When it was created in 2009, a bitcoin was worth next to nothing. But its value has literally exploded this year, and it now exceeds the 13,500 euros mark. According to Bloomberg subject matter expert Mike McGlone, this trend is set to continue, and the cryptocurrency could be worth $ 20,000 [16,932 euros] as early as 2021.
This would constitute a record, since bitcoin has never exceeded 19,982 dollars [16,920 euros]. "Bitcoin can experience a parabolic year 2021, as in 2013 and 2017, if the previous models reproduce," he said.
Jason Deane, bitcoin analyst at Quantum Economics, agrees. "A $ 20,000 bitcoin is a realistic prospect and (in my opinion) quite likely, maybe even within the next six months." Less realistic, predictions of a million dollar bitcoin were even recently issued by a former Goldman Sachs specialist in hedge funds.
Prudence, the mother of virtue
How, then, to join the crowd of bitcoin traders? Please note: this is not an investment guide, we are simply describing the process through which individuals can acquire bitcoin. Note also that the platforms and companies mentioned are only examples.
The Cryptoast site explains how to do this using the cryptocurrency exchange BINANCE (recently accused of seeking to circumvent regulations in the United States). Crypto traders also often turn to COINBASE or Kraken in particular, praised for their simplicity.
You must first register with an email address - preferably dedicated only to Binance - and a complex password (the use of a password manager is recommended). Once the e-mail address has been validated, you must activate double authentication for more security (preferably with Google Authenticator).
You then need to have your Binance account verified by entering personal information and ID (the face will then be verified via the webcam or smartphone camera). From there, it is possible to buy bitcoin, by clicking on “buy cryptos”, then specifying the desired amount (for example 1,000 euros).
Bitcoin in wallet
By paying by credit card, and specifying again your nationality and the amount of investment planned, you now own 0.150779 BTC. It is then advisable to transfer the bitcoins to a virtual wallet, for more security.
To create one, at blockchain.info for example, you need a valid email address, protected by a complex password. Again, enabling two-factor authentication guarantees greater security.
You must then note its address (or identifier), which allows you to connect and transfer funds. You must keep your private key in a safe place (on a USB key, on tidy paper).
Finally, to transfer bitcoins to the wallet from an exchange platform, you must click on "withdrawal" then enter the address of said wallet, and the amount of the transaction - which, it should be noted, will incur costs. The rest is up to you: be careful not to get intoxicated.
