CRYPTO, NFTS AND OTHER DIGITAL ASSETS

What is it?

Digital assets such as cryptocurrencies, non-fungible tokens (NFTs), and virtual real estate, are an emerging class of asset that exist purely in digital form, and include a right to use.

Photos, artwork, documents, music, anything unique you create, can be turned into a digital asset. An NFT is a record of ownership of a digital asset.

How do you invest?

You can ‘mint’ your own digital assets and list them on an NFT marketplace for sale, or you can purchase digital assets on a digital marketplace or virtual currency exchange. Digital assets are purchased with cryptocurrency so you will need to set up a digital wallet and buy some cryptocurrency if you want to invest in a digital asset.

Where to get more information

As a decentralised emerging asset class there is no single, reliable source of information that covers this market. Search ‘investing in digital assets’ to find articles and blogs on the topic.

Tips

  • These are high-risk speculative investments which are traded in very volatile markets

  • As there is no centralised control of these markets, so you may have no recourse if things go wrong, for example your digital wallet is hacked
  • Digital assets generally do not generate an income, although creators of NFTs can receive royalties every time their creation is sold or used
  • The value of a digital asset is largely based on buyer demand.
  • NFTs may have specific licence rights so check the licence agreement to determine your rights before buying