Bitcoin might be the pioneer of cryptocurrencies, but many alternatives, known as altcoins, have since emerged. Ethereum, for instance, offers smart contract functionality, enabling developers to build decentralized applications (dApps) on its blockchain. Ripple focuses on facilitating real-time cross-border payments. Each altcoin serves different purposes, addressing various limitations or adding new features to the cryptocurrency ecosystem. Investors often diversify their portfolios with a mix of Bitcoin and altcoins to balance potential risks and rewards. 🪙📊💡