We’ll go through the several factors that influence demand for a particular crypto, but before we do that, it’s important to note that cryptocurrencies don’t fit comfortably into our existing asset categories.
In particular, the activities of miners — cryptocurrency users who leverage vast amounts of computing power to record transactions, receiving newly created cryptocurrency units and transaction fees paid by other users in return — are critical to currencies’ stability and smooth function.

It seems all too fitting that Facebook’s plans to launch a digital coin were leaked in the second-to-last week of a year that saw the tech giant’s reputation pummeled and cryptocurrencies crash and burn. It’s like grilling a shit sandwich over a dumpster fire.
While the success of any cryptocurrency initiative is not guaranteed, if it meets its objectives, early investors may be well rewarded in the long run. To be regarded as a long-term success, any cryptocurrency initiative must first achieve widespread adoption.