How to Make a Cryptocurrency: A Beginner’s Guide

The INX Digital Company INC | March 20, 2024
5 min read
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Meta description: Are you looking at making your own cryptocurrency? Learn how to create your cryptocurrency in this guide

Did you know that you can make your own cryptocurrency? Anyone can make a cryptocurrency with the right technical skills. In this guide, we explore the process of how to make a cryptocurrency, from understanding the basics to deploying it on existing blockchain platforms.

Understanding Cryptocurrencies 

A cryptocurrency is a virtual or digital currency that operates independently of a central authority, such as a government or financial institution. Instead, it relies on cryptographic techniques to secure transactions and control the creation of new units.

Cryptocurrencies operate on decentralized networks (blockchains) that record and validate transactions on a distributed network of nodes. This decentralization ensures transparency and resilience against censorship or manipulation.

Before we discuss how to create a cryptocurrency, let’s mention that there are two groups of cryptocurrencies—coins and tokens. Coins are cryptocurrencies that operate on their own independent blockchain; they are native to their Layer-1 blockchain. They are primarily used as a store of value and as the medium of exchange within their respective networks. For example, Bitcoin (BTC), Ether (ETH), Solana (SOL), and Litecoin (LTC). 

On the other hand, Tokens are cryptocurrencies built on an existing blockchain, i.e., they don’t have their own independent blockchain. Tokens are typically created through smart contracts and are usually pre-mined. Tokens also have a broader utility than coins and can be used on other blockchains. 

How to Create a Cryptocurrency on An Existing Blockchain

Creating your cryptocurrency as a token allows you to make cryptocurrency without dealing with the complexities of blockchain development. Besides, creating a token instead of a coin leaves room for interoperability, that is, building your token on multiple blockchains. 

Using a token standard, you can work with a pre-set template to create your token on the blockchain. A token standard is the set of rules that govern how a crypto token works on a blockchain. They guide the creation, deployment, and issuance of tokens built on the blockchain. The most popular token standards on Ethereum are the ERC-20 (the standard interface for fungible tokens), ERC-721 (standard interface for NFTs), ERC-777 (allows extra functionalities), ERC-1404 (AML regulation compliance) and ERC-1155

Tokens come in different types and can be used for various use cases, including utility, shares of ownership, governance, and real-world representation. Utility tokens allow access to dApps; governance tokens give holders voting rights within a DAO. On the other hand, NFTs Non-Fungible) tokens are unique shares of digital items like art or real estate. 

Although creating a cryptocurrency offers several benefits, there are several regulatory concerns. Legal compliance and regulations around licensing, fraud, and financial crime risks are unclear in most countries. 

Should You Create a Cryptocurrency? The Risk With Launching Your Own

Creating a cryptocurrency might not be the best option for your project, especially if you want to create it to fund your project. In such a case, your token may fall under the classification of a security. This is especially true if you wish to offer investors benefits like dividends, profit-sharing, or voting rights.

Thankfully, there is a compliant way of raising funds through a token sale. By issuing a security token, you can take advantage of all the benefits blockchain has to offer while remaining compliant with securities law. At INX, we specialize in helping companies tokenize their assets in a compliant manner, handling the entire process end-to-end. In addition, our trading platform, INX.One, is the only venue in the world where compliant security tokens and crypto trade side-by-side.   

FAQs 

  • Can I Make My Own Cryptocurrency?

Yes, you can create your own cryptocurrency. There are several methods to do so, including creating a blockchain and native coin, modifying an existing blockchain, or creating a token on an existing blockchain platform like Ethereum or Solana.

  • Can I Create a Cryptocurrency Without Coding Skills?

While coding skills are beneficial, there are tools and platforms available that allow you to create tokens without extensive coding knowledge. However, understanding the basics of blockchain technology and smart contracts is still essential for ensuring the security and functionality of your cryptocurrency.

  • How Technical Do I Need to Be to Create a Cryptocurrency?

The technical requirements vary depending on the method you choose. Creating a blockchain and native coin requires extensive coding and technical knowledge while creating a token on an existing blockchain is less technical. However, some level of coding and understanding of blockchain technology is beneficial for all methods.

  • Do I Need to Comply with Regulatory Laws When Creating a Cryptocurrency?

Yes, compliance with regulatory laws is essential when creating a cryptocurrency, especially regarding securities regulations and anti-money laundering (AML) requirements. It’s crucial to understand the legal implications of your cryptocurrency project and ensure compliance with relevant laws and regulations.

  • How Long Does It Take to Create a Cryptocurrency?

The timeline for creating a cryptocurrency can vary widely depending on factors like the chosen method, project complexity, team size, and technical expertise. Creating a token on an existing blockchain can typically be done in a matter of weeks, while developing a new blockchain and native coin may take several months or longer. Using a token generator can reduce the process significantly. 

The INX Digital Company INC March 20, 2024

The INX Digital Company inc. is an expert in the field of finance, crypto and digital securities.

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