What is the Difference between Cryptocurrency and Stock

A cryptocurrency is a digital currency that functions as a medium of exchange through blockchain technology and does not rely on any central authority, such as a government or bank. On the other hand, a stock, also known as equity, is a security representing partial ownership of a corporation.

What is blockchain technology? What is cryptocurrency? Please refer to the content “What is Blockchain” and “What is Coin and Token”

The main differences between cryptocurrencies and stocks are:

• Functionality: Stocks represent partial ownership of a company, allowing investors to receive dividends accordingly. In contrast, cryptocurrencies can serve various purposes beyond being a form of currency. For example, governance tokens are used for voting on proposals through on-chain governance, and fan tokens allow fans to participate in exclusive events and receive rewards.
• Volatility: Generally, cryptocurrencies have higher price volatility and risk compared to stocks. Prices can change drastically in a short time, leading to significant gains or losses. However, stablecoins exist, which are pegged to a "stable" asset such as a fiat currency or commodity, resulting in minimal price fluctuations.
• Regulation: Stock markets are more regulated, with a well-established legal framework and regulatory institutions like the SEC in the US and CSRC in China overseeing the market. Cryptocurrencies, however, remain largely unregulated, although regulatory systems are gradually improving. For example, there is increasing emphasis on risk assessment and building compliance teams, and many countries are preparing to enact relevant laws.
• Trading Hours: Stock exchanges typically operate from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Eastern Time on weekdays, while crypto exchanges can support trading at any time.

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