Alpha
Information or an edge expected to produce returns ahead of the crowd, like an early tip.
Borrowed from traditional finance, where alpha means returns above a benchmark. In crypto culture, 'alpha' is any actionable secret, like an unlaunched project or a wallet worth watching.
It trades in private Discord groups and paid newsletters. Treat 'leaking alpha' with caution. Much of what passes for alpha is someone setting up their own exit liquidity.
Related terms
Aggressively promoting a coin to others, frequently for personal gain and often without disclosing the payment.
Exit LiquidityBuyers who purchase at high prices, letting earlier insiders sell out at a profit.
DYOR (Do Your Own Research)A standard disclaimer urging you to investigate a project yourself before risking any money on it.
DegenShort for degenerate gambler, a trader who chases high-risk bets with little regard for fundamentals.