#CryptoStocks "Crypto stocks" are simply **shares of companies that are involved in the world of cryptocurrencies**.

Think of it in two main ways:

1. **Companies that *own* a lot of crypto:**

* Like **MicroStrategy** or **Metaplanet**. These are regular companies, but they've bought huge amounts of Bitcoin to hold onto. So, if Bitcoin's price goes up, their company's stock usually goes up too. It's like buying a piece of a company that holds Bitcoin for you.

2. **Companies that *do business* with crypto:**

* **Exchanges:** Places where people buy and sell crypto, like **Coinbase**. They make money from trading fees.

* **Miners:** Companies that use powerful computers to create new Bitcoin, like **Marathon Digital** or **Riot Platforms**. Their profits depend on the price of Bitcoin and how much it costs to mine.

* **Tech companies:** Firms that build the technology behind crypto, like **Block (formerly Square)**.

**Why buy these stocks instead of crypto directly?**

* It might be **easier** if you already use a normal stock brokerage account.

* It's a more **familiar** way to invest for some people.

* You might get exposure to the **operations** (like mining or exchange fees) of the crypto world, not just the price of the coins themselves.

But remember, these stocks usually **move a lot with crypto prices**, so they can be quite risky and volatile.