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If you've spent more than five minutes on Crypto Twitter, YouTube, or Telegram, you've seen it. A person, often with a flashy profile picture, posting non-stop about a "hidden gem" or the "next 100x coin." Then, in the replies, you see someone post a single word: "shill."

So, what does that actually mean? Is it just a generic insult, or does it point to something deeper? As your guide through the wilder parts of the crypto world, let me tell you: it's one of the most important words you need to understand to protect your money.

Shilling Explained: The Modern-Day Snake Oil Salesman

At its heart, shilling crypto is the act of promoting a cryptocurrency or project for personal gain, while pretending to be an unbiased, genuine enthusiast.

Think of a carnival barker trying to lure you into a rigged game, or a snake oil salesman promising a miracle cure. The shill crypto meaning is rooted in this inauthenticity. They are not sharing a good investment opportunity because they care about you; they are promoting it because they will profit from your decision to buy.

This profit can come from:

Being paid directly by the project developers.Holding a large bag of the tokens and wanting to "pump" the price so they can sell theirs at a profit.

Your Shill Detection Kit: 5 Red Flags to Watch For

Shills operate in the open, but they rely on hype and FOMO (Fear Of Missing On) to cloud your judgment. Here’s how you can spot them:

• Outrageous Price Predictions: You'll see phrases like "Guaranteed 100x!" or "This is the next Bitcoin!" Real projects with solid fundamentals don't need this kind of hype.
• Focus on Hype, Not Substance: They talk about a "revolutionary team" and "game-changing tech" but offer zero specifics. They can't explain how it works, only that it's "the future."
• Creating Extreme Urgency: "You need to buy NOW before we go parabolic!" or "Last chance to get in this cheap!" This is a classic high-pressure sales tactic designed to make you act without thinking.
• Ignoring All Criticism: If anyone asks a tough question about the project's technology, security, or team, the shill will either ignore it, block the person, or attack them as a "hater" spreading "FUD" (Fear, Uncertainty, and Doubt).
• A Suspicious Profile: Often, the account is relatively new, posts about nothing but this one specific coin, and retweets other accounts that are doing the same.

The Danger: The "Pump and Dump" Scheme

Shilling is the marketing engine for one of the oldest scams in the book: the Pump and Dump.

• The Pump: A group of insiders and shills coordinate to hype up a low-quality coin, creating a frenzy of buying from unsuspecting retail investors. This causes the price to skyrocket.
• The Dump: Once the price has peaked, the insiders and shills sell all of their holdings at the inflated price.
• The Crash: The price collapses, leaving all the new investors holding worthless bags.

Your Best and Only Defense: DYOR

So how do you navigate this landscape? With three simple letters: DYOR (Do Your Own Research).

Before ever investing, ignore the hype and investigate the fundamentals for yourself. Read the whitepaper, research the development team, check the community channels for genuine discussion, and look at the project's actual utility.

The crypto space is filled with incredible innovation. But it's also filled with noise. Learning to separate the signal from the shilling is the most critical skill you can develop.

Are you wondering when the next BTC halving event will take place? Bitcoin halving, also known as the “Halvening,” is a crucial event in the Bitcoin network that occurs approximately every four years. During this event, the reward miners receive for validating transactions is cut in half, reducing the rate at which new Bitcoins are created. This built-in scarcity mechanism mimics precious metals like gold and is a key factor in Bitcoin’s value proposition.

Understanding BTC Halving

Bitcoin has a maximum supply cap of 21 million coins. New Bitcoins are created through mining, where miners use powerful computers to solve complex puzzles that validate transactions on the blockchain. Miners are rewarded with Bitcoins for their efforts.

To prevent inflation and maintain scarcity, Bitcoin’s protocol halves the mining reward every 210,000 blocks—roughly every four years. The first halving in 2012 dropped the reward from 50 BTC to 25 BTC per block. The second halving in 2016 reduced it further to 12.5 BTC, and the third halving in May 2020 cut it to 6.25 BTC. The most recent halving occurred on April 19, 2024, reducing the reward to 3.125 BTC per block.

Impact on Bitcoin Price

Historically, Bitcoin halving events have been followed by significant price increases. This is because the supply of new Bitcoins entering the market decreases, while demand often remains steady or grows. For example:

• After the 2012 halving, Bitcoin’s price rose from about $12 to over $1,000 within a year.
• Following the 2016 halving, Bitcoin surged from around $650 to nearly $20,000 by late 2017.

While past performance doesn’t guarantee future results, many investors view halving events as bullish catalysts.

When is the Next BTC Halving?

The next Bitcoin halving is expected to occur in 2028. Since halving happens every 210,000 blocks and blocks are added approximately every 10 minutes, the exact date can vary slightly. Experts currently estimate the event will take place sometime around March or April 2028.

At this halving, the block reward will be cut from 3.125 BTC to 1.5625 BTC per block. This will further slow Bitcoin’s supply growth and continue its deflationary monetary policy.

Why the Next Halving Matters

You’ve seen the headlines. A blocky, pixelated avatar sells for millions of dollars. It looks like something from a 1980s video game, yet it's treated like a masterpiece. Welcome to the fascinating world of CryptoPunks.

If you wondered how these simple visuals became among the most respected and valued assets in the digital arena, you are asking just the right question. Allow me to provide a guide through the history, value, and legacy of these iconic NFT CryptoPunks.

The Origin Story: The "Genesis" of an Idea

Let's go back to 2017, long before the term "NFT" was part of the global conversation. Two software developers from a studio called Larva Labs created a generative art experiment. They developed a program that would create 10,000 unique, 24x24 pixel characters, each with a random combination of traits.

Here's the most crucial part of the story: they gave them away for free. Anyone with an Ethereum wallet could claim a Punk for just the cost of the transaction fee.

They had no idea they were about to ignite a revolution.

Why Are CryptoPunks So Valuable?

So, how did a free digital collectible become a multi-million dollar asset? The value isn't just in the image; it's in the story and the technology.

1. Historical Significance (This is the #1 reason):

CryptoPunks are widely considered the "genesis" project of the modern NFT movement. They were among the first NFTs issued through the Ethereum blockchain and long stood as the example for those projects that followed. Owning a Punk is like owning a first-edition book or a piece of the first computer. It's a bona fide artifact from the dawn of a new technological era.

2. Provable Scarcity and Rarity:

There are only 10,000 CryptoPunks, and there will never be more. This scarcity is permanently guaranteed by the blockchain. Furthermore, some Punks are rarer than others.

• Types: There are Male and Female punks, but also three special, much rarer types: Zombie (88), Ape (24), and the holy grail, Alien (9).
• Attributes: Punks can have different accessories (beanies, 3D glasses, hoodies). A Punk with a rare combination of attributes is more valuable.

3. The Ultimate Digital Status Symbol:

In the world of Web3, your profile picture (PFP) is your identity. Owning and displaying a CryptoPunk is the ultimate digital "flex"—a signal that you are a true OG (original gangster) of the crypto space. It's the "Rolex of the Metaverse."

4. Brand Strength (Yuga Labs Acquisition):

In the year 2022, the intellectual property rights pertaining to CryptoPunks were acquired by Yuga Labs, the owners of Bored Ape Yacht Club. The action merged the two most iconic projects under one roof, thereby placing the Punks firmly on the blue-chip floor of Web3 entities.

A Reality Check: The Serious Risks of the High-End NFT Market

This is the most important section of this guide. Before you even consider entering this market, you must understand that it is one of the most high-risk environments in the world.

• Extreme Volatility: The term "blue-chip" in NFTs does not mean "stable." The price of a CryptoPunk, measured in ETH or USD, can collapse by 50% or more in a very short period. These are not traditional investments; they are highly speculative digital collectibles.

• Severe Illiquidity: This is the most misunderstood danger. A Punk might be valued at $1 million, but that value is only real if you can find someone willing to pay for it. Unlike Bitcoin, you cannot instantly sell a CryptoPunk. Finding a buyer at your desired price can take weeks, months, or may not happen at all. You can be left holding an asset you cannot sell.

• Security Risks: The CryptoPunk itself is secure on the blockchain, but you are not. The high value of these assets makes their owners prime targets for sophisticated phishing scams, social engineering, and wallet-draining attacks. One wrong click, and you can lose your entire investment forever.

How and Where to Buy a CryptoPunk (The Navigational Part)

Are you considering purchasing a digital artifact? Here's what you need to know.

• The Currency: The only way to buy a CryptoPunk is with Ethereum (ETH).
• The Marketplace: You can view wrapped Punks on marketplaces like OpenSea, but the primary and official place to buy them is through the Larva Labs website, now integrated with Yuga Labs.
• The Process: You'll need a Web3 wallet (like MetaMask) funded with a significant amount of ETH. You can then connect your wallet to the marketplace to place a bid or buy a Punk that is listed for sale.

More Than a JPEG

CryptoPunks are a lesson in perceived value. They proved that ownership, provenance, and historical significance could be digitally native and verifiable. They are not just images; they are a cornerstone of internet history.

You’re exploring the world of digital assets, and you keep seeing different terms: cryptocurrency, virtual currency, digital money. Then you stumble upon a more specific, official-sounding one: "convertible virtual currency."

What does that mean? Is it different from Bitcoin? Is there a "non-convertible" kind?

As your guide, let me clarify this for you. Understanding this one term is key to understanding the foundation of the entire crypto market. It’s actually very simple.

The "Two-Way Street" Analogy

The easiest way to understand convertible money means thinking of it as a two-way street.

A convertible virtual currency (CVC) is any digital currency that has an equivalent value in real, government-issued money (like the U.S. Dollar) and can be readily exchanged back and forth.

• You can take your Dollars and buy Bitcoin. (Street going one way).
• You can take that Bitcoin and sell it for Dollars. (Street going the other way).

This two-way exchangeability is what makes it "convertible."

Examples of Convertible Virtual Currency

The vast majority of the cryptocurrencies you know and trade are CVCs. This includes:

• Bitcoin (BTC)
• Ethereum (ETH)
• Solana (SOL)
• XRP

Stake Casino Guide for New Players

If you’re searching for a thrilling online casino experience, you’ve likely come across Stake Casino, a name that’s buzzing in the world of crypto gambling. With its sleek platform, cryptocurrency focus, and celebrity endorsements from the likes of Drake and UFC stars, Stake Casino has captured the attention of players worldwide. But questions linger: Is Stake Casino legit? Who owns Stake Casino? Where is Stake Casino located? And perhaps most importantly, how much is Stake Casino worth? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive deep into everything you need to know about Stake online casino, addressing user concerns and helping you decide if it’s the right platform for you.

Whether you’re a seasoned gambler or a curious newbie exploring the Stake Casino app or Stake US Casino, this article will provide valuable insights to inform your decision. Let’s uncover the truth behind this crypto gambling powerhouse.

What Is Stake Casino? A Game-Changer in Online Gambling

Stake Casino is a cryptocurrency-based online casino launched in 2017 by founders Ed Craven and Bijan Tehrani. Unlike traditional casinos, Stake operates primarily with cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Litecoin, offering players a fast, secure, and anonymous way to gamble. The platform, operated by Medium Rare N.V. and licensed in Curaçao, boasts a massive selection of over 3,000 games, including slots, table games, live dealer experiences, and exclusive Stake Originals like Plinko and Crash.

For US players, Stake US Casino (launched in 2022) offers a social casino experience tailored to comply with US regulations, allowing players to enjoy free-to-play games with virtual currencies like Gold Coins and Stake Cash, which can be redeemed for prizes.

Why Users Love Stake Casino:

• Crypto-Friendly: Supports over 20 cryptocurrencies for seamless deposits and withdrawals.
• Diverse Game Library: From slots to sports betting, there’s something for everyone.
• Fast Payouts: Withdrawals are processed in under an hour in many cases.
• Mobile Optimization: Play on the go with a mobile-optimized site, though no dedicated Stake Casino app exists yet.

Is Stake Casino Legit? Addressing Your Safety Concerns

One of the top questions players ask is,  Is Stake Casino legit?  With online gambling, trust is paramount, especially when dealing with cryptocurrencies. Here’s what you need to know:

1- Licensing and Regulation: Stake Casino is licensed by the Curaçao Gaming Authority, a common regulator for crypto casinos. While Curaçao licenses are less stringent than those from the UK Gambling Commission or Malta Gaming Authority, Stake complies with anti-money laundering policies and uses provably fair algorithms for transparency.

2- Security Measures: The platform employs SSL encryption and two-factor authentication (2FA) to protect user data. The Stake Vault feature allows players to securely store funds.

3- Player Feedback: With a 4-star rating on Trustpilot from over 10,000 reviews, many players praise Stake’s fast withdrawals and engaging promotions. However, some users have raised concerns about withdrawal delays or perceived unfairness, though these are often tied to individual experiences rather than systemic issues.

Verdict: Stake Casino is legitimate for most users, but its Curaçao license and crypto-only model may raise concerns for those seeking stricter oversight. Always gamble responsibly and verify local regulations in your country.

Who Owns Stake Casino? The Brains Behind the Brand

Curious about who owns Stake Casino? The platform was co-founded by Ed Craven and Bijan Tehrani, two Australian entrepreneurs who started Easy go, a game development company, in 2016 before launching Stake in 2017. Medium Rare N.V., the operating company, is registered in Curaçao, with offices in Serbia, Australia, and Cyprus.

Their innovative approach to crypto gambling and strategic partnerships (like sponsoring UFC and Everton FC) have propelled Stake to global prominence. However, a 2023 lawsuit by former associate Christopher Freeman alleged unethical practices, though it was dismissed due to jurisdictional issues.

Where Is Stake Casino Located? A Global Operation

If you’re wondering where Stake Casino is located, the answer is multifaceted. The company’s legal headquarters are in Curaçao, where it holds its gaming license. However, Stake maintains operational offices in Serbia, Australia, and Cyprus, reflecting its global reach. This distributed model allows Stake to serve players in multiple languages and regions, including the Stake US Casino for American players.

For US users, Stake US Casino operates as a social casino, meaning it’s accessible in most states where traditional online gambling is restricted. Always check local laws to ensure compliance before playing.

How Much Is Stake Casino Worth? A Crypto Gambling Empire

Estimating how much Stake Casino is worth is tricky, as the company is privately held and doesn’t disclose financials. However, its massive user base, high-profile sponsorships, and reported 139.61 million monthly website Oswi now Casino visits in May 2025 suggest significant revenue. Industry experts estimate Stake’s valuation could be in the billions, given its dominance in the crypto gambling market and partnerships with celebrities like Drake.

A 2023 hack, where $41 million in cryptocurrency was stolen, didn’t impact player funds but highlighted the high financial stakes involved. Stake’s ability to recover and maintain operations underscores its financial resilience.

Is Stake Casino Worth Your Time?

Stake Casino is a legitimate, innovative platform that’s revolutionized crypto gambling with its vast game selection, fast payouts, and global reach. While its Curaçao license and crypto focus may not suit everyone, its transparency, security, and engaging promotions make it a top choice for many. For US players, Stake US Casino offers a fun, legal way to enjoy social gaming with real rewards.

If you’re intrigued by Stake online casino and comfortable with cryptocurrency, it’s worth exploring. Sign up with the bonus code CORGBONUS to unlock exclusive rewards and dive into the action. Just remember to gamble responsibly and verify local regulations. Ready to take a chance on Stake? The crypto casino world awaits

Over the last few years, the blockchain gaming market has gone from a niche idea to a booming global phenomenon. Whether you’re a curious gamer, a crypto enthusiast, or a digital investor, understanding how blockchain is transforming the gaming world could unlock exciting opportunities.

One of the most asked questions right now is: how big is the blockchain gaming market? And more importantly, how will Gunz's blockchain gaming platform affect the digital asset trade market?

What Is the Blockchain Gaming Market?

The blockchain gaming market refers to games that are built using blockchain technology. These games often feature tokenized assets, NFTs (non-fungible tokens), and decentralized economies, allowing players to earn, own, and trade in-game items just like cryptocurrencies.

In traditional gaming, your gear, skins, and in-game currencies are locked to your account , you don’t really “own” them. Blockchain gaming flips that model on its head.

Here, your weapons, avatars, vehicles, and coins are stored on-chain—meaning you can sell, trade, or transfer them outside the game environment. It’s true digital ownership.

How Big Is the Blockchain Gaming Market?

According to various market research reports, the blockchain gaming market was valued at around $4.6 billion in 2022 and is projected to reach over $65 billion by 2027. That’s an insane growth curve—driven by rising global interest in Web3, DeFi, and NFTs.

-  Growing internet penetration and smartphone usage

-  Increased crypto adoption

-  Popularity of play-to-earn (P2E) games

-  Collaborations between traditional gaming studios and blockchain projects

-  Value locked in NFT ecosystems

In fact, by 2025, some analysts believe that blockchain in gaming market will make up over 10% of the entire global gaming sector.

Blockchain in Gaming Market: Why It’s a Game-Changer

Blockchain gaming introduces new monetization models such as:

- Play-to-Earn (P2E): Games like Axie Infinity or The Sandbox allow players to earn real-world money through gameplay.

- NFT Trading: Items, skins, or characters become tradeable digital assets.

- Interoperability: You can use your in-game NFT sword across multiple blockchain games.

- Community Governance: Token holders can vote on game updates, giving power back to the players.

A Blockchain Gaming Platform That Could Change the Digital Asset Market

Now comes the exciting part. One of the rising stars in the Web3 gaming world is Gunz, a next-generation blockchain gaming platform designed to disrupt how we trade, manage, and play with digital assets.

So, how will Gunz's blockchain gaming platform affect the digital asset trade market?

1. True Asset Portability

Gunz enables users to create, buy, sell, and transfer NFTs across multiple games seamlessly. No more being locked into one ecosystem. That means players get freedom and liquidity.

2. A Decentralized Marketplace

By integrating with decentralized finance (DeFi), Gunz is building a peer-to-peer marketplace where digital goods have real-world value. You could buy a rare sword and flip it for ETH or stablecoins—just like trading crypto.

3. Smart Contract Automation

Everything on Gunz is powered by smart contracts—no middlemen, no delays. Trades are instant, secure, and transparent. That’s a big win for asset trading.

4. Boosting Liquidity in the NFT Market

NFTs from traditional games often have little or no resale value. With Gunz, each item gains real-world tradability, creating liquidity pools for otherwise idle assets.

5. Gamified Finance

Gunz introduces “GameFi” mechanics—earning interest, staking NFTs, and even farming tokens—all while playing games. That’s gaming + investing in one seamless experience.

Blockchain Gaming Isn’t Just Hype—It’s Business

• VCs pouring billions into Web3 games
• Big tech and gaming giants entering the space (think Ubisoft, Square Enix)
• In-game assets becoming income streams for players and creators alike

Should You Jump Into Blockchain Gaming Now?

If you’re asking:

• Is blockchain gaming legit?
• How can I make money from crypto games?
• What’s the best blockchain gaming platform?

… then you’re already on the right track.

Here’s the truth: We’re still early. Like buying Bitcoin in 2013 early.

The key to success? Get informed, start experimenting, and find platforms that are built to scale—like Gunz.

Final Thoughts:

The blockchain gaming market is not a passing trend. It’s the future of how we play, earn, and connect online.

With Web3 tools enabling player ownership, real-world earnings, and borderless trading, gaming is no longer just entertainment—it’s an economy. And platforms like Gunz are leading the charge toward a decentralized, player-powered gaming revolution.

So the next time someone asks you, “how big is the blockchain gaming market?” —you’ll know it’s not just big. It’s massive, disruptive, and unfolding right now.

Last holiday season, I walked into Target with a long list and a tight budget. The cashier asked, “Would you like to save 15% by opening a RedCard today?”

Normally, I’d say no. But this time, I was on a mission to stretch every dollar—so I said yes.

I didn’t expect much. Honestly, I thought I’d use it once and forget it. But within 3 months, that little red card did something my regular credit cards hadn’t:
It helped raise my credit score by 47 points.

Why Retail Credit Cards Are Worth Considering

Retail credit cards, also known as store credit cards, are issued by specific retailers or in partnership with major credit networks like Visa or Mastercard. They’re designed to reward loyal shoppers with discounts, cashback, or special financing offers. But beyond the perks, many retail store credit cards are easier to qualify for, making them a fantastic tool for those asking, “What stores help build credit?”

- Exclusive Discounts: Many cards offer instant savings, like 5% off every purchase or up to 40% off your first buy.

- Rewards Programs: Earn points or cashback redeemable at your favorite stores.

- Credit Building: Store cards often report to major credit bureaus, helping you establish or improve your credit score with responsible use.

- Special Financing: Enjoy 0% interest on big purchases if paid off within the promotional period.

What Are Retail Credit Cards, and Why Are They So Popular in 2025?

Retail credit cards (also called store credit cards) are credit cards issued by major stores like Target, Amazon, Walmart, and Best Buy. They’re designed to reward loyal customers with exclusive discounts, cashback, and financing options.

But here’s the kicker:

Many store credit cards report to all three credit bureaus—so they can actually help you build or rebuild your credit if you use them responsibly.

With inflation and interest rates top of mind in 2025, shoppers are looking for smart ways to save, earn, and grow financially. Retail cards offer a practical blend of rewards and credit-building opportunities—if you choose the right ones.

What Stores Have Credit Cards in 2025?

If you’ve ever Googled “what stores help build credit?” or “list of store credit cards,” this is for you.

Here’s a curated list of major stores that offer credit cards in 2025, along with why they stand out:

Why People Love Store Credit Cards (and When They Go Wrong)

Pros:

• Easy approval, even for fair or average credit
• Instant discounts and exclusive promotions
• Helps you build a strong credit profile over time
• Some cards (like Amazon and Walmart) offer cashback you can use anywhere

Cons:

• Interest rates are sky-high (some over 30%)
• Limited to store usage (closed-loop cards only work at one store)
• Can tempt you to spend more just for the rewards
• Low starting credit limits

Final Thoughts:  

Retail credit cards can be a game-changer for loyal shoppers and credit builders, but they’re not a one-size-fits-all solution. The best store credit cards like the Amazon Prime Visa, Target Circle Card, and Lowe’s Advantage Card offer unbeatable perks for specific audiences. If you’re wondering what stores have credit cards or what stores help build credit, this guide provides a solid starting point to explore your options.