You can now buy three new cryptos on Young Platform: learn all about Aptos (APT), Jupiter (JUP), and Internet Computer Protocol (ICP)!
From now on, you can buy and sell APT, JUP and ICP on Young Platform! Deposits and withdrawals are not available for these cryptocurrencies. For more information, please read our Terms and Conditions.
Find out how these blockchain projects work to see if they are for you!
What do you need to know about Aptos (APT), Jupiter (JUP), and Internet Computer Protocol (ICP)?
Aptos is a Layer 1 blockchain that uses a Proof-of-Stake consensus algorithm to validate transactions on its network. This network is programmed in Move, a language for writing smart contracts, developed by Meta (formerly Facebook) in 2019. The project’s main aim is to enable the creation of user-friendly decentralised applications that can be used even by those unfamiliar with the technologies involved.
On the other hand, Jupiter is a fledgling decentralised exchange native to Solana that aims to provide traders with an unprecedented DeFi experience. On Jupiter, one can easily place different types of orders and trade cryptocurrencies and derivative contracts. You can, for example, set up limit orders executed when a token reaches a predetermined price or create your automated dollar cost averaging (DCA) or recurring purchase strategy.
Finally, Internet Computer Protocol (ICP) calls itself the ‘global computer’ since it connects a network of dedicated devices that, in effect, constitute a decentralised ecosystem. It is, to all intents and purposes, a Layer 1 blockchain designed for less experienced users that aims to replace Web2 infrastructures thanks to its decentralised data storage mechanism.
How to use APT, JUP and ICP on Young Platform
Here are all the features available for Aptos (APT), Jupiter (JUP) and Internet Computer Protocol (ICP) on Young Platform and Young Platform Pro:
Buying and selling with EUR
Recurring purchase
Creating a Single Coin Moneybox or Bespoke Bundly Moneybox
When will the next ECB meeting take place? The central bank’s calendar is constantly monitored not only by investors or market experts. Even ordinary Eurozone citizens follow the central bank’s meetings with interest and apprehension, as its decisions can affect households’ portfolios.
Therefore, every ECB meeting is eagerly awaited and preceded by countless predictions about Christine Lagarde’s and the Governing Council’s moves, whose words are constantly scrutinised. Here, then, is the 2025 calendar (and beyond) of meetings to monitor and attend all of the appointments with the Frankfurt institution.
Next ECB monetary policy meeting: calendar 2025
The ECB’s annual calendar has several appointments. It generally meets twice a month, but monetary policy decisions are discussed only every six weeks. These are the most eagerly awaited meetings because they can influence the financial and other markets. The ECB calendar is, therefore, divided into two parts: the upcoming monetary policy meetings and the non-monetary policy meetings.
The first category of appointments, which always falls on a Thursday, is followed by the press conference of the institution’s president, Christine Lagarde, who presents what has been decided to the public and journalists.
What is discussed during each ECB monetary policy meeting? The main topics are generally Eurozone growth and GDP, quantitative tightening, inflation trends, and interest rates.
Interest rate decisions are significant because they directly impact people’s savings and purchasing power. Rising interest rates, for example, have various consequences, including rising mortgage costs. On the other hand, raising or lowering interest rates is essential for the ECB to fulfil its primary task of keeping prices stable.
The initial question arises: when is the next ECB meeting? Here is the 2025 calendar of monetary policy meetings:
30 January 2025
6 March 2025
17 April 2025
5 June 2025
24 July 2025
11 September 2025
30 October 2025
18 December 2025
Except for the October meeting in Rome at the Bank of Italy, every ECB meeting in 2025 will be held in Frankfurt and chaired by the Governing Council of the European Central Bank, the institution’s main decision-making body. This consists of President Christine Lagarde, Vice-President Luis de Guindos, four members appointed from among the leading Eurozone countries who hold office for eight years, and the governors of the national central banks.
After each meeting, investors monitor the markets to gauge the reactions to the European Central Bank’s decisions. Some of these also impact the cryptocurrency market. Therefore, the upcoming ECB meetings, like those of the Fed (Fed calendar 2025), should be watched. On Young Platform, the leading cryptocurrency exchange, you can monitor cryptocurrency prices simultaneously as reports on each ECB meeting.
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Next ECB non-monetary policy meeting: calendar 2025
The ECB meeting calendar also includes meetings that do not deal with monetary policy issues. On these occasions, the other tasks and responsibilities of the European Central Bank, such as banking supervision for the Eurozone, are fulfilled. Here are all the dates of the upcoming meetings:
19 February 2025
23 March 2025
29 September 2025
29 November 2025
The General Council also convenes another type of ECB meetings, which have advisory and coordination functions:
27 March 2025
26 June 2025
25 September 2025
20 November 2025
ECB meeting calendar 2024
The calendar of last year’s meetings, held in Frankfurt and Ljubljana in October, is provided.
25 January 2024
7 March 2024
11 April 2024
6 June 2024
18 July 2024
12 September 2024
17 October 2024 (at the Bank of Slovenia)
12 December 2024
ECB meeting calendar 2023
To review past meetings and conferences, this is the calendar of every ECB monetary policy meeting held in 2023. Except for the October meeting in Athens, every ECB meeting in 2023 was held in Frankfurt.
2 February 2023
16 March 2023
4 May 2023
15 June 2023
27 July 2023
14 September 2023
26 October 2023
14 December 2023
So, the next ECB meeting in 2025 will soon occur, and all eyes are on the possible cut in interest rates. But this year’s calendar of meetings is complete, and there will be plenty of opportunities to discuss the Eurozone economy.
The complete 2025 Fed meeting schedule with all upcoming dates
The Fed (Federal Reserve System) meeting calendar, i.e., the central bank of the United States, has eight annual meetings. These meetings are the equivalent of the meetings of our ECB (here, it is calendar 2025), where monetary policy decisions are made. They are widely followed events because they can influence the course of the financial markets and, in recent times, have become real turning points for the future of the global economy.
Fed meetings: what is decided and by whom
Before discovering the 2024 Fed meetings calendar, let us see how these appointments work.
The FOMC (Federal Open Market Committee) is the Fed’s operating body and mouthpiece and chairs the meetings. This is comprised of 12 members, including US central bankers and the Fed Chairman.
The FOMC assesses the financial conditions and monetary policy actions needed to achieve US economic objectives. The interest rate decision was the most decisive factor.
At each Fed meeting on the calendar, a summary of economic projections and the Dot Plot, a chart showing each Fed member’s anonymous forecast of the Fed funds rate position for the past year, the future and the long term, are presented. These appointments are highlighted in the calendar with an asterisk.
Here is an example of a Dot Plot chart published at the December 2022 Fed meeting.
DOT PLOT: The Fed's latest decision to raise rates by 50 basis points follows four consecutive 75 basis-point hikes.
The summary of economic projections is published within the FOMC meeting announcement, and a monetary policy statement highlights key financial indicators, such as labour market data. During this occasion, the Fed announces the “federal funds rate,” which is the interest rate influencing all other rates (mortgages, loans, bonds). This rate is expressed as a range (e.g., 1.75%-2%). Achieving an average within this range is the implied target. The higher this target, the more restrictive monetary policy becomes; the lower the target, the more accommodative it is.
Fed meetings: calendar 2025
These FOMC meetings are held eight times a year, last two days, followed by a press conference by Chairman Jerome Powell. Here is the Fed calendar of all meetings for 2025.
28-29 January 2025
18-19 March 2025 *
6-7 May 2025
17-18 June 2025 *
29-30 July 2025
16-17 September 2025 *
28-29 October 2025
9-10 December 2025 *
(*) Meeting associated with a Summary of Economic Projections
Fed meetings: calendar 2024
The Fed in 2024 met on these dates:
30-31 January 2024
19-20 March 2024 *
30 April – 1 May 2024
11-12 June 2024 *
30-31 July 2024
17-18 September 2024 *
6-7 November 2024
17-18 December 2024 *
Fed meetings: calendar 2023
The Fed in 2023 met on these dates:
31 January – 1 February 2023
21-22 March 2023 *
2-3 May 2023
13-14 June 2023 *
25-26 July 2023
19-20 September 2023 *
31 November-1 December 2023
12-13 December 2023 *
Fed meetings: calendar 2022
The Fed in 2022 met on these dates:
*25-26 January 2022
15-16 March 2022*.
3-4 May 2022
14-15 June 2022*.
26-27 July 2022
20-21 September 2022*
1-2 November
13-14 December 2022*
Financial players and analysts await the Fed meetings with great interest. The Institute’s decisions play a major role in US monetary policy, but not only that. On several occasions, we have also seen an impact on other markets, such as the cryptocurrency market. That is why keeping an eye on the Fed’s calendar of upcoming meetings can be helpful.
As the curtains fell on the Fed meeting in March 2024, a wave of anticipation gave way to a reality check: the federal interest rates remain unchanged. The current target range is between 5.25% and 5.50%.
The decision, aligned with the expectations set by the Fed’s forecasts, points to a cautious approach despite the clamour for easing monetary policies. But what does this mean for the economy, consumers, and investors? This article delves into the nuances of the Fed’s latest policy stance, dissecting the layers beyond the headline decision.
Market forecast
As we stepped into 2024, the investment landscape was abuzz with optimism. Market participants harboured hopes for a series of rate cuts, envisioning as many as six or seven adjustments downward.
However, the tides of economic reality have tempered these expectations. Recent developments and data analyses have led to a revised outlook, with consensus building around three rate cuts anticipated to commence in June. This adjustment reflects a cautious optimism, recognising the persistent challenges of quashing inflation—a nemesis that has proven more resilient than anticipated.
Inflationary trends and economic indicators
Inflation trends remain a critical determinant of the Fed’s policy trajectory. Despite a decline from peak levels, inflation rates, as per the latest Consumer Price Index and Personal Consumption Expenditures Price Index, still overshoot the Fed’s 2% target. Notably, recent monthly data hint at an inflationary uptick, a factor likely weighing heavily on the Fed’s decision-making process. The upcoming PCE index update will be particularly pivotal, offering fresh insights after the March meeting.
Inflationary trends remain a critical determinant of the Fed’s policy trajectory. Despite declining from peak levels, inflation rates increased in January and February, as indicated by the latest Consumer Price Index and Personal Consumption Expenditures Price Index, and are still above the Fed’s 2% target.
Employment data and their implications
The job market’s resilience is a testament to the economy’s underlying strength. However, this robustness also presents a conundrum for the Fed, potentially fueling wage-induced inflation. The recent uptick in unemployment and solid job creation paint a complex picture for policymakers, who must balance curbing inflation and fostering employment.
“A strong increase in hiring per se would not be a reason to hold off on rate cuts,” Fed Chairman Jerome Powell said, adding that the labour market per se is not a cause for concern about inflation.
Details of the March Fed meeting
At the Fed’s March 2024 meeting, members of Congress estimated an overall rate cut of three-quarters of a percentage point by the end of 2024, marking the first decrease since the initial COVID-19 outbreak in March 2020.
The current federal funds rate represents the highest peak in 23 years. This rate determines reciprocal overnight lending costs between banks, affecting different types of consumer debt.
The anticipations concerning the three possible cuts emerge from the Fed’s so-called ‘dot plot’, a set of anonymous forecasts rigorously analysed by the nineteen members of the FOMC. This plot offers no details about the timing of the expected actions.
Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell confirmed that the institution has not yet specified a timeline for the cuts but remains hopeful that they will come to fruition, provided the favourable economic data. After the meeting, the CME Group’s FedWatch index showed that the futures markets attributed a 75% chance to the first rate cut occurring as early as the 11-12 June session.
The committee anticipates three more cuts in 2026, followed by two more thereafter until the federal funds rate stabilises around 2.6 per cent, which officials believe is the neutral, non-incentive or restrictive rate.
These forecasts are part of the Fed’s Summary of Economic Projections, including projections for GDP, inflation and unemployment. The distribution of the data points revealed a more aggressive bias than in December, but without significantly altering the estimates for the current year.
Impact on markets
In response to the Federal Reserve’s decision to hold rates steady, Seema Shah, chief global strategist at Principal Asset Management, said, ‘Powell may have shown his cards: He needs a good reason not to cut rates rather than a reason to cut rates. Markets perhaps couldn’t have asked for more from the Fed, and stocks will celebrate.’
Indeed, the major averages rose on Wednesday afternoon after the Federal Reserve released its policy decision and rate forecast. The S&P 500 gained 0.3 per cent, and the Nasdaq Composite gained 0.5 per cent. The Dow Jones Industrial Average index ended the day up 401 points, or just over 1%. Treasury bond yields mainly fell, with the 10-year benchmark rate recently settling at 4.28%, down 0.01 percentage points.
Conclusion
The Federal Reserve’s latest rendezvous paints a picture of a central bank at a crossroads. Juggling the dual mandates of controlling inflation while fostering employment, the Fed walks a tightrope of monetary policymaking. For consumers and investors, the message is clear: brace for a landscape defined by gradual adjustments and vigilant observation.
The Fed’s strategies and decisions remain pivotal as the economy continues its dance with inflation and growth. With each meeting and announcement, the contours of the economic future gain clarity. Yet, in this era of unpredictability, one truth holds steady: the path ahead is paved with cautious steps and watchful eyes.
You are currently on the Young Platform blog. Keep yourself updated with macroeconomic events directly on the app and observe their real-time impact on cryptocurrency prices.
The US presidential elections are getting closer and closer. What to pay attention to?
US elections 2024: from the candidates to the exact date of the ballot call to speculation on the results, the world has already begun to wonder about the upcoming US presidential election.
In this simple guide, the event will be reviewed so that you arrive prepared for one of the most eagerly awaited elections in the world, the 60th for the country. Moreover, in a few days, the primaries will begin defining the candidates who will compete for the United States of America president: who will win the 2024 US elections?
When are the next US elections?
Presidential elections in the United States are held every four years on the first Tuesday in November. Therefore, the next US election will occur precisely on 5 November 2024. Voters will go to the polls to elect a new president, officially taking office on 20 January 2025.
These consultations are crucial in American democracy and attract national and international attention as they influence a wide range of global issues. That is why the focus on them is always at the highest level.
Candidates
Before going into the details of the 2024 US elections, a few clarifications are in order. The party system in The Stars and Stripes is dominated by two main political parties: the Democrats and the Republicans. Both play a central role in US politics and exert considerable influence on the political process and elections at all levels of government.
In November 2022 came the first confirmation of participation, with Donald Trump announcing his candidature for a second (non-consecutive) term as head of the Republicans. A few months later, in the spring of 2023, President Biden made it official that he would run for a second term with the Democrats. These two influential names were joined by others, more and less well-known. From the outset, the Dems’ line-up was less dense than that of the Republicans.
In summary, the candidates for the 2024 US elections for the Democrats are as follows:
Joe Biden
Robert Francis Kennedy Jr
Marianne Williamson
Dean Phillips
The Republican candidates, on the other hand, are:
Donald Trump
Ron DeSantis
Doug Burgum
Larry Elder
Nikki Haley
Tim Scott
Asa Hutchinson
Chris Christie
Mike Pence
Vivek Ramaswamy
Perry Johnson
Ryan Binkley
Will Hurd
But who, among these, will be chosen to lead each political party? The primaries at the beginning of 2024 will decide this. Primary elections are standard consultations in which voters choose the presidential candidates who will represent their party in the general election.
It is worth mentioning that all candidates in US elections must comply with Article 2 of the Constitution: the person to be proposed must be a citizen from birth, must be at least 35 years old, and must have resided on US soil for at least 14 years.
US primaries 2024: who are the favourites?
The US primary elections are just around the corner, with voting for the Republicans starting on 15 January in Iowa and continuing in the other states in the following weeks and months. As is almost always the case in history, those in opposition (in this case, the Republican ones) are to be followed since it is scarce for the outgoing president, Joe Biden, to lose those on his side. Polls estimate that the current president is ‘the choice’ of almost 70% of Dem voters. However, given his no longer young age, the Democratic Party primaries could also hold surprises.
On the Republican front, the favourite to date is still Donald Trump. According to recent polls on the US Election 2024, the tycoon has 47%, 45.7% and 53% of the support in the three key seats of Iowa, New Hampshire and South Carolina, respectively. In second place is Nikki Haley, the former South Carolina governor, who ‘controls’ 14.3%, 18.7%, and 22% of the electorate, respectively. Ron DeSantis, the current governor of Florida who looked like he could be the former president’s main antagonist, has lost ground in several caucuses (meetings where voters debate and vote for candidates) apart from that of Iowa, where he still has 17.3% of the vote.
US elections 2024 and cryptocurrencies
Those in the crypto sector will also watch the 2024 US elections closely. Indeed, US government policies are perfectly capable of influencing the regulation of virtual currencies. For instance, choices regarding rules, financial regulations or anti-money laundering laws can directly impact how crypto is used and traded in the US.
Some candidates or administrations may be more or less inclined to support technological innovation, including blockchain technology and cryptocurrencies. Therefore, policies aimed at promoting new technologies could have a positive impact on the ecosystem.
The consequences could also be fiscal and thus concern the taxation of cryptocurrencies (here all things to know about Italian regulations). More generally, positive news for the sector could increase asset prices with positive repercussions for the global crypto market. Will the 2024 US election candidates be able to stimulate the industry?
You are on the blog of Young Platform, the Italian platform for buying cryptocurrencies. Here you can find the latest news on blockchain, Bitcoin and more. Follow us and stay updated on the US 2024 elections and much more.
What is automated trading, and how does it work? An intelligent solution for asset trading
Automated trading has emerged as a crucial component in the contemporary financial landscape, revolutionising how investors interact with financial markets.
This system employs algorithms, and thus mathematical formulas, to execute buy and sell orders, entrusting a computer programme with the task of operating according to well-defined trading strategies. But what exactly does this approach entail, and its advantages and disadvantages? In short, what is automated trading, and how does it work?
Automated trading: what is?
Automated trading enables you to participate in the financial markets using a computer program that executes trades based on predetermined entry and exit conditions. Traders typically use a combination of technical analysis and setting parameters for their positions, such as opening orders, trailing stops, and guaranteed stops. Automated trading handles trades automatically from start to finish, so you can spend less time monitoring your positions.
Automated trading allows you to execute many trades quickly while removing emotion from trading decisions. All the rules of the trade are already built into the parameters you set. Additionally, some algorithms allow you to use predetermined strategies to follow trends and trade accordingly.
Automated trading: how does it work?
Automated trading systems rely on algorithms or indicators to determine the appropriate times to buy or sell a particular asset. These computer programs may use indicators like the RSI, MACD and Bollinger bands or more complex mathematical and statistical analyses. Once programmed, they operate autonomously, following preset guidelines.
One of the main strengths of these tools is that they allow investors to maintain a more detached approach. However, it is still necessary to constantly monitor that everything is working correctly. Those who use automated trading tend to be less emotionally involved, a strength when trading in the financial markets. In this sector, emotions can, in fact, condition or even destroy correct and rationally constructed strategies.
How widespread is it?
Knowing what algorithmic trading is also means knowing how popular it is worldwide. This market (or sub-sector) is steadily expanding and is gradually winning over many institutional investors (investment funds and large banks) and retailers or retail investors.
Globally, the trading industry has been valued at USD 2 billion in 2022, while the annual growth rate is about 7%. This means that it is estimated to reach a value of 3.5 billion by 2030. The main reason for the recent expansion is related to the increasing quality of these instruments that have become, over time, more and more accurate and reliable
Automated trading: advantages and disadvantages
Automated trading, like any type of market trading, has advantages, disadvantages, risks, and opportunities. There are no recipes for success; each strategy or indicator must be placed in a specific context. This is why it is necessary to achieve adequate preparation and specific skills before venturing into the world of trading.
The discourse may differ if one intends to buy and hold an asset over the long term. An easy strategy to set up in this sense is recurring buying, which requires periodic purchases at regular intervals. If this possibility intrigues you, you can explore Young Platform’s ‘piggy bank’ feature, an easy way to buy crypto by averaging the purchase price.
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Returning to the central theme of this article, namely understanding what automated trading is and how it works, let’s look at the main advantages and weaknesses of this type of trading.
Advantages
Less emotional involvement: automated trading, algorithms and indicators allow traders to trade according to a rigid strategy. This is very useful to avoid acting impulsively and not being influenced by the movement of the markets.
Speed of execution: thanks to automatic trading, orders are executed almost instantaneously once the pre-set conditions occur. This way, more time can be devoted to planning the strategy, and the implementation phase can be experienced with peace of mind.
Ability to manage several strategies at the same time: an automated system can follow several strategies or positions at the same time. This makes obtaining a sufficiently diversified portfolio easier, a fundamental component for trading and investing.
Disadvantages
Need for monitoring from a technological point of view: contrary to what one might think, automated trading also requires supervision. If you choose to opt for this solution, you must be aware that it is necessary to monitor the functioning of the algorithm regulating the system.
Risks of non-conforming performance: past performance does not guarantee future results, which may lead to overly optimistic projections.
In conclusion, having understood what automated trading is and how it works, it is worth reiterating that, although it offers numerous advantages, it has risks. Nevertheless, the number of trades handled through this modality is constantly growing.
Smart Trades, the automatic trading strategies, are coming to Young Platform! They are available as a preview for Club members only.
We are happy to announce the launch of a new feature: Smart Trades. This feature was created through a partnership with Aelium, a company specialising in developing cryptocurrency trading strategies. Smart Trades can only be activated in advance by Young Platform Club members. In this article, we will learn what they are, how they work, and what advantages they offer for your cryptocurrencies.
Managing money: a question of time
Many of us feel we have no time. We would like to devote attention to many essential or enjoyable things, but time always seems in short supply. Managing money is one of them.
Understanding financial concepts helps to set and achieve concrete goals, contributing to present and future financial security. It gives peace of mind, opens new opportunities and avoids uncontrolled debt. Developing one’s savings and investment skills increases independence and quality of life.
We firmly believe that the crypto market represents a new opportunity, and our job is to make it available to as many people as possible.
We have always tried to develop tools that are simple and as automated as possible, capable of working even with minimal amounts of money and little time. This way, anyone can try, experiment, and adapt the tools to their situation. Flexibility is our prerogative. We break down any barriers and encourage individual autonomy, starting from the heart of the problem: time.
Buy-and-Hold and Smart Trades compared
Today, we want to introduce you to a new tool that complements the Moneyboxes. These were created to automate the buy-and-hold approach over the long term. Buy and Hold isan approach that does not consider price fluctuations and volatility and tries to put cryptocurrencies aside over the years on an ongoing basis. The recurrence of purchases over the long term limits risk and the average purchase price.
The completed approach to Moneyboxes, which we want to tell you about today, is the one introduced by Smart Trades. If Moneyboxes are for ‘buying and saving,’ Smart Trades are for trading. They are, therefore, short-term indicators that execute buy-and-sell trades automatically. Smart Trades seek to exploit volatility, price trends, and breaks in support and resistance to their advantage to achieve results over weeks or months, even if they entail higher risk.
But now, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of Smart Trades to learn what they are, how they work, and what benefits and risks they entail. Above all, we must know how to harness them to achieve our goals.
Remember, the definitions provided here are greatly simplified for a non-expert audience. If you wish to delve deeper into the indicators, we recommend reading the in-depth articles on Academy. It’s crucial to understand that financial markets are intricate and unpredictable, and an indicator’s performance can fluctuate based on numerous factors. Before you proceed, consider your risk profile, investment goals, and time horizon. Also, avoid basing your decisions on a single source of information and always seek advice from a professional who can guide your choices. This table provides some information that may aid your research. But always keep in mind: the final decision is always yours!
What are Smart Trades
Smart Trades are automatic trading indicators that operate without human intervention thanks to an algorithm.
This algorithmic trading type uses mathematical models to execute buy and sell orders based on market signals and predefined parameters. With Smart Trades, even beginners can approach trading.
Algorithmic trading: how it works
Algorithmic trading can execute various trading orders at a higher speed than manually. These systems are programmed to recognise trends, patterns and price discrepancies. Based on this data or signals, they execute fast trades to maximise returns.
An algorithm in trading is a detailed recipe that tells the computer exactly what to do and when. For example, ‘Buy 100 shares of XYZ Corporation when their price falls below 50€ and sell them when their price rises above 60€’. The computer monitors the market 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and automatically executes these orders when the specified conditions occur, without you constantly tracking the market.
Why activate a Smart Trade?
Activating a Smart Trade offers numerous advantages, especially for beginners. It is a gateway to the trading world that does not require years of experience or constant market monitoring. Smart Trades reduce the emotional factor, one of the biggest obstacles for traders, and allow a more disciplined, data-driven approach. In addition, they will enable you to take advantage of market opportunities 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
How to Choose a Smart Trade
Before activating a Smart Trade, it is important to carefully evaluate each strategy, understand the associated risks, and determine which best aligns with your objectives. The app describes each strategy’s characteristics, and you can read the complete guide to help you interpret and use them in your choice.
How Smart Trades are activated
Activating a Smart Trade on the Young Platform is simple and intuitive. They are currently only available on the Young Platform app, not the web version. After selecting the strategy that best suits your needs, follow this step-by-step tutorial. Simply enter the amount to be allocated and check the summary data before confirming. Once configured, the Smart Trade will start trading automatically, allowing you to monitor progress and make necessary changes. For more details on the functionality, please read our Terms and Conditions and Aelium’s Terms and Conditions.
Smart Trades available on Young Platform
Each of the four proposed strategies works on different parameters. You can read the Academy’s in-depth article on a strategy by clicking on it in the following list:
Keltner Channels
Supertrend
Momentum
Bollinger Bands
Cryptocurrencies available for Smart Trades
The cryptocurrencies available for use with Smart Trades include some of the most popular and liquid ones on the market:
This selection of cryptocurrencies allows diversifying one’s strategies across different assets, taking advantage of each coin’s unique characteristics.
Smart Trade Monitoring
To monitor the gains and losses of your Smart Trades, access the ‘Smart Trades’ section of the app. In the ‘Active’ tab, find and select the strategy of interest to view the details. Here, in the Profit&Loss (P&L) section, you can analyse the performance of your plan, checking the percentage increase or decrease and the amounts gained or lost. If you wish to increase your budget, you can easily do so by using the ‘Add Funds’ button on the same detail screen. By following these simple steps, you can actively manage and monitor the effectiveness of your automatic trading strategies on the platform.
Smart Trades that can be activated
Smart Trades can only be activated in advance for Clubs. If you do not belong to a Club, you can only activate one Smart Trade at a time, but by joining a Club, you can unlock many more.
The availability of these strategies varies according to Club membership.
What fees are applied to Smart Trades?
During the preview period for Club members, a fixed commission of 0.2% will be charged on the transaction amount. Please note that fees may change once the feature becomes available to the public. It’s important to mention that no commission discounts will be applied to Smart Trades, including those offered by the Club subscription or acquired bonuses.
Young Platform does not provide tax, investment, or financial services and advice. The information on this website is provided for informational purposes only. It is presented without regard to any specific investor’s investment objectives, risk appetite, or financial circumstances and may only be suitable for some investors. Buying and selling cryptocurrencies involves risks, including total loss of capital. Users should always research, consult a qualified professional before deciding, and carefully assess their risk profile and loss tolerance.
Smart trades are algorithmic trading strategies. This article will examine the types available on Young Platform and how they work.
Algorithmic trading in brief
Imagine algorithmic trading as the use of an autopilot for trading. Just like the autopilot of a plane or Tesla, it follows precise instructions to take us to our destination. In algorithmic trading, software acts according to well-defined rules (the algorithm) to buy or sell assets such as stocks, bonds or cryptocurrencies. Smart trades work this way, thanks to their algorithms.
The advantages of algorithmic trading
The main advantage lies in eliminating emotional and psychological influences that determine human decisions, using a cold, logical approach to data instead. Unlike us, the algorithm never rests: it scans the data and the market 24/7, even while we sleep.
Algorithmic Trading on Young Platform
The algorithm, in itself, acts according to rules. Each algo-trading strategy available on Young Platform has its specific algorithm, built on an ‘indicator’.
Indicators work like ‘sensors’ that try to understand what will happen once they have analysed the data. Based on the result, the algorithm executes a buy or sell order. It is essential to remember that indicators analyse statistical trends and are therefore not infallible. This is because the market is unpredictable, and no one, not even mathematics, can predict the future.
Smart Trades available
Let’s, therefore, take a look at the strategies available on Young Platform and their respective indicators:
NB. The following definitions have been greatly simplified to make them accessible to a non-expert audience. To explore the indicators, please read the in-depth analyses of the Academy below. Also, remember that the information below, including that in the summary tables, is not a magic formula. Financial markets are complex and unpredictable, and the performance of an indicator can vary depending on many factors.
Before proceeding, consider your risk profile, investment objectives and time horizon. Also, do not base your decisions on a single source of information; always consult a professional who can help you base your choices. In this table, you will find some information that may help you research. But don’t forget: the final decision is always yours!
Supertrend
This strategy takes its name from the indicator on which it was built: the Super Trend Indicator. In a nutshell, it works on short-term volatility by trying to identify price trend reversals.
A trend reversal, also called a price reversal, is a change in the direction of prices. The prices of a specific asset are hitherto oriented in a particular direction, and they change direction. There are downward reversals and upward reversals. The trend changes from positive to negative in the first case, while the opposite occurs in the second case.
The dedicated guide includes other ranking parameters to help you assess whether this strategy is right for you.
Keltner Channels
The Keltner Channel was first introduced by Chester Keltner in the 1960s. This indicator mainly studies price strength.
The Keltner Channels help identify potential entry and exit points in an upward market. They tend to work best in high volatility, i.e., when an asset’s price moves steadily. Conversely, if the price remains stable, it may suggest a less volatile or consolidating market.
The dedicated guide includes other ranking parameters to help you assess whether this strategy is right for you.
Momentum
This indicator is a tool that helps analyse markets to understand whether the price of an axis is getting stronger or weaker. It tells us whether the price is rising rapidly, falling, or changing slowly. This indicator mainly uses two indices: the Relative Strength Index (RSI), which helps to tell if a stock has been bought or sold too much compared to its ‘normal’ value, and the Moving Average Convergence Divergence (MACD), which shows if the price trend of an asset is changing.
The dedicated guide includes other ranking parameters to help you assess whether this strategy is right for you.
Bollinger Bands
The Bollinger Bands strategy, named after its indicator, operates based on ‘buy walls’ and ‘sell walls’. It comes into play when the price enters an ‘overbought’ or ‘oversold’ zone.
In the first case, a cryptocurrency is traded at a price the index evaluates as higher than the “fair” price. Therefore, it is expected that the market will correct shortly, and consequently, there will be a decrease in the value of the cryptocurrency. In the second case, the index believes that the cryptocurrency is traded at a price below its “fair” value. Thus, it is likely that the price will bounce back up.
Other classification parameters in the dedicated guide can help you evaluate whether this strategy is right for you.
How to activate a strategy on Young Platform
Now that we have identified one or more strategies suited to our needs, it is time to get into the swing of things and follow the step-by-step tutorial to activate them. We have devoted an article to the Smart Trades activation guide. In addition, you can read the article on Frequently Asked Questions about Smart Trades.
Young Platform does not provide tax, investment or financial services and advice. The information on this website is provided for informational purposes only and is presented without regard to any specific investor’s investment objectives, risk appetite, or financial circumstances. It may not be suitable for all investor users. Buying and selling cryptocurrencies involves risks, including total loss of capital. Users should always research, consult a qualified professional before deciding, and carefully assess their risk profile and loss tolerance.
Buy and Hold is a widely used long-term approach. It is based on the belief that, despite market volatility, the value of cryptocurrencies will tend to increase in the long run. Think, for example, of someone who bought Bitcoin five years ago and has yet to sell it, hoping for further appreciation.
Buy and Hold: General Considerations
Buy and Hold is a particularly suitable approach for beginners because it does not require excessive analysis skills or in-depth knowledge of market dynamics.
On Young Platform, we have developed a feature to use this approach: Moneyboxes. To be able to activate them, these are the elements you need to bring with you:
a lot of patience
a budget to be allocated on a weekly or monthly basis
a basic grounding in the options available
For this last point, please refer to the end of the article.
Each approach has peculiarities that, aligned to the specific needs of each, can turn into significant advantages. Let us take a closer look at the conditions under which Buy and Hold can be particularly suitable:
when one has little time or knowledge in the field
when you can set aside a budget regularly (the minimum is 20€ in the case of Young Platform operations)
one has an anxious, emotional or high-stress personality
one is not too familiar with the use of applications or web platforms
you do not want to achieve goals in the immediate term, but you are thinking of achieving results in the long term
one does not know the charts well and finds it hard to understand what is the best price to buy and when is the best time to buy
Advantages of the Buy and Hold Approach
Less emotional impact
One of the most challenging aspects of buying cryptocurrencies is managing emotions. Market volatility can often lead to hasty decisions based on panic or euphoria. Buy and Hold reduces this emotional stress, as the user does not have to worry about daily market fluctuations.
Long-term benefit
Historically, many cryptocurrencies have shown a long-term appreciation trend. People who bought Bitcoin or Ethereum in their early years and held the position have often seen strong results. Of course, we know that ‘what has been‘ is no guarantee of ‘what will be’. However, looking at a chart that photographs the performance of a cryptocurrency from its inception to the present can help us understand whether a long-term approach has the best chance. This means the answer is ‘yes’ for one cryptocurrency and ‘no’ for another.
Simplicity of management
Unlike active trading, which requires constant attention and analysis of the market, the buy-and-hold approach is relatively simple to manage. Once the repetitiveness of buying is set, the user only has tomonitor the market occasionally.
Reducing transaction costs
Each transaction may involve costs, such as buying and selling commissions. The buy-and-hold approach minimises the number of transactions, thus reducing the associated costs.
Flexibility of market entry
Systematic hoarding, also known as Dollar Cost Averaging, allows users to enter the market at an average cost, reducing the risk of buying large amounts of cryptocurrency at an unfavourable time.
More excellent protection against short-term volatility
By holding cryptocurrencies for an extended period, users are less exposed to the inevitable short-term market fluctuations, which can often be drastic.
How to apply this approach
Young Platform has developed an ad hoc section for this type of user: Moneyboxes.
Each Moneybox comes with a powerful tool: recurring purchases.
The recurring purchase is an automatic order executed according to our chosen settings.
There are three parameters to be entered:
The budget
Frequency
The cryptocurrencies we are interested in
Choice of budget
The easiest way to decide on a budget is, for example, to analyse our expenses monthly. How much can we put aside? And how much of this budget do we want to convert into cryptocurrencies?
All that remains now is to decide how to load the budget into our account: by credit card, debit card, prepaid card or bank transfer. Follow the deposit guide for a complete tutorial on the procedure.
NB. When setting the recurrence of the deposit, make it a few days earlier than the one you set for the Moneybox.
Frequency
Once the budget has been established, all that remains is to ‘unpack’ it into several purchases. The choice can fall on:
1 purchase per month
1 purchase every fortnight
1 purchase per week
The choice will also depend on the size of the budget. For example, if it is 1,000€ per month, I may consider splitting it into several purchases so that the average purchase price is well spread over the 30 days.
Essential preparation on available options
Three types of Moneyboxes are available on the Young Platform. Each includes one or more cryptocurrencies, and knowing what we buy is essential. For an informed choice, it is crucial to learn more about the characteristics of each cryptocurrency, such as its history, market positioning and potential applications.
The Curated Bundle
These are Moneyboxes already diversified by market area:
Popular: these are the most popular cryptocurrencies among members of the Young Platform community. Inside, you will find:
Metaverse is an online virtual environment where users interact in shared experiences. Inside, you will find cryptocurrencies that belong to projects in the Metaverse:
Web3 is the third evolutionary phase of the internet, characterised by blockchain-based economic and technological systems. Here, you will find the cryptocurrencies that collaborate in the construction of Web3:
To purchase an individual cryptocurrency, simply select one from the menu. To explore the various projects, scroll down the Markets page of our site and, by clicking on a cryptocurrency’s name, read more about it. Before making any transactions, conducting thorough research and analysis is essential, assessing each cryptocurrency’s characteristics.
The Bespoke Bundle (2 to 5 crypto)
You can create a customised and diversified Moneybox using the’ Markets’ page to discover the various cryptocurrencies. This section lets you learn more about the available projects and their characteristics. However, conduct in-depth research on each cryptocurrency before including it in your Moneybox.
Young Platform does not provide tax, investment or financial services and advice. The information on this website is provided for informational purposes only. It is presented without regard to any specific individual’s objectives, risk appetite or financial circumstances and may only be suitable for some Users. Buying and selling cryptocurrencies involves risks, including total loss of capital. Users should always research, consult a qualified professional before deciding, and carefully assess their risk profile and loss tolerance.
Bitcoin has reached a new all-time high, surpassing $71,000. What are the three leading causes?
Bitcoin has officially recorded a new all-time high (ATH). A few minutes ago, it hit the $71,627 level.
This term describes the maximum value Bitcoin touches or, in general, any asset. What has happened in recent weeks is anomalous. Bitcoin has never reached a new all-time high before halving during past cycles, coming in less than fifty days.
How is it possible that Bitcoin has now reached this new record high? Given that a year ago, its value was more than three times lower than it is today. Here are the three main reasons
Bitcoin’s historical high: the causes
Identifying all the causes of Bitcoin’s unexpected all-time high is a daunting challenge. While it is much easier to find the main ones, the question to build on to understand the economic context in which to place the crypto’s recent bullish rally is: Why did Bitcoin record a new all-time high? And more importantly, why did it reach this milestone before the next halving?
The approval of spot ETFs
The first reason is apparent. From 11 January onwards, Bitcoin has entered the Olympus of assets. The approval of spot ETFs by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has incredibly boosted the crypto’s status, making it attractive even to those who have not delved into its technology. Most institutional investors, historically antagonistic to BTC, have re-evaluated it and finally understand its potential.
However, if we analyse what has happened from an economic point of view, the situation is even more evident. Right now, there is an imbalance between supply and demand, which favours the former. Thanks to their ETFs, funds are buying vast amounts of Bitcoin daily, while issues remain stable and will halve with the halving of April.
Halving 2024
The second reason relates to the event that all crypto enthusiasts have been waiting for. In past cycles, this has always preceded Bitcoin’s new all-time high, but this time, everything is different. How come? It’s impossible to say for sure, but what happened could be connected to the approval of ETFs.
Usually, halving was, for many, an ‘excuse’ to return to crypto after months in which most investors ignored it due to the bear market‘s bearish price movements. This time, however, in part, the interest has come early, attracted by significant American funds.
A virtuous bear market
The third and final reason is related to the bear market. The strong growth that Bitcoin and the crypto world, in general, have experienced in the last period is also the result of the work done in the previous two years. You know, there is no better time to build new solutions or improve existing ones than when prices fall and the euphoria disappears.
Over the past few months, many technological innovations have been born (or improved) on Bitcoin. Some are more controversial and divisive, such as Ordinals and BRC 20 tokens; others, such as Layer 2, are universally considered necessary. The other ecosystems, e.g. Cosmos, Ethereum and Solana, have also renewed themselves, trying to improve above all from the point of view of ease of use. A historical weakness for this sector.
As mentioned, these are not all the causes contributing to Bitcoin reaching a new all-time high. How not to mention the considerable interest in artificial intelligence and the consequent rise in the share price of technology companies, e.g., Nvidia? Or the imminent end of quantitative tightening policies, and thus the likely cut in interest rates in the coming months.
