As we reach mid-2018, blockchain (the technology behind cryptocurrencies like bitcoin) has become even more popular and widely discussed.  For many that have put off learning about the new tech, there’s still time to get hands-on …..

Bitcoin, and the cryptocurrency movement, evolved from the financial crisis of 2008 as an industry solution that could stand alone on its own, without an intermediary or governing authority.  In the last 10 years, the crypto sector has gained popularity and mass appeal from its tremendous growth (especially in 2017).  Despite all the headlines, there is still some mystery as to how cryptocurrency can benefit the global financial system, and what else exists beyond Bitcoin.

When it comes to cryptocurrency, everyone already knows about Bitcoin and some are familiar with Ethereum, but what about Ripple?  As the 3rd largest crypto by market cap, Ripple has risen to fame with its promise of real-time, low cost global transfers - - but, how close is the company and its currency (XRP) to realizing this potential?

As cryptocurrency markets start heating back up, there’s increased debate about how investors should categorize this controversial  value source.  Three regulating agencies in the U.S (SEC, IRS, FinCEN) all disagree - - considering it a security, property, or a currency (respectively).  Is cryptocurrency even a financial asset or something completely on its own?

Blockchain is becoming widely known as the next big innovative technology, impacting the future of how we do business. The issue faced today is that the answer blockchain provides is still searching for problems to solve that customers are willing to pay for. Which problems will be most realistic and profitable to solve for blockchain?

As 2018 rolls along, blockchain continues to be a huge buzzword full of tremendous future potential.  With all this attention and promise of innovation, why has the technology not gone mainstream already to the masses?  The answer lies in creating a clear understanding for everyone, which can be definitely be catapulted by a gaming app.

IBM is teaming up with non-profit Sovrin Foundation to use blockchain technology to build a framework of global identity for both individuals and businesses, which aims to make everything in the online space as true and authentic as in the offline space (or "real world").

The tech giant, Google, is making movements in the blockchain space and looking to stay ahead of the competition with developments in its cloud systems.  As another tech giant, Facebook, has come under huge scrutiny for its mishandling of private information, blockchain offers enhanced security of information on this distributed ledger platform, highly benefiting Google and users globally.

Trouble keeping up with the latest cryptocurrency and bitcoin news and trends? It's even more difficult to be clear on what governments are regulating worldwide on a country-by-country basis.  The existing gray area of where crypto exists in the financial system and lack of unison from nations have created this mixed stance.

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The recent struggles for Bitcoin to get back to its 2017 peak (or even the $10,000 price point) have many in the finance world thinking the downward spiral has started already.  Stefan Hofrichter, a leader of well-known money manager, Allianz Global Investors, agrees based on what has happened in the past with bubbles.

Although Bitcoin has been on the steep decline in 2018, its fluctuations throughout the years are part of its 9-year history from less than $0.01 (October 2009) to its all-time high of $19,783 (December 17, 2017), and most recently $6000 (start of February 2018).

Years from now when today's popular discussion of bitcoin and cryptocurrency has faded away, blockchain and its revolutionary applications will remain strong and ongoing.  Here's why ....

Image Credit - Insight Success