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How to Buy Litecoin (LTC)6-min read

Himanshu Chellani

Himanshu Chellani |  Updated on 20/9/2023

Litecoin

Litecoin

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In the constantly evolving landscape of cryptocurrencies, new coins often emerge, but only a few manage to sustain their significance over time. Litecoin, often dubbed as the “silver” to Bitcoin‘s “gold,” is one such cryptocurrency that has managed to carve its niche. For those wondering how to buy Litecoin, and more importantly, understanding its roots, mechanisms, and potential growth, this comprehensive guide serves as a reservoir of knowledge tailored specifically for the discerning Indian audience. Delve into the intricacies of Litecoin, from its inception to its current standing, and equip yourself with the insights required to make informed decisions in the crypto realm.

CoinBharat artwork of an Indian beauty in a futuristic server room used to mine cryptocurrencies

In This Guide:

  1. Where to Buy Litecoin – Best Brokers for Buying LTC in India & Abroad in April 2024
  2. How to Buy Litecoin in April 2024
  3. How Does Litecoin Compare to Bitcoin?
  4. Litecoin or Ethereum: Which Stands Out?
  5. The Road Ahead for Litecoin: Uncertainty or Promise?
  6. Is Investing in Litecoin a Wise Decision?
  7. The Role of Halvings in Proof of Work
  8. Understanding the Shift in Litecoin’s Mining Dynamics
  9. Changing Tides Among Significant Investors
  10. Predicting Litecoin’s Price Movement
  11. Invest Responsibly in Litecoin
  12. Concluding Remarks on Litecoin

Where to Buy Litecoin – Best Brokers for Buying LTC in India & Abroad in April 2024

Amid the myriad of brokerages operating in the Indian market, Admiral Markets, Libertex, and AvaTrade stand out as the paramount choices for purchasing Litecoin.

 

Admiral Markets Review

Admiral Markets Review

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Pros

  • list bullet Over 40,000 active clients from 110+ countries, carrying out an average of 1.5 million trades per year.
  • list bullet Competitive spreads as low as 0.5 pips and up to 500:1 leverage for forex trading.
  • list bullet Provides access to over 8,000 trading instruments, including 40+ forex pairs, 200+ stocks, and 5+ cryptocurrencies.

Cons

  • list bullet Admiral Markets has relatively high minimum deposit requirements for some account types, such as those in GBP.
  • list bullet Some users have reported slow response times from customer support, during excessively busy periods.
Libertex Review

Libertex Review

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Pros

  • list bullet 0% fees on stock trades, minimum deposit of only $10 or equivalent
  • list bullet Over 322 tradable assets available
  • list bullet Unmatched user-friendly interface, easy for beginners to catch on

Cons

  • list bullet Unavailable in some countries, including the United States
  • list bullet Only features two types of accounts (Demo and Standard)
AvaTrade Review

AvaTrade Review

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Pros

  • list bullet Swift Account Setup: Account activation in approximately 5 minutes with an efficient digital process.
  • list bullet Robust Support & Education: 24-hour multilingual support and comprehensive educational resources through AvaTrade Academy.
  • list bullet Diverse Investment Products: Over 1,260 tradeable symbols, including Forex and cryptocurrency CFDs.

Cons

  • list bullet Withdrawal Timeframe: Although competitive, withdrawals can take up to two business days.
  • list bullet Mobile App Features: While AvaTrade's mobile apps are innovative, they lack some advanced features compared to other industry leaders.

Admiral Markets

As a leading online brokerage, Admiral Markets offers a diverse palette of financial instruments. This includes a strong presence in the cryptocurrency sector with Litecoin being a notable offering. The platform is supervised by esteemed global financial authorities like the UK’s Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC).

A defining trait of Admiral Markets is its competitively low fees. It also supports renowned trading platforms such as MetaTrader 4 and 5. Offering a leverage of up to 1:500, traders have the potential for substantial gains, albeit with associated risks.

E-wallet withdrawals on Admiral Markets are processed within a 24-hour window, whereas bank transfers might take up to 5 business days. The minimum withdrawal cap is set at $10. Furthermore, Admiral Markets bolsters traders’ acumen with a suite of educational tools spanning webinars, articles, and trading guides.

Libertex

Libertex is a distinguished online brokerage acclaimed for its expansive portfolio that includes Litecoin among other assets. Recognised by the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC), the platform is celebrated for its uncomplicated trading experience.

A unique proposition of Libertex is its no-commission trading, making it a preferred choice for cost-conscious traders. It also hosts a plethora of trading aids such as demo accounts and mobile applications for trading flexibility.

Withdrawals are efficient, typically cleared within 24 hours, and the minimum threshold stands at $10. To hone traders’ skills, Libertex offers an array of instructional material, including webinars, trading guides, and an expansive knowledge repository.

AvaTrade

AvaTrade stands as a testament to a platform that meticulously bridges the knowledge gap, catering to the aspirations of both novices and seasoned trading veterans. One of the highlights of their service suite is the swift and uncomplicated account initiation procedure. This, coupled with an unwavering 24/7 multilingual support system, underscores AvaTrade’s dedication to fostering a frictionless trading ecosystem.

Investment Spectrum

Avid traders will find solace in the vast investment landscape AvaTrade offers, extending from forex to the bustling world of cryptocurrency. Such a vast array of offerings is underpinned by the assurance of stringent regulatory oversight, fortifying traders’ confidence.

Education & Resources

AvaTrade’s commitment to nurturing an informed trader community is palpable in its substantial investment in educational tools. The AvaTrade Academy stands as a beacon for traders, offering a myriad of resources from beginner courses to advanced trading strategies. Regular webinars further enhance this educational endeavor, ensuring traders remain abreast of evolving market dynamics.

How to Buy Litecoin in April 2024

Tutorial: How to Buy Litecoin on Admiral Markets in India

To dive into the world of cryptocurrency trading and especially to buy Litecoin in India, it’s imperative to have an operational brokerage account. The good news is that establishing this account is an uncomplicated procedure that can be finalised in mere minutes. This article will guide you through the sequential steps for opening an account on Admiral Markets, one of the premium brokerages available in India.

Step 1: Navigating to Admiral Markets’ Website
Begin by heading to the Admiral Markets’ website. Look for and click on the ‘Sign Up’ button. This action will redirect you to the account registration page, where you’ll be prompted to enter select personal and contact information.

Admiral Markets welcome screen

Admiral Markets Website
An ensuing short form will present itself, necessitating details like your country of residence, email address, phone number, and a secure password. After thoroughly reviewing the platform’s terms and conditions, ensure you check the consent box, keeping a keen eye on its Privacy Policy. Once all is in order, press the ‘Sign Up’ button and advance to the subsequent step.

Step 2: Input Your Personal Information
This phase requires you to furnish detailed personal information. Given that Admiral Markets is a recognised and regulated platform, it will solicit particulars like your name, birth date, and contact data. Additionally, identity validation via documents such as a PAN card or Aadhaar card will be necessary.

opening a live account on Admiral Markets

Step 3: Opt for the Suitable Account Type
Admiral Markets caters to a diverse clientele by offering multiple account types. For those new to trading and looking to gain some hands-on experience, there are demo accounts. Conversely, seasoned traders can leap directly into the action with live accounts. Based on your proficiency and objectives, choose an appropriate account and click the ‘Open Account’ button.

Selecting an account type on Admiral Markets

Step 4: Undergo Identity Verification
Being a regulated entity, Admiral Markets abides by local norms and regulations. Hence, there is a mandatory identity verification process before you’re granted trading permissions. For this, you’ll need to submit the identity documents mentioned earlier. Once Admiral Markets verifies the provided details, a confirmation email will be dispatched to you, post which you can proceed.

Step 5: Add Funds to Your Account
Upon receiving the verification email, the next stride is to deposit funds into your account. Admiral Markets extends multiple payment gateways, encompassing credit/debit cards, bank transfers, and e-Wallets. Choose a method that aligns with your preference, specify the deposit amount, and the funds should promptly reflect in your trading account.

Step 6: Initiate an Order to Purchase Litecoin
With the account set up, you are now primed to buy and trade Litecoin, alongside other cryptocurrencies. Furthermore, if you’re inclined towards diversifying your investment portfolio, Admiral Markets offers a broad spectrum of assets, including stocks, for consideration.

How Does Litecoin Compare to Bitcoin?

The core distinctions between Litecoin and Bitcoin are evident in their supply constraints and underlying protocols. Bitcoin’s supply is fixed at 21 million, whereas Litecoin allows for a maximum supply of 84 million. The coin mining techniques also differ: Bitcoin employs the SHA-256 algorithm, whereas Litecoin utilises an adapted version of Scrypt. This variation not only affects the mining process but also has repercussions on transaction speed. Impressively, Litecoin’s transaction confirmation is quadruple the speed of Bitcoin, a benefit especially appreciated by merchants who prioritise transaction speed over heightened security. Yet, it’s worth noting that quicker transaction speeds can potentially compromise security, given the reduced verification rounds.

Litecoin or Ethereum: Which Stands Out?

Litecoin primarily facilitates peer-to-peer transactions. In contrast, Ethereum serves as a comprehensive ecosystem supporting a myriad of cryptographic technologies through its global virtual machine. Ethereum’s native token, ether (ETH), enables transactions within its blockchain and often holds a dominant position in market rankings. Your preference between the two—whether Litecoin or Ethereum—ultimately hinges on your specific objectives and anticipated applications.

The Road Ahead for Litecoin: Uncertainty or Promise?

Predicting Litecoin’s trajectory is no simple task, given the ever-evolving cryptocurrency landscape. Governments worldwide are scrutinizing digital currencies, while new cryptocurrencies emerge constantly, adding to market volatility.

CoinBharat artwork of an Indian beauty in a futuristic setting

Is Investing in Litecoin a Wise Decision?

While Litecoin’s inception was not driven by speculative intent or as a store of value, it hasn’t deterred some from viewing LTC as an investment vehicle. However, potential investors should always seek expert counsel to evaluate if Litecoin aligns with their financial goals.

The Role of Halvings in Proof of Work

Halvings are integral to the mechanics of Proof of Work blockchain systems. These events can significantly influence a cryptocurrency’s value and, importantly, its mining landscape.

For context, let’s look at Litecoin as an illustrative example. A past halving event witnessed the mining reward for Litecoin halved. The immediate aftermath was a marked decrease in mining activity, primarily due to reduced profitability given consistent operational costs.

Understanding the Shift in Litecoin’s Mining Dynamics

A specific halving saw the Litecoin mining reward drop significantly. In the days leading up to such an event, the LTC Hash Rate, a measure of the total computational power used by miners to confirm transactions and secure a blockchain network, began to decrease.

A decrease in the Hash Rate suggests a reduced commitment from miners, either pulling back resources or abandoning the Litecoin network entirely. Such a drop can be concerning for investors. Less mining might translate to slower transaction times and potential security vulnerabilities in the blockchain.

While short-term Hash Rate fluctuations are typical, prolonged downward trends can be more alarming. Such a sustained decline could trigger a potential decrease in Litecoin’s value.

CoinBharat artwork of a woman mining LTC in a cyberpunk setting

Changing Tides Among Significant Investors

Litecoin, known for its efficient transaction speeds and minimal fees compared to Bitcoin, has enjoyed popularity among many investors. However, uncertainties following halving events can dampen investor confidence.

Data indicates that significant Litecoin holders, often termed ‘whales,’ reduced their trading activity noticeably post-halving. If the Hash Rate continues to fall, their participation might shrink even further, potentially impacting market liquidity and driving down the LTC price.

Predicting Litecoin’s Price Movement

Historical trends following past halvings hint at potential price shifts for Litecoin. Data analytics suggests specific support and resistance levels for Litecoin’s value.

However, there’s a silver lining. Speculations within the cryptocurrency community hint at Litecoin miners considering dual mining operations, including other cryptocurrencies like Dogecoin. If widely adopted, this strategy could potentially bolster mining profits and revitalise the LTC Hash Rate, possibly driving the LTC value upward.

Invest Responsibly in Litecoin

It’s essential to approach the surge in Litecoin’s popularity with informed caution. The cryptocurrency sector, including Litecoin, carries its unique set of risks and uncertainties. The volatile nature of cryptocurrencies, coupled with regulatory and security concerns, can impact its valuation. Thus, while the potential for returns might be attractive, a thorough understanding of the cryptocurrency realm, rigorous due diligence, and a robust risk management strategy are vital for any investor.

It’s also crucial to recognise that, akin to any investment, not every plunge into Litecoin will yield substantial returns. Diversification remains a cornerstone strategy, even when considering a potentially profitable cryptocurrency like Litecoin.

In conclusion, while forecasting the exact trajectory of Litecoin’s growth is challenging, its increasing acceptance and potential for innovation indicate a hopeful horizon for investors. The heightened interest in Litecoin represents a considerable investment opportunity for those keen on navigating the dynamic world of cryptocurrencies responsibly.

CoinBharat artwork of a beautiful Indian woman in a futuristic setting mining Litecoin

Concluding Remarks on Litecoin

Litecoin, often referred to as the silver to Bitcoin’s gold, has carved out its distinct space in the world of cryptocurrencies. It is marked by a number of unique features, including a higher maximum supply cap and a different mining protocol that allows for faster transaction confirmations. Over the years, events such as halvings have had a significant impact on Litecoin’s mining activity and, by extension, its price and appeal to investors. This dynamic nature, combined with regulatory uncertainties and market volatilities, makes it imperative for investors to approach Litecoin with informed caution and a well-considered strategy.

The cryptocurrency landscape is constantly evolving, and Litecoin, despite its potential, is not exempt from its challenges. Recent trends have indicated shifts in mining activity and investor confidence, especially following major events like halvings. These fluctuations underscore the importance of continuous monitoring, research, and diversification when investing in the cryptocurrency sector.

Yet, despite these uncertainties, Litecoin’s enduring presence in the top tier of cryptocurrencies, its innovative solutions, and its dedicated community all point towards its potential resilience and growth. As with any investment, potential Litecoin investors should be armed with accurate data, keen insights, and a thorough understanding of the broader cryptocurrency landscape to make well-informed decisions.

Key Takeaways

Crypto products and NFTs are unregulated and can be highly risky. There may be no regulatory recourse for any loss from such transactions.

FAQs

What sets Litecoin apart from Bitcoin?

Litecoin differs from Bitcoin in several ways. Notably, Litecoin has a maximum supply cap of 84 million, compared to Bitcoin's 21 million. Additionally, Litecoin uses a modified version of Scrypt for mining, resulting in faster transaction confirmations compared to Bitcoin's SHA-256 protocol.

How do halvings influence Litecoin?

Halvings significantly impact Litecoin's price and mining operations. They reduce the reward miners receive for validating transactions, which can lead to reduced mining activity, affecting transaction times and blockchain security.

Has Litecoin experienced a decline in mining activity recently?

Yes, after the recent halving event, there was a noticeable reduction in mining activity. Such events often prompt miners to reevaluate the profitability of their operations, which can impact the overall health of the Litecoin network.

Are major investors still confident in Litecoin?

After the recent halving, there's been observed hesitancy among major LTC investors or 'whales', with a notable drop in their trading activities. Such substantial players offer liquidity to the market, and a decrease in their participation can influence the LTC price.

What might be the potential future price point for Litecoin?

Based on historical data and trends, particularly after past halving events, there are speculations about potential price adjustments. However, as with all cryptocurrencies, it's essential to approach such predictions with caution.

How can one invest responsibly in Litecoin?

As with any investment, it's crucial to have a comprehensive understanding of the cryptocurrency, conduct thorough due diligence, and adopt a well-considered risk management strategy. Diversifying investments remains a key strategy, even in potentially lucrative sectors like cryptocurrencies.

Is Litecoin solely a speculative investment?

Originally, Litecoin wasn't intended to be a speculative investment or a value store. However, some investors use LTC this way. It's always advised to consult with a professional advisor to see if Litecoin aligns with your investment goals.