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Ethereum is a digital currency that can function as a means of payment, but it allows users to do many other things, including using self-executing smart contracts, creating digital apps and minting . While it’s called a cryptocurrency, Ethereum may be more accurately thought of as a token that powers these various functions. Ethereum debuted in 2015, and it operates on a decentralized network using a technology called blockchain. is a kind of database that records every transaction in the digital currency, like a permanent record of every move made with the token. The decentralized network of computers verifies the transactions and ensures the integrity of the data. How to buy Ethereum Step-by-step guide
If you’re looking to buy Ethereum, you’ll need to work with a broker or exchange that can help you place trades. Here’s how to get started buying Ethereum. 1 Find a crypto broker or exchange
The first step to purchasing Ethereum is to find a broker, app or exchange that can make the trade. The good news is that, because Ethereum is so popular, crypto exchanges, apps and many brokers will let you trade it. You may not even need to open a new account to do so. If you’re thinking about buying Ethereum as a sideline to your regular investing, for example, you might want to go with or , or with a finance app such as or . You’ll get Ethereum and a whole range of other potential investments (stocks, ETFs, options and more), and won’t need a new account if you’re already a customer. In fact, you can buy Ethereum using PayPal and Venmo, which may already be installed on your phone. If you’re looking to expand into the crypto world, a crypto exchange can let you trade other kinds of crypto coins, though usually not other kinds of investments. Some of the top crypto exchanges let clients trade more than 100 kinds of crypto coins. Other issues to consider include: Cost of trades. Some firms offer a flat fee, while others offer volume-based discounts. Other firms advertise commission-free trades, but mark up their cost with a built-in spread in the price of the cryptocurrency. Safety. How safe is your exchange or broker? If you work with an exchange, find one that’s financially stable and reputable. In many cases, if the exchange goes bankrupt, it could take your coins with it, leaving you with nothing. (That’s not the case with a broker, where your assets are segregated and typically insured against bankruptcy, too.) Custody. Are you looking to take custody of your crypto coins? If so, you’ll probably want to go with an exchange. Most brokers don’t offer this functionality. Staking rewards. If you’re looking to earn staking rewards on your holdings, look for an exchange that offers the incentive to Ethereum investors. Those are some of the most prominent features, but find a partner that fits your needs. Bankrate has reviewed some of . 2 Set up your account
Once you’ve selected your broker or exchange, set up your account. You’ll need to provide some basic personal and financial information and answer a few questions. Generally, you can open an account in under 15 minutes and then have a look inside the platform. You may also need to verify your identity in one of a few ways, depending on the company. 3 Deposit money
Many companies allow you to deposit money as part of the account-opening process, or you can do so soon after. You’ll need to connect your bank account with your broker or crypto account and then can transfer the money. If you’re working with a crypto exchange, you can often deposit funds using a debit card, albeit usually with a hefty charge. If you’re working with a crypto exchange, you can also often deposit cryptocurrency in your account that can then be traded. 4 Place your trade
Once deposited money has cleared into your account, you’ll be able to buy Ethereum. You can buy Ethereum using dollars with brokers and exchanges. If you’re working with exchanges that support crypto-to-crypto trades, you can buy crypto with other crypto that’s in your account. If you’re looking to take custody of your Ethereum holdings yourself and working with an exchange that offers it, you can now transfer them to your or you may continue to hold it with a wallet offered by the exchange. That said, taking custody of your assets yourself presents other risks, . If you’re using a broker, the broker will continue to hold your position. Is Ethereum a good investment
Cryptocurrency, including Ethereum, is among the most risky of all assets. It’s important to understand what you’re investing in with crypto, since most cryptocurrencies (with the exception of ) are not backed by any assets or cash flow of an underlying business. That’s in sharp contrast to a stock, . Therefore, the price of cryptocurrency depends entirely on what other people will pay for it. If other speculators become more optimistic about its future, the price will rise. If they become more gloomy, the price will fall. It’s what experts call the “greater fool theory of investing.” And it’s one reason . So if you’re trading Ethereum or other cryptocurrencies, it’s important to understand what your investment relies on. Because of these risks, trade only with money that you’re prepared to lose. Bottom line
Those looking to buy Ethereum have more options to do so than ever before, so it’s worthwhile to discover which broker or exchange works best for your needs. Since Ethereum is one of the most popular cryptocurrencies, traders can often buy it at a traditional broker and don’t need to open a specialty account to do so. Of course, it’s important to remember that cryptocurrency is incredibly risky and may not be suitable for all investors. Learn more
Editorial Disclaimer: All investors are advised to conduct their own independent research into investment strategies before making an investment decision. In addition, investors are advised that past investment product performance is no guarantee of future price appreciation. SHARE: Bankrate senior reporter James F. Royal, Ph.D., covers investing and wealth management. His work has been cited by CNBC, the Washington Post, The New York Times and more. Brian Beers is the managing editor for the Wealth team at Bankrate. He oversees editorial coverage of banking, investing, the economy and all things money. Related Articles