Monaco Crypto Currency: Complete How-To Guide

Adrew Davidson
February 6, 2026
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monaco crypto currency

Over 80 million people worldwide now use cryptocurrency payment cards, yet most folks still don’t know that one of the earliest players—Monaco—basically disappeared overnight. I stumbled onto this digital payment platform back in 2018. It promised something wild: spending Bitcoin at Starbucks with a regular Visa card.

Here’s the thing about Monaco crypto currency—it doesn’t really exist anymore under that name. The company pulled off a complete rebrand in 2020. It transformed the MCO token into what’s now called CRO (Crypto.com Coin).

If you’re searching for Monaco today, you’re actually looking at Crypto.com’s ecosystem. This shift confused the heck out of early adopters. I watched my MCO holdings convert automatically, and the whole token economics changed overnight.

Throughout this cryptocurrency guide, I’ll walk you through what Monaco was and how it evolved. Most importantly, I’ll show you how to actually use the platform today. We’ll cover buying, storing, and spending strategies based on real experience, not just theory.

Key Takeaways

  • Monaco rebranded to Crypto.com in 2020, converting MCO tokens to CRO tokens
  • The platform bridges traditional finance with blockchain through Visa-backed payment cards
  • Original MCO token holders experienced automatic conversion to the new CRO system
  • Understanding the rebrand history helps navigate current platform features effectively
  • The ecosystem combines token economics with practical spending solutions for everyday purchases
  • This guide provides experience-based insights rather than promotional marketing content

What is Monaco Crypto Currency?

I first heard about Monaco cryptocurrency in 2017. The concept stood out from typical ICO pitches. Most projects promised vague “decentralized ecosystems,” but Monaco offered something tangible—a crypto Visa card for grocery stores and gas stations.

The Monaco digital currency, known by its ticker MCO, launched in mid-2016. It had a clear mission: make cryptocurrency practical for everyday transactions. This wasn’t just about speculation.

The platform aimed to become a complete blockchain payment system. It would bridge the gap between crypto holders and real-world commerce. That vision resonated with people tired of explaining Bitcoin to merchants.

Here’s what made it interesting: Monaco wasn’t trying to replace existing payment infrastructure. Instead, it worked within the traditional financial system. It partnered with Visa to issue prepaid cards backed by cryptocurrency holdings.

The Monaco Platform’s Journey and Evolution

The Monaco platform started as Monaco Technologies GmbH in Switzerland. Kris Marszalek and a small team of fintech entrepreneurs founded it. Their 2017 ICO raised approximately $26.7 million.

The whitepaper promised metal cards, airport lounge access, and perfect interbank exchange rates. These features actually materialized, unlike many ICO promises.

The core offering revolved around the MCO token. This was an ERC-20 token built on the Ethereum blockchain. Users could purchase MCO, stake it for six months, and unlock various card tiers.

This staking mechanism gave the Monaco digital currency genuine utility. It went beyond mere speculation.

In July 2018, the company rebranded from Monaco to Crypto.com. They acquired the premium domain name for reportedly $12 million. This wasn’t just cosmetic—it signaled broader ambitions beyond the card program.

The platform expanded into exchange services, lending, and a dedicated blockchain.

Then came the controversial shift. In August 2020, Crypto.com announced the swap from Crypto.com MCO to CRO. The ratio was 1:27.6. Existing MCO holders had to migrate to CRO to continue accessing platform benefits.

This transition essentially retired the Monaco brand entirely. The foundational concept—crypto-backed payment cards—remained central to the Crypto.com ecosystem.

The evolution matters because anyone searching for Monaco cryptocurrency today needs clarity. They’re actually dealing with Crypto.com and CRO tokens. The original MCO token no longer trades or provides platform utility.

Core Features That Defined Monaco Currency

Monaco was different from other 2016-2017 era tokens. Its practical utility model stood out. The token economics centered around a tiered card system.

Staking MCO unlocked progressively better benefits. This created actual demand for holding the token. People weren’t just immediately flipping it for profit.

The crypto Visa card program offered five distinct tiers. Each required different MCO staking amounts for six-month lock-up periods. Higher tiers provided better cashback rates, ranging from 1% to 8% on all purchases.

This was significantly better than most traditional credit cards at the time.

Beyond cashback, the platform included several standout features. Netflix and Spotify reimbursements came with mid-to-high tier cards. The platform essentially paid for your streaming subscriptions.

Airport lounge access through LoungeKey gave cardholders free entry. Over 1,000 lounges worldwide were available. No foreign transaction fees made international spending genuinely cost-effective.

The blockchain payment system architecture allowed users to hold multiple cryptocurrencies. You could store Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, and others in a single wallet. You could instantly convert them to fiat for card spending at interbank exchange rates.

Here’s a breakdown of how the original Monaco card tiers worked:

Card Tier MCO Staking Required Cashback Rate Premium Benefits
Midnight Blue 0 MCO 1% Basic card, no staking needed
Ruby Steel 50 MCO 2% Spotify reimbursement
Royal Indigo / Jade Green 500 MCO 3% Spotify + Netflix + lounge access
Frosted Rose Gold / Icy White 5,000 MCO 5% All previous + 10% rewards on staking
Obsidian Black 50,000 MCO 8% All previous + private jet partnership + Expedia discount

The token mechanics created interesting economic dynamics. When MCO price increased, fewer tokens were needed to reach staking thresholds. When price dropped, existing stakers maintained their tier regardless of current valuation.

They just couldn’t unstake without losing benefits.

This staking model meant Monaco digital currency wasn’t purely speculative. It had functional demand from users who wanted card benefits. That utility-first approach was relatively uncommon in the 2017 ICO landscape.

The wallet integration deserves mention too. Monaco built a mobile app that functioned as both a crypto wallet and card management interface. Users could track spending, convert between cryptocurrencies, and top up their card balance.

All within one application. The user experience actually worked, which was notable given how clunky most crypto apps were in 2017-2018.

The Rise of Monaco in the Crypto Market

Watching Monaco navigate the crypto market from 2017 to 2020 taught me about volatility. The Monaco trading platform launched during one of the wildest periods in cryptocurrency history. Its journey reflects both the manic euphoria and crushing reality checks that defined early crypto adoption.

I remember when the MCO token first appeared on exchanges. Everyone wanted a piece of the action back then.

The platform delivered actual products while many competitors evaporated into thin air. That distinction matters when evaluating crypto market performance over multiple years.

Price Movements Through Market Cycles

The token value history of MCO reads like a rollercoaster blueprint. Monaco held its ICO in June 2017. The initial price hovered between $4 and $6 per token.

Then came the late 2017 crypto mania. The MCO token exploded to over $25 in December 2017. It reached an all-time high around $27.

The 2018 bear market hit Monaco hard like everything else. Prices crashed to lows near $1.50 by late 2018. That’s when you found out who actually believed in the project.

The 2019-2020 period brought gradual recovery. The Monaco trading platform gained real users who wanted the crypto debit cards. Price stabilized in the $2-4 range through most of 2019, then climbed to $5-8 by early 2020.

Here’s what the numbers actually looked like across key periods:

Time Period Price Range Market Condition Key Events
June 2017 $4.00 – $6.00 ICO Launch Initial token distribution
December 2017 $25.00 – $27.00 Bull Market Peak All-time high reached
Late 2018 $1.50 – $2.50 Bear Market Bottom Market-wide crash
2019 $2.00 – $4.00 Consolidation Phase User base growth
Early 2020 $5.00 – $8.00 Recovery Period Card adoption increasing

These price swings taught me that token value history depends on overall market sentiment. Monaco delivered working products, yet the price still followed Bitcoin’s emotional trajectory.

Where Monaco Stands Today

Here’s the twist that caught many investors off guard. The MCO token doesn’t exist anymore as a tradeable asset. In August 2020, Monaco announced a swap to their CRO token.

The conversion ratio was 1 MCO equals 27.6 CRO. That conversion stirred up significant controversy in the community. Some users felt blindsided by the sudden change.

The swap fundamentally changed how we discuss current crypto market performance for this project. You can’t track MCO prices anymore because they’ve been absorbed into CRO’s ecosystem. Any discussion of current market position needs to focus on CRO instead.

CRO started trading around $0.06 immediately after the swap. It experienced its own volatility cycle, reaching highs above $0.90 during the 2021 bull run. Then it settled back into typical crypto market patterns following broader industry trends.

The underlying business model shows more staying power than most 2017 ICO projects. Crypto.com sponsors major events like UFC fights and Formula 1 racing. They’ve issued millions of actual crypto debit cards that people use for everyday purchases.

That real-world adoption matters more than short-term price action. I’ve watched countless crypto projects promise revolutionary change while delivering nothing. Monaco actually shipped products that work, even if the token economics evolved unexpectedly.

The evidence suggests the platform survived where others failed. Most 2017 ICOs turned into vaporware or exit scams. Monaco transformed into Crypto.com and built legitimate infrastructure.

Current market metrics show trading volume and user engagement continue growing. The platform reports over 10 million users globally. What’s clear is that the business didn’t collapse during crypto winters.

Price predictions remain speculative like all cryptocurrency forecasts. The platform’s aggressive marketing spend suggests management believes in long-term viability. Whether token holders benefit proportionally from that growth depends on factors nobody can predict.

How to Buy Monaco Crypto Currency

Purchasing what used to be Monaco crypto currency means navigating the Crypto.com ecosystem now. You can’t buy MCO tokens anymore—they were completely swapped to CRO back in 2020. If you’re searching for how to buy MCO, you want the same benefits Monaco originally offered.

I’ve tested different methods to find what actually works best. This cryptocurrency purchase guide covers the direct approach through Crypto.com and alternative exchange routes.

Monaco rebranded its entire operation, but the core value proposition remained intact.

Step-by-Step Purchase Guide

Getting started with the Monaco crypto exchange successor is straightforward. I’ll walk through each step based on my personal experience. This includes the parts that tripped me up initially.

Step 1: Download the Crypto.com App

Head to the App Store or Google Play and search for “Crypto.com.” The app icon is dark blue with a white lion symbol. Don’t confuse it with other crypto apps—there are plenty of imitators.

Step 2: Complete KYC Verification

You’ll need a government-issued ID—driver’s license or passport works. The process took me about 15 minutes. I’ve heard it can take longer during peak times.

Have your documents ready and find good lighting for selfie verification. Blurry photos will get rejected. I learned that the hard way on my first attempt.

Step 3: Deposit Funds

You’ve got two main options here. Each has trade-offs I’ve tested personally:

  • Bank Transfer (ACH): Usually free, but takes 3-5 business days. I use this for planned purchases when timing isn’t urgent.
  • Debit Card: Instant access, but you’ll pay a 2.99% fee. That fee stings on larger amounts, though sometimes the convenience is worth it.
  • Wire Transfer: Available for larger deposits over $1,000, typically processes within 24 hours with variable fees depending on your bank.

Navigate to the “Buy” section in the app. The interface can feel cluttered—they’ve added a lot of features over the years. Search for CRO if you want the token that replaced Monaco crypto currency.

Enter your purchase amount and review the exchange rate carefully. The spread can be wider than dedicated exchanges, especially for smaller amounts.

One tip I wish I’d known earlier: check the price on CoinGecko first. This gives you a baseline to understand what premium you’re paying.

Exchange Options for Buying Monaco

The Crypto.com app isn’t your only path forward. Since CRO trades on major platforms now, you have legitimate alternatives. I’ve used most of these Monaco crypto exchange alternatives.

The choice depends on your experience level, location, and how much you’re buying.

Major Exchange Platforms:

Coinbase offers CRO trading with a user-friendly interface that’s hard to beat. The fees run higher than some competitors. The simplicity and insurance protection provide peace of mind.

I’ve found their customer service actually responds. That isn’t universal in this space.

Binance.US typically offers better pricing on larger purchases. The interface assumes more crypto knowledge. Transferring tokens afterward adds an extra step if you want card benefits.

Kraken strikes a middle ground between ease and cost-effectiveness. Their fee structure rewards higher volume traders. I appreciate their transparent pricing.

Exchange Platform Best For Fee Structure Processing Time
Crypto.com App Beginners, Card Benefits Built into spread (1.5-3%) Instant
Coinbase New Users, Security Priority 0.5% + spread Instant to 5 days
Kraken Intermediate Traders 0.16-0.26% maker/taker 1-3 days ACH
Binance.US Volume Traders 0.1-0.5% tiered Varies by method

My Personal Strategy:

For amounts under $500, I stick with the Crypto.com app. The convenience factor wins, and the difference might only be $5-10. For larger purchases over $1,000, I’ll use Kraken to save on fees.

The “buy on exchange then transfer” method makes sense if you’re cost-conscious. Just factor in network fees for moving tokens. Sometimes those eat up your savings on smaller amounts.

State Restrictions and Availability:

This matters more than people realize. Crypto.com operates in most U.S. states, but not all of them. Check their website’s state availability list before going through verification.

Binance.US has even more restrictions. States like New York, Texas, and Hawaii have faced access issues. Your location determines your options, unfortunately.

I’ve talked to friends in restricted states who use VPNs—don’t do this. The risk of account freezing and fund lockup isn’t worth it. If your state blocks access, stick with available alternatives like Coinbase.

The cryptocurrency purchase guide landscape keeps shifting. What worked last year might not be the best path today. I recommend checking current fee schedules before each significant purchase.

Security Features of Monaco Crypto Currency

Understanding Monaco blockchain wallet security took me longer than I’d like to admit. You’re dealing with actual money that exists only as code. The security aspect deserves serious attention.

I’ve spent months testing different configurations and learning from the crypto community’s hard-earned lessons. The security architecture around Monaco isn’t just a checkbox feature. It’s layered protection that balances convenience with genuine wallet protection.

After experiencing a close call with a phishing attempt myself, I became obsessive about this topic.

Wallet Options and Best Practices

Here’s something that surprises people: Crypto.com operates as a custodial wallet. They hold your private keys, not you. In crypto circles where “not your keys, not your crypto” is practically scripture, this seems controversial.

But there’s practical reasoning here. For the Monaco Visa card to work, the platform needs custody. The card converts crypto to dollars instantly at checkout.

You can’t have a hardware wallet confirm transactions while you’re buying coffee.

The platform compensates with multiple security layers I’ve learned to appreciate. Two-factor authentication is mandatory. They push you toward authenticator apps like Google Authenticator or Authy rather than SMS codes.

SMS can be intercepted through SIM swapping attacks. This happened to a friend who lost access to his Coinbase account.

The withdrawal whitelist feature adds friction, but the good kind. You specify exact wallet addresses that can receive funds from your account. I enabled this after reading about account compromises.

Yes, it’s annoying when I want to send crypto somewhere new. But that annoyance is the point. It forces me to slow down and verify.

Another useful tool: anti-phishing codes. You create a custom word that appears in all genuine Crypto.com emails. Scammers send convincing fake emails, but they can’t replicate your unique code.

Mine is an obscure reference only I would recognize.

For serious crypto security, I recommend these practices from experience:

  • Enable device whitelisting so only approved devices can access your account
  • Use a hardware security key like YubiKey for account login if you’re holding significant value
  • Store 2FA codes separately from passwords—never in the same password manager or notes app
  • Create unique complex passwords using a dedicated password manager (I trust Bitwarden after LastPass had security issues)
  • Enable transaction notifications for your Monaco Visa card so unauthorized charges alert you immediately

The card itself operates as a prepaid Visa. You top it up from your crypto wallet within the app. This means your entire holdings aren’t at risk if the card gets compromised.

Only the loaded amount is vulnerable. This design choice shows thoughtful wallet protection architecture.

I keep most of my holdings in the main wallet. I transfer smaller amounts to the card as needed. It’s like carrying cash instead of your entire bank account in your pocket.

How Monaco Ensures User Security

On the corporate side, Crypto.com makes specific security claims worth examining. They state that 100% of user crypto reserves sit in cold storage. This means offline, disconnected from the internet.

Hot wallets are online and accessible, making them tempting targets for hackers. Cold storage is like keeping your valuables in a safe deposit box instead of on your kitchen counter.

They maintain insurance policies covering digital assets. However, the exact coverage details aren’t fully transparent. The platform holds certifications including ISO/IEC 27001:2013 for information security management and PCI:DSS 3.2.1 for payment card security.

These aren’t just decorative. They require regular audits and compliance verification.

The track record matters here. Crypto.com has never experienced a major hack resulting in permanent user fund loss. That’s notable in an industry where exchanges get breached with alarming regularity.

Mt. Gox, Bitfinex, Coincheck—the list of hacked exchanges is long and expensive.

However, transparency requires mentioning the January 2022 incident. Some accounts were compromised through a two-factor authentication bypass. The company detected it quickly, suspended withdrawals, and reimbursed all affected users.

This shows both vulnerability and responsible incident response.

The crypto security landscape demands acknowledging that no system is perfect. What matters is how companies respond when problems occur. The full reimbursement demonstrated financial backing and commitment to users.

Here’s a comparison of security features across different aspects of the Monaco platform:

Security Feature Implementation Level User Control Protection Type
Two-Factor Authentication Mandatory User manages codes Account access
Withdrawal Whitelist Optional but recommended User sets addresses Fund movement
Cold Storage Reserves Automatic (100% claimed) Platform managed Asset custody
Device Whitelisting Optional User approves devices Account access
Card Transaction Limits User configurable Full user control Spending protection

For users wanting additional control, consider a hybrid approach. Keep a portion of your holdings in the Crypto.com wallet for card functionality and staking rewards. Move larger long-term holdings to a hardware wallet like Ledger or Trezor that you control completely.

This hedge strategy makes sense for portfolios above $10,000. The hardware wallet provides true self-custody. Your private keys live on a physical device you possess.

Even if Crypto.com faced catastrophic failure, your hardware wallet holdings remain accessible.

I split my holdings roughly 30% in Crypto.com for active use and 70% in cold storage. This balances convenience with security paranoia. Your ratio might differ based on how actively you use the Monaco Visa card and other platform features.

The final piece of crypto security is personal discipline. Enable every security feature available, not just the mandatory ones. Use unique passwords.

Verify wallet addresses before sending funds. Be skeptical of unsolicited communications. These boring practices prevent the exciting disasters that make crypto security news.

Tools for Tracking Monaco Crypto Value

I’ve tested at least a dozen crypto portfolio tracker apps over five years. Most either overcomplicate things or miss essential features. You need reliable ways to monitor value without spending hours refreshing browser tabs.

The right tracking setup gives you peace of mind. It helps you make informed decisions about holding, staking, or adjusting positions.

Finding tools that actually work matters more than collecting every app available. I learned this after cluttering my phone with seven different trackers. They all showed slightly different prices due to exchange variations and API delays.

You really need one solid price checker and one portfolio tracker. Maybe add one advanced charting tool if you’re into technical analysis. Everything else becomes noise.

Apps That Actually Deliver Real-Time Data

For quick price checks on the Monaco trading platform ecosystem, CoinGecko has become my daily driver. It’s completely free and requires no account creation. It covers virtually every token including historical MCO data and current CRO prices.

The interface stays clean without overwhelming you with ads or premium upgrade prompts. Their 24-hour change percentage and seven-day mini graphs are visible on one screen. They even include social sentiment indicators that aggregate Twitter and Reddit activity around specific coins.

CoinMarketCap serves as the other major player in this space. It’s functionally similar to CoinGecko with a slightly different interface design. Personal preference determines which layout you’ll prefer.

I keep both installed and cross-reference unusual price movements to confirm data accuracy.

For actual crypto portfolio tracker functionality, Delta stands out as remarkably intuitive. You manually add transactions like bought 1000 CRO at $0.15 on March 15, 2023. It calculates your current value, gains, losses, and percentage changes.

The free version handles most needs unless you’re trading dozens of different altcoins simultaneously.

I used Blockfolio for years until FTX acquired it. FTX’s collapse created uncomfortable associations. The app technically still functions, but I migrated away on principle.

The Crypto.com app itself includes built-in price charts and portfolio tracking. This works fine if you keep all holdings on their Monaco trading platform. I prefer third-party verification since exchange apps have incentives to present data encouraging more trading.

For serious chart analysis, TradingView provides professional-grade price analysis tools with hundreds of technical indicators. Honestly, it’s overkill for most CRO holders who aren’t day trading. But if you want custom alerts for specific price thresholds, TradingView handles that beautifully.

Tracking Tool Primary Function Best Feature Cost Complexity Level
CoinGecko Price checking Comprehensive token coverage with social metrics Free Beginner-friendly
CoinMarketCap Price checking Industry standard with historical data Free Beginner-friendly
Delta Portfolio tracking Clean transaction logging with profit/loss calculation Free (Premium $7/month) Intermediate
TradingView Technical analysis Professional charting with custom indicators Free (Pro from $15/month) Advanced
Crypto.com App Integrated platform tracking Direct connection to holdings and staking rewards Free Beginner-friendly

Understanding What the Numbers Actually Mean

Price analysis tools show you mountains of data. Knowing which metrics actually matter separates productive monitoring from obsessive screen-watching. I’ll focus on indicators I genuinely check rather than listing every technical analysis concept.

Volume tells the truth about price movements. CRO jumping 10% on low trading volume barely gets my attention. That’s just thin orderbook volatility.

Moving 10% on volume three times the daily average means something real is happening. Institutional money moving in or major holders exiting both show up in volume spikes.

The 50-day and 200-day moving averages provide context for medium-term trends. They don’t require constant attention. Is CRO trading above or below these lines?

Above both suggests bullish momentum. Below both indicates bearish territory. The 50-day crossing above the 200-day creates a golden cross that excites traders.

I track these monthly, not daily. Daily fluctuations create noise that leads to bad decisions.

Market cap relative to competitors matters for realistic price expectations. CRO typically sits between rank 15-30 by market cap. It competes directly with other exchange tokens like BNB from Binance.

BNB has 5x the market cap of CRO. This immediately tells you CRO has more room to grow if Crypto.com can capture market share.

Every crypto discussion eventually returns to Bitcoin. CRO, like most altcoins, demonstrates strong correlation with BTC’s major price movements. It shows amplified volatility though.

Bitcoin drops 5%, CRO often drops 8-12%. Bitcoin pumps, CRO can pump harder percentage-wise.

I monitor Bitcoin dominance—the percentage of total crypto market cap that Bitcoin represents. BTC dominance rising above 50% means money flows out of altcoins into Bitcoin. Dominance falling toward 40% begins altcoin seasons where Monaco crypto currency tends to perform better.

Here are specific metrics I check weekly for CRO health:

  • Amount of CRO locked in staking – Higher staking numbers suggest users are committed long-term rather than preparing to sell
  • Card tier distribution – Growth in higher card tiers (Icy White, Rose Gold) indicates wealthier users joining the platform
  • Trading volume on Crypto.com Exchange – Direct indicator of platform growth and utility demand for CRO
  • Partnership announcements – Major sponsorships or integrations often precede short-term price increases
  • User growth statistics – Crypto.com claimed 10+ million users by 2021, though not all hold CRO or use cards

For news aggregation beyond price analysis tools, CryptoPanic consolidates articles and social mentions from multiple sources. You can filter specifically for CRO-related news and set mobile alerts for breaking developments. This beats manually checking ten different crypto news sites daily.

I also follow the official @cryptocom Twitter account for platform updates. I browse r/Crypto_com on Reddit weekly. The subreddit skews promotional, but real user experiences surface there.

Both positive stories and legitimate complaints about customer service or card issues appear regularly.

The combination of quantitative tracking through apps and qualitative monitoring through news aggregation gives you a complete picture. Numbers tell you what is happening with Monaco trading platform performance. News and community sentiment help explain why those movements occur.

Set up your tracking system once properly. You’ll spend maybe 10-15 minutes daily staying informed instead of hours refreshing charts compulsively.

Statistics on Monaco Crypto Usage

Statistics paint a fascinating picture of Monaco’s growth from startup to global crypto platform. The numbers behind this evolution tell an impressive yet complicated story. Since the company went private and rebranded, getting precise crypto adoption statistics requires piecing together public statements and market data.

These user metrics reflect broader trends in cryptocurrency adoption quite well. Monaco didn’t just ride the crypto wave—it actively shaped how people use digital assets daily. The growth numbers show this transformation happening in real-time.

User Growth Over the Years

The Monaco journey started in 2016 with an ICO that raised approximately $26.7 million. That was substantial back then, though modest by 2021 standards. The MCO token launched with a total supply capped at 31.6 million tokens.

By early 2018, the platform claimed around 100,000 app users. However, actual card holders numbered far fewer since production delays meant most people were still waiting. Getting a card in late 2018 genuinely felt like joining an exclusive club.

The MCO rewards program showed interesting distribution patterns across staking tiers. Users could stake different token amounts to unlock card benefits:

  • Ruby Steel: Required $400 stake, attracted thousands of entry-level users
  • Jade Green/Royal Indigo: Required $4,000 stake, represented the sweet spot for serious users
  • Icy White/Rose Gold: Required $40,000 stake, genuinely rare to encounter
  • Obsidian: Required $400,000 stake, practically mythical in the community

Forum discussions and staking statistics suggested mid-tier cards dominated the user base. The Ruby and Jade/Indigo levels made financial sense for most people. Higher tiers remained aspirational for all but the wealthiest crypto holders.

By 2019, Monaco reported crossing 1 million users globally. Growth came primarily from Asia-Pacific and Europe rather than the United States. This million-user milestone marked a turning point—the platform became an operational business with real scale.

The real explosion happened in 2020-2021. After rebranding to Crypto.com and launching massive marketing campaigns, the platform reported 10 million users by February 2021. By November 2021, at the bull market peak, they claimed over 50 million users worldwide.

That 50 million figure includes anyone who downloaded the app. Evidence from community discussions suggests actual card holders represent maybe 10-20% of total users. That’s still impressive—5 to 10 million card users—but it’s important to distinguish between downloads and active participation.

Market Cap and Trading Volume

The financial metrics tell their own compelling story. The MCO token reached its peak market cap in December 2017 at approximately $400-500 million. At that point, price topped near $27 with roughly 15.7 million tokens circulating.

The subsequent bear market hit hard. During 2018-2019, market cap dropped to around $30-60 million when price languished between $2-3. This 85-90% decline was brutal but not unusual for crypto during that period.

By the time of the controversial CRO swap in August 2020, MCO market cap stood at roughly $75-100 million. The swap itself created significant controversy—many users felt blindsided by the transition despite company explanations.

Period Market Cap Price Range Daily Trading Volume
December 2017 (Peak) $400-500M $25-27 $15-25M
2018-2019 (Bear Market) $30-60M $2-3 $1-3M
August 2020 (Pre-Swap) $75-100M $4-5 $3-5M
November 2021 (Bull Peak) $24B+ (CRO) $0.90-0.96 (CRO) $500M+

Post-swap, CRO’s market cap grew dramatically. From about $1.5 billion in late 2020, it peaked over $24 billion in November 2021 when CRO price hit $0.96. The subsequent bear market contracted those numbers significantly, but the scale of growth remained undeniable.

Trading volume statistics show even more dramatic swings. The MCO token typically traded $1-5 million in daily volume on exchanges before the swap. CRO volume varies wildly: during bull market peaks, daily volume exceeded $500 million.

The Crypto.com exchange itself reports varying daily volume and has claimed top-10 exchange status at various points. However, these rankings shift constantly, and volume can be inflated through wash trading. This common industry practice makes verification challenging.

The platform evolved from a small ICO project into a major crypto company with legitimate global operations. Thousands of 2017-era projects promised similar transformations but delivered nothing. Monaco actually built something real, even if the exact numbers require some skepticism.

Future Predictions for Monaco Crypto Currency

Nobody can tell you with certainty where Monaco crypto currency is headed. However, we can examine the forces shaping its path. I’ve watched countless cryptocurrency predictions fall flat over the years.

I approach any forecast with healthy skepticism. What we can do is look at observable patterns. We can study factors that influence how Crypto.com MCO evolved into CRO.

The truth about crypto forecasting is complex. It’s part analysis, part guesswork, and part market psychology. Anyone promising exact price targets is either selling something or doesn’t understand volatility.

What Analysts Actually Say About Growth Potential

Expert opinions on Crypto.com MCO span from cautiously optimistic to wildly bullish. I’ve sifted through analysis from credible sources like Messari and CoinBureau. Independent blockchain analysts help separate signal from noise.

Measured analysts suggest CRO could revisit its previous all-time high. That’s around $0.90 to $1.00 during the next bull cycle. This prediction assumes Bitcoin approaches or exceeds its previous peaks.

Historically, Bitcoin peaks trigger altcoin rallies. The math here is important. At $1.00, CRO’s market cap would be approximately $25 billion with current circulating supply.

Some YouTube personalities throw out targets like $5 or $10. That would require market caps exceeding $125-250 billion. This would put CRO ahead of nearly every cryptocurrency except Bitcoin and Ethereum.

Is it possible during peak euphoria? Maybe. Sustainable? Highly unlikely based on historical market cap distributions.

What differentiates Crypto.com MCO from pure speculation tokens is actual utility. The platform generates real revenue through trading fees. Card interchange fees and subscription services add to revenue.

That gives CRO fundamentals that many altcoins lack entirely. However, token price and business success don’t always correlate in crypto. I’ve seen profitable companies with tokens that underperform.

I’ve also seen failing projects with tokens that moonshot temporarily. The relationship between MCO staking benefits and long-term value changed significantly. The token swap in 2020 altered everything.

Five Forces That Will Shape Monaco’s Future

The market outlook for any cryptocurrency depends on multiple interconnected factors. From my analysis, five elements will influence whether CRO thrives or struggles. These forces will shape the coming years.

Adoption rate stands as the primary driver. If Crypto.com continues expanding its card user base, CRO benefits. The exchange gaining market share increases utility demand.

The 2021 marketing blitz brought massive visibility through stadium naming rights. Celebrity endorsements added exposure, but at enormous cost. Whether that growth model is sustainable remains questionable, especially after 2022’s crypto winter.

I track the quarterly reports closely. What I’ve noticed is that user acquisition slowed significantly. This happened when marketing spend decreased.

That’s a red flag for organic growth potential.

Regulatory developments will prove crucial. Crypto.com operates in regulatory grey areas across multiple jurisdictions. Clearer regulations could legitimize the platform further. They could also impose restrictions that limit growth.

The U.S. regulatory approach particularly matters. It represents a major market for adoption.

Recent SEC actions against other exchanges show regulatory risk isn’t theoretical. One enforcement action could change the entire cryptocurrency predictions landscape. Platforms like Crypto.com face real regulatory challenges.

Competition from rival crypto cards is intensifying. Coinbase Card and Gemini Credit Card compete directly. Traditional banks entering crypto space pressure the value proposition. This made MCO staking benefits attractive initially.

Crypto.com already reduced staking rewards and cashback rates in 2022. This caused significant user backlash.

Growth Factor Positive Scenario Impact Negative Scenario Impact Probability Assessment
User Adoption Growth 10-15% annual increase drives utility demand and token value appreciation Stagnant growth reduces demand; token becomes speculative only Moderate – depends on marketing investment and market conditions
Regulatory Clarity Clear frameworks legitimize platform, attract institutional users Restrictive regulations limit operations in key markets like U.S. High uncertainty – regulatory landscape evolving rapidly in 2024-2025
Platform Security Record Maintains user trust; gradual TVL and user base expansion Major security breach or hack devastates reputation and token price Historically strong – no major incidents to date
Market Cycle Position Bull market brings 10-15x gains from cycle lows based on 2020-2021 data Extended bear market suppresses price regardless of fundamentals Highly cyclical – follows Bitcoin halving pattern with 4-year cycles

Platform security and trust remain foundational. So far Crypto.com has maintained user confidence despite minor incidents. But one major hack could devastate token price regardless of business fundamentals.

This isn’t hypothetical. We saw it happen to FTX and multiple other platforms.

Market cycles drive the biggest price movements. CRO will likely follow Bitcoin’s four-year halving cycle like most altcoins. That suggests potential growth in 2024-2025 if historical patterns hold. Another bear market correction would follow.

During the 2020-2021 bull run, CRO increased roughly 10-15x from lows to peak. This is actually modest compared to some altcoins. Some altcoins did 50-100x during that period.

This more conservative performance suggests more stable interest. It also suggests less speculative fever around the token. I interpret it as both.

Institutional holders and practical users create a floor. Lack of viral hype limits explosive upside.

My personal take, which I present as opinion not financial advice: CRO has better survival odds. It has better odds than most crypto projects because there’s an actual business generating revenue. But token price appreciation isn’t guaranteed even if Crypto.com succeeds as a company.

These outcomes don’t always align in cryptocurrency markets.

For Monaco specifically, it’s history now. A case study in crypto rebranding and token evolution. The original MCO staking benefits structure was deflationary with locked tokens.

But CRO uses a different model with varying requirements and changing rates. This shift fundamentally altered the long-term value proposition.

The market outlook ultimately depends on whether Crypto.com can maintain competitive advantages. The field is increasingly crowded. Based on evidence from previous cycles and current platform metrics, cautious optimism seems warranted.

Another bull cycle run appears possible. But expectations should remain grounded in market cap reality rather than hopium-fueled price targets.

Frequently Asked Questions about Monaco Currency

People still ask me about MCO token even though it hasn’t existed since 2020. Questions keep coming because outdated information persists online. Newcomers to crypto stumble across old Monaco references without understanding what happened.

I’ve answered these questions for friends, family, and forum discussions countless times. This cryptocurrency FAQ covers the real concerns people actually have.

Some questions are straightforward. Others reveal confusion about how crypto platforms operate. I’m giving you honest answers based on experience, not sanitized corporate responses.

Common Concerns Addressed

Can I still buy MCO? No, you cannot. MCO was swapped to CRO in August 2020. It no longer trades on any legitimate exchange.

If you see MCO listed somewhere, it’s likely a scam. It could also be an error or dead liquidity pool. Real trading activity doesn’t exist anymore.

The swap happened over a specific window. After that window closed, MCO became worthless as a tradable asset.

What happened to my MCO tokens? If you held them during the swap period, they were automatically converted. The ratio was 1 MCO to 27.6 CRO. Most exchanges handled this conversion automatically for users.

If you still have unclaimed MCO tokens in a wallet, they have no value. They have no utility or market value now.

I know someone who missed the swap because they forgot about tokens. Those tokens are effectively dead weight now—a $3,000 lesson in paying attention.

Is Monaco the same as Crypto.com? Yes, Monaco rebranded completely to Crypto.com. The Monaco brand no longer exists except in historical contexts. People discussing Monaco crypto currency today are really talking about Crypto.com’s early history.

Are the cards worth it? This depends on your spending patterns and current staking requirements. My Ruby card required roughly $400 stake for 2% cashback plus Spotify reimbursement. The math worked because I was holding crypto anyway.

Higher tiers require $4,000 to $40,000 stakes. These are harder to justify unless you’re already wealthy in crypto. They also require extremely high monthly spending.

The economics changed dramatically after they reduced rewards in 2022. Do the current math before committing serious money.

Is my money safe? As safe as any centralized crypto platform. This means less safe than a bank. There’s no FDIC insurance here.

Crypto.com is one of the more established operations with decent security. They’ve had minor incidents and catastrophic loss risk exists. Don’t stake more than you can afford to lose completely.

Not your keys, not your coins.

— Common crypto saying

Can I use the card in the US? Yes, Crypto.com cards work in most US states. They’re issued through Metropolitan Commercial Bank. They function as standard Visa prepaid cards.

Some states have restrictions on certain platform features. Basic card functionality works nationwide.

What happens if Crypto.com goes bankrupt? You’d likely lose access to funds, at least temporarily. Possibly permanently. This risk became very real after FTX collapsed in 2022.

Crypto.com published “Proof of Reserves” attestations claiming full reserves. These aren’t complete audits. Past claims don’t guarantee future solvency.

Understanding Tokenomics

Token economics explained gets technical quickly. I’ll keep this practical and focused on what actually matters. The tokenomics of MCO versus CRO reveal why the swap happened.

MCO tokenomics were relatively simple. Total supply capped at 31.6 million tokens. This was unusually low for crypto. Most projects have billions of tokens or no cap at all.

The initial distribution split 50% to ICO sale. Another 30% went to company reserve. Founders got 10%, and advisors and bounties received 10%.

The utility came entirely from staking requirements for card tiers. This created buying pressure and locked up supply. There was no staking yield initially, just card benefits.

The deflationary aspect worked because tokens locked for six months couldn’t be sold. This reduced circulating supply. Theoretically, it supported price.

CRO tokenomics are more complex. Total supply of 30 billion tokens. This is nearly 1,000 times higher than MCO.

CRO serves multiple purposes: card staking similar to MCO. Exchange trading fee discounts of 20-40% based on holdings. Staking for interest on crypto deposits with variable APY.

It also pays transaction fees on the Crypto.com blockchain they launched.

The economics shifted from purely deflationary with MCO to a mixed model. New CRO gets issued for rewards, which is inflationary. Token burns and lock-ups provide deflationary pressure.

It’s more complicated and gives the company more flexibility.

Feature MCO Token CRO Token
Total Supply 31.6 million 30 billion
Primary Utility Card tier staking only Cards, fees, blockchain, staking rewards
Economic Model Deflationary (supply lock-up) Mixed (inflation + deflation mechanisms)
Current Status Defunct since August 2020 Active across Crypto.com ecosystem

Evidence of tokenomics impact shows up in price behavior. MCO supply was constrained through staking in 2019. Price remained relatively stable even during market volatility.

CRO has shown more volatility partly due to larger supply. More complex utility factors also affect demand.

The switch from MCO to CRO was controversial because it diluted holder value. You received 27.6 CRO for each MCO. Each CRO was worth less than 1/27.6th of an MCO at swap time.

This resulted in net value loss for many holders, including me.

Why did they swap MCO to CRO? The official reason: consolidate into a single native token for their blockchain. This meant not maintaining two separate tokens with split utility.

The cynical interpretation: gave the company more control. It allowed new token distribution favoring business growth over existing holders.

There’s probably truth to both explanations. Companies optimize for their own interests. Token holders have limited recourse.

Will there be another swap? Unlikely given the controversy and community backlash. But crypto companies can do what they want.

There are no guarantees in this space. Stay informed and never invest more than you can afford to lose.

Additional Resources for Monaco Crypto Investors

Finding reliable information makes navigating the Monaco Visa card ecosystem much easier. I’ve gathered crypto resources that provide real value without unnecessary noise.

Useful Websites and Tools

The Crypto.com website serves as your starting point for account management and card orders. Their help center documentation answers basic questions effectively. However, it sometimes falls behind actual feature updates.

CoinTracker and Koinly handle portfolio tracking and tax reporting better than manual spreadsheets. These platforms integrate with Crypto.com and generate proper US tax forms. Understanding cryptocurrency tax implications helps avoid surprises during filing season.

Messari offers professional research on CRO token economics. Their free tier provides enough data for casual investors. CoinDesk delivers breaking news without promotional hype.

Community Engagement Platforms

Reddit’s r/Crypto_com hosts around 100,000 members discussing MCO rewards strategies and card troubleshooting. I’ve gotten faster answers there than through official support channels.

The official Discord server connects you with other users and occasional staff responses. Response quality varies, but it beats waiting days for email support.

Skip most Telegram groups—they’re filled with scammers pretending to offer support. Never trust unsolicited DMs claiming to help with account issues. Cross-reference information across multiple community forums before making decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions about Monaco Currency

Can I still buy MCO tokens in 2024?

No, you cannot buy MCO tokens anymore. Monaco (MCO) was completely swapped to Crypto.com Coin (CRO) in August 2020. It no longer trades on any exchanges.If you want to access the Monaco/Crypto.com ecosystem today, you need to purchase CRO tokens instead. You can buy CRO through the Crypto.com app or major exchanges like Coinbase, Binance, or Kraken. The MCO token became historical once that swap completed.

What happened to my MCO tokens if I held them during the swap?

If you held MCO tokens during the August 2020 swap window, they were automatically converted to CRO. The conversion ratio was 1 MCO = 27.6 CRO. Most exchanges handled this conversion automatically for users who held MCO on their platforms.If you had MCO in the Monaco (now Crypto.com) app, the conversion happened seamlessly in your account. If you somehow still have MCO tokens in an old wallet, they have no trading value or utility anymore.

Is Monaco the same company as Crypto.com?

Yes, Monaco is the original name of what became Crypto.com. The company launched in 2016 as Monaco with the MCO token and Monaco Visa cards. It underwent a complete rebrand to Crypto.com around 2018-2020.They dropped the Monaco name entirely from their marketing and products. The Monaco brand no longer exists except in historical context. It’s the same company, same team, same cards—just different branding and a new native token.

Are the Crypto.com cards (formerly Monaco cards) actually worth getting?

It depends heavily on your spending patterns and comfort with staking requirements. The entry-level Ruby Steel card requires staking around 0 worth of CRO for 6 months. It offers 2% cashback plus Spotify reimbursement.This can make sense if you already hold crypto and use Spotify regularly. However, the higher tiers requiring ,000+ stakes are harder to justify unless you have substantial spending. The economics changed after Crypto.com reduced rewards in 2022.Calculate how much you’d spend monthly and what cashback you’d earn. Then decide whether that justifies locking up the stake amount at current CRO prices.

Is my money safe with Crypto.com?

Crypto.com is about as safe as any centralized crypto platform. This means it carries more risk than a traditional bank (there’s no FDIC insurance on crypto holdings). They’re one of the more established operations in the space.They’ve implemented security measures like cold storage for reserves, insurance policies, and compliance certifications. They’ve had minor security incidents but no catastrophic user fund losses like many exchanges have experienced.The FTX collapse in 2022 reminded everyone that centralized platforms carry inherent risk regardless of their reputation. Crypto.com published “Proof of Reserves” attestations afterward, though these aren’t full audits. Don’t stake or deposit more than you can afford to lose entirely.

Can I use the Crypto.com Visa card in the United States?

Yes, Crypto.com cards work in most US states. They’re issued through Metropolitan Commercial Bank and function as standard Visa prepaid cards. They’re accepted anywhere Visa is accepted in the United States.I’ve used mine at grocery stores, gas stations, online shopping—never had an acceptance issue. Some states have restrictions on the broader Crypto.com platform features (staking, certain crypto purchases). But the card itself has wide availability.

What happens to my funds if Crypto.com goes bankrupt or shuts down?

If Crypto.com went bankrupt, you’d likely lose access to your funds at least temporarily. You could potentially lose them permanently depending on their actual reserve situation and bankruptcy proceedings.FTX users learned this harsh lesson in 2022. Crypto.com claims they maintain full reserves and published attestations, but these aren’t guarantees. Unlike bank accounts with FDIC insurance, crypto held on exchanges has no government protection.Experienced crypto users recommend keeping only what you need for active trading or card usage on the platform. Move the rest to self-custody wallets where you control the private keys. It’s the classic “not your keys, not your crypto” principle.

Why did Monaco swap MCO to CRO?

The official explanation was that Crypto.com wanted to consolidate into a single native token for their blockchain. They claimed it would simplify the ecosystem and align everything under the Crypto.com Chain.The more cynical interpretation is that creating a new token gave the company more control over token distribution and economics. Many MCO holders felt the 1:27.6 swap ratio resulted in net value loss. It was controversial and sparked backlash in the community.

Will Crypto.com do another token swap in the future?

It’s unlikely given the controversy the MCO to CRO swap caused—the community backlash was significant and damaged trust. However, in crypto, companies can ultimately do what they want with their tokens since most operate without true decentralization.CRO is now their native blockchain token and integrated into multiple platform features. This makes another complete swap less probable than when they had two tokens. They could change staking requirements, adjust token utility, or implement other changes that affect holder value.

How do Monaco’s original tokenomics compare to current CRO tokenomics?

MCO had simpler, more deflationary tokenomics: capped supply of 31.6 million tokens. Utility was exclusively card tier staking, and tokens locked for 6 months created supply scarcity.CRO is more complex: 30 billion total supply (much larger). It has multiple utility purposes including card staking, exchange fee discounts, DeFi staking yields, and blockchain transaction fees. CRO has both inflationary aspects (new tokens issued for rewards) and deflationary mechanisms (burns and lock-ups).The shift made CRO potentially more useful but also more volatile and complicated to value. MCO holders generally preferred the original simple model where scarcity drove value.

What’s the best way to track my CRO investment and card rewards?

I use a combination of tools for comprehensive tracking. For price monitoring, CoinGecko or CoinMarketCap work well for quick checks and setting price alerts. For portfolio tracking including purchase history and gains/losses, apps like Delta or CoinTracker integrate with Crypto.com.For card rewards specifically, I maintain a personal spreadsheet in Google Sheets tracking every cashback reward. This is essential for tax purposes since US tax law treats rewards as income. The Crypto.com app shows your transaction history, but exporting it to a spreadsheet gives you better long-term visibility.For tax reporting, dedicated crypto tax software like Koinly or CoinTracker can pull your Crypto.com transaction history via API. They generate proper tax forms.

Should I stake for a higher card tier or just use the free card?

This depends entirely on your financial situation and crypto conviction. Run the actual numbers: calculate your monthly spending and multiply by the cashback percentage for each tier. Add value of perks like Spotify/Netflix reimbursements.The Ruby card (0 stake) often makes mathematical sense if you’d hold crypto anyway and use Spotify. The Jade/Indigo level (,000 stake) only makes sense if you have significant spending or really value additional perks.Higher tiers requiring ,000+ stakes are frankly for wealthy crypto holders. Also consider that staking requirements are in CRO tokens, so you’re exposed to price volatility during the lock period. I’ve seen people stake at market peaks then watch their stake value drop 50-70% during bear markets.

How does Crypto.com make money if they’re giving cashback rewards?

Crypto.com makes money through multiple revenue streams that more than cover the rewards. Trading fees on their exchange generate substantial income—even with discounts for CRO holders. Card interchange fees (the fee merchants pay when you use your Visa card) provide revenue on every purchase.Spread on crypto purchases through the app (the difference between buy and sell prices) is often 1-3% per transaction. Interest rate spreads on their lending products and network fees from their blockchain also generate revenue.The cashback rewards are essentially customer acquisition and retention costs, similar to credit card rewards programs. They’re betting the lifetime value of each user exceeds the cost of rewards paid out.

Can I transfer my CRO to a hardware wallet like Ledger or Trezor?

Yes, CRO is an ERC-20 token on Ethereum. It’s compatible with hardware wallets that support Ethereum tokens. Ledger and Trezor both work.However, there’s a catch: if you transfer your staked CRO to a hardware wallet, you’ll lose your card benefits. The staking requirement verifies tokens are in your Crypto.com account. This creates a dilemma for security-conscious users.My approach: I keep the minimum staked amount required for my card tier on the platform. Any additional CRO holdings beyond that go to a hardware wallet. It’s a hedge strategy that balances utility with security.

Is Monaco/CRO a good long-term investment compared to Bitcoin or Ethereum?

Nobody knows for certain. CRO has more upside potential percentage-wise because it’s smaller market cap. But it also carries significantly more risk than Bitcoin or Ethereum.Bitcoin and Ethereum are the most established cryptocurrencies with the strongest network effects and institutional adoption. CRO is essentially a bet on Crypto.com’s business success. This depends on continued user growth, regulatory survival, maintaining competitive features, and avoiding catastrophic security or trust failures.Historically, exchange tokens have been hit-or-miss: Binance’s BNB has been remarkably successful, while FTX’s FTT went to zero. My personal approach: Bitcoin and Ethereum form the core of my crypto holdings (70-80%). CRO and other altcoins are smaller speculative positions (20-30%).
Author Adrew Davidson