What is a blockchain and how does it relate to cryptocurrencies?

A blockchain is a decentralized and distributed digital ledger that records transactions across multiple computers or nodes. It serves as the underlying technology for cryptocurrencies, enabling transparent and secure transaction verification and record-keeping. Each transaction is added to a block, which is linked to previous blocks, forming a chain of blocks (hence the term "blockchain"). Cryptocurrencies utilize blockchain technology to achieve consensus, immutability, and transparency.

Do ETFs pay dividends?

ETFs pay distributions that are similar to the dividends you might receive on other shares — the difference being the frequency of the payments. Companies that pay regular dividends generally do so twice yearly, whereas funds usually pay quarterly distributions.   

If your ETF is invested in shares, you might be entitled to a proportion of the dividends those listed companies pay. Dividends come from profits. Each company makes its own decision as to the proportion of earnings it will pay to shareholders. 

Some Australian companies pay franked dividends, which means you will receive franking credits. Franking credits give you a tax credit for the tax already paid by each company on its profits. 

What are some upcoming IPO trends?

Companies looking to go public these days have a wide range of stock exchanges to choose from to list their shares, which pushes public listing standards to remain well-oiled and organized across major stock exchanges. Evolving technology has been another big trend in the IPO space. Another crucial factor that has shaped the evolution of IPOs (which IPO investors also keep in mind these days when researching) is the growing importance that is given to environmental, social, and corporate governance (ESG).