This episode explores cryptocurrencies, the evolution of money from physical currency and centralized banking systems into decentralized, programmable digital value. Built on blockchain technology, cryptocurrencies allow people to exchange money directly with one another across the Internet without relying on banks or financial intermediaries.

Beginning with Bitcoin in 2009, cryptocurrencies introduced peer-to-peer digital money secured through cryptography and maintained by distributed networks. This system demonstrated that value could be transferred globally through mathematics and consensus rather than institutional authority.

The concept expanded further with platforms like Ethereum, which introduced programmable money through smart contracts. These allowed financial services suc ...