In 2017, Google announced that the most popular search phrase was “how to buy Bitcoin”. The realization that Bitcoin had gone mainstream hit us.
This year started with all kinds of speculations on which coins will bring the most profit for 2018. If only we all had our crystal balls to avoid those S#*t coins.
The announcement by coinbase that it would add more coins to its wallet in 2018 is sure to make an impact on the markets. The following coins are my pick for coins that would make headlines this year.
In case you missed it, there are 3 areas to consider before you invest in any alt coin
- Retailer Acceptance: How will you use or spend it?
- Verification Method: Proof of work vs. proof of stake
- Market Capitalization and Daily Trading Volume: How much are people buying and selling?
Ripple
Ripple is making it easier to move funds between financial institutions. It aims to replace the Swift system currently used by banks. It is the 3rd most capitalized coin. The problem with ripple is it is not decentralized and may not be a good fit for coinbase.
BitcoinCash
Currently the 4th most capitalized alt coin, BCC‘s value has risen steadily after the fork. It is faster and has cheaper transaction fees. Its inclusion in coinbase last year is sure to make it a serious contender to BTC.
Monero
This is the real anonymous crypto. It was developed in 2014. It was infamous for being the preferred payment for black marketers and drug dealers. It is expected to keep rising this year as its popularity increases for publicity shy users.
Stellar
This was a byproduct from the fork from ripple. Stellar takes an opposite direction from ripple and focuses on the unbanked. It has been on a roll this year and has a value of $0.63.
STEEM
Although not trading like the coins on the top 10, STEEM has been on a good run this year. It is now $7. It is expected launch of the Smart Media Token this January. STEEM is projected to be big this year.
I will be updating this blog soon so stay tuned.