The existence of cryptocurrency may date to 2008, but many people still struggle to understand how it gets its value, why they should pay attention, and how to define it for the layman. UConn Instructor In-Residence John Preli teaches in the School of Business and breaks down these answers for students interested in the emerging technology. It’s a volatile asset with a value that fluctuates, he says, but it has its advantages, including low transaction costs.