Important: Crypto assets are high-risk, speculative and volatile. You could lose some or all of the money you invest. Please read this Risk Disclosure carefully before using any part of our Services.
1. Purpose of this disclosure
This Risk Disclosure forms part of our Terms of Service. It sets out, in plain language, the principal risks associated with buying, holding, trading or otherwise dealing in digital assets, and with using the educational content, dashboards and analytical tools offered by Investment Courses. It does not describe every possible risk. Nothing in this disclosure is intended to be a recommendation to invest.
2. Price volatility
Digital assets such as Bitcoin and Ethereum have historically experienced large and rapid price movements, including falls of more than half their value within short periods. Prices can be affected by market sentiment, news, regulatory developments, technological changes, large holders, and events outside anyone's control. Losses can occur quickly and may be permanent.
3. No capital protection
Holdings in crypto assets are generally not protected by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme or any similar deposit or investment protection arrangement. There is no guarantee that you will recover the amount you commit, and no entitlement to compensation if an asset loses value or a platform fails.
4. Regulatory status and promotions
The regulatory treatment of crypto assets in the United Kingdom is evolving. Most crypto assets are not regulated in the same way as traditional securities or funds, and the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has warned consumers that crypto investments are high risk and may be unsuitable for many people. Promotions of qualifying cryptoassets are subject to the FCA financial promotions regime. You should independently verify the authorisation status of any firm you deal with using the FCA Register before committing funds.
5. Limits of automated tools and analytics
Monitoring dashboards, risk indicators, alerts and automated features rely on data that may be incomplete, delayed, inaccurate or unavailable. Models and algorithms can produce incorrect signals, fail to anticipate market conditions, or behave unexpectedly during outages or periods of extreme volatility. Automated tools do not eliminate risk and cannot guarantee that losses will be avoided or limited.
6. Hypothetical calculators and projections
Calculators, simulators and charts on our website show hypothetical outcomes based on assumed inputs, such as an amount, a period and a rate. These figures are illustrations only. Actual results may be materially lower than illustrated, including zero or negative. Projected figures should never be treated as expected returns.
7. Leverage, derivatives and margin
Some crypto products, including derivatives, futures and margin trading, involve leverage. Leverage magnifies both gains and losses and may result in losses exceeding your initial deposit. Liquidation or margin calls can occur with little notice. We do not recommend leveraged products to users who have not fully considered these risks.
8. Liquidity and execution
Some assets may be difficult to sell at a fair price, particularly during stressed markets. Orders may be executed at prices different from those displayed. Trading venues may impose withdrawal limits, delays or suspensions, and transfers between wallets and exchanges can fail or be delayed.
9. Custody and security
Digital assets are typically held in wallets controlled by private keys or by third-party custodians. If keys are lost, stolen or compromised, assets may be irretrievable. Transactions on most blockchains are irreversible. You are responsible for protecting your credentials, devices and recovery phrases.
10. Fraud and scams
Crypto markets attract fraud, including impersonation of well-known firms, fake investment platforms, fraudulent social media promotions, and requests to move funds to "verify" an account. We will never ask you for your full password or recovery phrase. Be sceptical of promises of guaranteed or unusually high returns, pressure to act quickly, and unsolicited contact.
11. Technology, cyber and operational risks
Our Services, and the networks and third-party providers on which they rely, may be disrupted by software defects, cyber attacks, power or connectivity failures, or other events. Such disruptions could delay access to information or prevent you from acting in time.
12. Tax and legal considerations
The tax treatment of digital assets depends on your individual circumstances and may change. Gains may be subject to Capital Gains Tax and other taxes, and records of transactions may be required. Changes in law or regulation could also affect the value or usability of your assets.
13. Your responsibilities
Before investing, you should consider your financial situation, investment objectives, experience, time horizon and capacity to absorb losses. Only commit money that you can afford to lose. Diversify, avoid borrowing to invest, and seek independent financial, legal and tax advice where appropriate.
14. Independent advice
Investment Courses does not provide personal recommendations tailored to your circumstances. If you are unsure whether an investment is suitable for you, consult an appropriately authorised and qualified adviser. You can find information about regulated advisers through the FCA Register at register.fca.org.uk.
15. Questions
If you have questions about this Risk Disclosure, contact us at High Holborn 12, BS1 5LJ Bristol, GB, or by email at [email protected].