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Cryptocurrency & Blockchain

Blockchain: What is it, How It works, Uses & More

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Blockchain: What is it, How It works 

What is Blockchain & How It works

A blockchain is a decentralised digital ledger that records transactions securely across multiple computers. It is best known for powering cryptocurrencies, but its use goes far beyond that. Blockchain ensures data cannot be altered, making it highly valuable for industries that rely on secure, tamper-proof records.

Unlike traditional databases, where a central authority verifies transactions, blockchain operates on a trustless system. Once data is entered, it is permanently recorded and cannot be changed, removing the need for intermediaries like banks, auditors, or legal authorities. This not only cuts costs but also reduces the risk of human error and fraud.

Why Blockchain Matters

In a typical financial transaction, such as a property sale, both buyer and seller keep their own records. Disputes can arise if one party claims they haven’t received payment, even if they have. To prevent such conflicts, a trusted third party – like a bank or legal body – usually steps in. This process adds extra costs, delays, and risks.

Blockchain solves this problem by creating a shared, real-time ledger where every transaction is verified and recorded across multiple nodes (computers) in the network. No single entity controls the data, making it transparent and secure. If anyone tries to alter a past transaction, they would have to change the entire blockchain – something that is nearly impossible due to its decentralised nature.

This level of security and transparency is why blockchain is being adopted in finance, healthcare, supply chain management, and digital identity verification.

How Blockchain Works

Blockchain follows a simple but powerful process:

  • Transactions are recorded as blocks – Every new transaction is stored in a digital block. This block contains key details like the time, date, participants, and asset information.
  • Blocks are linked together – Each new block is cryptographically connected to the previous one, forming a continuous chain. This ensures transactions happen in the right sequence and cannot be changed.
  • The chain becomes permanent and tamper-proof – Once a block is added, it strengthens the security of the entire blockchain. Any attempt to change past data would require altering the entire network, making fraud virtually impossible.

Who Created Blockchain?

Blockchain technology was first introduced in 2008 by Satoshi Nakamoto, the anonymous creator (or group of creators) behind Bitcoin. Nakamoto designed blockchain to solve the double-spending problem in digital transactions – allowing people to exchange money without relying on banks or financial institutions.

While Bitcoin was the first real-world use of blockchain, the technology has since expanded into many industries, powering smart contracts, digital assets, and secure data storage solutions.

How Secure is Blockchain?

Blockchain is often considered one of the most secure technologies, but no system is completely hack-proof. However, it is extremely difficult to tamper with blockchain due to its design:

  • Decentralisation – Unlike traditional databases, which rely on a single server, blockchain is spread across thousands of computers worldwide. To hack it, an attacker would need to control more than 50% of the network, which is highly unlikely for established blockchains like Bitcoin or Ethereum.
  • Immutability – Once a block is added, it cannot be altered. Any attempt to change past transactions would break the entire chain, alerting all participants in the network.
  • Encryption – Every transaction is protected by advanced cryptographic algorithms, making unauthorised changes nearly impossible.

While blockchain itself is highly secure, individual applications built on it (such as smart contracts or private blockchain networks) can have vulnerabilities, so security measures must always be in place.

Real-World Uses of Blockchain

Beyond cryptocurrency, blockchain is transforming industries in ways that improve security, efficiency, and transparency.

  • Supply Chain Management – Companies like IBM and Walmart use blockchain to track food and products, ensuring quality control and authenticity.
  • Healthcare – Medical records are securely stored on blockchain, preventing fraud and ensuring patient privacy.
  • Ticketing & Identity Verification – Blockchain prevents fake event tickets and enables secure digital identities.
  • Finance – Banks and fintech firms use blockchain for fast, low-cost international transactions and fraud prevention.

With its ability to provide trust, security, and efficiency, blockchain is set to reshape industries worldwide, proving it’s far more than just the technology behind Bitcoin.

Bitcoin vs Blockchain

Blockchain technology was first conceptualised in 1991 by researchers Stuart Haber and W. Scott Stornetta. Their goal was to create a system where document timestamps could not be altered, ensuring authenticity and security. However, it wasn’t until nearly two decades later – with the launch of Bitcoin in January 2009 – that blockchain found its first real-world application.

Bitcoin

Bitcoin operates on blockchain technology, but the two are not the same. In 2008, Satoshi Nakamoto (a pseudonymous creator or group of creators) introduced Bitcoin as a peer-to-peer electronic cash system that eliminates the need for intermediaries like banks.

Bitcoin uses blockchain to maintain a secure, decentralised ledger of transactions. Every Bitcoin transaction is recorded on the blockchain, making it transparent and tamper-proof. However, while Bitcoin was the first major application of blockchain, it is just one of many ways blockchain technology can be used.

Blockchain

Blockchain itself is a versatile technology that can store and verify any kind of data, not just financial transactions. It can be used to record:

  • Property ownership – Land deeds and real estate transactions can be stored securely, reducing fraud.
  • Voting systems – Blockchain can make elections more transparent and secure by preventing vote tampering.
  • Supply chain tracking – Companies use blockchain to verify product authenticity and track shipments.
  • Identity verification – Secure digital IDs can be stored on blockchain, preventing identity theft.

One of the most promising applications of blockchain is secure online voting. A blockchain-based voting system could give each citizen a unique digital token to vote for their preferred candidate. Since every transaction (vote) is publicly verifiable and cannot be altered, it would eliminate the risk of vote manipulation, human error, and fraud.

While Bitcoin is just one use case of blockchain, the technology itself is far more powerful and adaptable, with the potential to revolutionise industries beyond finance.

Bitcoin vs Blockchain – Key Differences

FeatureBitcoinBlockchain
DefinitionA digital currency that allows peer-to-peer transactions without intermediaries.A decentralised digital ledger that records transactions securely and transparently.
PurposePrimarily used for financial transactions.Can be used for various applications like financial transactions, voting, supply chain management, identity verification, etc.
OwnershipControlled by a decentralised network of users but follows the Bitcoin protocol.Can be private (permissioned) or public (permissionless), depending on the use case.
Use CaseActs as a store of value and a medium of exchange.Provides a secure, transparent, and tamper-proof system for storing and sharing data.
First UseLaunched in 2009 by Satoshi Nakamoto.Concept introduced in 1991, but gained popularity with Bitcoin in 2009.
TransactionsUses blockchain to record Bitcoin transfers only.Can record any kind of data, not just financial transactions.
FlexibilityLimited to Bitcoin-related functions.Highly flexible – used in industries like finance, healthcare, logistics, governance, and more.
SecurityHighly secure due to cryptographic encryption and decentralisation.Inherently secure but depends on the implementation and consensus mechanism used.
TransparencyEvery Bitcoin transaction is publicly recorded on the blockchain.Can be public (transparent) or private depending on the blockchain type.
ExamplesBitcoin (BTC)Ethereum, Hyperledger, Tezos, Solana, Cardano, and other blockchain networks.

Types of Blockchain Networks

Blockchain networks can be structured in different ways depending on their purpose and level of access. The four main types include public, private, permissioned, and consortium blockchains.

1. Public Blockchain Networks

A public blockchain is open to anyone who wants to participate. Bitcoin and Ethereum are prime examples. These networks are decentralised, meaning no single entity controls them. However, they come with challenges, such as:

  • High computational power requirements for maintaining the network.
  • Limited privacy since transactions are publicly visible.
  • Potential security vulnerabilities due to the open nature of the network.

While public blockchains work well for cryptocurrencies and decentralised applications (DApps), they may not be ideal for businesses requiring confidentiality and control.

2. Private Blockchain Networks

A private blockchain operates similarly to a public one, but access is restricted. One organisation controls:

  • Who can participate in the network.
  • How transactions are validated through a consensus mechanism.
  • Who maintains the shared ledger.

Private blockchains offer greater security and privacy, making them suitable for enterprises handling sensitive data. They can be hosted on-premises or within a corporate firewall.

3. Permissioned Blockchain Networks

A permissioned blockchain requires users to obtain approval before joining. This model applies to both public and private blockchains, ensuring that:

  • Only approved participants can access certain transactions.
  • Access levels can be customised, allowing different roles within the network.

Businesses often use permissioned blockchains to maintain control, security, and efficiency, especially in finance, healthcare, and supply chain management.

4. Consortium Blockchains

A consortium blockchain is governed by a group of organisations instead of a single entity. This model is useful when:

  • Multiple stakeholders need shared access to a blockchain.
  • Trust is required between participants without relying on a single authority.
  • Collaboration is needed across industries, such as banking, logistics, or healthcare.

Consortium blockchains balance decentralisation with control, making them more efficient than public blockchains while ensuring fair governance among participants.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Blockchain

Writing about finance has been a big part of my life for years. Over time, I’ve developed a strong interest in mutual funds, cryptocurrencies, and the ups and downs of the markets. The goal has always been simple: take the complicated parts of finance and make them easy to understand, whether you’re new to investing or have been at it for a while. Whether it’s breaking down different investment options or making sense of the latest blockchain trends, the aim is to offer straightforward insights that actually help when it’s time to make a decision. Away from finance, you’ll usually find me playing chess. I’ve always enjoyed the way the game forces you to think a few moves ahead - a mindset that fits pretty well with investing too. Both are about staying patient, spotting opportunities, and knowing when to make the right move. The hope is that the work shared here helps you feel a bit more confident when managing your money. If you ever have questions or want to chat more about a topic, feel free to reach out.

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BitBoy Crypto: All About The Rise and Fall of Ben Armstrong

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BitBoy Crypto Arrested

Ben Armstrong, better known as BitBoy Crypto was a prominent figure within the cryptocurrency world. His journey from being a cryptocurrency fan to an influential influencer, before becoming an unpopular figure, provides an intriguing story about the unpredictable character of the cryptocurrency industry.

The beginning of life and entry into Cryptocurrency

The 27th of October in 1982 was a day at Atlanta, Georgia, Ben Armstrong’s life in the beginning was boring. Ben Armstrong attended Toccoa Falls College, from which his grades were excellent. The first time he ventured into the world of work wasn’t in the crypto industry. But the rapid rise of Bitcoin as well as other crypto currency in the first decade of 2010 attracted his attention, causing him to explore the realm of cryptocurrency.

The Birth of BitBoy Crypto

In the year 2018, Armstrong established his BitBoy Crypto YouTube channel. Its goal is to inform and educate viewers about the intricate world of crypto. His videos varied from news announcements and market analysis to discussions with leading industry professionals. His easy-going style and constant publication of news and analysis quickly gained him an impressive following. This helped establish his voice as an authoritative one in the crypto industry.

Diversification and Business Ventures

Above YouTube, Armstrong expanded his branding by hosting his own “Beards and Bitcoins” podcast along with fellow crypto enthusiast JChains. It allowed him to be able to reach a larger population and also discuss a broader spectrum of issues that relate to blockchain technology as well as digital assets. Furthermore, he also ventured into the sale of merchandise, providing clothing and accessories with a branded design which further established his place in the crypto world.

Controversies and Legal Challenges

Although he has achieved success however, his path was not without controversy:

1. Promotion of Dubious Projects

Armstrong received criticism for his endorsement of some crypto companies that were later discovered to be frauds. In particular, in the year 2020, he introduced DistX which described by him”scam-proof,” and “scam-proof,” which eventually failed, resulting in significant losses to investors. Similar to that, his promotion of Hex in 2021 caused a stir because of its promise of high yields and worries about the structural integrity.

2. Internal Company Strife

In August 2023 Armstrong was dismissed from his company, BitBoy Crypto, by BJ Investment Holdings, the parent company that owns Hit Network and BitBoy Crypto. The reason for the removal was accusations of abuse of substances that caused harm to people in physical, mental as well as financial scales.

3. Legal Entanglements – BitBoy Crypto Arrested Again?

Armstrong’s legal issues are multifaceted. In September 2023, Armstrong was convicted of loitering as well as simple assault, after he livestreamed outside the home of a former acquaintance and alleging that the suspect was in the Lamborghini in his possession. In the month of March in 2025 Armstrong had been arrested in Florida after he allegedly sent abusive emails to a judge. It led to his arrest without bond.

Financial Fluctuations

The net worth of Armstrong has witnessed dramatic fluctuations throughout the years. In the peak of his career during the Bitcoin bull run of 2025, his worth was thought to be about $30 million. Then, in the aftermath, controversies as well as legal disputes and business disputes took a huge toll on his financial position. In March 2025 the estimates indicate that the value of his assets has dropped to around 100 thousand dollars.

Personal Life and Public Scrutiny

Armstrong’s private life hasn’t been unnoticed by the media. Armstrong was engaged to Bethany Armstrong, and they have children together. In the month of November, 2023, he announced the end of his marriage on social media. He did so in a controversial manner, posting a picture of his wife as well as his lover, Cassandra Wolfe, in the caption. This led to extensive media coverage and damaged his image on the internet.

The Broader Implications

Armstrong’s journey highlights a number of crucial features of cryptocurrency sector:

Influencer Responsibility

In a world without rigid regulations, the influencers have significant authority. Armstrong’s endorsements have led a lot of fans to put their money into projects that ultimately failed, which underscores the necessity of ethics for influencers.

Volatility of the Crypto World

The soaring rise and decline of Armstrong’s career mirrors the volatile nature of the cryptocurrency market. Influencers and investors alike can witness rapid shifts in their fortunes.

Need for Due Diligence

Armstrong’s tale serves as an important reminder to investors on the importance of performing thorough research instead of relying only on the endorsements of influential people.

Ben Armstrong’s experience into the realm of cryptocurrency is an enthralling narrative of ambition, achievement along with controversy, as well as downfall. Although he played an integral part in informing and educating the general public on digital currencies However, his work has been obscured by numerous controversy and legal issues. The story is an unsettling illustration of the obligations associated with power and the volatility of the crypto sector.

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Cryptocurrency & Blockchain

Velo Crypto Poised to Revolutionize Humanitarian Aid with Blockchain Technology

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As global humanitarian crises continue to challenge traditional aid distribution methods, innovative solutions are urgently needed to ensure timely and transparent delivery of assistance. Velo Crypto, leveraging its advanced payment solutions built on the Stellar Network, is uniquely positioned to address these pressing issues. Industry insiders speculate that Velo may soon announce strategic partnerships with major non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to facilitate aid distribution through its QR-based transactions and stablecoins. Such a development would not only highlight the practical applications of blockchain technology but also establish Velo Crypto as a pioneer in social impact within the cryptocurrency sector.

A Potential Game-Changer for Aid Delivery

With its existing technological infrastructure, including fast, secure, and low-cost transaction capabilities, Velo Crypto could potentially launch an initiative akin to “Velo for Good.” This initiative would focus on using blockchain to streamline aid delivery, minimizing intermediaries and reducing the risk of fraud. The platform’s QR-based payment system, paired with its stablecoins, offers a promising solution for ensuring that aid reaches beneficiaries directly and efficiently.

Imagine a scenario where Velo Crypto collaborates with NGOs to distribute relief funds in disaster-stricken regions. By scanning a QR code, aid recipients could instantly access funds via Velo’s platform, bypassing traditional banking delays and high fees. This seamless integration of cryptocurrency into real-world applications could redefine how humanitarian efforts are conducted globally.

Why Velo Crypto Stands Out

Built on the Stellar Network, known for its emphasis on cross-border payments and financial inclusion, Velo Crypto is already equipped to tackle the inefficiencies of conventional aid systems. Its existing partnerships with entities like UQUID and its focus on practical payment solutions further bolster its potential to make a significant impact. Speculation around a major integration or a dedicated social impact program highlights how Velo Crypto could lead the charge in bridging traditional finance (TradFi) and decentralized finance (DeFi) for the greater good.

A Vision for the Future

While no official announcement has been made, the prospect of Velo Crypto entering the humanitarian space aligns with current trends in the crypto industry, where social responsibility is gaining traction. If realized, this move could set a new standard for how blockchain technology is applied beyond financial speculation, offering a compelling narrative for investors, technologists, and philanthropists alike.

Stay tuned as Velo Crypto continues to innovate, potentially transforming not just the crypto landscape but also the way the world responds to crises.

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Cryptocurrency & Blockchain

RWA Crypto: The Ghost in the Blockchain – Unleashing Real-World Assets

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RWA Crypto

The cryptocurrency landscape has evolved dramatically, moving beyond digital coins to embrace real-world assets (RWAs). While much attention has been given to tokenizing tangible assets like real estate and gold, a less-explored yet equally transformative frontier is emerging: the tokenization of intangible assets. From intellectual property to carbon credits and even personal reputation, these intangible RWAs are redefining ownership and value in the crypto ecosystem. In this blog, we’ll dive into this unique angle of RWA crypto, exploring how blockchain is unlocking the potential of the intangible, the groundbreaking projects leading the charge, and the hurdles yet to be overcome.

What Are Intangible RWAs?

Real-world assets in crypto typically conjure images of physical items – think buildings or precious metals. But intangible RWAs are different. These are assets without a physical form, yet they hold immense value in modern society. Examples include:

  • Intellectual Property (IP): Patents, trademarks, copyrights, and digital content.

  • Carbon Credits: Tradable certificates representing the right to emit a set amount of carbon dioxide, crucial in combating climate change.

  • Reputation or Influence: A person’s social capital or professional credibility, increasingly quantifiable in the digital age.

Tokenizing these assets means converting their value into digital tokens on a blockchain, enabling fractional ownership, seamless trading, and enhanced transparency. This shift could democratize access to assets once reserved for niche markets or elite players, all while leveraging blockchain’s security and decentralization.

The Power of Tokenizing Intangibles

Why focus on intangibles? The answer lies in their unique challenges and untapped potential. Unlike physical assets, intangibles often suffer from illiquidity, complex valuation, and limited accessibility. Blockchain addresses these pain points head-on:

  • Fractional Ownership: A musician could tokenize their song’s copyright, allowing fans to own a piece and share in royalties.

  • Liquidity: Carbon credits, often traded in slow, regulated markets, could flow freely on decentralized exchanges.

  • Transparency: Smart contracts can encode usage rights or emissions data, making ownership and compliance verifiable.

Imagine a world where a small business owner tokenizes their patent, raising capital without losing control, or where individuals trade tokenized “reputation scores” earned from online platforms. These possibilities are no longer science fiction – they’re being built today.

Pioneering Projects in Intangible RWAs

Let’s spotlight some innovative projects pushing the boundaries of intangible tokenization:

1. Centrifuge: Tokenizing Creative IP

Centrifuge is a decentralized finance (DeFi) protocol that allows users to tokenize real-world assets, including intellectual property. Artists and creators can use Centrifuge to turn their digital works – like music, films, or designs – into non-fungible tokens (NFTs) or fungible tokens tied to revenue streams. For instance, a filmmaker could tokenize their movie’s future profits, giving investors a stake while retaining creative rights. Centrifuge’s integration with Ethereum and its focus on DeFi lending makes it a trailblazer in this niche.

2. KlimaDAO: Tokenizing Carbon Credits

KlimaDAO is revolutionizing the carbon credit market by bringing it on-chain. Using the Polygon blockchain, KlimaDAO tokenizes verified carbon offsets into its KLIMA token, allowing anyone to buy, trade, or retire these credits. This not only increases liquidity but also empowers individuals and organizations to directly participate in climate action. By cutting out middlemen, KlimaDAO showcases how intangible environmental assets can drive real-world impact.

3. POAP: Tokenizing Personal Milestones

The Proof of Attendance Protocol (POAP) takes a creative approach by tokenizing experiences and reputation. POAP issues NFTs to individuals who attend events – virtual or physical – turning participation into a verifiable, tradable asset. While not a traditional financial instrument, POAP hints at a future where personal achievements or social capital could become tokenized RWAs, tradable on secondary markets or used as collateral.

The Challenges Ahead

Tokenizing intangible RWAs isn’t without obstacles. Here are the key hurdles:

  • Valuation Complexity: How do you price a patent or a person’s influence? Unlike gold, intangibles lack standardized metrics, complicating token design.

  • Legal Uncertainty: Intellectual property laws vary globally, and carbon credit regulations are still maturing. Tokenized assets must align with these frameworks.

  • Adoption Barriers: Convincing creators, regulators, and markets to embrace blockchain for intangibles requires education and trust-building.

Regulatory scrutiny is particularly intense. For example, tokenized IP might be deemed a security, triggering compliance with laws like the U.S. Securities Act. Meanwhile, carbon credit tokenization must navigate international climate agreements. Overcoming these challenges will require collaboration between blockchain innovators, legal experts, and policymakers.

A Glimpse into the Future with RWA Crypto

The tokenization of intangible RWAs could reshape economies and societies in ways we’re only beginning to grasp. Picture a marketplace where:

  • A scientist tokenizes their research IP, funding breakthroughs without traditional grants.

  • A company offsets its carbon footprint by buying tokenized credits from a farmer’s reforestation project.

  • An influencer sells fractional ownership of their personal brand, aligning their success with their community.

This frontier of RWA crypto is still in its infancy, but its potential is vast. Projects like Centrifuge and KlimaDAO are laying the groundwork, while concepts like tokenized reputation push the boundaries of what’s possible. As blockchain technology matures and regulations adapt, intangible RWAs could become a cornerstone of the decentralized economy.

Embrace the Intangible Revolution

While tangible RWAs like real estate dominate headlines, the tokenization of intangibles offers a fresh, underexplored perspective on crypto’s future. By unlocking the value of intellectual property, environmental assets, and even human capital, blockchain is proving its versatility beyond finance. For investors, creators, and dreamers alike, this is a space to watch – and perhaps to shape. Dive in, explore the projects, and consider how the intangible could redefine your relationship with the crypto world.

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