HODL is a cryptocurrency slang term that means "hold on for dear life" or simply holding onto your cryptocurrency investment rather than selling, regardless of price volatility. The term originated from a misspelled forum post in 2013 where a Bitcoin investor declared he was "HODLING" during a price crash.

HODL has become a philosophy among long-term cryptocurrency investors who believe in the technology's future value despite short-term price fluctuations. It's the opposite of day trading or panic selling during market downturns.

Key Characteristics of HODL

  • Origin: Misspelling of "hold" that became a crypto meme and strategy
  • Long-Term Focus: Ignoring short-term volatility for long-term gains
  • Emotional Discipline: Resisting urge to sell during crashes or FOMO buy at peaks
  • Tax Efficiency: Avoiding short-term capital gains taxes by holding > 1 year
  • Community Badge: Symbol of dedication to crypto's long-term vision

Real-World Example

An investor who bought Bitcoin at $10,000 in 2017, held through the 2018 crash to $3,000, and continued HODLing to 2021's peak of $69,000 would have achieved a 6.9x return—if they truly HODLed.

Understanding HODL is easier when you're familiar with these related concepts:

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