$XRP , created by Ripple Labs, is a digital asset designed for fast, low-cost international payments. Unlike Bitcoin, XRP doesn't rely on mining; all 100 billion tokens were pre-mined at its launch in 2012. It aims to bridge currencies and facilitate seamless cross-border transactions, often settling in just 3-5 seconds. XRP's consensus ledger uses a unique protocol, making it energy-efficient compared to proof-of-work systems. Despite its utility, XRP has faced regulatory scrutiny, particularly from the U.S. SEC, which alleges it is an unregistered security. Nonetheless, XRP remains a top cryptocurrency, valued for its speed, scalability, and potential to revolutionize global finance.