Ripple

Ripple refers to a technology and network that facilitates digital payments and transfers using blockchain technology, primarily through its cryptocurrency known as XRP. Developed by Ripple Labs, the system aims to enable secure, instantaneous, and low-cost international money transfers. Unlike traditional banking systems that can take days to process cross-border transactions, Ripple allows for near-instantaneous settlements, improving efficiency in payment processing. Ripple's consensus ledger, where transactions are confirmed by a network of independent validators rather than through mining, also enhances the speed and scalability of the system. The term "ripple" can also refer to the broader implications of this technology on the financial sector, suggesting a transformative effect on how money can be exchanged globally.