Cryptocurrency is a digital or virtual currency using cryptography for security. Ethereum, launched in 2015 by Vitalik Buterin, introduced smart contracts, enabling decentralized applications. Ripple (XRP) focuses on enabling real-time, cross-border payments. Litecoin, created by Charlie Lee in 2011, offers faster transaction times and lower costs than Bitcoin. These currencies promise transparency, security, and decentralization in finance. $XRP $LIT