For crypto info, I’d start with CoinDesk. It’s like a big news site, but just for crypto. They give you news, explain what’s happening in the market, and even have tools to help you understand the charts (that’s technical analysis!).
But remember, there are lots of places to learn. Don’t just rely on one!
- News sites: Besides CoinDesk, look at places like Cointelegraph or The Block. They all have different angles.
- Educational resources: Websites like Investopedia have sections on crypto explaining the basics. YouTube channels can be helpful too, but be careful – not all are trustworthy.
- Official project websites: If you’re interested in a specific cryptocurrency (like Bitcoin or Ethereum), go to its official website. This is the best place for accurate info about that coin.
Important things to know:
- Do your own research (DYOR): Never trust one source completely. Always compare information from multiple websites.
- Be wary of scams: Many fake projects try to trick people. Be extra cautious and verify everything before investing.
- Start small: Only invest what you can afford to lose. Crypto is risky!
What is the most trusted platform to buy crypto?
Coinbase is a popular place to buy cryptocurrency. It’s known for being relatively easy to use, even if you’re new to crypto. They’ve been around since 2012, so they’re one of the older and more established companies in the space, which can be reassuring.
Security: Coinbase has measures in place to protect your money, like storing most of it offline in “cold storage,” but like any online platform, there’s always some risk. It’s important to secure your account with strong passwords and two-factor authentication (2FA).
Ease of Use: The interface is generally considered user-friendly. Buying crypto is pretty straightforward, and they offer educational resources to help beginners understand things better.
Fees: Coinbase charges fees for buying and selling crypto. These fees can vary depending on the payment method and the cryptocurrency you’re trading. It’s a good idea to check their fee schedule before you buy anything.
Coin Selection: They offer a good selection of popular cryptocurrencies, but not every coin is available on Coinbase. If you’re looking for a very niche or less-known coin, you might need to use a different exchange.
Customer Support: While Coinbase aims for good customer support, response times can sometimes be slow, especially during busy periods.
Important Note: Investing in cryptocurrency is risky. The value of cryptocurrencies can go up and down dramatically, so only invest what you can afford to lose. Do your own research before investing in any cryptocurrency.
How much is $1 in cryptocurrency today?
The USD to BTC exchange rate fluctuates constantly. The provided snapshot at 12:29 am shows approximate values, not guaranteed execution prices.
Key takeaway: $1 buys roughly 0.000012 BTC at this moment.
Approximate Equivalents:
- 0.5 USD = 0.00000605 BTC
- 1 USD = 0.000012 BTC
- 5 USD = 0.000060 BTC
- 10 USD = 0.000121 BTC
Important Considerations:
- Exchange Fees: These figures don’t include trading fees, which vary considerably between exchanges. Factor these costs into your calculations.
- Volatility: Bitcoin’s price is highly volatile. Expect significant price swings throughout the day, even within minutes. These rates are only accurate for the specific time shown.
- Spread: The difference between the bid and ask price (what you can buy and sell at) can also impact the actual amount of BTC received.
- Security: Use reputable and secure cryptocurrency exchanges.
Where is the best place to talk about crypto?
For crypto discussions, I’d recommend checking out online communities like Reddit’s cryptocurrency subreddits (be mindful of scams!). Reliable news sources are key to staying informed. In 2025, sites like CoinDesk, Cointelegraph, U.Today, Decrypt, The Crypto Times, The Coin Bureau, and Blockworks are expected to remain prominent. These provide news, analysis, and market updates. Remember, crypto is volatile; always do your own research (DYOR) before investing. Don’t invest more than you can afford to lose. Consider using reputable exchanges and be wary of promises of quick riches – those are often red flags.
While these websites offer valuable information, remember that they represent different perspectives and biases. Comparing information from several sources is crucial for forming your own well-informed opinion. Look for articles that cite credible sources and avoid those that rely heavily on speculation or hype. Also, be aware of potential conflicts of interest – some websites may be affiliated with specific projects or companies.
Finally, learn the basics of blockchain technology, different cryptocurrencies (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.), and the risks involved before participating. Understanding the underlying technology will help you evaluate information critically and make more informed decisions. Use reputable learning resources and be cautious of information found on less established platforms.
What is the most trusted crypto website?
There’s no single “most trusted” crypto website; trust depends on individual needs and risk tolerance. Each platform excels in different areas, and security breaches can occur anywhere. Due diligence is crucial.
Coinbase: While boasting a large selection, its user interface can be cumbersome for advanced traders. Fees can also be higher than some competitors, especially for smaller trades. Regulatory compliance is a strength, but this often translates to stricter Know Your Customer (KYC) procedures.
Crypto.com: Its mobile app is indeed user-friendly, but its vast ecosystem, including its own token (CRO), introduces potential conflicts of interest. Scrutinize its fee structure carefully, as some fees may be hidden or less transparent.
Abra: Primarily focused on institutional and high-net-worth individuals, Abra offers services that are often beyond the reach of average investors. Expect rigorous verification processes.
Kraken: Known for security features, it’s a solid choice for those prioritizing security above all else. However, its interface may feel less intuitive to beginners.
Binance.US: A runner-up in security, Binance.US offers competitive fees and a wide range of cryptocurrencies. However, it operates under stricter US regulations than its international counterpart, potentially limiting features.
Cash App Investing: Convenient for Bitcoin purchases, its limitations are significant. Limited coin selection and higher fees compared to dedicated exchanges make it unsuitable for serious crypto trading.
Important Considerations: Always independently verify the security practices of any platform. Look for features like two-factor authentication (2FA), cold storage for a significant portion of assets, and a proven track record of security audits. Diversify your holdings across multiple, reputable platforms to mitigate risk. Never invest more than you can afford to lose.
How do you explain cryptocurrency to a beginner?
Cryptocurrencies are digital or virtual currencies secured by cryptography. Unlike traditional currencies issued and managed by central banks, cryptocurrencies operate on decentralized networks using blockchain technology.
Blockchain is a distributed, immutable ledger that records all transactions across many computers. This eliminates the need for intermediaries like banks, making transactions faster and potentially cheaper. Each transaction is grouped into a “block,” cryptographically linked to the previous block, forming a chain.
Key features often distinguishing cryptocurrencies include:
- Decentralization: No single entity controls the cryptocurrency network.
- Transparency: All transactions are publicly viewable (though user identities are often pseudonymous).
- Security: Cryptographic hashing and consensus mechanisms (like Proof-of-Work or Proof-of-Stake) ensure transaction integrity and prevent double-spending.
- Programmability (for some): Smart contracts, self-executing contracts with the terms of the agreement directly written into code, are possible on some blockchain platforms, enabling new applications.
Types of cryptocurrencies differ based on their functionalities and underlying technology. Examples include:
- Bitcoin (BTC): The original and most well-known cryptocurrency, primarily used as a store of value and medium of exchange.
- Ethereum (ETH): A platform that supports smart contracts and decentralized applications (dApps), enabling the creation of new cryptocurrencies and decentralized finance (DeFi) services.
- Stablecoins: Cryptocurrencies pegged to a stable asset like the US dollar, designed to reduce volatility.
Understanding the risks is crucial. Cryptocurrency markets are highly volatile, meaning values can fluctuate significantly. Regulatory frameworks are still evolving, and security risks, including scams and hacking, exist.
Mining refers to the process of validating transactions and adding new blocks to the blockchain, often requiring significant computational power and energy consumption. The reward for miners is typically newly minted cryptocurrency.
How much is $100 cash to a bitcoin?
Converting $100 USD to Bitcoin (BTC) depends entirely on the current market price. The provided values (100 USD = 0.00119699 BTC, etc.) are examples and will fluctuate constantly. Use a reputable cryptocurrency exchange’s API or a reliable price tracker for real-time conversions.
Important Considerations:
Exchange Fees: Cryptocurrency exchanges charge fees for transactions. These fees will reduce the actual amount of BTC you receive. Factor this into your calculations; fees vary widely across exchanges.
Network Fees (Gas Fees): Transferring Bitcoin on the blockchain incurs network fees. These fees are separate from exchange fees and depend on network congestion; higher congestion means higher fees.
Security: Only use trusted and established cryptocurrency exchanges. Research thoroughly before choosing a platform to minimize the risk of scams and security breaches. Secure your wallet properly after acquiring BTC.
Volatility: Bitcoin’s price is highly volatile. The value of your investment can fluctuate significantly in short periods. Never invest more than you can afford to lose.
Tax Implications: Cryptocurrency transactions often have tax implications. Consult a tax professional to understand the rules and regulations in your jurisdiction.
Example Calculation (Illustrative Only): If the current exchange rate is 1 BTC = $83,333, then $100 USD would equal approximately 0.0012 BTC (100/83333). However, remember exchange fees will lower the actual amount received.
Where is the best place to learn about cryptocurrency?
Finding the right resource to learn about cryptocurrency can be overwhelming, but focusing on reputable platforms and structured courses significantly improves your learning experience. For April 2025, Udemy stands out with several excellent options.
Best Overall: Udemy – The Complete Cryptocurrency Investment Course. This course provides a comprehensive overview, covering various aspects of cryptocurrency investment, from fundamental concepts to advanced strategies. It’s a great starting point for those seeking a broad understanding.
Best for Beginner’s Course: Udemy – Cryptocurrency Fundamentals. Perfect for newcomers, this course focuses on the basics, ensuring a solid foundation before tackling more complex topics. Understanding blockchain technology, different cryptocurrencies, and basic trading principles is crucial before venturing into advanced strategies.
Best for Advanced Strategies: Udemy – Cryptocurrency Algorithmic Trading with Python and Binance. This course caters to individuals with prior cryptocurrency knowledge who are interested in automating their trading. It delves into programming aspects, using Python to build and implement trading bots on the Binance exchange. Note that algorithmic trading involves significant risk and requires a deep understanding of market dynamics and programming.
While Udemy courses offer structured learning, remember to supplement your education with ongoing research. Regularly follow reputable cryptocurrency news sources, understand market trends, and critically evaluate information. Always prioritize security best practices when managing your crypto holdings. Diversification and risk management are key to successful cryptocurrency investment. Consider exploring different blockchain technologies beyond Bitcoin and Ethereum, such as Solana, Cardano, and Polkadot, to broaden your knowledge. The cryptocurrency landscape is dynamic; continuous learning is essential for navigating its complexities.
What happens if I put $100 in bitcoin?
Investing $100 in Bitcoin is a high-risk, low-reward proposition at this stage. While Bitcoin’s price has historically demonstrated periods of significant growth, the volatility remains extreme. A $100 investment offers minimal diversification, magnifying the impact of price fluctuations. Your potential returns are capped by your small investment size, while your potential losses are proportionally large. Consider that transaction fees, which can be a substantial percentage of small transactions, will further reduce your potential profit. Furthermore, the security risks associated with holding Bitcoin, such as losing your private keys or falling victim to scams, are particularly acute for smaller investments due to the lack of professional portfolio management or security measures typically employed with larger sums.
Before considering any Bitcoin investment, even a small one, thoroughly research the technology, its inherent risks, and the regulatory landscape. Understand that past performance is not indicative of future results. Bitcoin’s price is influenced by a complex interplay of factors including regulatory changes, macroeconomic conditions, and market sentiment, all of which are highly unpredictable. Therefore, a $100 investment is more akin to a speculative gamble than a strategic investment.
Consider alternative investment options better suited for small capital. Diversification across multiple asset classes, even within the cryptocurrency space, would significantly reduce your overall risk compared to placing all your funds in a single, volatile asset like Bitcoin.
What site is trusted for crypto?
There’s no single “most trusted” crypto site, as trust depends heavily on individual needs and risk tolerance. Security and regulatory compliance vary significantly.
Gemini excels in security and regulatory compliance, making it suitable for experienced traders prioritizing robust platform safeguards and institutional-grade security. However, their fees might be higher for less frequent traders.
Coinbase prioritizes user-friendliness and ease of use, ideal for beginners. While generally secure, its security measures are less sophisticated than Gemini’s. They offer a broad range of coins but lack advanced trading features.
Crypto.com offers a strong mobile app, beneficial for frequent mobile trading. Their competitive fee structure and wide array of cryptocurrencies appeal to active traders. However, their regulatory standing might be less robust compared to Gemini in certain jurisdictions. Their security features are good, but less stringent than Gemini’s.
Factors beyond platform choice influence security:
- Hardware wallets: Always prioritize storing significant amounts of cryptocurrency in a hardware wallet for maximum security, regardless of the exchange used.
- Two-factor authentication (2FA): Enable 2FA on all accounts to add an extra layer of security.
- Strong passwords: Use unique, complex passwords for every exchange.
- Regular security audits: Check for regular security audits and disclosures from the exchanges you use. Independent security audits are particularly important.
Beyond the Big Three: Consider researching other exchanges based on your specific needs (e.g., decentralized exchanges for greater control, specialized exchanges for specific altcoins).
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and not financial advice. Always conduct thorough due diligence before using any cryptocurrency exchange.
Who can I talk to about cryptocurrency?
For cryptocurrency investment advice, a financial advisor specializing in alternative assets is your best bet. They can assess your risk tolerance and financial goals to determine if crypto aligns with your overall investment strategy. Beyond simple “buy or sell” advice, a qualified advisor can help you navigate the complexities of portfolio diversification with crypto, including risk management strategies specific to the volatile nature of the market. Crucially, inquire about their own holdings and experience; transparency regarding potential conflicts of interest is vital. Understanding the tax implications of crypto investments is also critical, and a good advisor will help you plan accordingly. Remember to vet advisors carefully, checking for relevant certifications and regulatory compliance. Don’t solely rely on online resources; professional guidance is crucial for informed decision-making in this space. Furthermore, consider seeking advice from tax professionals experienced in cryptocurrency taxation to optimize your tax strategy.
Community forums can provide supplemental information, allowing you to engage with other investors and learn from their experiences, but always remember to critically evaluate the information found there and never treat it as professional financial advice.
How do I know if a crypto site is legit?
Determining the legitimacy of a cryptocurrency site requires due diligence. While no single method guarantees safety, several crucial checks can significantly reduce your risk.
Check for Registration: A critical step is verifying if the site is registered with relevant financial authorities. In the US, you can use FinCEN’s MSB Registrant Search to see if a money services business (MSB) is registered. Remember, registration isn’t a foolproof guarantee against fraud, but unregistered entities are a massive red flag. Many scams operate outside regulatory frameworks.
Beyond Registration: Look for Transparency: Legitimate platforms are typically transparent about their operations. Look for the following:
- Clearly stated terms of service and privacy policy: These should be easily accessible and comprehensive.
- Contact information: A verifiable physical address and multiple contact methods (email, phone, etc.) are essential. Avoid sites with only a PO Box or vague contact details.
- About Us section with detailed information: This section should provide information on the company’s background, team, and mission.
- Security measures: Look for mentions of security protocols like two-factor authentication (2FA), SSL encryption (indicated by “https” in the URL), and regular security audits.
Red Flags to Watch Out For:
- Offshore Registration or Lack of Physical Address: Companies registered in offshore jurisdictions with weak regulatory oversight are often involved in scams.
- Unrealistic Returns or Guarantees: Be wary of promises of exceptionally high returns with minimal risk. Crypto investments always carry inherent risk.
- High-Pressure Sales Tactics: Legitimate businesses don’t employ aggressive or manipulative sales techniques.
- Negative Reviews or Complaints: Search online for reviews and complaints about the platform. Numerous negative reports should raise significant concerns.
- Poor Website Design or Grammar Errors: A poorly designed or unprofessional-looking website suggests a lack of legitimacy.
Remember: If something seems too good to be true, it probably is. Always exercise caution and conduct thorough research before investing in any cryptocurrency platform.
How much is $100 Bitcoin worth right now?
Right now, $100 worth of Bitcoin is roughly 0.0000122 BTC. That’s not a lot, but it’s a start! Remember, even small amounts of BTC can grow significantly over time.
Here’s a breakdown of larger amounts:
- 100 USD = 0.0000122 BTC
- 500 USD = 0.0000610 BTC
- 1,000 USD = 0.000122 BTC
- 5,000 USD = 0.000610 BTC
Important Considerations:
- These are approximate values and fluctuate constantly. Always check a reputable exchange for the most up-to-date price before making any transactions.
- Bitcoin’s price is highly volatile. While it has the potential for massive gains, it also carries significant risk of substantial losses. Invest only what you can afford to lose.
- Consider diversifying your portfolio. Don’t put all your eggs in one basket, especially in a volatile asset like Bitcoin.
- Dollar-cost averaging (DCA) is a smart strategy. Investing smaller amounts regularly can mitigate some of the risks associated with price volatility.
- Secure your investments! Use hardware wallets or reputable exchanges with robust security measures to protect your Bitcoin.
Current BTC Price (approximate): 81,537.78 USD
How much would $1000 in Bitcoin in 2010 be worth today?
Investing $1,000 in Bitcoin in 2010 would be a truly transformative experience today. While precise figures fluctuate based on the exact purchase date and exchange used, a conservative estimate places the value at approximately $88 billion. This astronomical return highlights Bitcoin’s incredible growth trajectory and underscores its potential as a long-term investment asset.
To put this into perspective, consider the following milestones:
Five-year snapshots offer a compelling narrative: An investment of $1,000 in 2025 would be worth roughly $9,869 today, demonstrating even recent periods of significant, albeit less dramatic, growth. Similarly, a 2015 investment of the same amount would yield approximately $368,194 today, highlighting the exponential nature of Bitcoin’s earlier price increases.
It’s crucial to understand that this extreme growth wasn’t linear. The Bitcoin price has experienced periods of intense volatility, with dramatic upswings and considerable downswings. While these fluctuations can be unsettling, they’re characteristic of nascent asset classes with disruptive potential. The long-term upward trend, however, remains strikingly apparent. This highlights the importance of long-term investment strategies, risk tolerance, and diversification within a broader investment portfolio.
Remember, past performance is not indicative of future results. The cryptocurrency market is inherently risky, and significant losses are possible. Thorough research and understanding of the underlying technology and market dynamics are essential before making any investment decisions.
What if I bought $1 dollar of Bitcoin 10 years ago?
Let’s imagine you invested just $1 in Bitcoin ten years ago, in February 2015. That’s a tiny amount, right? But due to Bitcoin’s incredible price growth, your $1 investment would be worth approximately $368.19 today (as of February 2025). That’s a 36,719% increase!
To put that into perspective:
- 1 year ago (Feb 2024): Your $1 would have been worth $1.60 (a ~60% increase).
- 5 years ago (Feb 2025): Your $1 would have been worth $9.87 (an ~887% increase).
It’s important to note that this is a highly simplified calculation. It doesn’t account for trading fees, taxes, or the emotional rollercoaster of holding Bitcoin during its volatile price swings. Bitcoin’s price has fluctuated dramatically over the years; sometimes going up significantly, sometimes dropping sharply. While this example shows enormous potential returns, it also highlights the considerable risk involved in crypto investments.
Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Volatility: Bitcoin’s price can change dramatically in short periods. What goes up can also come down.
- Regulation: Government regulations concerning cryptocurrencies are still evolving and vary widely around the world. This can impact the value and usability of Bitcoin.
- Security: Securing your Bitcoin is crucial. Loss of your private keys means loss of your Bitcoin.
- Diversification: It’s generally recommended to diversify your investments to minimize risk. Don’t put all your eggs in one basket.
What is the safest company to buy crypto?
Picking the “safest” crypto exchange is tricky, as risk depends on your needs and tolerance. However, based on 2025 trustworthiness scores (a hypothetical example, as rankings change constantly), CME Group leads with a 7.70 weighted score, followed closely by Coinbase at 7.68. These high scores likely reflect their robust regulatory compliance and established history in financial markets. Note that a higher score doesn’t guarantee complete safety; all exchanges carry inherent risks. Bitstamp (6.84) and Binance (6.71) follow, though Binance’s score reflects ongoing regulatory scrutiny, impacting its perceived trustworthiness despite high trading volume. Consider factors beyond rankings, including insurance coverage, security measures (like two-factor authentication and cold storage), and the exchange’s reputation for handling user funds responsibly before investing. Remember, diversifying across multiple reputable exchanges can help mitigate risk.
Spot volume (*Spot Vol) is a crucial factor, as higher volume suggests greater liquidity. More liquidity typically means easier buying and selling, reducing slippage (the difference between the expected price and the actual execution price). However, higher volume doesn’t automatically mean greater safety; it’s one piece of the puzzle.
Always do your thorough due diligence before choosing any crypto exchange. Consider user reviews and independently verify security practices and regulatory standing. No exchange is entirely risk-free.
Can I learn crypto on my own?
Yes, self-learning cryptocurrency trading is entirely feasible, but requires a structured approach. AvaTrade’s free courses offer a good foundation, but shouldn’t be your sole resource.
Crucial areas to focus on beyond basic courses:
- Technical Analysis: Master chart patterns, indicators (RSI, MACD, moving averages), and candlestick analysis. Don’t just memorize; understand the underlying market psychology reflected in these tools.
- Fundamental Analysis: Research projects, white papers, and team expertise to evaluate the long-term viability of cryptocurrencies. Understand blockchain technology, consensus mechanisms (PoW, PoS), and tokenomics.
- Risk Management: This is paramount. Develop a robust strategy for position sizing, stop-loss orders, and diversification to mitigate losses. Never invest more than you can afford to lose.
- Security Best Practices: Prioritize security! Learn about hardware wallets, secure password management, and the risks of phishing and scams. Understand the implications of private keys and seed phrases.
- Regulatory Landscape: Crypto regulations vary widely. Understand the legal framework in your jurisdiction to avoid potential legal issues.
Supplement your learning with:
- Reputable online resources: Explore quality blogs, podcasts, and YouTube channels created by experienced traders and developers (be discerning and verify information).
- Paper Trading: Practice trading with simulated funds before risking real capital. This helps refine your strategies and build confidence.
- Community Engagement: Join responsible online communities for discussions and learning from others’ experiences (but be wary of biased or misleading advice).
- Continuous Learning: The cryptocurrency space evolves rapidly. Stay updated on market trends, technological advancements, and regulatory changes.
Disclaimer: Cryptocurrency trading involves significant risk. Any investment decisions should be based on thorough research and your own risk tolerance.
Is there a fee to convert Bitcoin to cash?
Converting Bitcoin to cash, or cashing out, always involves fees. These fees vary significantly depending on the method you choose and the transaction amount. Smaller transactions might be best suited for peer-to-peer platforms or exchanges with lower minimum withdrawal limits, though these often come with higher percentage-based fees. Larger transactions might benefit from using a brokerage service, which typically charges fixed fees, potentially making them more cost-effective for larger sums.
Exchange fees are a common component. These fees can be structured as a flat fee per transaction, a percentage of the transaction amount, or a combination of both. Always carefully review the fee schedule of any exchange you use before converting your Bitcoin. Some exchanges offer different fee structures depending on the payment method selected for cashing out (e.g., bank transfer, debit card).
Network fees, also known as transaction fees, are another crucial aspect. These are paid to miners on the Bitcoin network to process and verify the transaction. Network congestion can lead to higher transaction fees, especially during periods of high trading volume. Using Bitcoin’s Lightning Network can significantly reduce these fees for smaller transactions.
Third-party payment processors, such as those used by some exchanges, can also levy their own fees. These fees might cover processing, transfer, or other related services. Transparency about these fees is vital. Look for clear breakdowns of all associated costs before initiating a conversion.
In summary, carefully consider the total cost, including exchange fees, network fees, and any third-party fees, when choosing your Bitcoin-to-cash conversion method. Comparing fees across different platforms is crucial to optimizing your transaction costs. Always factor in these fees when planning your transactions to avoid unexpected expenses.
How much is $100 cash to a Bitcoin?
So, you want to know how much $100 is in Bitcoin? It’s not a fixed amount, as the Bitcoin price fluctuates constantly. However, we can give you a snapshot. Using a hypothetical exchange rate (which changes rapidly), $100 USD might buy you approximately 0.00119699 BTC.
This means that at this specific rate:
$100 USD ≈ 0.00119699 BTC
To illustrate the relationship, here are some other examples based on this hypothetical rate:
$500 USD ≈ 0.00598496 BTC
$1,000 USD ≈ 0.01196993 BTC
$5,000 USD ≈ 0.05984968 BTC
Important Note: These are estimations only. The actual amount of Bitcoin you receive will depend on the current market price at the time of the transaction. Always check a reputable cryptocurrency exchange for the most up-to-date exchange rate before making any transactions. The price of Bitcoin is volatile and can change significantly within minutes. Factors influencing the price include market sentiment, regulatory news, technological advancements, and macroeconomic conditions.
Factors to Consider Before Buying Bitcoin: Before investing in Bitcoin or any cryptocurrency, it’s crucial to understand the inherent risks. Cryptocurrency markets are highly speculative and can be prone to significant price swings. Do your research, understand the technology, and only invest what you can afford to lose.
