Crypto, short for cryptocurrency, refers to a type of digital or virtual currency that uses cryptography for security. It operates on decentralized technology called blockchain, which is a distributed ledger enforced by a network of computers (nodes). Cryptocurrencies aim to provide secure, anonymous transactions and are designed to be independent of traditional banking systems and government regulations.
The most well-known cryptocurrency is Bitcoin, created in 2009, but there are thousands of other cryptocurrencies, including Ethereum, Ripple, and Litecoin. Each cryptocurrency operates on its own set of protocols and features, but they generally share characteristics such as limited supply, anonymity, and peer-to-peer transfer capabilities.
Crypto can also refer to the broader ecosystem and technology surrounding cryptocurrencies, including wallets, exchanges, mining, and decentralized finance (DeFi) applications. It has gained significant popularity as a form of investment, a medium of exchange, and a speculative asset, often marked by high volatility in its market value.
President Trump's announcement includes Ethereum with Bitcoin in the Strategic Crypto Reserve, prompting a reevaluation of Ethereum's role in the financial ecosystem. Bitcoin, often likened to "digital gold," relies on…