$XRP is the native cryptocurrency of the **Ripple** network, created in 2012 to facilitate fast and low-cost international payments. Unlike Bitcoin, XRP does not rely on Proof-of-Work but uses a unique consensus mechanism, making transactions faster and more efficient. Ripple collaborates with banks and financial institutions to improve traditional payment systems. XRP is designed to act as a bridge between different currencies, reducing conversion times and costs. Despite legal controversies, such as the lawsuit with the U.S. SEC, XRP remains one of the most important cryptocurrencies by market capitalization and adoption in the financial sector.