What is Cryptocurrency?

Cryptocurrency is a type of digital money that only exists online. Unlike regular money (like dollars or euros) that governments issue, cryptocurrencies are decentralized and run on a technology called blockchain.

Think of the blockchain as a public, digital database that records every transaction made with a cryptocurrency. This database is shared across many computers worldwide, so no single person or organization controls it. This decentralization makes it secure and nearly impossible to fake or double-spend coins.

The most popular cryptocurrencies are Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH) and Solana (SOL) but there are thousands of others, each with its own purpose and community.

Cryptocurrencies can be:

  • Traded for profit

  • Used to buy some goods and services

  • Sent to others as digital payments

  • Used for specific utilities. Some cryptocurrencies offer perks like revenue-sharing, access to exclusive products or services, or other benefits within a certain ecosystem.

Why are people interested in crypto?

  1. Privacy and Control: With crypto, you control your own funds, without needing a bank.

  2. Investment: People buy crypto as a way to invest, hoping its value will increase over time.

  3. New Technology: Blockchain tech offers new ways to handle money and digital assets, sparking innovation in finance and beyond.

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