Published Nov, 15 2024

Bitcoin Kiosks and Micro-Investing: The Rise of Satoshi-Sized Portfolios

Micro-investing is becoming the go-to choice for investors looking for accessible strategies to build wealth sustainably. And Bitcoin kiosks? Consider them a great starting point to dip your toes in the crypto-investment water. But where do you begin? Let’s explore micro-investing, popular platforms, and the role Bitcoin kiosks might play in your own journey. What […]
A stylized digital artwork of half a Bitcoin symbol rendered in gold and blue tones against a dark background.

Micro-investing is becoming the go-to choice for investors looking for accessible strategies to build wealth sustainably. And Bitcoin kiosks? Consider them a great starting point to dip your toes in the crypto-investment water.

But where do you begin?

Let’s explore micro-investing, popular platforms, and the role Bitcoin kiosks might play in your own journey.

What Is Micro-Investing**?

Rome wasn't built in a day; neither are strong investment portfolios.

But starting from scratch can be daunting. Small steps add up, though. That’s the whole idea behind micro-investing. 

What is micro-investing? Micro-investing is the practice of making smaller investments to build wealth over time.

Historically, investing was mainly for those with access to a broker and the extra capital needed to buy things like stocks. In the last decade or so, that’s changed completely. This is due to a few factors:

Add it all up, and you can see why so many are turning to micro-investing as a sustainable approach to building wealth.

The Psychology Behind Taking Small Steps

There’s some powerful psychology behind micro-investing — and it’s not all about numbers.

Research shows that each micro-investment, even if it’s just $20, creates a sense of progress. These small victories build long-term investment confidence* (explore the research by clicking the link to nature.com).

Micro-investing also helps break down investment paralysis. This is when the amount of capital or knowledge needed to enter an investment seems so substantial that it feels inaccessible, leaving would-be investors on the sidelines. That same research tells us that those who start small tend to stick with it longer. It’s kind of like riding a bike. You have to start with training wheels before you can enter the Tour de France.

Regular small investments create stronger financial habits than waiting for "the perfect moment."

Bitcoin Kiosks: Your Gateway to Crypto

So, how do Bitcoin kiosks fit into this picture?

Well, Bitcoin, is a very different type of investment. While buying a whole Bitcoin is a dream for most, it’s not necessary to have the popular cryptocurrency in your portfolio. 

You see, Bitcoin breaks down into Satoshis or fractions of a Bitcoin. 1 Bitcoin = 100 million Satoshis.

When you look at it this way, purchasing Bitcoin seems much more accessible. Adding to this accessibility are Bitcoin Kiosks. 

How Bitcoin Kiosks Can Help You On Your Investing Journey

What are Bitcoin kiosks, also known as Bitcoin ATMs (or BTMs)?

Think of a regular ATM but with a crypto twist. Bitcoin kiosks offer you a convenient and streamlined way to purchase BTC with cash, and you can get started with as little as $20 (in the case of Bitcoin Depot kiosks).

Moreover, they’re virtually everywhere. 

In the case of Bitcoin Depot, we have over 8,300 locations across the U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico (as of October 2024). If you’re wondering, “Where can I find a Bitcoin kiosk near me?” Just use our convenient locator tool.

Kiosks present an easy entry point into the world of Bitcoin micro-investing. 

The process is simple:

  1. Create a Digital Wallet: This is easy to do through the Bitcoin Depot mobile app (available on the Apple Store and Google Play store). 
  2. Enter Your Information: At the Bitcoin kiosk, select the amount you want to purchase and enter some additional information like your phone number, name, or email (depending on purchase amount and location).
  3. Verify the Transaction: Simply enter the 5-digit verification code sent to your phone at the kiosk.
  4. Provide Your Wallet Address: Provide your wallet address by scanning with the Bitcoin Depot mobile app or entering your wallet address manually. 
  5. Complete Your Purchase: Insert your cash into the machine and watch your coins hit your wallet.

A few notes: Only send BTC from a BTM to your own wallet. Also, be very careful entering manual wallet addresses. Mistakes are permanent and can’t be reversed. 

Just like that, you’ve purchased your first few Satoshis!

Bitcoin Kiosks vs. Traditional Micro-Investing Platforms

While Bitcoin kiosks offer users a great entry point into the world of micro-investing, they’re not the only show in town. 

There are dozens of micro-investing-specific platforms that help you make the most out of your spare change. For example, some “round up” on debit card purchases, putting that little extra on each transaction into an investment account.

Let’s compare Bitcoin kiosks against these popular apps:

Bitcoin KiosksTraditional Platforms
Access RequiredNo bank account neededBank account required
Setup TimeInstant start3 - 5 business days
Initial ProcessWalk up and beginAccount approval needed
Verification On-Site, instantMulti-day review
Funding OptionsCash acceptedBank transfer only
Automated?No, manual buying onlySometimes, but varies by app
Processing TimeImmediate2-5 business days
Asset AccessInstant access to BTC3-5 business days
Withdrawal SpeedInstant withdrawal at a BTMSettlement period required
Learning CurveSimple, guided processPlatform learning needed
InterfacePhysical kiosk + mobile appMobile/web platform only
Minimum BuyStarting at $20Usually $5-$100
Monthly CostsNo subscription neededOften subscription-based
Investments AvailableBitcoin (BTC)Multiple types

From the Ground Up: Building Your Micro-Investment Strategy

Whether you use a Bitcoin kiosk or a micro-investing app, just remember you’re building your portfolio brick by brick.

It’s important to find an investment strategy that works for you and your goals. Keep in mind that you and only you should make the final decision on what approach is best. We present this information purely for educational purposes. 

Here are a few types of micro-investing strategies to consider:

No matter which strategy you choose, you’re starting your sustainable investment journey one step at a time.

Getting Started Micro-Investing with Bitcoin Kiosks

So there you have it, a crash course on micro-investing. Whether you choose to buy BTC at a Bitcoin Kiosk or opt for a micro-investing platform, you’re taking the first step — and that’s the most important part.

Here at Bitcoin Depot, our mission is simple: bring Bitcoin to the masses.

If you want to purchase $20 worth of Bitcoin or $1000, we’ve got you covered. With a streamlined purchase process, you can go from cash to coins in a matter of minutes at any of our 8,300 BTM locations.

To get started micro-investing, find your nearest BTM.

*The information provided above is for informational purposes only. The inclusion of any particular 3rd party site does not imply an endorsement, sponsorship, or partnership between Bitcoin Depot and the sites listed above. While Bitcoin Depot endeavors to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the information provided, we do not guarantee the reliability of any 3rd party’s information.

**The information provided does not constitute investment or financial advice, and you should seek a financial or investment advisor to better understand how purchasing any cryptocurrency can enhance your portfolio and the potential risks.