CoinTalk

Whether you believe in the enduring power of gold or the disruptive potential of Bitcoin, a well-thought-out investment strategy is key. When you are ready to add digital assets to your portfolio, BYDFi provides a secure and professional platform to do so.

Crypto staking operates on a similar principle, but instead of a central bank, you're supporting a decentralized blockchain network. Many modern blockchains, like Ethereum, Cardano, and Solana, use a system called  Proof-of-Stake  (PoS) to secure their networks and validate transactions. Instead of relying on energy-intensive mining computers (the  Proof-of-Work system Bitcoin uses), PoS relies on validators.

These validators are chosen to create new blocks and verify transactions based on how much crypto they have "staked"—or locked up—as a form of collateral. By staking your coins, you are essentially vouching for the network's security and integrity. In return for this service and for taking your coins out of circulation, the network rewards you with more coins.

It’s a beautiful, self-sustaining cycle: you help keep the network secure and decentralized, and you get paid for it. All you need to do is hold your coins in the right place.

The Unbeatable Allure: Why You Should Seriously Consider Staking

The appeal of staking goes far beyond just earning a few extra coins. It fundamentally changes your relationship with your investments.

First and foremost, it’s the ultimate form of passive income. Once you’ve set up your staking position, the rewards just roll in. There’s no need to stare at charts all day, no stress about buying the dip or selling the top. Your portfolio grows while you sleep, work, or enjoy your life.

Secondly, it introduces a layer of stability and reduced emotional decision-making. In a volatile market, the temptation to panic-sell during a downturn is powerful. Staking encourages a long-term mindset. When your coins are locked up (even if for a flexible period), you're less likely to make impulsive trades based on short-term market fear. This  forced HODLing  has saved many an investor from their own worst instincts.

Finally, there’s a sense of being part of something bigger. You’re not just a speculator; you’re an active participant in the ecosystem of your chosen blockchain. You are directly contributing to its security and operational success, which is a core tenet of the decentralized world.

Navigating Your Staking Journey: How to Pick the Right Opportunities in 2025

Not all staking is created equal. Diving in without a plan can lead to missed opportunities or unnecessary risks. Here’s a human approach to choosing where to put your money.

Start by Looking at the Coin's Fundamentals. Don't just chase the highest percentage. Ask yourself: Is this a project I believe in for the long run? Staking a coin like Ethereum (ETH) might offer a conservative 4-7% APY, but you're staking the backbone of the smart contract ecosystem. It’s the blue-chip stock of crypto staking. On the other hand, a newer project might offer 12% or more to attract stakers, but it carries higher risk. A balanced portfolio might include a foundation of ETH, mixed with established players like Cardano (ADA) or Solana (SOL), and a smaller allocation to higher-yield, higher-risk assets.

Understand the Commitment with Lock-Up Periods. This is a crucial detail. Some platforms offer "flexible" or "liquid" staking where you can unstake and sell your coins at a moment's notice. This is fantastic for beginners and for maintaining liquidity. However, you’ll often earn a lower reward.  Fixed-term staking, where you lock your coins for 30, 60, or 90 days, typically comes with a higher APY. The trade-off is clear: more reward for less flexibility. Consider your financial situation—could you handle a market crash if your funds were locked for another two months?

Don't Go It Alone: The Power of Staking Pools. Many blockchains require a significant minimum amount of coins and technical know-how to run your own validator node. For the average person, this is a major barrier. This is where staking pools come in. Think of them as co-ops for validators. A pool combines the staking power of thousands of small investors, allowing them to earn rewards as a collective. The pool operator takes a small fee, but it makes staking accessible to everyone. For coins like Cardano or Polkadot, using a pool is the standard and recommended way to start.

Your Fort Knox: Platform Security is Non-Negotiable. This is where you need to be most diligent. Where you choose to stake is as important as what you choose to stake. Look for platforms with a long-standing reputation, strong security protocols like two-factor authentication (2FA), and a track record of reliability. The horror stories you hear almost always involve obscure, unvetted platforms promising unrealistic returns.

The Bitcoin Staking Question: Unpacking the Workaround

This is a common point of confusion. You’re right to ask,  Where can I stake Bitcoin? since Bitcoin’s core protocol doesn’t allow for direct staking—it uses Proof-of-Work.

The answer lies in clever financial engineering. You can't stake native Bitcoin, but you can stake representations of it. Platforms allow you to convert your BTC into a wrapped  version (like WBTC) that exists on another blockchain (like Ethereum) that does support staking. You can then stake this wrapped token in DeFi protocols like Aave or Compound.

Alternatively, centralized platforms like Binance or BlockFi offer programs where you can lend your Bitcoin to them, and they pay you interest for it. While this mimics the outcome of staking, it's technically a different process and carries its own set of risks (primarily, the risk of the platform itself, as we saw with the BlockFi bankruptcy).

The key takeaway? You can earn rewards on your Bitcoin, but it’s not native staking. It involves trusting a third party, so your due diligence is paramount.

Your Curated Shortlist: Platforms to Trust with Your Staking Journey

1- Binance: Think of it as the massive, all-in-one department store. The sheer variety of coins you can stake is immense, and the APYs are often very competitive. It’s a great starting point for anyone due to its user-friendly interface and flexibility.

2- Kraken: If Binance is the department store, Kraken is the trusted, specialized boutique. It has a sterling reputation, particularly for regulatory compliance in the US and EU. Its staking interface is clean and straightforward, making it a favorite for those who prioritize security and transparency.

3- Coinbase: The gateway for millions of beginners. If you're new to crypto and feel intimidated, Coinbase is your safe haven. The process is incredibly simplified, and while the rewards might be slightly lower, you’re paying for peace of mind and an interface that holds your hand through the entire process.

4- BYDFi: Formerly known as BitYard, BYDFi is a global exchange that has been making strides in the staking space. It offers a range of staking products with attractive APYs on popular coins. A key feature for many users is its focus on providing a comprehensive suite of services, including spot, futures, and staking, all in one place. As with any platform, especially those that are growing, it's essential to research their specific security measures and track record before committing large sums.

5- Ledger Live: This is for the security purist. Ledger Live is the software companion to Ledger hardware wallets. It allows you to stake your coins directly from your cold wallet. This means your private keys—the keys to your crypto kingdom—never leave your possession. You get the security of a hardware wallet with the earning potential of staking. It’s a perfect  best of both worlds" scenario.

Elevating Your Game: How to Truly Maximize Your Returns

Once you’re comfortable with the basics, you can start optimizing your strategy.

Diversify, Don't Put All Your Eggs in One Basket. Just like with traditional investing, spreading your stake across different assets can smooth out your returns. Balance a lower-yield, stable asset like ETH with a mid-range option like ADA and a small, calculated bet on a higher-yield project.

Embrace the Power of Compounding. This is the magic ingredient. Instead of withdrawing your staking rewards as cash, consider the "re-stake" option. This means your earnings start earning their own earnings. Over time, this compounding effect can dramatically accelerate the growth of your portfolio. It’s the same principle that makes retirement accounts so powerful over decades.

Stay Informed, But Don't Obsess. Market conditions change. The APY for a coin today might be different in three months. It’s wise to check in on your positions quarterly, but don't fall into the trap of constantly switching stakes to chase the absolute highest yield. The transaction fees and your own time have a cost. Set it, forget it, and trust your long-term strategy.

A Dose of Reality: Understanding the Risks Without the Fear Mongering

Staking is not a risk-free paradise. Being aware of the downsides is what separates a smart investor from a reckless one.

The most obvious risk is market volatility. Earning 10% in ADA over a year feels great, but if the price of ADA falls 50% against the dollar, you're still at a net loss in fiat terms. This is why staking coins you believe in long-term is so important.

Then there's slashing. On some networks, if a validator you're staked with acts maliciously or has significant downtime, a portion of the staked coins can be "slashed" or taken as a penalty. This is why choosing a reliable validator or a reputable staking pool is critical.

Finally, there's platform risk. Whether it's a hack on a centralized exchange or a smart contract bug in a DeFi protocol, you are ultimately trusting a third party. This is the core reason why the security of your chosen platform is your number one priority.

Your First Step: A Simple, No-Stress Guide to Getting Started

Ready to take the plunge? Here’s a relaxed, step-by-step approach:

1- Pick Your Battlefield: Choose a platform that aligns with your experience level. A beginner might start with Coinbase; someone more tech-savvy might prefer BYDFi  

2- Fund Your Account: Buy the cryptocurrency you want to stake. Most platforms allow you to do this directly with your local currency.

3- Find the Staking Section: Navigate to the  Earn, Staking,  or Finance  section of the platform's website or app.

4- Make Your Choice: Select the coin you want to stake. You'll be presented with options—flexible, 30-day, 60-day, etc. Read the terms carefully, especially the unlock period (it can take several days to unbond your coins even after a term ends).

5- Confirm and Relax: Confirm the transaction. That’s it. You are now a staker. You can sit back and watch your rewards accumulate.

Online lenders like Kabbage, OnDeck, or Funding Circle offer quick access to funds, often within 24–48 hours. These are perfect for businesses needing immediate cash flow.

Pros: Fast approvals, less stringent credit requirements, and flexible terms.

Cons: Higher interest rates (sometimes 20–99% APR) and shorter repayment periods.

Best for: Businesses needing quick funds for short-term needs, like inventory or marketing campaigns.

Currency Note: If you’re operating in the UK, platforms like Funding Circle offer loans in GBP, while U.S. platforms use USD. Always check currency compatibility to avoid exchange rate losses

4. Crowdfunding: Turn Your Community into Investors

Crowdfunding platforms like Kickstarter and Indiegogo allow you to raise funds by pitching your business idea to the public. This is a fantastic option for startups with a compelling story.

1- Types: Reward-based (offer products/services) or equity-based (offer company shares).

2- Pros: No debt, direct customer engagement, and validation of your idea.

3- Cons: Requires strong marketing skills and may not raise large sums.

4- Best for: Creative entrepreneurs or product-based startups.

Example: A UK-based artisanal coffee brand raised £50,000 through Crowdcube to open a new café, proving crowdfunding’s potential for small businesses.

5. Angel Investors and Venture Capital: High Stakes, High Rewards

If you’re aiming for rapid growth, angel investors or venture capitalists can provide substantial funding in exchange for equity.

1- Pros: Large investments (often $100,000–$2 million), mentorship, and industry connections.

2- Cons: Loss of control, intense pressure to scale, and complex negotiations.

3- Best for: Tech startups or high-growth businesses with a scalable model.

Country Context: In the U.S., Silicon Valley is a hub for VC funding, while London’s tech scene is a hotspot for UK-based startups.

6. Business Credit Cards: Quick Cash for Small Expenses

Business credit cards are a convenient way to cover short-term expenses like travel, office supplies, or marketing.

1- Pros: Easy to obtain, rewards programs, and builds business credit.

2- Cons: High interest rates (15–25% APR) if balances aren’t paid off monthly.

3- Best for: Managing cash flow gaps or covering small, recurring costs.

Pro Tip: Look for cards with 0% introductory APR offers to save on interest for the first 12–18 months.

7. Grants: Free Money for Your Business

Grants are essentially free money from governments, nonprofits, or corporations. They’re highly competitive but worth exploring.

1- Examples: In the U.S., check out Grants.gov or the SBIR program. In the UK, Innovate UK offers funding for innovative businesses.

2- Pros: No repayment required, boosts credibility.

3- Cons: Time-consuming applications and strict eligibility.

4- Best for: Minority-owned, women-owned, or innovative businesses.

How to Choose the Right Financing Option for Your Small Business

Assess Your Needs: How much capital do you need? Is it for short-term expenses (e.g., inventory) or long-term growth (e.g., equipment)?

Evaluate Your Credit: Strong credit (680+) opens doors to better terms, while lower scores may limit you to online lenders or crowdfunding.

Consider Your Timeline: Need funds fast? Online lenders or credit cards are quicker than bank loans or grants.

Understand Costs: Compare interest rates, fees, and equity stakes to avoid overpaying.

Align with Goals: Are you scaling rapidly or stabilizing cash flow? Match the financing to your business stage.

Example Scenario: A U.S.-based bakery owner with a 700 credit score might opt for an SBA loan to buy new equipment, while a UK freelancer needing quick cash might choose an online lender for flexibility.

Conclusion: Take Control of Your Business’s Future

Securing business financing doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By understanding the financing options for small businesses, you can make informed decisions that propel your company forward. Whether you’re exploring how to finance a small business with a bank loan or tapping into crowdfunding to engage your community, the right choice depends on your unique needs and goals. Start small, think big, and take action today to unlock the funds that will transform your business!

Metaverse crypto includes digital currencies and blockchain tools that power virtual economies. In this digital universe, you can buy virtual land, trade NFTs, attend events, and earn through decentralized platforms. Platforms like Decentraland and The Sandbox allow purchases using MANA and SAND, secured on blockchain for safe, transparent ownership.

Why Crypto Matters in the Metaverse

Metaverse crypto offers global accessibility, financial autonomy, and growth potential. The metaverse market could reach $800 billion by 2024, with tokens serving as primary payment methods. Beyond finance, it supports gaming, digital fashion, social experiences, and virtual real estate—offering multiple revenue streams.

Real-World Applications

Investors can generate income without leaving home. For example, buying a virtual storefront in Decentraland allows leasing to international brands and earning crypto. Major brands like Nike and Gucci are creating virtual stores, proving the metaverse has real economic value.

How to Start

1- Get a secure wallet (MetaMask, Trust Wallet).

2- Buy crypto from trusted exchanges (Binance, BYDFi).

3- Explore metaverse platforms: The Sandbox: Invest in assets or create games with SAND. Decentraland: Buy land with MANA for immersive experiences. Axie Infinity: Play-to-earn using AXS and SLP.

NFTs are essential for trading digital assets on marketplaces like OpenSea.

Risks and Challenges

The crypto metaverse is volatile and complex. Token prices fluctuate, scams exist, and regulations evolve. Beginners should start small, use reliable platforms, and stay informed about updates in blockchain and VR technology.

Is Metaverse Crypto Right for You?

Investment depends on experience, finances, and risk tolerance. Beginners can start with well-known tokens; advanced users may explore NFTs, virtual real estate, and emerging projects. Businesses can host events, collaborate with influencers, or open digital stores to expand their reach.

Innovation, creativity, and opportunity define the crypto metaverse. With research and strategic investment, anyone can benefit from this digital frontier.

Want to apply this deeper understanding? Access the high-liquidity spot markets on BYDFi to act on your analysis with precision.

What is Solana?

Before diving into the details of the best exchanges for Solana, let’s quickly review what makes Solana unique.  Solana is a high-performance blockchain designed for dApps and crypto projects. It is known for its fast transaction speeds, with a processing capacity of over 65,000 transactions per second (TPS).

its low transaction fees, which make it an attractive option for developers and users alike.

Solana’s ecosystem has exploded in recent years.  it now supports a wide variety of projects, including DeFi protocols, NFTs, DEXs, and more. One of the main reasons people flock to Solana is the promise of fast and affordable transactions,  making it an ideal choice for trading crypto, especially for day traders and high-frequency traders.

Is Solana the Future of DEX Trading?

The network’s speed and cost make it ideal for DEX development, Ethereum’s gas fees are still high, even after L2 rollouts.  Solana offers near-instant confirmation and ultra-low fees—two things DEX users crave. DEX Solana platforms are growing in volume month over month, According to DeFiLlama, Solana-based DEXs are now doing billions in monthly volume. This trend isn’t slowing down.

features of Solana

1. High Throughput

Solana can process up to 65,000 transactions per second (TPS). t uses a unique consensus mechanism to achieve high speed without sacrificing decentralization.

2. Proof of History (PoH)

A cryptographic clock that timestamps transactions. Helps nodes agree on transaction order efficiently, boosting speed and reducing overhead.

3. Low Transaction Fees

Average cost per transaction is less than $0.01. Enables microtransactions and makes the network ideal for DeFi, NFTs, and gaming.

4. Scalability

Solana does not rely on Layer 2 solutions. It scales horizontally with network bandwidth and hardware improvements.

5. Fast Block Times

Blocks are produced every 400 milliseconds, enabling near-instant confirmations.

6. Smart Contract Support

Supports smart contracts via the Rust, C, and C++ programming languages using the Sealevel parallel runtime. Allows multiple smart contracts to run concurrently, improving efficiency.

7. Developer-Friendly Ecosystem

Growing ecosystem with tools like Solana CLI, Solana SDKs, and Anchor framework. Vibrant support for DeFi, NFT marketplaces, and Web3 applications.

8. Validator Network

A decentralized network with thousands of validators. Incentivized participation ensures security and decentralization.

9. Growing Ecosystem

Hosts major projects like Phantom Wallet, Magic Eden, Raydium, and more. Actively used in sectors like DeFi, NFTs, gaming, and payments.

10. Interoperability

Supports bridges to Ethereum (e.g., Wormhole) and other chains. Promotes cross-chain asset transfers and composability.

Top Solana DEXs in 2025

1. Jupiter

Jupiter has rapidly ascended to the top of the DEX space, surpassing Uniswap, one of the largest DEXs in the DeFi landscape.  In 2024, the platform boasted a daily trading volume of $900 million. Jupiter isn’t just a regular DEX—it’s a DEX aggregator.

That means it searches all the other Solana DEXs (like Raydium and Orca) to find you the best price for your trade. Specifically, Jupiter aggregates liquidity from various sources, ensuring optimal swap routes and exceptional trade execution.

People love Jupiter, because it’s fast, it has low fees (sometimes zero for swaps!), and it supports tons of tokens. Plus, Jupiter offers cool tools like limit orders (where you set the price you want) and dollar-cost averaging (a way to buy a little bit at a time).

Its native token, JUP, offers holders opportunities to participate in governance, enjoy fee discounts, and potentially earn through the protocol.

2. Raydium

Raydium is one of the pioneering DEX platforms on Solana, serving as both an automated market maker (AMM) and a liquidity provider. Launched back in 2021, it’s been a fan favorite for years, and in 2025, it’s still going strong. As of mid-2024, it achieved one of the highest trading volumes among Solana-based DEXs, exceeding $500 million.

But what makes it special is its connection to Serum, a super-liquid order book that boosts its speed and options.  The integration with Serum allows users to place limit and market orders in a decentralized environment.

Raydium has the deepest liquidity of any Solana DEX and is also a launchpad for new tokens, which is why meme coin fans flock to it. With its native RAY token, you can stake and earn rewards too.

If you want a reliable, fast, and fun best Solana exchange, Raydium is a top choice.

3. Orca

Orca is a top-performing Solana swap DEX renowned for its AMM functionality and competitive fees.  Its custom order book algorithm ensures rapid and efficient price discovery.  Ranking third among Solana-based platforms, Orca boasts daily trading volumes exceeding $360 million.

Orca prides itself on its user-friendly approach, offering an easy way to swap tokens with minimal effort.  This DEX is all about keeping things simple. It’s perfect for beginners who want to dip their toes into crypto trading.

What sets Orca apart? It has a “Fair Price Indicator” to keep trades fair and a feature called Whirlpools, which lets you focus your money in specific price ranges for bigger rewards. Its native token, ORCA, plays a multifaceted role in the platform, from governance and staking for fee discounts to participating in future protocol upgrades.

4. Lifinity

Lifinity is an innovative DEX platform that leverages the Proactive Market Maker (PMM) system, with a strong emphasis on concentrated liquidity.  The platform derives high-fidelity market data from Pyth for pricing, significantly improving capital efficiency and minimizing risks associated with impermanent loss.

Recording daily trading volumes exceeding $100 million, Lifinity is carving a significant niche within the Solana DeFi sphere.  It's designed for seamless interoperability across distinct blockchain networks, enabling efficient cross-chain exchanges.

5. Drift Protocol

Drift Protocol is a bit different from the others.  It’s a Solana DEX that mixes the best parts of decentralized and centralized exchanges.  In 2025, it’s gaining fans fast, with a total value locked of over $300 million.  Drift lets you trade perpetual swaps with up to 10x leverage, which means you can make bigger moves with less money.

It’s secure, fast, and transparent, with a focus on keeping your funds safe. Drift is perfect for serious traders who want more control and options.

If you’re ready to level up your trading game, Drift might just be the best Solana exchange for you.

Final thought :

After months of using different DEXs on Solana, I’ve made my decision—I’m not going back to centralized exchanges unless I absolutely have to.  The benefits are too good to ignore. If you're still on the fence, just try making a swap on Orca or Jupiter.

The speed, control, and cost will blow your mind.  Don’t just take my word for it—try it yourself.

Ready to dive in? Check out BYDFi’s beginner tutorial for a step-by-step walkthrough and start your bitcoin journey today!

Bilt Rewards is a loyalty program designed specifically for renters, allowing you to get points for paying rent without the pesky 2-3% transaction fees typically charged by landlords or payment platforms. Launched in 2021, Bilt made waves by offering a no-annual-fee Bilt World Elite Mastercard® that lets you earn 1 point per dollar on rent payments (up to 100,000 points per year) when you make at least five transactions per billing cycle.

But here’s the kicker:  you don’t even need the Bilt Mastercard to start earning. By joining the free Bilt Rewards program, you can pay rent through the Bilt app and earn a flat 250 points per month, though the real rewards come with the card.

Whether your landlord accepts credit cards or prefers checks, Bilt’s innovative BillPay feature ensures you can pay rent and earn points seamlessly by generating a unique routing and account number or mailing a check on your behalf.

Beyond rent, Bilt lets you earn points on dining (3x points), travel (2x points), and even Lyft rides (5x points when linked). These points are incredibly flexible, redeemable for travel with major airlines and hotels, Amazon purchases, fitness classes, or even toward a future home down payment. With partnerships like United Airlines, Hyatt, and Southwest Rapid Rewards, Bilt points are valued at around 2.05 cents each, making them a powerful currency for savvy spenders.

Why Bilt Stands Out for Renters

Paying rent is often a financial dead-end—no rewards, no benefits, just a big chunk of your income gone. Bilt flips this on its head. Here’s why it’s a game-changer:

1- No Transaction Fees on Rent Payments: Unlike other credit cards that incur a 2-3% fee when paying rent, the Bilt Mastercard lets you earn rewards for paying rent without extra costs. This is huge for renters spending $1,500-$3,000 monthly, as it turns a fixed expense into a rewards-generating opportunity.

2- Instant Approval Credit Cards: The Bilt Mastercard is issued by Wells Fargo and is accessible to many with decent credit. While it requires a credit check, the application process is straightforward, and approval can be quick for qualified applicants. No annual fee sweetens the deal.

3- Build Credit While Paying Rent: Bilt reports on-time rent payments to all three major credit bureaus (Experian, Equifax, TransUnion) for free, helping you boost your credit score. This is especially valuable for renters in Bilt Rewards Alliance properties (over 4 million units across the U.S.).

4- Flexible Redemption Options: From booking flights with American Airlines to redeeming points for SoulCycle classes or Amazon purchases, Bilt points offer unmatched flexibility. You can even use points to pay future rent or save for a home down payment (1.5 cents per point).

5- Rent Day Bonuses: On the first of every month, Bilt’s “Rent Day” promotion doubles your points on non-rent purchases (6x on dining, 4x on travel), making it the perfect time to maximize rewards.

Is Bilt Available in Canada?

For our neighbors up north wondering, “Is Bilt available in Canada?”—the answer, unfortunately, is no, not yet. Bilt Rewards is currently limited to the United States, with its Bilt Rewards Alliance covering over 4 million rental properties across the country. There’s no official word on Canadian expansion, but given Bilt’s rapid growth—processing $50 billion in annual rent payments and aiming for $1 billion in annual recurring revenue by Q1 2026—it’s not far-fetched to hope for future international availability.

For now, Canadian renters can explore similar rewards programs or check if their existing credit cards offer points on rent payments, though fees may apply. Stay tuned to Bilt’s official channels for updates on global expansion.

How to Start Earning Rewards for Paying Rent

Ready to get points for paying rent? Here’s a step-by-step guide to get started with Bilt:

1- Sign Up for Bilt Rewards: Download the Bilt app (available on iOS and Android) or visit biltrewards.com to create a free account. No credit card is required to join the loyalty program.

2- Check for Bilt Rewards Alliance: In the app, enter your address to see if your property is part of the Bilt Rewards Alliance. If it is, you can pay rent directly through the app. If not, Bilt’s BillPay feature lets you pay via check, ACH, or even Venmo, earning points regardless of your landlord’s payment preferences.

3- Apply for the Bilt Mastercard: For maximum rewards, apply for the no-annual-fee Bilt Mastercard. You’ll need to make at least five transactions per billing cycle to earn 1 point per dollar on rent (up to 100,000 points annually). Without the card, you’ll earn a flat 250 points per rent payment.

4- Link Your Accounts: Connect your Bilt account to partners like Lyft or dining programs to stack rewards. You can also link non-Bilt credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, Discover) to earn 1 point per dollar on rent, though a 3% fee applies after July 21, 2025.

5- Redeem Your Points: Use points for travel, dining, fitness, or even rent credits. For the best value, transfer points 1:1 to partners like Hyatt or United Airlines.

Is Bilt Worth It? A Commercial Perspective

For renters, the Bilt Rewards program is a no-brainer if you want to get points for paying rent without fees. The ability to earn up to 100,000 points annually with the Bilt Mastercard can translate to $2,000+ in value (based on 2.05 cents per point), especially if you redeem for travel. Even without the card, the free program offers 250 points per rent payment, which is better than nothing.

However, there are a few caveats:

• You must use the Bilt Mastercard at least five times per billing cycle to unlock full rewards. Otherwise, you’re capped at 250 points per rent payment.
• Non-Bilt credit cards incur a 3% fee for rent payments, which may outweigh the rewards unless you’re chasing a big sign-up bonus.
• If you don’t rent or your landlord doesn’t accept digital payments, the program’s value diminishes.
• For those who rent and want to maximize their spending, Bilt is a top contender among instant approval credit cards with unique benefits tailored to renters. Pair it with strategic spending on Rent Day, and you could be jetting off on a free vacation or slashing your next rent bill in no time.

Final Thoughts: Should You Join Bilt Rewards?

Bilt Rewards is a groundbreaking way to turn your rent—an expense you’re already paying—into a source of valuable rewards. With no transaction fees on rent payments, a no-annual-fee credit card, and a robust loyalty program, it’s a win for renters looking to earn rewards for paying rent. While it’s not yet available in Canada, U.S. renters can start earning points today and unlock a world of travel, dining, and financial perks.

Ready to transform your rent into rewards? Sign up for Bilt Rewards at biltrewards.com or download the app to explore how you can get points for paying rent. Have questions or experiences with Bilt? Drop them in the comments below, and let’s keep the conversation going!

You can visit the BYDFi platform to learn more about investments and successful ways to live a successful life.

Solana (SOL): The Speed Demon Finding Its Footing
Solana has had a turbulent past, but following a series of critical network upgrades throughout 2024, it has emerged more robust and faster than ever. Its claim to fame is transaction speeds that can dwarf its competitors, with fees so low they are practically negligible. Staking SOL is a breeze through user-friendly wallets like Phantom or through liquid staking protocols like Marinade Finance.

You can generally expect APYs in the 7% to 12% range. The real innovation here is  liquid staking,  which gives you a tradable token (like mSOL) representing your staked SOL. This means your assets aren’t just sitting idle; you can use them as collateral in other parts of the DeFi ecosystem to potentially compound your earnings. For the US-based investor looking for a balance of yield and accessibility, Solana is a compelling starting point.

Cosmos (ATOM): The Architect of Interconnected Blockchains
While some blockchains are isolated islands, Cosmos envisions an "Internet of Blockchains"—a network of independent, yet interconnected, chains. Staking ATOM, the native token of the Cosmos Hub, is like investing in the foundational protocol of this entire ecosystem. The yields here are consistently attractive, often sitting between 15% and 20% when you stake through wallets like Keplr.

The process involves delegating your tokens to a validator of your choice, which encourages a healthy, decentralized network. It’s a model that particularly resonates with our European readers, who often appreciate the project’s transparent governance and alignment with a broader vision for a connected web. A word of caution: like many advanced staking systems, Cosmos has a slashing  mechanism, meaning your staked funds can be slightly penalized if your chosen validator acts maliciously or goes offline. This makes choosing a reputable validator not just a matter of optimization, but of security.

Polkadot (DOT): Betting on a Multi-Chain Future
Polkadot operates on a unique "parachain" model, where specialized blockchains connect to a central relay chain, all sharing its security. Staking DOT is fundamental to this process, and the network rewards participants handsomely for their role in maintaining consensus and participating in parachain auctions. Current yields are robust, typically ranging from 12% to 18%.

Engaging with the Polkadot ecosystem requires a bit more technical comfort, often involving the official Polkadot.js portal. However, for the investor who believes the future of Web3 will be multi-chain and specialized, staking DOT is a direct way to align with that thesis. The rewards are paid in DOT, allowing you to steadily grow your position in a project that aims to be the plumbing for the next generation of the internet.

The Critical Choice: Liquid Staking vs. Traditional Lock-Ups

As you delve deeper, you’ll encounter a fundamental fork in the road: the choice between traditional (locked) staking and liquid staking.

Traditional staking is straightforward. You delegate your tokens to a validator for a set period, during which they are locked and un-tradable. In return for this illiquidity, you often receive a slightly higher base reward. This is the "set it and forget it" approach, perfect for the long-term holder with deep conviction in a project.

Liquid staking, on the other hand, is a game-changer for active portfolios. When you stake through a protocol like Lido (for Ethereum) or Marinade (for Solana), you don’t just get rewards; you receive a derivative token—stETH or mSOL—that represents your staked position. This token can be freely traded, used as collateral to borrow against, or deposited in other DeFi protocols to farm additional yield. You’re essentially earning your staking rewards while still keeping your capital liquid and productive.

The trade-off is a marginally lower base APY. So, which path is right for you? If the thought of your assets being locked up gives you anxiety, or if you enjoy the flexibility of deploying your capital across multiple strategies, liquid staking is your answer. If your sole focus is maximizing the yield on a long-term hold and you have no intention of selling, traditional staking might be the slightly more profitable route.

Navigating the Shadowy Corners: Where High Yields Hide High Risks:

1- The Inflation Engine: A project launches with a token that has a massively inflationary supply. They offer a 10,000% APY to attract depositors, but this simply means they are printing new tokens at an astronomical rate to pay the rewards. The value of each token plummets as the supply explodes, often leaving you with a larger number of tokens that are collectively worth less than your initial investment.

2- The Ponzi Scheme: These protocols rely on a constant stream of new investors to pay rewards to the old ones. The moment the inflow of new money slows, the house of cards collapses, and the last people to withdraw are left with nothing.

3- The Soft Rug Pull : The developers create a token, lure in liquidity with unbelievable yields, and then suddenly sell their entire holdings, crashing the price and abandoning the project.

Beyond these blatant scams, even legitimate staking carries risks. The volatility of the underlying asset is paramount. Earning a 20% APY sounds fantastic until the price of the token drops 60% in a market downturn. You’ve gained yield but lost principal. There’s also smart contract risk—the chance that a bug in the staking protocol’s code could be exploited by hackers. This is why sticking to well-audited, time-tested platforms is non-negotiable.

Your First Steps on the Staking Journey

First, choose your battlefield. For absolute beginners, a centralized exchange like Coinbase, BYDFi, or Kraken is the most straightforward option. The user interface is simple, and they manage the technical validators in the background. For those who value sovereignty and security above all, learning to use a non-custodial wallet like Phantom (for Solana) or Keplr (for Cosmos) is the ultimate goal.

Next, fund your account or wallet. Use your local currency to purchase one of the established assets we’ve discussed—SOL, ATOM, or DOT are perfect starting points.

Now, the main event. On an exchange, you’ll simply find the "Earn" or "Staking" section, select your asset, and click "Stake." In a non-custodial wallet, you’ll navigate to the staking section, where you’ll be presented with a list of validators. Take a moment to choose one with a good track record, a high uptime percentage, and a reasonable commission rate. Then, delegate your tokens.

Finally, manage your rewards. You can choose to automatically re-stake your earnings (compounding your returns) or periodically claim them to diversify into other assets or take profits. Remember to keep a meticulous record of all your staking rewards, as they are considered taxable income in most countries.

The Final Word: Patience Over Promises

In the end, the most successful stakers are not the ones chasing the highest number on a dashboard. They are the patient, disciplined investors who understand that in the world of crypto, a sustainable and secure 8-15% APY on a blue-chip asset is a monumental wealth-building tool. It’s a marathon, not a sprint. By focusing on fundamentally sound projects, understanding the risks, and starting with a clear strategy, you can confidently use staking to transform your cryptocurrency from a speculative asset into a genuine source of passive income. Ignore the sirens of 10,000%; the real treasure is found in the steady, consistent growth of the ecosystem's bedrock.