What is cryptocurrency?

Ready to ease into crypto? We're here to help you understand cryptocurrency in the simplest way possible. Think of this article as your friendly guide to exploring Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, and other digital currencies.

April 29, 2025

Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes and not financial advice. bunq doesn't give trading advice. Manage crypto at your own risk. Always do your own research or consult a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. Cryptocurrency investments come with risks, including the potential loss of the principal invested. Prices can fluctuate significantly. bunq Crypto is managed through our partner Kraken.

Cryptocurrency is digital money—no coins, no bills. Just data. Unlike traditional currencies like euros or dollars, crypto isn't controlled by any government or central bank. Instead, it's all powered by blockchain technology: a secure, public record of all transactions that anyone can check, but no one can change.

With bunq, exploring crypto is as smooth as checking your savings. No new platforms. No extra wallets. Just tap into the bunq app and go.

How does cryptocurrency work?

Let’s say you pay for coffee with euros. Your bank processes the transaction and updates your balance. With crypto, there’s no middleman. A global network of computers checks and records the payment through blockchain technology, making it transparent and secure.

Once verified, the transaction is locked in and can’t be changed. Ever. Think of it as a digital ledger that never forgets.

What's the big difference between crypto and regular money?

  • Fiat money (like euros or dollars) is managed by central banks. Its value shifts with inflation and interest rates.

  • Cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin have a fixed supply. That makes them more like digital assets than everyday currency.

Looking for something steadier? Try stablecoins—cryptos tied to traditional currencies like the euro or USD. They combine the benefits of crypto with more predictable value.

At bunq, there’s no need to choose. You can keep earning interest on your euros while exploring crypto—all in one place.

What are the most popular cryptocurrencies?

Here’s a quick intro to some of the most well-known cryptos:

  • Bitcoin: Digital gold. Limited supply, high value. Popular for long-term investment.

  • Ethereum:  More than just payments. It powers apps, smart contracts, and NFTs.

  • Solana: Known for speed and low fees. Perfect for quick, affordable transactions.

  • Stablecoins (USDT, USDC): Tied to real-world currencies, so they stay relatively stable. XRP: Designed for fast, global payments. Great for cross-border transfers.

  • Cardano (ADA): Focuses on sustainable, scalable blockchain tech.

How to easily buy crypto with bunq

You don’t need to be a pro—or use multiple platforms. Just follow these simple steps in the bunq app:

  1. Open your bunq app
    If you're already with us, great—just open your app. If you're new, welcome! Sign up in just 5 minutes.

  2. Go to the Crypto tab
    It’s your starting point for everything crypto.

  3. Choose your crypto
    Pick from Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, and more.

  4. Enter an amount and confirm
    Decide how much you want to invest—done in seconds.

  5. Track everything in one place
    Monitor your crypto next to your savings and everyday accounts.

We’ve teamed up with Kraken to store your crypto securely, so you don’t have to worry about wallets or passwords. It’s all taken care of—right in your bunq app.

No stress. No clutter. Just one app that lets you save, spend, and invest—all on your terms.

Explore crypto the bunq way.

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