The Complete Guide to Ethereum for Everyone: From Beginners to Experts

What is Ethereum?

　Ethereum is a decentralized application platform equipped with smart contract functionality, boasting the second-largest market capitalization after Bitcoin. Released in 2015, Ethereum serves as a foundation for building various applications, not merely a cryptocurrency.

Basic Features of Ethereum

Smart Contracts: These are programmed agreements that automatically execute when predefined conditions are met.

Decentralized Applications (DApps): Applications that operate without a central authority.

These features enable applications in various fields, including finance, gaming, and supply chain management.

Latest Developments and Trends

Ethereum-Compatible Chain from Japan

　Recently, an Ethereum-compatible blockchain was launched in Japan. This project, involving Dentsu, Minna Bank, and Pixiv, showcases how Japanese companies are leveraging blockchain technology.

Price Trends and Market Predictions

　As of May 2024, Ethereum’s price is hovering around 610,000 JPY. Analyzing the price fluctuations over the past year reveals significant impacts from major updates and market risk-on/risk-off trends. For instance, prices temporarily surged after the Shanghai upgrade in 2023 but declined following financial tightening measures.

How to Buy Ethereum and Recommended Exchanges

How to Purchase

　To buy Ethereum, you first need to open an account on a cryptocurrency exchange. After account setup, you can purchase Ethereum through spot trading or leverage trading. For beginners, spot trading is recommended. Major exchanges like Coincheck and bitFlyer offer user-friendly interfaces for easy transactions.

Recommended Exchanges

• Coincheck: Offers a variety of trading tools and allows small trades from 500 JPY.
• DMM Bitcoin: Known for its user-friendly interface and low fees, ideal for beginners.
• GMO Coin: A highly reliable platform handling various cryptocurrencies.
• bitFlyer: The largest exchange in Japan, known for its security and high trading volume.

Investment Points and Cautions

Investment Benefits

• High Liquidity: Second only to Bitcoin in trading volume, making buying and selling easy.
• Growth Potential: Increased adoption of smart contracts and DApps suggests potential for price increases.

Investment Risks

• Price Volatility: Ethereum’s price can fluctuate significantly in a short period, requiring caution.
• Technical Risks: Risks of hacking and technical issues exist.

　Before starting investments, thorough market analysis and risk management are crucial. Beginners are advised to start with small investments and gain experience gradually.

Conclusion

　Ethereum is an innovative platform based on smart contracts and decentralized applications. By keeping up with the latest technological trends and market movements, selecting the right exchanges, and investing cautiously, you can reap potential benefits. For the latest information, we recommend checking sites like CoinDesk JAPAN and Minkabu.

　We hope this blog helps enhance your understanding and investment in Ethereum. Remember, all investments are at your own risk, so make well-informed decisions based on thorough research!

8 Latest Alternatives for Ethereum Investment

1. Maximizing Earnings through Staking

   With the transition to Ethereum 2.0, staking (locking Ethereum to support network maintenance) is gaining attention. Staking allows you to earn regular rewards from your holdings.

    

   Method

   • Selecting a Staking Platform: Use staking services offered by major exchanges like Binance or Coinbase.
   • Locking Ethereum: Utilize the exchange’s staking feature to lock your Ethereum.
   • Checking Rewards: Rewards vary by platform, usually distributed monthly.

   For more details, see Coinbase’s Staking Guide.

2. Investing in Decentralized Finance (DeFi)

   DeFi is a system providing financial services without central authorities. Ethereum is a key platform for various DeFi projects.

   Method

   • Selecting DeFi Projects: Research major DeFi projects like Aave, Compound, and Uniswap.
   • Connecting Wallet: Prepare an Ethereum wallet like MetaMask and connect it to the project platform.
   • Investing Assets: Deposit assets into the chosen project to earn interest and rewards.

   For more details, visit Aave’s official site.

3. Purchasing and Trading Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs)

   NFTs are tokens that prove ownership of digital art and collectibles on the blockchain. The NFT market has seen rapid growth, expanding investment opportunities.

   Method

   • Selecting Marketplaces: Use major NFT marketplaces like OpenSea, Rarible, and Foundation.
   • Connecting Wallet: Create a wallet such as MetaMask and connect it to the marketplace.
   • Purchasing NFTs: Buy and hold or resell NFTs you like.

   For more details, check OpenSea’s official guide.

4. Building a Career as an Ethereum Developer

   Ethereum offers a robust smart contract platform for developers. Developing blockchain skills can expand your career opportunities.

   Method

   • Utilizing Learning Platforms: Take Ethereum development courses on Coursera or Udemy.
   • Participating in Practical Projects: Gain experience by contributing to open-source projects on GitHub.
   • Networking: Attend blockchain-related events and conferences to network within the industry.

   For more details, see Coursera’s Ethereum Development Course.

5. Participating in Decentralized Autonomous Organizations (DAOs)

   DAOs are organizations governed by smart contracts. By participating, you can engage in decision-making and earn rewards.

   Method

   • Selecting DAOs: Use platforms like Aragon or DAOstack to find interesting DAOs.
   • Buying Tokens: Purchase governance tokens of the DAO to participate in decision-making.
   • Participating in Activities: Engage in DAO activities and projects to earn rewards.

   For more details, visit Aragon’s official site.

6. Investing in Ethereum-Based Games

   Blockchain games provide new value by giving players ownership of in-game assets. Many games operate on Ethereum, offering investment opportunities.

   Method

   • Selecting Games: Research popular blockchain games like Axie Infinity and Gods Unchained.
   • Purchasing In-Game Items: Buy and enhance items or characters, or resell them.
   • Earning Rewards by Playing: Collect rewards and tokens by playing the game.

   For more details, check Axie Infinity’s official site.

7. Using Lending Platforms

   Lending platforms allow you to borrow other assets using Ethereum as collateral or lend out Ethereum to earn interest.

   Method

   • Selecting Platforms: Use major platforms like Aave and Compound.
   • Depositing Assets: Deposit Ethereum into the platform and lend it out.
   • Checking Interest: Regularly check and reinvest interest earned.

   For more details, visit Compound’s official site.

8. Mining Ethereum

   Mining Ethereum involves approving blockchain transactions, earning Ethereum as a reward. Specialized hardware can yield high returns.

   Method

   • Preparing Hardware: Set up a mining rig with high-performance GPUs.
   • Joining Mining Pools: Participate in mining pools like Ethermine or SparkPool.
   • Setting Up Mining Software: Use software like Claymore or PhoenixMiner to start mining.

   For more details, visit Ethermine’s official site.

　These alternatives offer diverse approaches to Ethereum investment. Each method carries risks, but with proper research and risk management, you can maximize investment opportunities. Always stay updated with the latest information and act cautiously to ensure success!