Digital currencies: A modern financial revolution
Cryptocurrencies are decentralized electronic money that relies on blockchain technology to record and secure transactions. The most famous is Bitcoin, which was launched in 2009, followed by currencies like Ethereum and Ripple.
### Advantages:
- Decentralization: Not subject to banks or governments.
- Security: Advanced encryption reduces fraud.
- Speed: Fast and low-cost global transactions.
### Challenges:
- High volatility: Their prices are highly variable.
- Government oversight: Some countries have banned them due to a lack of regulation.
- Illegal use: Sometimes exploited in illegal activities.
### The Future:
Despite the controversy, they are gaining acceptance as a means of payment and investment, and could change the shape of the traditional financial system.