Simply put, cryptocurrency is digital money that is designed in a way that is, in some cases, secure and anonymous. It is closely related to the Internet, which uses cryptography, which is basically a process where readable information is converted into an uncrackable code to trace all transfers and purchases made.
Cryptography has a history dating back to World War II when there was a need to communicate in the most secure way. Since then there has been an evolution of the same and today it has become digitized where various elements of computer science and mathematical theory are used for the purpose of providing communications, money and information online.
The first cryptocurrency
The first cryptocurrency was introduced in 2009 and is still well known around the world. Many more cryptocurrencies have been introduced in the past few years and today you can find so many available on the internet.
How they work
This kind of digital currency uses technology that is decentralized so as to allow different users to make payments that are secure and also store money without necessarily using a name or even going through a financial institution. They are mainly managed on blockchain. Blockchain is a public ledger that is distributed publicly.
Cryptocurrency units are usually created using a process called mining. This usually involves the use of computing power. This solves the mathematical problems that can be very complex when generating coins. Users are only allowed to buy the currencies from the brokers and then store them in crypto wallets where they can spend them with great ease.
Cryptocurrencies and the application of blockchain technology are still in their infancy when thinking about them from a financial perspective. More uses may emerge in the future as one never knows what else will be invented. The future of transactions in stocks, bonds and other types of financial assets may very well be traded using cryptocurrency and blockchain technology in the future.
Why Use Cryptocurrency?
One of the main features of these currencies is the fact that they are secure and that they offer a level of anonymity that you may not get anywhere else. There is no way a transaction can be reversed or tampered with. This is the biggest reason why you should consider using them.
The fees charged for this type of currency are also quite low and this makes it a very reliable option compared to conventional currency. Since they are decentralized in nature, they can be accessed by anyone unlike banks where accounts are only opened with permission.
Cryptocurrency markets offer a brand new form of money and sometimes the rewards can be great. You may make a very small investment only to find it has mushroomed into something great in a very short period of time. However, it is important to note that the market can also be volatile and there are risks involved in buying.