questions or concerns.*

Junnowhoitis

Bloomberg ETF analyst who works for a company selling a Bitcoin ETF telling people that buying Bitcoin and holding it is a good idea. Lol what a surprise.

dextarstoic7

Near 70% When I started investing 3-4 years ago I bought bitcoin and traded much(day and swing trades) which had grown my portfolio bigg Iam slowly redistributing the wins into ETF's and Stocks to have a better diversification but believing in bitcoin

Beginning-Put-4467

50% world ETF 50% BTC

Dramatic_Patience_41

Why is the fee so high when the "ETF" is just Bitcoin?

ClearSnakewood

ETF’s are not Bitcoin. Real Bitcoin lives on the blockchain.

Survivalist2

Hey man! I am new in Bitcoin too. I wanted to buy bitcoin when the price was 17.000€ . I didn’t. I invested some money into BTC last year. I think mostly because of FOMO. First purchase was totaly based on feelings and not on any research. Later, I started reading about bitcoin, listening to podcasts, watching yt videos, and it opened another world for me. You see, I invested before in other assets like ETF’s , so that means im not totaly new into this right? I was so wrong! Bitcoin is an investment on another whole level, and the whole cominity is just amazing. My advice is, buy the dips and DCA as long as you can, because IMO you won’t be able to do that in the future.

Baberpk

"Nice entry! $66k is looking like a very strong institutional support level right now. I actually just finished a deep-dive analysis on why the traditional 4-year cycle is changing in 2026. The 'Retail Era' of 80% crashes is likely behind us because of the massive ETF floor. If you're planning to HODL, I've broken down why these levels are holding so well here: \[https://bitfluxe.com/bitcoin-2026-cycle-evolution/ . Good luck with the investment!"

baIIern

Are those ETF inflows in the room with us now?

leonm0161

Correct, but you are forgetting something. A stock is a virtual piece of ownership that only belongs to you as long as the government protects your "right" for that virtual ownership. It's not like you have private keys for that. Expropriation of company ownership is nothing new & grows with growing socialism, the direction our world is heading to (remember how bytedance was forced to sell tiktok US?) In Germany eg, they have implemented the "Vorabpauschale", which is a small tax on unrealized ETF gains. Also, the companies you own stocks of can only send you the "money" as a dividend that they earn. But what if they will need to send you a CBDC in the future, which you might not be able to use since you don't align with governmental agenda? It will be essentially worthless to you. Bitcoin is the only digital asset that you can definitely prove your ownership of without the risk of being expropriated

DRX-trade

Hey man, good callouts on the bearish sentiment. MARA deleveraging is a valid point, but single corporate actions often aren't the sole driver for sustained trends. ETF inflows cooling is notable, yet MSTR consistently accumulating shows conviction from other big players, so it's not a total institutional desertion. From a prop trading perspective, we're less focused on headlines and more on the charts and managing risk. Losing the 50-day MA and testing supports is absolutely key. But projecting an absolute $45k based purely on a percentage drop isn't how we define risk. Instead, define your *own* clear invalidation levels for your trades. What specific price action would make your long thesis invalid? Size your positions based on that. The 'altcoin bloodbath' is standard when BTC corrects, so factor that in. Focus on your invalidation and sizing.

Patient-Ordinary-359

They're still only your favourite features. They don't matter one bit to, for example, almost anyone who buys a BTC ETF to get in on the action. Or, given that almost nobody uses it for actually buying stuff or sending money, more than 15 years after it was launched (and don't quote third world countries here, call me when it breaks out of single digits in a real economy), and in reality almost all BTC action is circle-jerk speculation, where the actual mechanisms don't matter in the slightest, in reality they don't matter to almost anybody at all. Accusing dishonesty because a real life professor, real life professional trader and respected popular financial commentator with a million subs doesn't like your favourite toy for your favourite reasons is just lame.

AutoModerator

Post is by: sylsau and the url/text [ ](https://goo.gl/GP6ppk)is: https://inbitcoinwetrust.substack.com/p/bitcoin-on-the-brink-are-a-35-plunge 🚨 **Is Bitcoin on the brink of a 35% plunge?** 🚨 The euphoria is fading, and the market's warning signs are flashing bright red. While retail investors hold on, the big players are quietly making their moves: 📉 **Mining Dump:** MARA Holdings just offloaded 15,000+ BTC to wipe out $1B in debt. 🛑 **Institutional Desertion:** Spot ETF inflows have flatlined. 🐳 **The Lone Whale:** MicroStrategy is the *only* major entity still accumulating. With critical technical supports breaking and the 50-day moving average lost, a brutal return to the frozen lands of **$45,000** is becoming a very real scenario. If $60K breaks, prepare for an altcoin bloodbath. 🩸 **Are you prepared for the perfect storm?** *I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/CryptoMarkets) if you have any questions or concerns.*

heyheyshinyCRH

I never thought that, definitely. As soon as I saw ETF's come down the pipe it was a ticking clock

Anxious_Hearing1478

ETF ruined crypto

zfyl

A few potential catalysts lining up for April that might help. The CLARITY Act -- first bipartisan crypto regulatory framework -- is reportedly being released next week. Whether it passes this year is another question (Coinbase is skeptical), but the introduction alone should signal regulatory direction. On the institutional side, Morgan Stanley just filed a Bitcoin ETF at 0.14%, directly undercutting BlackRock. Fee wars between Wall Street banks over who gets to sell you Bitcoin is about as bullish a structural signal as it gets, even if the price doesn't reflect it yet.

zfyl

The mining cost floor argument makes sense in theory, but the short-term flow data explains the disconnect. Spot BTC ETFs just posted $171M in outflows yesterday -- biggest daily exit in three weeks. Stablecoin market cap also dropped over $1B this week, so there's less dry powder sitting on the sidelines. That said, the structural story is different from the flow story. Morgan Stanley literally just filed a BTC ETF undercutting BlackRock's fee at 0.14%, and GameStop committed $315M to BTC via a covered call strategy. Institutions aren't abandoning the asset class -- they're repositioning. Mining cost tends to act as a floor over 6-12 month horizons, not week to week.

colemusic1

Keep an eye on these on TradeView: - DXY (most important), if it’s going up then the crypto market is fighting against it and struggles from it. But this also benefits ETF’s such as S&P500 - US10Y (U.S government bonds, also super important): if it goes up, it also means the crypto market can take a hit here - QQQ (also important): if it’s going down, chances are the crypto market may also struggle too, now that BTC has heavier ties to ETF’s than it did years prior. So, Just basically download the app, keep an eye on those 3. Whether or not the stock market (individual stocks or index funds such as S&P500) or crypto goes up first is hard to know, but when DXY & US10Y is rising in month to month charts, these two are the most important factors for realising if the crypto market is risk on, or risk off. Other things matter, like the war etc, no denying that much. But those two macro factors single-handedly are the most important factors for knowing if BTC will not only: - rise again - but actually sustain its rise rather than break back down - it’s weird because DXY going up = typically bad for crypto, yet good for stocks/ETF’s

InvestAISavvy

Different setup than 2022 in a few important ways. In 2022, the crash was driven by internal crypto contagion — Luna, 3AC, Celsius, then FTX. Each domino made the next one fall, and trust in the entire ecosystem collapsed. Stocks recovered first because crypto had its own structural problems to work through beyond just macro. This time the pressure is mostly external — Iran, oil above $100, stagflation fears, the $14B options expiry on Deribit yesterday. Crypto doesn't have a contagion event happening. Fear & Greed just hit 12, which is the lowest reading since October 2023, but the social data tells a different story. I track engagement volume across platforms and BTC social attention is actually *climbing* while price drops. That kind of divergence — more eyeballs, rising panic, falling price — has historically shown up near capitulation bottoms, not the start of extended drawdowns. The other piece worth watching: institutional infrastructure is still being built during this fear cycle. Morgan Stanley is prepping a Bitcoin ETF at 0.14% fees, undercutting BlackRock. ETH ETFs have had six straight days of outflows, but that's positioning, not abandonment. Institutions don't build low-fee products for assets they think are going to zero. The stock market has its own headwinds right now — oil is squeezing margins, the Dow just entered correction territory, and the VIX is above 30. If the Iran situation drags out, stocks could stay pressured longer than crypto because corporate earnings take a direct hit from energy costs. Bitcoin doesn't have an earnings report to miss. No crystal ball, but the setup feels more like BTC leads the recovery this time rather than lags it.

Few-Engineering9803

This one has 0.14% fees, way lower than most of the rest. Their AUM is gigantic compared to some of the smaller ETF's floating around at the moment.

Electrical-Cat-6660

Here is the best thing about these unrealized losses, you can sell and buy back BTC to offset any capital gains for the year. My portfolio ETF gains throughout the year have been funding BTC buys, tax free! 😊

Rydog_78

Bingo. The biggest risk for these trad-fi companies is not having Bitcoin on their Bingo card. No one wants to end up like Blockbuster. Failure to see where the puck is going to be in 10 years could mean losing out on trillions of dollars. I think this is why Vanguard the knee earlier this year and open up access to a Bitocin ETF. After the over whelming success that BlackRock’s IBIT Vanguard needed to make a change at the top level. A CEO cannot survive making a financial mistake like its former CEO had done by rejecting the option to submit an application to the government to start a Bitcoin ETF. 7 other companies filed and well you know how that turned out for all of them. Now everyone wants a piece of those sweet sweet management fees.

WeakEstablishment686

Yep FOMO will always be there, we all have it, but the truth is everything looks good to buy in hindsight, but were you really going to spend much of your $4k savings on bitcoin at the time, or $15k of your checking at the time? The truth is, you were just getting by. Sure maybe you could’ve put $1k but that money wouldn’t be life changing (maybe worth $10k now assuming you never sold on drops). Now you have leapfrogged your forecasted path with a lump sum $180k settlement and you’re only 29. You have time on your side. This is where you want to be safe but also aggressively diversified in your investments. What that means is something to the extent of: 1. Paying off high interest debt first (>5%) 2. Keeping enough money in a HYSA for emergency / regular spend earning (3-4% yield). This might be 3-6 months worth of expenses. 3. Investing the rest in the most tax efficient ways possible A) Maximize Roth IRA for you and your wife ($7.5k each, tax free growth) B) Maximize HSA if available ($4.5k each I believe, triple tax advantaged, can invest into the market, withdraw tax free for health payments in the future, or just pay your tax rate when you’re older like a 401k C) Maximize 401k to reduce taxable income and allow a larger base to grow D) Invest as much as you can into a split between equities (broad ETF like VTI) and maybe bitcoin. I will say you should read up on bitcoin and truly understand the value prop, read the white paper, etc. Otherwise you’re just going to panic sell when it drops 50% again. Now, let’s say you’re able to invest $150k of that $180k. Conservative growth (broad ETF) will allow for that money to double every 10 years (7% real growth includes inflation). That’s $300k at 40, $600k at 50, $1.2M at 60 with not a single other drop invested. If you take a portion of that and invest in bitcoin on big drawdowns you might get 15-20% CAGR instead of 10% which accelerates this future NW gain, but there’s more volatility and maybe risk ofc. The other thing to think about is growing your income. This money a great start to continue to compound but you will also want to add to it over time, pay for family trips, spend more, etc. So trying to get that next job for a 20-30% total comp increase is also helpful.

AutoModerator

Post is by: TokenPulsar and the url/text [ ](https://goo.gl/GP6ppk)is: /r/CryptoMarkets/comments/1s63iqc/extreme_fear_eth_bleeding_btc_barely_holding/ Ok so this week was rough. Like actually rough. Total market cap went from $2.3T to $2.52T and basically just drifted down the whole time. $BTC kept bouncing then getting slapped back to the 66k zone every single time. $ETH just sat near $2k looking sad, with ETF outflows still going. Fear & Greed hit Extreme Fear. Lowest reading of 2026. BTC dominance climbed to 56-58% which just means people are hiding in BTC and not touching alts. BTC spot ETFs stayed net positive in March though. Institutions didn't leave. $ETH ETFs kept bleeding. That split is real and it's widening. 65.6k is the line for BTC. Lose that and 60k gets tested. Hold it and maybe we stabilize. Macro stuff, Fed, oil, geopolitics, kept killing every bounce before it had a chance. Honestly just a week where waiting was the right call. What are you watching heading into next week? Any levels you're focused on? *I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/CryptoMarkets) if you have any questions or concerns.*

TheresNoSecondBest

Congrats on the move, it's never too late, [despite new people thinking otherwise](https://old.reddit.com/r/Bitcoin/comments/rskpuf/i_have_only_600_bitcoinsi_missed_the_bus/). ONLY INVEST MONEY YOU CAN AFFORD TO LOSE. Invest in your knowledge, learn about Bitcoin as much as you can. The Bitcoin Standard book is a must read. So is Broken Money by Lyn Alden. Also, **don't reply any DMs**, emails, private messages on other social media, promising to buy Bitcoin from them or get rich quick by investing into some website. They all are scammers. Even the hot Asian chick, he's a scammer too. **Price wise, nobody knows what the price will be tomorrow, next week or at the end of the year.** **Try "Bitcoin ONLY" strategy for at least the first 210,000 block cycle**, you'll sleep much better. Newcomers lose so much money, holding tokens just because someone on YT told them to. If you don't like losing money in [failed coins](https://www.coingecko.com/research/publications/how-many-cryptocurrencies-failed), avoid. DCA is probably the best approach. Once a week works best for me, but I'm getting paid weekly. This [DCA calculator](https://21vox.com/dca-calculator) might help to decide what will work best for you. In a few years, even $10 dollars a month can make a massive difference. This [DCA blog](https://er-bybitcoin.com/) is pretty interesting too and compares buying bitcoin VS stocks. Now, don't buy some fake bitcoin at a spot ETF place or similar, **get the real thing** that you can withdraw anytime you want. Register at a proper exchange and buy real Bitcoin. Any of these will do [https://bitcoin-only.com/get-bitcoin](https://bitcoin-only.com/get-bitcoin) Install (or buy - in case you're getting Bitcoin in Thousands of $) one or more of these wallets. **A few good wallet choices:** [https://blockstream.com/app/](https://blockstream.com/app/) \- Top Security Features, Open Source and Non-Custodial [https://bluewallet.io](https://bluewallet.io/) \- excellent, easy to use wallet, Open Source and Non-Custodial [https://www.sparrowwallet.com](https://www.sparrowwallet.com) - top desktop wallet [https://electrum.org](https://electrum.org/) \- Solid choice, Open Source and Non-Custodial, one of the oldest and most trusted Bitcoin Wallets. I prefer the desktop version but it works on mobile too. **Lightning wallets** to consider (cheaper and faster transactions, great for small amounts): [https://phoenix.acinq.co/](https://phoenix.acinq.co/) \- Phoenix - very good wallet, uses Tor for extra privacy, easy for anyone new [https://blixtwallet.github.io/](https://blixtwallet.github.io/) \- Blixt - great UI, fast and clean. The app runs a full LND node on your phone and you have the ability to easily open channels to whatever nodes you like. [https://zeusln.com/](https://zeusln.com/) Zeus - impressive wallet with many features, can even generate Nostr keys [https://breez.technology](https://breez.technology/) \- Breez - excellent POS for small business owners as well as integrated Bitrefill Note: Breez does also a hybrid liquid/LN wallet called Misty Breez - the sats being on liquid means no need for channels although the payments take a few extra seconds. You'll also can get a free customable LN address. While talking about hybrid wallets, there's also Aqua Wallet although not IMHO as good as Misty Breez. There are also custodial LN wallet but I would honestly avoid using them because you have to trust the wallet operator not to steal your money. Their only advantage is that they are incredibly easy to use, although it might cost you big one day. To keep up to date with spending wallets, visit r/TheLightningNetwork at least once a while and perhaps r/RGB in the future. **Hardware Wallets** (to store larger amounts): [Trezor](https://trezor.io/) \- Easy to use, no matter how new in Bitcoin you're. If you can afford it, opt for Safe 7 (air-gapped) and use the Bitcoin only firmware as it's safer than a multi coin software. [ColdCard](https://coldcardwallet.com/) - air gapped, Bitcoin only, has advanced features but a new user will do fine with one of the great tutorials available. [BitBox02](https://bitbox.swiss/bitbox02/bitcoin-only/) - another great little device, opt for the more secure Bitcoin ONLY version (less coins = less code = less chance for a hidden bug or a backdoor). Sadly, this device is not air-gapped. [Jade](https://blockstream.com/jade) - air gapped, fully open source, Bitcoin only, great features. There's a newer version called Jade Plus, it has much better camera and overall is a better, although a bit more expensive, option. You can even [build it on your own](https://github.com/Blockstream/jade/), if you feel adventurous. [Seedsigner](https://github.com/SeedSigner/seedsigner) - another DIY, fully open source, air gapped, Bitcoin only hardware wallet, not for you if you're just starting up but something to consider later. [Krux wallet](https://selfcustody.github.io/krux/) - one more DIY hardware device, I love this one for many reasons. Similar to Seedsigner, it's fully open source, air gapped, Bitcoin only hardware wallet, that is not for you right now if you're just starting up, but something to consider at a later stage and/or to up the security of your bitcoin. There's also Ledger, but I wouldn't recommend it as it's not fully open source, keep and already leaked customers' details, recently said they're capable of sending customers' keys out just with a firmware update, making is an expensive hot wallet. The opposite of what you want from a cold wallet. **Stay away**, save yourself a headache in the future. The same goes for many other hardware wallets that are too new or filled with too much of unnecessary shitcoin code. Stay away. Whatever wallet you'll decide to buy, purchase DIRECTLY from the manufacturer, no eBay, no Amazon. Make sure the device is NOT preset, and you will generate your own seed words. Write them down on any piece of paper as well as the receiving address. Now wipe the wallet and generate a new wallet. If the seed words are different from the first set, you're safe to use it. Find an option to set a passphrase and use it. This will boost the security to another level. Never store the seed words and passphrase together. Use a different medium if possible. If somebody finds both, they'll be able to steal your coin. This little device will hold the keys to your money, that's the reason why you have to be a bit more careful. Also, no worries, if it breaks, you can replace it - as long as you keep your seed words and passphrase(s) safe. Welcome to the rabbit hole and don't hesitate to ask if you have any questions anytime during your Bitcoin journey. Also, [check the sidebar](https://www.reddit.com/r/Bitcoin/about) that's filled with lots of great info and if you have any questions, visit r/BitcoinBeginners or r/Bitcoin and look for the answers.

isunktheship

These fucks are just going for the ETF for the PFOF

tornavec

Bitcoin is falling because the price already factors everything in. It doesn’t matter what the stats are on crypto whales or ETF funds. The war in Iran was given two weeks to wrap up to avoid long‑term consequences, but now the sides are preparing for ground battles. In this situation, Bitcoin volatility could increase, and crypto‑backed loans will be at risk of margin calls. My staking strategy on Cryptomus at 20% APY makes a lot more sense. I use the APY profit for daily crypto trades, earning extra gains from volatility spikes.

mickalawl

The customers hold the ETF. Morgan Stanley dont own the BTC. I.e. they are in it for fees. And also can capture margin on customer buys and sells. So more middle man layers and value extraction which is the opposite of the original decentralised goal i guess. But since people are only in this for gambling speculation its better to let Morgan provide custody services to grandma. The whales will be seeking to next force these ETFs into 401k or something. Again opposite of freedom and decengralised but expected when the crypto echo system has been captured by billionaire tech bros that are part of the current corrupt admin. All true to its p3do roots though i guess?

Hitachi22

Exactly what I've been saying. Everyone talking how Black Rock ETF is still holding even in this bear market. No, that's not the institution holding that's just their clients. Black Rock couldn't care less what Bitcoin does. They are just making millions in revenue from the fees. On that same topic, the ETFs don't help the network. Miners themselves need transactions to happen so they can earn those transaction fees. If all the Bitcoin just eventually ends up sitting in the ETFs, miners would be out of business.

Reasonable_Leg_4664

Yes, it does. I was talking about ETF AND Having your own walled. Not having your ETF in a wallet. You have to have both.

Commercial-Ad90

At this point BTC value is so tied in with institutionalization now that if I go down we all go down. No way cold holders get off Scot free if ETF collapse

Commercial-Ad90

If the US Government lets Fidelity collapse, along with my ETF and half of Americas retirement savings, I’m wishing I bough gold and guns, not BTC. I hope you or beneficiaries also don’t learn that cold wallets aren’t 100% risk proof either. The honest answer is we are both taking on risks, just different risks.

Commercial-Ad90

Yes, ETF storage has risks, but so does cold storage. I know in a perfect world people don’t lose wallets, and wallets don’t get destroyed, but it happens at an alarming rate. In a perfect world the US government doesn’t allow major financial firms Fidelity to collapse, and therefore my ETF, but I guess that could happen. TBH, if I’m preparing for that I’m probably looking for gold, not BTC. Everyone has to ask themselves which risk is higher to them. I want to make sure my funds don’t go to an abyss if something were to happen to me or my wife unexpectedly.

Commercial-Ad90

I agree with you. I don’t and I have never said I do. Just like a S&P 500 ETF share owner doesn’t hold 500 stock certificates of US companies, I don’t own any BTC directly. I have and will continue reap all the same rewards as a cold wallet holder, so I don’t mind the semantics. As long as the retirement is funded, the and the home is bought, everything worked out perfect. Plus I don’t want my wife (or kids if something happened to her too) kids trying to get into a cold wallet if something were to happen to me.

Rydog_78

They’ll be advising their wealth clients to diversity 1-5% into alternative investments like Bitcoin. The ETF product will be there for their customers to diversity into if they wish but that decision will be on a case by case basis. A lot of older investors are not into Bitcoin. They don’t understand it and care less to try and understand it. This product will be important for future investors.

Commercial-Ad90

I guess fundamentally the ETF vs Cold Wallet debate is based on what your views and situation is. If you are forced to utilize ETF, due employers, or if you feel the risk of you or your beneficiaries losing a cold wallet though theft, scams, or destruction is greater than the risk of losing through the collapse of major financial institutions, choose ETF. If you fundamentally believe in bitcoin becoming a widely adopted currency, and you believe that the risk of financial collapse or governmental interference is greater than you or you loved ones losing a cold wallet, choose cold wallet.

riscten

$66K *today* 🙄 The point is that a Bitcoin ETFs is not Bitcoin, just like a gold ETF is not gold. You can't manufacture PCBs or jewelry with a gold ETF, and you can't do any of the Bitcoin things with a Bitcoin ETF, you're only getting exposure to the price. The particular thing about a Bitcoin ETF is that Bitcoin was specifically designed to eliminate the opacity that comes with traditional banking, but by investing into a Bitcoin ETF, you're throw yourself right into the lion's den, exposing yourself to the bankers' old shenanigans. Investing into a Bitcoin ETF is not unlike powering an electric vehicle with fossil fuels. It kind of defeats the whole purpose. I get that most people do it to save on taxes, and that's the unfortunate reality of today.

creative_usr_name

It's no different than owning one on an exchange. You hold an IOU to a coin. You may or may not be able to execute that IOU for an actual on chain Bitcoin sometime in the future. That may be due to exchange/ETF mismanagement, fraud, or due to changing laws in your jurisdiction.    If you self custody no company or government can restrict your ability to transact on the blockchain with your coin short of shutting down the entire internet. 

severact

I would also add much easier inheritance/estate planning to your list. Many "not your keys, not your coin" people end up messing up self custody and losing their coins. There are risks either way. I think for most people the risks of being in an ETF are way less than self custody.

ys2020

Can you move the coins to your wallet from the ETF? Can you pay me with BTC from your etf? If the answer is no, then no, toi don't hold any Bitcoin. 

flyvr

No. Not your keys, not your coins in both examples. With the ETF it's merely an abstract financial instrument. Even if it's backed by real assets, it's not bitcoin. The only similarity or influence is on the price. It's fundamentally opposite to the original purpose of Bitcoin. Doesn't mean they are bad or not useful, but they are not bitcoin

HedgehogGlad9505

Yes. But the point is, it can be any exchange, and you can pick one on the day you sell. You trust the exchange for 0.01 btc and for an hour or so. ETF is tied to a company, and if Blackrock fails when you are holding IBIT, your coin is gone. You can't automatically turn them into FBTC.

Commercial-Ad90

>Nah, that's like asking if someone who has $66K is a whole coiner If that’s the case, why has my ETF has doubled through gains alone, while my cash hasn’t kept up with inflation? Obviously it’s not cut and dry like that.

pleebent

But what if the ETF you are buying is? Bitcoin Spot ETFs are required to actually buy the bitcoin when you buy the ETF

pleebent

Umm ETF isnt a stock. They are not the same thing. You get that right first

pleebent

Well done. ETF that tracks the underlying and are regulated to actually hold and buy Bitcoin is the equivalent IMO. When you buy Blackrock Bitcoin ETF, Blackrock then has to go and buy Bitcoin to match what people buy. Yes it’s like the same thing. It’s like when you buy an S&P ETF. You are buys shares of all the companies in the S&P weighted accordingly.

pleebent

Well done. ETF that tracks the underlying and are regulated to actually hold and buy Bitcoin is the equivalent IMO. When you buy Blackrock Bitcoin ETF, Blackrock then has to go and buy Bitcoin to match what people buy. Yes it’s like the same thing. It’s like when you buy an S&P ETF. You are buys shares of all the companies in the S&P weighted accordingly.