Mine Monero for predictable cost; avoid online exchanges

I mine Monero because it gives me coins at a fixed, predictable cost—far safer than relying on online exchanges. Mining also keeps custody and reduces counterparty risk.

I avoid exchanging on centralized platforms due to fraud and privacy concerns. I use Monero offline only with people I trust to keep transfers private and secure.

I accept the trade-offs: mining requires hardware and electricity and limits liquidity, but for my goals the security and predictability outweigh those costs.