Before you start, you need to understand the functions of trading so you have the information you need to make successful trades. Learn online, there are many videos and reading material available that will provide you the skills you need to earn profit, eventually.

I am interested in adopting cryptocurrencies as payment methods. Therefore, I am on a lookout for a gateway that has lower transaction fees and credits my funds into my merchant account instantly.

I think it’s about timing. You should take profits at the right time only. You should hold on to your crypto currencies when the market is bearish. Patience is the key to survive the uncertain times. You can always make profits from trading crypto currencies. But you should also hold some of it for the future.

Most of the traders/investors get panicked and they start selling in a downtrend which is a stupidity. Simply hold until the price rises again.

I think it works both ways. But I am more into trading and that looks best to me. But you can choose to invest or trade as per your preference. Investing requires more capital while trading is quite affordable and you can earn consistent profits if you have relevant knowledge and skills. I would say it is ideal to engage in both as crypto is a valuable digital asset and can cater to both.

Decentralisation, in my opinion, is inconsistent with the bank. The banking system is a business that makes money by selling services. If they see profits in crypto, they will use it. I'm not sure how privacy coins would spark their interest, but if it does, they will be beneficial to cryptocurrency. Until now, it appears that banks are afraid of cryptocurrency.

Crypto is an interesting field to work in since it may be done at any time and from any location. Not constrained by space and time. Even while the risks are terrifying, the rewards can be substantial. The most important thing is to stick to the game's rules.

I'd say that both have their own benefits. If you are fine with keeping your investments for a long term then, you should hold the coins, otherwise you can trade them.