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Okay bestie, let's talk crypto. Have you ever nodded along when people mention it but secretly have no idea what they're talking about? We've all been there.
Crypto is literally everywhere these days - your TikTok FYP, the news, conversations at brunch. Yet it's one of those topics that can feel oddly confusing if no one's ever explained it properly.
This guide isn't here to convince you to do anything. It's simply a clear breakdown of what crypto actually is, why it exists, and where to learn more if you're curious.
Let's take it step by step.
Cryptocurrency is a digital currency that exists entirely online.
Unlike traditional money, it isn't controlled by a bank or a single organisation. Instead, it operates on decentralised systems, meaning no one company or government is in charge.
Bitcoin is the most well-known example, but it's just one of many cryptocurrencies. Each one is designed for different uses, from simple payments to tackling climate change.
At its most basic level: crypto is a digital asset that can be bought, sold, or transferred online.
Crypto transactions are recorded on a digital system called a blockchain.
Think of it as a shared digital ledger that keeps track of every transaction on the network. Instead of living in one bank's database, this record is spread across thousands of computers globally.
Because the system is shared, transactions are verified collectively rather than by one central authority. If the network of computers sees an inconsistency in a transaction, they can reject it. That's why crypto is often described as decentralised and transparent.
You don't need to understand the technology in depth to grasp the concept. Just know it's secure, tracked, and not controlled by one entity.
Crypto now sits at the intersection of money, technology, and digital culture.
People are interested in it for different reasons:
Learning what it is doesn't mean you need to participate. It just gives you context when it inevitably comes up.
Crypto is just one part of a wider financial landscape.
In the same way it's useful to understand superannuation, shares, or how interest works, having a basic understanding of crypto helps you feel more confident navigating modern money conversations.
It's about awareness, not action. Knowledge is power and all that.
If this guide sparked curiosity, the next step is learning from a trusted source.
As part of our partnership, we're pointing you towards Swyftx Learn – a free educational platform that breaks down cryptocurrency and blockchain concepts in a clear, beginner-friendly way. You can even score a small amount of crypto while you learn – so at brunch you can now tell everyone you own some.
Their Introduction to Cryptocurrency guide covers:
Explore it here: Swyftx Learn
Crypto doesn't need to be overwhelming or intimidating.
You don't need to be an expert. You don't need to have strong opinions. You just need a clear explanation from someone who's willing to break it down without the gatekeeping.
This guide is one small step toward understanding modern money, on your own terms. And honestly? We love that for us.
This content is educational only and part of a paid partnership with Swyftx. It's designed to help our community understand crypto, not to provide financial advice.