In the World of Crypto, Cardano Could Be a Real Winner

Here’s why crypto investors may want to think about owning Cardano as a part of a well-diversified portfolio right now.

Indeed, when investors see cryptocurrencies trading at a few dollars or less, it is difficult to imagine it can reach the heights of Bitcoin, the world’s first cryptocurrency. That’s a rather impressive growth trajectory that’s hard to duplicate. Considering Bitcoin started off at a few cents and is now standing at nearly $60,000 a coin, no one can deny the possibility of other tokens following suit in the long run.

Here I will discuss Cardano (CRYPTO:ADA) — a crypto play that I believe has tremendous potential in the long run. Let’s see why.

Caradano was created for business

Cardano was created by Charles Hoskinson — co-founder of Ethereum — one of the bigger players in the crypto market. In essence, Cardano is a blockchain featuring its own coin called ADA. This network can handle smart contracts or self-executing contracts when certain conditions are met. As the building blocks of the decentralized finance (DeFi) space, smart contracts are generally perceived to be the future of crypto. Accordingly, there are many who believe Cardano could be an “Ethereum killer” on this basis.

There are other reasons why some investors feel this is the case. Namely, Cardano is among the faster large-cap cryptocurrencies in terms of transaction speed. This token is roughly eight times faster than Bitcoin and has fees that are much lower than Ethereum right now. For those in the crypto world looking to do something as simple as transferring money, Cardano is certainly an intriguing choice right now.

Environment-friendly attributes

However, among the key reasons many investors consider Cardano a top crypto pick is the network’s proof-of-stake protocol. What this means is that investors can stake their crypto to validate transactions on the blockchain. Unlike Bitcoin’s proof-of-work model (which requires mining, or complex mathematical computations to be done to validate transactions), Cardano’s model is much simpler.

What does this mean?

Well, for one, this network uses a lot less energy. It’s believed that Bitcoin currently uses roughly 0.5% of the total global power consumption. For crypto aficionados worried about the future implications this growth could provide, Cardano is certainly an intriguing choice.

Bottom line

The crypto market is one that’s certainly risky. Investors picking any one token, or group of tokens for that matter, should be aware of these risks.

However, investors seeking growth may want to look past Bitcoin and Ethereum to other projects such as Cardano. Indeed, Cardano remains a top cryptocurrency on my watch list right now for the aforementioned reasons.

This article represents the opinion of the writer, who may disagree with the “official” recommendation position of a Motley Fool premium service or advisor. We’re Motley! Questioning an investing thesis — even one of our own — helps us all think critically about investing and make decisions that help us become smarter, happier, and richer, so we sometimes publish articles that may not be in line with recommendations, rankings or other content.

Fool contributor Chris MacDonald has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool owns shares of and recommends Bitcoin.

More on Investing

ETF stands for Exchange Traded Fund
Investing

2 High-Yield Dividend ETFs to Buy to Generate Passive Income

Both of these Hamilton ETFs sport double-digit yields with monthly payouts.

Read more »

engineer at wind farm
Energy Stocks

1 Canadian Utility Stock to Buy for Big Total Returns

Let's dive into why Fortis (TSX:FTS) remains a top utility stock long-term investors may want to consider right now.

Read more »

man in suit looks at a computer with an anxious expression
Tech Stocks

Short-Selling on the TSX: The Stocks Investors Are Betting Against

High-risk investors engage in short-selling, betting against some TSX stocks for bigger profits.

Read more »

woman retiree on computer
Dividend Stocks

1 Reliable Dividend Stock for the Ultimate Retirement Income Stream

This TSX stock has given investors a dividend increase every year for decades.

Read more »

A glass jar resting on its side with Canadian banknotes and change inside.
Stocks for Beginners

How to Grow Your TFSA Well Past the Average

Need to catch up quick with your TFSA? Consider some regular contributions to this top bank stock, as well as…

Read more »

dividend growth for passive income
Investing

Key Canadian Stocks for a Wealth-Building 2025

These three Canadian stocks could outperform next year, given their solid underlying businesses and healthy growth prospects.

Read more »

Tractor spraying a field of wheat
Metals and Mining Stocks

Where Will Nutrien Stock Be in 1 Year?

Nutrien stock has had a rough few years, and this next year may not be easy. But long-term investors may…

Read more »

Canadian dollars in a magnifying glass
Energy Stocks

The Smartest Energy Stocks to Buy With $200 Right Now

The market is full of great growth and income stocks. Here's a look at two of the smartest energy stocks…

Read more »