Mastering Stop Losses for Effective Crypto Trading


Intro
In the fast-paced world of cryptocurrency trading, where fortunes can shift with the blink of an eye, managing risk becomes essential. Among various strategies traders employ, stop losses stand out as a critical tool. Novice and seasoned investors alike must comprehend what stop losses are, how they work, and why they matter. This guide aims to peel back the layers of stop losses, offering insights that can add a layer of protection to trading activities.
Understanding the dynamics behind stop losses isn't just about plugging in numbers; it's about crafting a strategy that serves your broader trading goals. The volatility inherent in the crypto markets can be both an opportunity and a peril. Hence, having a clear grasp of stop losses can mean the difference between a strategic exit or a painful loss.
As we wade deeper into this topic, weāll cover market trends, price fluctuations, and educational resources, equipping you with both knowledge and practical know-how.
Crypto Insights
Understanding Market Trends
Diving into the world of crypto, the significance of market trends cannot be overstated. Prices don't oscillate in a vacuum; they are influenced by a symphony of factors, both internal and external to the market. Keeping an eye on market trends is crucial for setting effective stop losses. The price of Bitcoin, for instance, doesnāt just rise and fall randomly but reacts to news, changes in regulations, and macroeconomic shifts.
By monitoring these trends, traders can align their stop loss placements with the general direction of the market. For instance, during a bullish trend, an investor might set a stop loss further away from the market price, allowing them to ride the wave without triggering early. Conversely, in a bearish trend, tightening the stop loss can minimize risk.
Analyzing Price Fluctuations
Crypto markets are nothing if not volatile, with currencies like Ethereum or Litecoin exhibiting rapid price swings. Understanding price fluctuations is crucial for placing effective stop losses.
- Historical Data: By analyzing past price movements, traders can identify patterns that may repeat. For example, if a currency often bounces back after dropping by a certain percentage, setting a stop loss at that threshold could be wise.
- Support and Resistance Levels: These are like barriers in the market that traders often watch closely. Placing a stop loss just below a significant support level means youāre protecting yourself from unexpected downturns while giving your investment room to breathe.
"Effective risk management can save your investment fortunes in the long game."
Understanding the dance of price fluctuatoins, combined with market trends, is the bedrock on which sound stop loss strategies are built.
Educational Resources
Beginner's Guides to Cryptocurrency
Jumping into the crypto landscape can feel daunting. Beginner's guides provide the groundwork necessary for understanding fundamental concepts like stop losses. Resources like the Wikipedia Cryptocurrency page offer a foundational overview.
Advanced Blockchain Concepts
For those looking to deepen their knowledge, delving into advanced blockchain concepts can be beneficial. Mastering these subjects can enhance your understanding of the mechanics behind price movements and the markets themselves. Websites like Britannica offer in-depth articles.
Whether youāre just starting out or looking to refine your strategy, the educational paths available can lead to deeper insights into trading strategies, including how to adeptly use stop losses to your advantage.
Prolusion to Stop Losses
In the fast-paced world of cryptocurrency trading, understanding the mechanisms that safeguard investments is crucial. This section delves into the essence of stop losses, which serve as a roadmap for traders seeking to navigate an often volatile market. By laying a solid foundation in the concept of stop losses, we're not just highlighting their significanceāwe're also setting the stage for a deeper exploration of their applications and benefits.
Stop losses are predicated on the fundamental reality of trading: markets can swing unexpectedly. A robust stop-loss strategy allows traders to limit their potential losses while providing confidence during turbulent times. Itās like having an insurance policy for your investments; it might not bring you joy, but its presence can be a grip of relief when prices take an unwanted nosedive.
Defining Stop Losses in Crypto Trading
Stop losses are orders placed with a broker to sell a security when it reaches a certain price. In the realm of crypto trading, this is essential due to the dramatic price fluctuations that cryptocurrencies often experience. The stop loss acts as a protective barrier. Once a pre-defined price point is hit, the order is triggered, ensuring that traders do not merely watch their profits evaporate into thin air.
Here's a snapshot of how stop losses function:
- Market Stop Loss: This triggers a market order when the stop price is reached, selling the asset at the best available price.
- Limit Stop Loss: This combines elements of a stop loss and a limit order. When the stop price is reached, it places a limit order instead of a market order, allowing for more control over the selling price.
Stop losses, in theory, prevent one from succumbing to panic. For instance, letās say a trader owns Bitcoin, and it suddenly drops 10% after negative news. A stop loss set at that 10% mark will trigger a sale, ideally mitigating losses and allowing the trader to reassess their strategy without being emotionally driven.
Historical Context of Stop Losses
The concept of stop losses isnāt novel; it has roots in traditional stock trading. Traditionally, traders have used stop-loss orders for decades to cushion their portfolios against sudden swings. The importance of the stop loss became glaringly apparent during market crashes, notably during the burst of the dot-com bubble in the early 2000s, where many investors faced stark declines in equity without protective strategies in place.
As Bitcoin emerged in 2009, following its inception by an anonymous entity, understanding and applying stop losses took on new relevance. The cryptocurrency market's lack of regulatory oversight and its notorious price volatility made the need for protective measures ever more pressing.
- Milestones in Stop Loss Usage:
- Early 2000s: Traditional finance adopts it widely.
- 2010s: Crypto markets embrace stop-loss strategies due to high volatility.
- Current Era: With advancements in trading platforms, automated stop-loss orders have become common.
Through these developments, traders have learned that having a stop loss isnāt merely a preference; itās a necessity for prudent trading. As the crypto landscape continues to evolve, a nuanced understanding of stop losses can significantly enhance oneās trading effectiveness.
"In trading, a prepared mind is key. Stop losses are the shields that protect against emotional damage during unpredictable market skirmishes."


As we explore further, we will dive into the importance of these mechanisms, the different types available, and effective strategies to implement them.
The Importance of Stop Losses
In the dynamic and often unpredictable world of cryptocurrency trading, the concept of stop losses stands as a critical pillar of effective risk management. Stop losses not only protect traders from significant financial losses but also serve to refine trading strategies and bolster decision-making processes. They are like safety nets that catch you when the market throws a curveball, allowing traders to focus on their analysis without losing their heads.
Mitigating Financial Risks
Financial risks are an ever-present threat in crypto trading. Prices can swing dramatically within minutes, tossing even the most sound investment strategies out the window. By setting a stop loss, traders can predefine the maximum loss they are willing to tolerate. This proactive stance can mean the difference between a small hiccup and a catastrophic plunge. For example, if a trader buys Bitcoin at $40,000 but sets a stop loss at $38,000, they limit their potential loss to $2,000.
Taking a calculated approach to losses mitigates potential pitfalls that could arise from poor emotional decisions during market fluctuations.
- Here are a few key advantages of using stop losses to mitigate risks:**
- Controlled Losses: They create a clear boundary to your losses, ensuring that panic does not dictate your reactions.
- Peace of Mind: Traders can rest a bit easier knowing their investment is protected to a certain extent.
- Focus on Strategy: With a safety net below them, traders can devote more energy to analyzing data and spotting opportunities, instead of fixating on market fluctuations.
Emotional Control in Trading
Emotions play a pivotal role in trading psychology. Fear and greed often muddle even the most rational traders. The fear of losing money can drive decisions that lead to further losses. In contrast, the lure of profit can entice traders to hold onto positions longer than they should, hoping for a miracle to change their fortunes.
Setting a stop loss transforms your trading behavior by embedding discipline into your strategy. It acts as a firewall against emotional trading. When the price triggers your stop loss, it removes the human impulse to second-guess and reflexively buy or sell out of fear.
- Hereās how stop losses can bolster emotional control:**
- Eliminates Guesswork: Rather than reacting on whims, a structured approach encourages logical decision-making.
- Promotes Consistency: Consistent application of stop losses can help build a solid habit, which is crucial for long-term success.
- Reduces Stress: Knowing thereās a safety net allows traders to engage with markets in a calmer state, making more rational choices rather than panicked ones.
"Stop losses are not just a tool but a mentality shift that transforms how you interact with the market."
Clearly, understanding the importance of stop losses transcends mere financial calculations; it encompasses emotional intelligence and strategic discipline. As crypto enthusiasts and seasoned traders alike navigate the choppy waters of the market, incorporating stop losses into a trading strategy can prove invaluable.
By recognizing these psychological and financial advantages, traders can not only protect their investments but also develop a successful trading mindset that stands the test of time.
Types of Stop Losses
In the high-stakes arena of cryptocurrency trading, understanding different types of stop losses can mean the difference between securing profits and taking a substantial hit. Each type serves its own purpose, adapting to specific market conditions while catering to various trader preferences. Here, we will dissect the primary categories of stop losses, spanning their benefits and considerations for implementation.
Fixed Stop Loss
Fixed Stop Loss is the most straightforward approach. When a trader buys a cryptocurrency, they define a specific price at which they will exit the trade if it moves against them. For example, if you purchase Bitcoin at $50,000 and set a fixed stop loss at $47,000, if the price drops to that level, it triggers a sell order automatically.
This method offers clarity and simplicity. It allows traders to establish clear boundaries. However, the rigidity can lead to some issues. In a highly volatile market, it can result in getting stopped out too early. The price may dip slightly, triggering the stop loss before rebounding upward. Therefore, while a fixed stop loss is helpful for managing risk, itās essential to choose the level judiciously, considering support and resistance levels.
Trailing Stop Loss
Contrasting with fixed stop losses, a Trailing Stop Loss can adapt to favorable market conditions. This stop loss adjusts itself based on the movement of the cryptocurrencyās price, allowing for greater profit retention. For instance, if you set a trailing stop loss at 5% and the price increases to $55,000, the stop loss moves up to $52,250.
The beauty of a trailing stop loss lies in its ability to lock in profits when the market trends upward while still providing a safety net if things turn sour. However, keep in mind that this strategy requires careful monitoring of the market conditions. If the market is highly erratic, a trailing stop loss might cause premature exits.
Percentage Stop Loss
With a Percentage Stop Loss, the strategy focuses on a percentage rather than a fixed price. After entering a trade, a trader may decide to set their stop loss at, say, 10% below the purchase price. This can provide more flexibility in varying market conditions. Using our previous Bitcoin purchase at $50,000, a 10% stop loss would mean selling if the price drops to $45,000.
Itās a simple yet effective method for traders who want to balance risk and reward. However, setting an inappropriate percentage can lead to either excessive risk or missing out on potential profits due to market fluctuations.
Volatility-Based Stop Loss
The Volatility-Based Stop Loss tailors itself to the market's conditions. This method uses market volatility indicators to assess how much a price should be allowed to fluctuate before triggering a stop loss. For example, using the Average True Range (ATR) to determine the average movement can provide a smarter exit strategy that accommodates the natural ebb and flow of price shifts.
This type of stop loss can mitigate the risk of being knocked out of trades due to normal fluctuations in a volatile market. However, the initial setup may require a bit of math and an understanding of volatility measures, which could be a hurdle for some traders.
"Understanding the types of stop losses is much like having a toolkit at your disposal; each tool serves a unique purpose that can ensure a successful trading experience."
Ultimately, the choice of stop loss depends on individual trading strategies, market conditions, and risk tolerance. By familiarizing oneself with each type, traders can craft a diversified approach tailored to their specific needs.
Strategies for Implementing Stop Losses
In the unpredictable world of crypto trading, having a solid plan for implementing stop losses can make a whale of a difference in preserving your capital. Such strategies are not just about placing an order and hoping for the best; they require careful consideration of market dynamics and personal trading styles. A well-thought-out stop loss strategy can help a trader navigate turbulent waters, limit losses, and even lock in profits when the going gets tough. Let's break this down further, shall we?
Determining Optimal Stop Loss Levels


Finding the right stop loss level is akin to hitting the sweet spot on a tennis racket. Too close to the market price, and you risk being stopped out on harmless price fluctuations. Too far, and you might lose more than you bargained for.
Here are some tactics for determining optimal levels:
- Technical Indicators: Incorporate indicators like the Average True Range (ATR) to gauge volatility and place your stop loss accordingly. If the ATR indicates high volatility, you might want your stop loss further away.
- Support and Resistance: Identify key support and resistance zones; placing your stop loss just below a support level can help protect against market dips. Conversely, if you're selling, place it just above a resistance level.
- Percentage of Capital: Some traders use a percentage of their total capital to inform stop loss levels. A common rule is to risk no more than 1-2% of your account on a single trade. For instance, if you have $10,000 in your trading account, a 1% stop loss means youāre willing to lose $100 on that trade.
By blending these methods, you can create a more tailored and effective stop loss strategy.
Using Technical Analysis for Stop Loss Placement
Technical analysis provides a treasure trove of information that can significantly improve stop loss placement if used wisely. The idea is to use historical price data to predict how a crypto asset might behave in the future.
- Chart Patterns: Look for patterns like flags, triangles, and head and shoulders. Understanding these can help you identify trustworthy stop-loss levels aligned with market expectations.
- Moving Averages: Simple and Exponential Moving Averages can serve as dynamic support and resistance levels. If the price falls below a certain moving average, it may be wise to set a stop loss just under that figure.
- Fibonacci Retracement: Many traders use Fibonacci levels to find optimal stop loss locations. By marking potential retracement levels, you can determine where the price might bounce back or break down, allowing for strategic stop loss placement.
The key is to not overcomplicate things. Use a few indicators that resonate with your trading style, and stay consistent.
Adjusting Stop Loss as Market Conditions Change
Markets are rarely stagnant. They evolve and shift tone like a winding river. This constant flux necessitates the need for flexibility in your stop loss strategy. Hereās how you can keep your stop losses in check:
- Market Volatility: As market conditions fluctuate, so should your stop losses. In times of increased volatility, consider widening your stop losses to avoid being prematurely stopped out. Conversely, tighten them when the market appears stable.
- Price Movement: Monitor how the price of your asset is behaving. If it gains momentum and quickly rises, you might want to adjust your stop loss upwards to lock in profits. This is often referred to as a trailing stop loss.
- Fundamentals: Keep an eye on news and updates that might affect your assets. Major announcements can lead to rapid price shifts, and adjusting stop losses in response is critical to your success.
Ultimately, adapting your stop loss strategy based on current market factors can prevent losses and even turn trades into winners.
"Success in trading is not just about knowledge; it's about having the right strategies, mindset, and adaptability."
Incorporating these strategies into your trading routine can not only safeguard your investments but also enhance your overall trading prowess.
Factors Affecting the Effectiveness of Stop Losses
The effectiveness of stop losses is shaped by several factors that traders must navigate. Understanding these factors can significantly enhance the potential benefits of using stop loss mechanisms in trading strategies. Ignoring these elements can lead a trader to feel like they are walking a tightrope, balancing on the fine line between protection and potential disaster.
Market Volatility
Market volatility refers to the price fluctuations seen within a specific timeframe. In the world of crypto trading, this can be particularly pronounced. Price swings can occur within minutes, making it seem as though the market is experiencing a daily rollercoaster ride.
- Significance of Volatility: High volatility can trigger stop losses too soon, leading to unplanned exits from positions. Itās akin to tossing a coin into a fountain; the expected outcome may not align with reality. A trader might sell, believing it's preserving capital, but in doing so, they could miss out on a quick rebound. Thus, defining a stop loss in a highly volatile market requires a nuanced approach.
- Best Practices: Traders can consider adjusting their stop loss settings in relation to volatility indicators, like the Average True Range (ATR). This way, they potentially avoid being stopped out prematurely. Keeping a close watch on recent price patterns offers insights into appropriate levels.
Liquidity Considerations
Liquidity is essentially how easily assets can be bought or sold without causing significant price changes. In illiquid markets, executing a stop loss can be like trying to swim upstreamāa struggle against the tide.
- Understanding Liquidity: In highly liquid markets, such as Bitcoin or Ethereum, stop losses are generally honored at levels one sets. However, during periods of low activity or significant market events, slippage can occur. This means the execution price can differ from the expected price, leaving the trader vulnerable.
- Impact on Strategy: Traders should always assess liquidity when placing stop losses. Conducting trades in pairs with insufficient trading volume may expose one to the risk of being executed at unfavorable prices. Indicators such as the bid-ask spread can provide a visual cue about the liquidity situation in the market.
Order Execution Speed
In the fast-paced world of cryptocurrency trading, execution speed can be the difference between a minor loss and a catastrophic hit. The market moves rapidly, often in a matter of seconds, and delay in executing a stop loss can render it ineffective.
- Importance of Speed: When market conditions change in the blink of an eye, the ability to execute a stop loss almost instantaneously becomes critical. A delay can lead to what's termed as
Common Pitfalls in Using Stop Losses
In the dynamic world of crypto trading, stop losses are a valuable tool. However, their effectiveness can often be compromised by common mistakes. Understanding these pitfalls is crucial for anyone looking to safeguard their investments. These errors can lead to needless losses or missed opportunities, hence recognizing them can save traders a boatload of trouble.
Over-Reactivity to Minor Price Fluctuations
Many traders, especially novices, may find themselves jumping at shadows. They set stop losses too tight, reacting hastily to every minor price dip. In a volatile market, such tactics are counterproductive. A small price fluctuation might not signify a longer-term trend; it can purely be market noise.
When traders place their stop losses too close to the entry point, they may inadvertently trigger them during routine price movements. This not only results in unwanted losses but also disrupts the overall trading strategy. Hereās the key: if the price barely nudges down and triggers your stop loss, you've not only exited the trade prematurely but might also miss a potential recovery.
"Catching a falling knife is dangerous; sometimes itās better to just let it fall before picking it up."
Ignoring Stop Loss Adjustments
Once a stop loss is set, some traders treat it like a cast iron rule. Ignoring market conditions and not adjusting the stop loss as the trading landscape shifts can prove disastrous. Market sentiments can change dramatically within a short period, and so the rationale behind your initial stop loss may no longer hold water.
For example, if a cryptocurrency experiences a significant uptrend, it makes sense to adjust the stop loss to safeguard profits. Failing to do so can potentially turn gains into losses in a heartbeat. An adaptable trader, one who reviews and updates stop losses based on ongoing trends, stands a much better chance of protecting their investments in the long run.


Inconsistent Strategy Application
Consistency is key. Some traders adhere to their stop-loss strategy devoutly with one coin, while they apply a more relaxed approach to another. This inconsistency can be detrimental. Variations in applying stop losses can lead to confusion and result in erratic trading behavior.
It's vital to develop a coherent plan and apply it uniformly across trades. A robust plan includes determining specific criteria for each trade, such as the reasons for setting a stop loss and how to adjust if the position changes. Trading is not a game of chance; it requires discipline. By sticking to a well-thought-out strategy for stop loss application, traders can navigate market volatility more successfully.
In summary, avoiding these common pitfallsāover-reactivity to minor fluctuations, ignoring necessary adjustments, and inconsistent strategy applicationācan significantly enhance a trader's ability to effectively use stop losses. As the old saying goes, "An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure," and this holds particularly true in the volatile world of crypto trading.
Psychological Aspects of Stop Losses
When navigating the rollercoaster of crypto trading, mental fortitude is just as crucial as technical know-how. Understanding the psychological factors at play can help traders make more informed decisions regarding stop losses. Recognizing how emotions like fear and greed influence trading behavior is essential. Moreover, cultivating discipline could be the difference between a sound strategy and a haphazard approach. This section delves into the societal pulling forces that can skew rational decision-making.
Fear and Greed in Trading Decisions
Fear and greed often go hand in hand in the trading world. They act as twin engines driving most trading decisions. Fear of loss can lead to panic selling, while the greed for more gains might tempt traders to forgo their stop loss strategy. For instance, imagine a trader who has watched their investment rise significantly. The instinct to take profits may clash with an overwhelming desire to capture every last bit of potential gain. This battle can lead to ignoring or adjusting stop losses, putting the investment at risk.
Key Insights:
- Fear can trigger impulsive reactions, causing premature exit from a trade.
- Greed may result in the reluctance to set a stop loss, hoping instead that the price will continue to climb.
"Trading is a psychological game, and the emotional aspects often matter as much as the technical indicators."
Understanding this emotional landscape helps in recognizing when to adhere strictly to stop loss levels. Traders who grasp their psychological tendencies are better positioned to set and keep stop losses objective.
Building Discipline as a Trader
Building discipline is an uphill battle, yet it's essential for maintaining a structured trading strategy. When a trader shows restraint, it can pave the way for consistently hitting their trading goals. Setting pre-determined stop losses and adhering to them allows traders to shield their investments from unexpected fluctuations.
Some might find it grueling to stick to their own rules. It's akin to a resolution to eat healthily; itās easy to say, but harder to practice. To bolster discipline, traders may consider keeping a trading journal. Documenting decisions and outcomes encourages accountability and reflection.
Practical Suggestions:
- Outline clear guidelines for setting stop losses before entering a trade.
- Review past trades to identify emotional decisions versus informed ones.
By fostering discipline, traders can create a more stable trading environment, allowing them to avoid costly pitfalls caused by emotional response. The intersection of psychology and strategy cannot be overlooked; it is the fulcrum on which successful trading balances.
Future Trends in Stop Loss Strategies
The dynamic world of cryptocurrency trading is always evolving, and stop loss strategies are not immune to this change. As traders seek new methods to optimize their investments, understanding future trends becomes crucial. These trends point toward greater integration of technology and deeper market analysis, which can enhance trading effectiveness. By being aware of such developments, traders can position themselves to better navigate the complexities of the crypto landscape.
Integration of AI in Trading Systems
Artificial Intelligence has been making waves across various sectors, and cryptocurrency trading is no exception. The integration of AI tools is transforming how stop loss strategies are formed and executed. AI algorithms can analyze vast amounts of market data to predict price movements with more accuracy than a human ever could. This prevents traders from acting based on emotions fraught with uncertainty.
- One significant advantage of using AI is the ability to run simulations and backtests on different strategies at lightning speed. By comparing results, traders can identify optimal stop loss points based on historical performance.
- Additionally, AI can adapt in real-time to changing market conditions. For instance, if a sudden surge in volatility occurs, AI systems can autonomously adjust stop loss levels to better safeguard investments.
"With AI-driven strategies, the reactive nature of trading shifts to a much more proactive approach, providing traders with greater confidence in their decisions."
While the potential of AI in stop loss strategies is immense, it does come along with considerations. For example, traders must ensure they are not overly reliant on AI, as market conditions can shift unpredictably. A strong understanding of core trading principles remains essential to effectively use these tools.
Shifts in Market Sentiment and Adaptation
Market sentiment plays a pivotal role in pricing in the crypto arena. Traders who can read and adapt to shifts in sentiment will likely have a competitive advantage. For instance, during bullish runs, some may adopt wider stop loss levels to provide their investments with room to breathe. Conversely, during bearish trends, tighter stop losses might be employed to limit losses while maintaining liquidity.
Awareness of market sentiment can be gauged through various channels, such as social media discussions or trading forums.
- Engagement on platforms like Reddit or Facebook often reflects trader sentiment and hints at potential market movements.
- For example, a surge of negative sentiment can lead a trader to place stop losses aggressively, avoiding major downtrends.
Incorporating a sentiment analysis tool can also aid in decision-making. These tools scan social media trends and news headlines to establish whether overall sentiment is bullish or bearish, allowing traders to adjust stop losses accordingly.
In sum, tracking changes in market sentiment is crucial in shaping stop loss strategies. Recognizing that these are not static but rather fluid concepts will enable traders to adapt and evolve their tactics, ensuring better protection of investments as the market continues to change.
Finale and Key Takeaways
In wrapping up our exploration of stop losses in crypto trading, itās crucial to underscore their pivotal role in managing risk and enhancing decision-making. By integrating stop losses into your trading strategy, you create a safety net that can cushion the blow of unforeseen market downturns, allowing for more systematic and disciplined trading practices.
Summary of Key Points
- Risk Management: Stop losses are a fundamental tool for hedging against financial loss. They provide traders with a pre-defined exit strategy rather than an emotional reaction to market fluctuations.
- Types of Stop Losses: Familiarizing yourself with various types of stop losses, such as fixed, trailing, and volatility-based, empowers traders to select a method that best aligns with their trading style and goals.
- Psychological Stability: By utilizing stop losses, traders can combat emotional responses like fear and greed, fostering a more objective approach to trading.
- Continuous Adjustments: Itās important to monitor and adjust stop losses in response to changing market conditions, ensuring they effectively safeguard your investments.
- Avoiding Common Mistakes: Many traders fall into common pitfalls, such as overreacting to small market movements or neglecting to adapt their strategies. Recognizing these can greatly enhance trading outcomes.
Final Thoughts on Stop Losses in Crypto
Every trader, be they novice or veteran, should continuously educate themselves on refined strategies and remain adaptable in their trading methods. Keeping abreast of market trends and integrating cutting-edge solutions, including advanced algorithms and AI, can dramatically impact trading efficiency.
In essence, stop losses are an essential component of a robust trading strategy. Equip yourself with knowledge and use it wisely to navigate the exciting yet tumultuous waters of cryptocurrency.