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Why new traders in crypto are losing money

New Crypto Trader Faces Challenges | Struggles with Market Trends

By

Liam O'Sullivan

Feb 14, 2026, 07:53 PM

Edited By

Maxim Petrov

2 minutes needed to read

A newcomer to cryptocurrency trading looks puzzled while analyzing price charts and market trends on a computer screen, highlighting common struggles faced by new traders.
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A growing number of newcomers to cryptocurrency are echoing frustrations over unexpected losses in trades. In a recent discussion, one trader voiced confusion about market movements, with many chiming in on their experiences of losing money despite apparent gains on charts.

Rising Frustrations in Crypto Trading

The post reflects a common dilemma among traders. According to various sources and experiences shared, many users are feeling lost amid the volatility of the crypto market. "You’re buying crypto," was one succinct response highlighting a fundamental misunderstanding that some novices face.

Key Observations from Comments:

  • Market Knowledge is Crucial: Users strongly advise against trading without understanding terms like 'spot' versus 'futures'. One comment emphasized, "If you don't even know what spot means, you need to do weeks of research".

  • Risk Management is Essential: Multiple traders pointed out that understanding market dynamics and risk management is key. According to one experienced trader, "Don't expect to be right as a newbie. Learning to take losses is part of the game."

  • HODL Strategy Recommended: Several comments suggested that new traders should adopt a buy-and-hold strategy rather than frequent trading. "DCA and HODL. You only lose if you sell," underscored a veteran in the community.

"Expecting to profit immediately is unrealistic in crypto."

Sentiment in the Arena

Comments were mixed, with a majority leaning towards caution and realism. A notable sentiment emerged that while many traders are losing, it’s seen as a natural part of the learning curve. Curiously, many echoed the notion that timing and emotional control are critical.

Takeaways for New Traders

  • πŸ”Έ 93% of traders reportedly lose money over time.

  • πŸ”Ή Research is crucial before trading; understand your platform.

  • ⚠️ Set risk management guidelines to protect your investments.

  • πŸ’¬ "Simply buying Bitcoin and withdrawing it to a safe wallet might be a good start."

  • 🚫 Trading during high volatility can be a recipe for disaster.

Final Thoughts

As the crypto market continues to fluctuate wildly, the call for education and strategic trading grows louder. New traders are encouraged to seek knowledge and resist the urge to dive in without preparation. Understanding market trends and psychology can be the difference between a minor blip or major losses in this fast-paced environment.

What's Next for New Traders in Crypto?

With the volatility expected to continue, there’s a strong chance that many newcomers will reconsider their strategies. Experts estimate around 70% of new traders may exit the market within their first year due to losses and frustration. Those who remain could potentially adopt more cautious approaches, focusing on educational resources and community support. As greater awareness of risk management grows, it’s likely that seasoned traders will share more insights, leading to improved trading practices among novices. However, the path ahead remains treacherous, with frequent market fluctuations hinting at unpredictable outcomes for investments.

A Lesson from the Dot-Com Era

In the late 1990s, many people rushed into the internet wave, akin to today's crypto craze. Investors often threw money at startups without grasping their fundamentals. While many lost everything, a few educated individuals learned to evaluate the landscape and identify enduring companies. Similar to today’s crypto traders, these early internet investors faced huge risks with steep learning curves. Just as in crypto, the tech bubble taught important lessons about research, preparation, and the importance of recognizing sustainable potentialβ€”even amid chaos.