I know people on this site have been negative on Bitcoin and I can understand why. This crypto-currency isnât backed by anything and is not traditional. Well, for all of you traders, the 24hr returns for the alternative crypto-currencies speak for themselves: www.coinmarketcap.com For example, I watch GLDCoin (Gold Coin). I personally believe this alt coin has a name that will someday be used for many reasons from casinos to maybe arbs against gold futures or whatever. Right now it is in the infant stages. There are many coins like this one. To me, this is equivalent to the internet in the 90âs. As bitcoin gains more exposure, you will find more start-ups around this idea which will only expand to the other coins. How to you get coins? 1. Mine them (search Google for this) 2. Purchase them outright in exchanges similar to the ECNâs of today. Hold in online or local wallets. For example, how can you trade GLDCoin? -You need bitcoin right now to trade gldcoin. Gldcoin is in limited markets like cryptsy.com. The steps: 1. Open a wallet to buy bitcoin(coinbase.com is a good one). Link it to your bank account so you can transfer funds to buy bitcoin. 2. Transfer bitcoin to an exchange where you can buy gldcoin. Exchanges that cover gldcoin: www.cryptsy.com www.coinex.pw Yes, I use gldcoin as an example, but all of these currencies are on fire. On these exchanges, it is a free for all. Time/Price priority rules, but there are no hidden orders, trade busts and it is very basic..just like the old days. My opinion: now is the time to jump on-board. Good luck.