Cryptocurrency refers to digital money that's not managed by a central government. It's based on Blockchain technology with Bitcoin being the most widely used. There are many options available as digital money gains more traction on Wall Street. There is more than 5,000 cryptocurrency currently on the market.

Although cryptocurrency can be used to purchase goods, most people view it as a long-term financial investment. It is possible to invest in cryptocurrency, but volatility can make it risky. Before you buy, you need to be aware of what you are getting into. These are the top cryptocurrency investments that you should consider in 2021.

These are the top Cryptocurrencies for long-term investments:

1. Bitcoin (BTC)

Bitcoin is the most popular cryptocurrency. With a market capitalization and price that is much higher than other options, it's clear why Bitcoin is the leader.

Many businesses accept bitcoin for payment. This makes it a smart investment. Visa, for instance, accepts Bitcoin transactions. In February, Tesla also announced that it had invested $1.5 million in it. For a while, it accepted Bitcoin as payment for its cars. It may soon again. The larger banks are now incorporating Bitcoin transactions into their offerings.

2. Ethereum (ETH)

Ethereum differs from Bitcoin in that it's not just a cryptocurrency. It also allows developers to create their cryptocurrency using the Ethereum network. Although Ethereum is still far less valuable than Bitcoin, it's also much more affordable than any of its competitors.

It was released years after other cryptos. However, its unique technology has allowed it to outperform them all. At the moment, it is the second-largest cryptocurrency behind Bitcoin.

3. Binance Coin (BNB)

Binance Coin was one of few cryptocurrencies that reached its peak in 2017 after 2017. The bull market was in full swing during 2017, and all cryptocurrencies saw a price rise, eventually reaching their peak, before declining and plateauing.

Binance Coin has continued its upward trend after 2017, unlike other cryptocurrencies. Binance Coin has seen a rise in value, rising 1,637% from January 2017. Binance Coin is a stable investment option, but it can still be volatile.

4. XRP (XRP)

XRP is a digital payment processing company founded by Ripple. It is a cryptocurrency PayPal that allows exchanges between fiat and cryptocurrencies.

Ripple has been investing heavily in non-fungible tokens projects that use XRP Ledger (a public blockchain). This investment is a sign of Ripple.

5. Polkadot (DOT)

Polkadot was founded by Ethereum leaders, who decided to create their cryptocurrency and a better network. Polkadot offers more than one "lane" for transactions.

This cryptocurrency was created to reward real investors and to weed out those who trade to make quick money. The platform's investors help make decisions about things such as:

• Network fees
• Network upgrades
• Parachains can be created or removed

Why is cryptocurrency important?

Blockchain-based cryptocurrencies, which are decentralized platforms allow individuals to enter into contracts or engage in peer-to-peer financial transactions. In both cases, trusting third-party intermediaries such as a bank or monetary authority, court or judge is not required. This could disrupt the financial system and open up finance to the public. This has the potential to disrupt the existing financial system and open up new avenues for finance.

Why are there so many cryptocurrencies?

Most cryptocurrencies are derived from Bitcoin. It uses open-source code and has a censorship-resistant architecture. Anyone can modify the code to create their cryptocurrency. It also means that anyone can join the network and transact in it.

What other important cryptocurrencies are there?

Many cryptocurrencies are gaining popularity or promising to gain more. Dogecoin was an example of a meme-based coin. It gained popularity when Tesla CEO Elon Musk promoted it on social media. Other than Dogecoin, there are many other bitcoin forks, including Bitcoin Gold, and Bitcoin SV. Other important coins are Ripple, Solana USD Coin, and Tezos.

Why is Bitcoin still the most valuable cryptocurrency?

Despite thousands of competitors that have sprung up, Bitcoin--the original cryptocurrency--remains the dominant player in terms of usage and economic value. As of November 2021 each coin (BTC), was worth approximately $60,000 and had a market capitalization greater than $1 trillion.