Peercoin is one of the first cryptocurrencies, launched in 2012. It introduced the proof-of-stake consensus, making it a sustainable and efficient public blockchain technology. The network operates at a low cost and requires minimal energy for security. Unlike other blockchains, Peercoin allows its users (coin holders) to govern the protocol rules, resulting in a decentralized and democratic network. The Peercoin Team believes in developing the blockchain as a base layer settlement network, focusing on securing all forms of value. To achieve wide-scale use, Peercoin develops second layer protocols and sub-networks for features like tokens, smart contracts, and fast, low-cost transactions. Peercoin aims to be the secure and censorship-resistant foundation for the future blockchain-connected world.