EDU Articles
Popular articles
What is the Difference Between Litecoin and Bitcoin?
Litecoin is very similar to bitcoin, but there are some distinct differences. Litecoin was designed with a blockchain protocol called Scrypt rather than SHA 256, which powers bitcoin. In Scrypt, blocks have solved an average of every 2.5 minutes rather than the 10 minutes that bitcoin requires. Let’s face it -- 10 minutes is a really long time in the digital world, and litecoin was created in an effort to get things moving a little faster. This means that each confirmation takes less work and energy for the network to confirm, which should translate into lower transaction costs. Continue reading...
How to Mine Litecoin and other Altcoins?
It used to be that litecoin mining could only be done by GPU, but now ASIC machines are getting all the glory. For a time, new miners preferred to mine litecoin instead of bitcoin because ASIC miners had rendered old-fashioned GPU mining for Bitcoin unprofitable. During that time, when ASIC machines had not be designed for Litecoin Scrypt mining, anyone with a good enough GPU could profitably mine litecoin with the same computer they used at home, while they were off at work or asleep not using it. If you aren’t aware, GPUs (graphics cards) compute the kinds of functions necessary for mining at many times the speed that CPUs (core processors) alone would. Continue reading...
Bitcoin’s Source Code, Part 2: What Does It Mean That Bitcoin Is Open-Source?
Open-source software code can be viewed and changed by anyone, but it actually works in the favor of Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies. Bitcoin’s source code was uploaded by Satoshi Nakamoto to a code-sharing site called Sourceforge, which enabled anyone to download, use, and modify the code as they saw fit. In fact, he encouraged the community to do so. The fascinating thing about the design of Bitcoin and many other open-source software is that they will work, and will continue to exist, without anyone owning the rights to the code. In most people’s concept of ownership and responsibility, the owner is responsible for maintaining something, for protecting it from attacks, manipulation, vandalism, fraud, etc, and is also responsible for making sure that it is safe for other people to use. Continue reading...
What are the key 'Greek' parameters used to analyze and understand options?
Unlock the power of the 'Greek' parameters in Options Trading. Learn how Delta, Gamma, Theta, and Vega shape your options strategy. Mastering these keys empowers you to navigate the complex world of options with confidence, manage risks, and maximize profitability. Dive deep into the minor Greeks for a comprehensive view of your options, enabling precise risk management. Elevate your trading game by understanding and applying these essential tools. Continue reading...
What are Energy Sector Stocks?
The Energy Sector contains companies that are in the business of discovering, processing, or selling (or all 3) natural resources like oil, natural gas, coal, solar and wind. Oil companies dominate the sector and are the largest players. Energy stocks are also cyclical, meaning that they tend to perform better when demand for energy is high (economic expansions). Companies in the Energy sector are also very sensitive to changes in the price of the underlying natural resource, like oil. For example, as the price of oil rapidly declined in 2015, falling by 50+%, the earnings for virtually every energy company collapsed. Continue reading...
What Is a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA)?
Discover the power of Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs) in safeguarding your business secrets. This comprehensive guide covers NDA types, applications, and the vital role they play in protecting intellectual property and sensitive data. Learn how NDAs foster trust and security in various business relationships. Don't miss out! Continue reading...
What is standard deviation?
Standard Deviation is a measurement of how far from the average (mean) the majority of a data set lies. Standard Deviation is a measure of variability, and it is on a different scale for each data set being measured; there is no “standard” standard deviation. It is possible to normalize it for comparison to other data sets using measurements like r-squared and the sharpe ratio. The number arrived at when computing standard deviation is going to reveal the distance, in terms of one of the quantifiable variables being observed, from the average, in either a positive or negative direction, within which 68% of the data set falls. Continue reading...
What is Plaid?
If you've ever connected your bank account to popular financial apps like American Express, Venmo, or Upstart, you've likely encountered Plaid. This fintech powerhouse plays a pivotal role in the seamless exchange of financial information between users and financial service providers. In this article, we'll delve into what Plaid is, how it operates, and most importantly, whether it's safe to trust with your sensitive financial data. Continue reading...
What is Systematic Risk?
Systematic risk is the broad risk of fluctuations and downturns in the market as a whole, which it is said cannot be eliminated through diversification. Systematic risk is also known as market risk, which is the exposure of all investors to the broad movements and downturns of the market as a whole. Theoretically it cannot be controlled for through simple diversification, since that would only bring a portfolio closer to the broad market performance, with a Beta closer to 1. Continue reading...
What is the Dividend Discount Model?
The Dividend Discount Model (DDM) is a method for valuing a stock, that looks at expected future dividend payouts and adjusts to present value. If the calculated value is less than the current trading price, the security is thought to be undervalued. The DDM is helpful as a tool but should not solely be used in valuation calculations. Perhaps its biggest flaw is that future dividends have to be projected and assumed, which is a far-from-certain practice. Continue reading...
Best Home Furnishings Stocks to Watch
Explore the thriving home furnishings sector with our latest financial analysis. Dive into the 2023 market leaders like Wayfair and RH, and learn how urbanization and e-commerce are reshaping the industry. Get ahead in your investment strategy with our expert insights on the top home furnishings stocks to watch now. Continue reading...
What is Duration?
Duration refers to the amount of time before a fixed income product will return the investment (principal and interest) to the investor. The bigger the duration number, the greater the interest-rate risk or reward for bond prices. For example, an investor should generally expect to receive better interest from a 30-year duration bond versus a 10-year, since the investor has to hold the note for longer to receive all interest payments and principal. Continue reading...
Top Stocks in the Major Banks Sector
In the world of finance, major banks hold a significant position with their vast global reach and immense market capitalizations. This article delves into the major players in this sector, highlighting their strengths, market positions, and the reasons they stand out as top stocks in today's market. Continue reading...
What is Income Risk?
Income risk is the chance that an investment which is used for income will fluctuate in an unfavorable way if the interest rate environment or market conditions change. Some mutual funds and ETFs are branded as income funds when they use lots of corporate bonds that generate regular income payments, but they are often sensitive to interest rate changes. The Federal Reserve Board and the market can affect changes in the interest rate environment as times goes on. Continue reading...
5 Effective Strategies to Hedge Your Portfolio
Discover how to safeguard your investments against market volatility. This article explores five effective strategies for hedging your portfolio, from embracing broad-based diversification to leveraging artificial intelligence for fresh investment ideas. Learn how to manage market uncertainties and mitigate potential losses with these potent portfolio management tools Continue reading...
What Are Small-Cap Stocks, and Are They a Good Investment?
Small-cap stocks, often considered the hidden gems of the market, have gained attention for their growth potential and dynamic nature. These stocks represent companies with a market capitalization generally ranging from $300 million to $2 billion, offering unique opportunities for investors. But with these opportunities come higher risks and volatility. Here's an in-depth look at what small-cap stocks are, their characteristics, potential advantages, and considerations for investors. Continue reading...
What is Mortgage REIT?
Mortgage REITs are a type of Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT) which offers investors income distributions which result from the interest payment on mortgage loans. Investors enjoy REIT investments as a high-yield income investment which offers exposure to an asset class which is not necessarily correlated with other major asset classes. Mortgage REITs are a subset of this asset type which derives income from the interest due on mortgage loans, which are generally purchased in the form of mortgage-backed securities. Equity REITs are the other major type of REIT, and they invest directly in income-producing properties. Continue reading...
A Financial Analysis of Top Information Technology Sector Stocks
Unlock the potential of the IT sector with our expert financial analysis. Discover 2023's top Information Technology stocks, from Cisco to Shopify, and learn how to smartly diversify your tech investments for maximum impact. Continue reading...
Best Southern REIT Stocks: Notable Companies and Data
In the world of finance and investment, one sector that has consistently shown its resilience and ability to provide stable returns to investors is the Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) industry. REITs are companies that own and often operate income-producing real estate, including various property types such as office buildings, apartment complexes, warehouses, shopping centers, and more. In this article, we'll delve into the top stocks within the REITs industry, exploring notable companies, the industry's description, and market capitalization. Continue reading...
Top Life Insurance Stocks to Consider for Your Portfolio
Explore the top life insurance stocks poised for growth in 2023. Get expert insights into the financials of industry giants and uncover the best investment opportunities in a sector that promises stability, innovation, and dividends. Continue reading...