Are you considering investing in crypto? This is what you need to know

Crypto has grown from a digital experiment into a powerful force shaping global finance, luxury culture, and wealth creation. To understand the opportunities and the risks, we roped Brenton Nicker, Business Development Manager for Binance, one of Africa’s leading voices in crypto and blockchain innovation. From how crypto fits into a diversified portfolio to why Africa is a rising frontier, Brenton breaks it all down with clarity and authority.

Cryptocurrency is no longer a buzzword reserved for tech bros and traders glued to price charts. It has woven its way into mainstream banking, luxury retail, global payments, and how young investors think about wealth. Africa, in particular, is becoming one of the most exciting regions for blockchain adoption with a young population, high mobile penetration, and increasing appetite for digital alternatives in economies marked by volatility. Here, Brenton offers an expert view on where crypto is today, and where it’s going next.

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Glamour: What is cryptocurrency in simple terms, and why has it drawn global interest?

Brenton Naicker: Cryptocurrency is essentially digital money secured by blockchain technology, meaning every transaction is transparently recorded and nearly impossible to alter. It has captured global interest because it offers a new, decentralised way to store and transfer value without relying on banks while opening the door to high-growth opportunities in an evolving tech ecosystem.

Glamour: What has fueled crypto’s rise over the past decade?

Brenton: It’s been a mix of technological innovation and economic shifts. Faster payments, easier cross-border transfers, inflation concerns, and the rise of digital lifestyles have all contributed. People also recognise blockchain’s potential to disrupt traditional systems, from banking to proof of ownership.

Glamour: How should a sophisticated investor approach crypto in a diversified portfolio?

Brenton: Treat crypto as a high-growth, high-risk satellite investment rather than the foundation of your portfolio. It works best when balanced with equities, bonds, and real estate, acting as a modern diversifier for long-term strategy.

Glamour: Is crypto speculative, a store of value, or a hedge, especially for African investors?

Brenton: Depending on how it’s used, crypto can be all three. African and diaspora investors often face currency volatility and limited access to traditional investment products. In that context, crypto can serve as a digital store of value and sometimes a hedge but its speculative price swings mean investors must remain conscious of risk.

Glamour: What portion of a high-net-worth portfolio is reasonable to allocate to crypto?

Brenton: Most wealth managers recommend 1–5% for conservative profiles and up to 10% for higher risk tolerance. The key is ensuring your allocation won’t destabilise your broader portfolio during downturns.

Glamour: Why is Africa considered the next frontier for blockchain innovation?

Brenton: Africa has a young population, high mobile adoption, and underdeveloped financial infrastructure which makes it primed for blockchain-driven solutions. From mobile payments to digital identity systems, the continent is positioned to leapfrog outdated structures and adopt new technology faster than many developed markets.

Glamour: How are African governments responding to the crypto economy?

Brenton: Responses vary widely. Some countries are cautious, others are open, and a growing number are building regulatory frameworks that balance innovation with risk management. Overall, the trend is moving toward clearer guidelines as governments recognise crypto’s economic potential.

Glamour: What blockchain use cases are emerging beyond trading?

Brenton: We’re seeing tokenised real estate, digital art authentication, supply chain tracking, decentralised finance (DeFi), and even luxury goods verification. These applications show that blockchain’s value extends far beyond speculation and is transforming multiple industries.

Glamour: What are the biggest risks in crypto, and how can investors mitigate them?

Brenton: Volatility, regulatory uncertainty, and project failures are still major risks. Mitigation comes from diversifying across established assets, using reputable platforms, avoiding hype-driven projects, and investing only what you can afford to risk.

Glamour: How can investors safeguard their digital assets?

Brenton: Start with trusted exchanges, enable two-factor authentication, and store long-term assets in hardware wallets. Avoid public Wi-Fi, use strong passwords, and stay vigilant against phishing attempts. Good digital hygiene is key.

Glamour: How important is regulation for crypto’s future?

Brenton: Regulation is essential, not to restrict innovation, but to build trust, stability, and consumer protection. Clear frameworks encourage institutions to participate, which strengthens the entire ecosystem. I’ve sat with the Inter-Departmental Fintech Working Group in South Africa, and while the framework is still developing, the commitment to doing it right is encouraging.

Glamour: How is crypto influencing the luxury sector?

Brenton: Luxury brands are incorporating NFTs for product authenticity, using blockchain for supply tracking, and even accepting crypto payments. This merging of technology and exclusivity enhances customer confidence and elevates the ownership experience.

Glamour: Could tokenisation redefine how affluent investors see ownership?

Brenton: Absolutely. Tokenisation allows investors to own fractions of premium assets such as art, real estate, or fine wine without needing massive upfront capital. It democratises access and enables global liquidity, reshaping modern wealth-building.

Glamour: How will the global crypto landscape evolve over the next five years?

Brenton: Expect deeper institutional adoption, stronger regulation, more stable markets, and mainstream real-world use cases. Crypto will shift from a niche, speculative asset to an integrated part of traditional finance.

Glamour: What advice would you give first-time investors entering crypto?

Brenton: Start small. Do your research. Be cautious of scammers. Stick to reputable assets and avoid making emotional decisions. Think long-term, and always invest with a clear strategy and solid risk management. Crypto should be a learning journey not a quick win.