I've been reading and learning about cryptocurrencies for years now, more heavily in the last few months. Been using Bitcoin, Dogecoin, and now Steem.
Creating a new cryptocurrency at this time seems like a waste - or at least not worth it in the long run. These small currencies don't last long, and even if it got to a tradeable point to be worth exchanging for Doge or BTC, it wouldn't be anything special. There's like what, over 600 cryptos now? I've noticed (it's quite obvious actually) most of the general public, some 70%, doesn't even know what Bitcoin is, and it's difficult to explain to some who aren't tech savvy. It wouldn't be too bold to say Bitcoin doesn't seem like real money to some.
A year ago I published a book on Amazon's KDP service (pretty solid setup) as an ebook, and it did okay. But just this week I released a paperback version and got a tremendously more grand response, even from the people that already had bought the ebook. It goes without saying, a physical form of something is often more interesting, and it gives you a real sense of value.
I've been kicking around with some ideas for a cryptocurrency, but what if it could be backed by a physical aspect? Is this a plausible idea? I'd like to possibly stir up a discussion.
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Shameless plug - my book, Endfall: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1520183607
There are a few crypto that are backed by Gold and commodity such as wheat, oil and different crops, hell there are even USD backed cryptos like Tether, but they are too problematic and sometimes they are not even honored properly. Like the usd backed crypto is supposed to be $1 to $1, but its trading at $0.97 , which is a load of bullshit.
There are over 700 currencies currently listed on coinmarketcap.com. Many of the smaller coins are experimental, meant as a learning mechanism for their creators. For example, I helped to create a Litecoin clone myself (see madbyte.com) and do not expect it to ever become the latest and greatest coin, but I did learn a lot about the inner workings and technical considerations of coins. I feel that many of the new coins are ONLY made in hopes of a quick buck. But it is probably much more effort to launch a coin than the return it will get you.. but people will keep trying in hopes that this will be "the one" that makes them rich.
In my head-universe animation project thingi people have "bitcards" which is basically what the Viva people are making with their Mastercards (I'm pretty sure they're using Mastercard but could be wrong). From a "trying to increase adoption/usage" kind of view I think they have the right idea with putting a physical and familiar way of dealing with things into people's hands. While I know a lot of people (tech geeks in particular) that are looking forward to merging into the singularity and ditching their useless meatbodies I know a lot more people who would probably be more interested in using/adopting any given cryptocurrency if it didn't require a degree in comp sci to understand XD