• Definition: Cryptocurrencies are assets like gold, not controlled by government.
  • They are not issued by government or RBI.
  • Encryption techniques create and control units and verify exchange.
  • Value is derived from limited supply and willingness to hold.
  • They are neither legal tenders nor fiat currency.
  • Advantages:
    • Can be mined/generated only in limited numbers.
    • People may accept them for transactions.
  • Challenges:
    • Government has no control over them.
    • Not generally accepted in daily transactions (not legal tender).
    • Income from transfer is taxed at 30%.