Cryptocurrencies are digital currencies that use cryptography for security. They operate independently from central banks and governments and are transacted on a distributed ledger called a blockchain. Cryptocurrencies can be traded on exchanges, and they have gained popularity with traders and investors.

The price of cryptocurrencies is influenced by various factors, including supply and demand, market sentiment, technological developments, and regulatory actions. Other factors like level of adoption, network activity, and reputation can also impact their prices. Traders should do their due diligence and understand what moves the price of the cryptocurrency they want to trade.

Cryptocurrencies run on a distributed public ledger called blockchain, a record of all transactions updated and held by currency holders. Units of cryptocurrency are created through a process called mining, which involves using computer power to solve complicated mathematical problems that generate coins. Users can also buy the currencies from brokers, then store and spend them using cryptographic wallets.