Altcoin: definition and meaning
An altcoin is any cryptocurrency other than Bitcoin. The word is short for "alternative coin" and covers everything from Ethereum to small experimental tokens.
Why it matters
Altcoins usually have less liquidity and bigger price swings than Bitcoin, so risk and research needs are higher.
Related terms
- Bitcoin
Bitcoin is the first cryptocurrency, launched in 2009. It uses a proof-of-work blockchain … - Token
A token is a digital asset created on top of an existing blockchain, as opposed to a coin … - Market capitalization
Market capitalization is a coin's price multiplied by its circulating supply. It is a roug…
Educational content only, not financial advice.