Special Report: Over the last 12 months, the world of digital assets has seen remarkable transformations, and it’s time to explore the exciting possibilities that lie ahead for everyday investors.

In last year’s financial landscape, championing crypto of any kind took both courage and conviction. It was a year of building, and repairing for the industry – but the opportunities that work presents are becoming increasingly accessible.

One of the most significant milestones in recent memory has been the launch of Bitcoin (BTC) in the United States, and the prospect of spot Ethereum (ETH) Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) one day. These developments have not only legitimised digital assets but have also opened doors to a much broader audience. The once esoteric realm of cryptocurrencies is now entering a new era, governed by regulations and embraced by even the most cautious of investors.

2024 has plenty more reasons to be cheerful: we have the highly anticipated Bitcoin Halving event in late April. This event occurs every four years, or after 210,000 blocks on the Bitcoin blockchain, and it’s always a game-changer. As the block rewards drop to 3.125 BTC, Bitcoin’s supply will become scarcer.

At a time when the corrosive effects of inflation have become painfully evident, this couldn’t be more relevant. Bitcoin’s role as a hedge against inflation has never been more critical for anyone looking to preserve their hard-earned wealth.

Yet, the potential of crypto stretches far beyond just returns on investment. Inflation, a driving force behind the adoption of cryptocurrencies, has been a concern for investors worldwide. Those in countries that have witnessed a 50% or greater devaluation of their currency against the USD over the last decade are now more than five times as likely to explore crypto investments.

For retail investors, crypto can be a lifeline in the fight for financial freedom.

However, there’s a crucial obstacle that needs to be addressed: the knowledge gap. A significant portion of retail investors remain on the sidelines due to a lack of understanding about cryptocurrencies. This represents a vast untapped market, where education and awareness can empower retail investors to leverage the full potential of this transformative technology.

It’s worth noting that younger generations are at the forefront of embracing cryptocurrency and blockchain technology. A majority of Gen Z and Millennial adults believe that crypto and blockchain are the future of finance. They see the innovative potential to tackle the systemic issues that have long plagued traditional finance, and we seek to empower them by providing the knowledge and tools needed to be part of this transformative journey.

It’s the skeptics that we need to win over, and we won’t do that by simply taking pot-shots at the problems with the current financial system. Inflation erodes the value of savings, transferring money is often expensive and requires multiple middle-men, payments across borders are slow and expensive the list goes on.

We need to show them that crypto is a level financial playing field benefiting everyone.

Here at Kraken, we’ve recently launched our first advertising campaign in Australia. You’ll see it projected on buildings and plastered on walls – aimed at reminding everyday investors that crypto is not just a trend; it’s here to stay, and it’s actively solving real-world problems.

The traditional financial system has been the cornerstone of our global economy, it’s not going away anytime soon.

Money makes the world go round, but the world churns with uncertainty and economic challenges.

Crypto and its potential  shine as a beacon of hope for people who seek financial freedom and inclusion.

It will be crypto that makes the world move forward.

 

This article was developed in collaboration with Kraken, a Stockhead advertiser at the time of publishing.

This article does not constitute financial product advice. You should consider obtaining independent advice before making any financial decisions.