Cryptocurrency coins are digital assets that are created, stored, and transferred electronically. They are based on algorithms and are secured with cryptography. The tokens have various uses, including payments, e-commerce, remittances, and investment. Some of the common types of tokens are Stablecoins, Asset-backed tokens, Precious metal-backed tokens, and Utility tokens.
Stablecoins
Stablecoins are cryptocurrency coins that are backed by some type of physical or financial asset. This external reference point, usually a fiat currency, is used to stabilize the value of the coin. Depending on the issuer, stablecoins can be either centralized or decentralized.
Some stablecoins are backed by gold. These coins have a peg to the value of gold, enabling investors to invest in them without any risk of price volatility. However, these coins are often expensive to transport and store.
Others are backed by fiat currencies such as the United States dollar. These are referred to as “USDC” or USD Coin. The founders of these stablecoins claim that they are backed by assets regulated by the US government.
There are also non-collateralized stablecoins, which are backed by algorithms. These algorithms are complex and can be gamed. They are not as stable as the latter.
Another major feature of stablecoins is that they offer transparency. Issuers keep a reserve, which they need to prove to ensure the stability of the coin. To guarantee this, they must have a specific amount of fiat currency in a bank account.
Utility tokens
Utility tokens are a form of digital currency based on smart contract technology. The main function of these tokens is to give holders access to a product or service within the crypto ecosystem. Usually, the token is issued during an initial coin offering (ICO).
A utility token’s most notable feature is that it’s not a security. This means that the value of the token may not be as liquid as the value of the native coin of the ICO.
As a result, utility tokens do not have to meet SEC guidelines for listing on a crypto exchange. Rather, they are marketed as a promotional tool for the issuing company. Investing in a utility token may provide a return that’s more than what you’d get with a purely monetary asset.
There are many different types of utility tokens. Some of them are designed for specific purposes in the ecosystem of a dApp or blockchain project. Others are meant to provide a better staking experience or promote a specific feature of the underlying blockchain.
Asset-backed tokens
Asset-backed cryptocurrencies are a new concept in the crypto space. They’re backed by real world assets, such as gold and real estate, and are able to offer some advantages over traditional cryptocurrencies. Some of them include liquidity, price stability, and convenience.
While asset-backed coins are the next logical step in the evolution of cryptocurrencies, they may also introduce new risks to investors. In fact, some analysts believe that they will create an education gap for consumers.
These tokens also allow investors to purchase shares in a property without incurring the cost of buying or selling a whole property. This can be an attractive option for investors who are willing to take a few credit risks.
Asset-backed tokens are not for the faint of heart. Their price and volatility is significantly different than that of a typical crypto coin. For instance, the AABBG token is tied to the price of gold, with a minimum token price that is related to the spot gold price.
Precious metal-backed tokens
Precious metal-backed cryptocurrency coins are a popular alternative to conventional cryptos. They offer several advantages to investors.
For example, gold-backed tokens are portable, transferable, and a safe and secure way to hedge against volatility in the crypto market. While some cryptocurrencies can be backed by as little as a fraction of an ounce of gold, others can be backed by one troy ounce or more.
Buying a precious metal-backed cryptocurrency requires careful consideration. The first thing to consider is whether or not the project is audited for its bullion reserves. Also, make sure that the redemption process for bullion is secure.
Another important factor to consider is whether the coin is convertible to physical gold. If it is, you can trade it for other cryptocurrencies or use it as a store of value.
Gold-backed cryptos are also a popular option for first-time investors. PAX Gold (PAXG) and Ixinium (IXIN) are two of the more popular choices.