#TradersLeague Cryptocurrency is a digital or virtual currency secured by cryptography, making it nearly impossible to counterfeit or double-spend. Unlike traditional currencies issued by governments, cryptocurrencies are decentralized, operating on a technology called blockchain. This public, distributed ledger records all transactions transparently and immutably. Bitcoin, launched in 2009, was the first and remains the most well-known cryptocurrency. Other popular examples include Ethereum and Ripple. Cryptocurrencies offer potential benefits like lower transaction fees, faster international transfers, and increased financial privacy, but they also come with volatility risks and regulatory uncertainties.