How is cryptocurrency used in the real world?

Cryptocurrency is used in the real world for a variety of applications, most notably as an alternative to traditional money for goods and services. Cryptocurrencies are also used for investments, for donating to charity, for remittances, for cross-border payments, for hedging against currency devaluation, and for many other uses. Cryptocurrencies can also be used for more specialized applications, such as facilitating smart contracts, creating decentralized autonomous organizations, and providing access to digital assets.