Fiat and crypto: differences explained

In today’s market, there are two types of currency available to use, fiat and crypto. Both have some differences along with some similarities, too.

What do they have in common?

Both fiat money and cryptocurrency can be traded in the financial market and used to purchase goods and services. In addition, they have similar factors that control their value: supply, demand scarcity, work, and economic factors. However, while having these similarities, fiat and crypto are intrinsically different.

How are they different?

Taxation, regulation, and tender status. For instance, fiat currency is recognized as a legal tender under the Coinage Act of 1965. This means this is the medium of exchange and is acceptable for the payment of debt, public charges, taxes and dues. On the other hand, cryptocurrency is not a legal tender yet. However, it’s important to note that several countries and U.S. state of Ohio started offering to pay government taxes in crypto.

Fiat currency is always backed by the government. Cryptocurrency operates on a decentralized blockchain ledger. Fiat money is printed under the guidance, permission and control of the central government, cryptocurrency is mined with the help of all crypto users taking part in its creation through a blockchain network.

Pros & Cons

Fiat currency is traditionally considered more stable due to the central bank and government’s control. However, this is not always the case, and at times central authority does little to none in order to stop recession or inflation.

Additionally, not everyone is able to use fiat currency as not everyone has access to banks. On the contrary, cryptocurrency is available throughout the world. The process is still complicated, but other potential advantages include faster settlement times and lower transaction fees.