An ICO, or initial coin offering, is a new way of funding start-UPS and other companies that is growing in popularity. In an ICO, a company creates a new digital currency and offers it for sale to the public, in exchange for other currencies like Bitcoin or Ethereum.

The new currency is similar to a share in the company, and can be traded on exchanges or used to purchase goods and services from the company.

There are a few key things that make ICOs different from traditional investments. First, ICOs are usually open to everyone, not just accredited investors. This means that anyone with an internet connection can participate in an ICO.

Second, ICOs are often used to fund projects that are still in development, which means that there is a higher risk involved than with investing in a established company. However, this also means that there is the potential for higher rewards if the project is successful.

So far, ICOs have been very successful in raising funds for projects. In 2017, over $5 billion was raised through ICOs. This is a big increase from 2016, when only $240 million was raised through ICOs.

Part of the reason for this increase is that more and more people are aware of ICOs and how they work. Also, as the value of Bitcoin and Ethereum has increased, more people are willing to invest in ICOs using these currencies.

ICOs have become a popular way to fund projects because they offer a lot of advantages over traditional investments. First, anyone can participate in an ICO regardless of accreditation status.

Second, ICOs can be used to fund projects that are still in development, which offers the potential for higher rewards if the project is successful. Finally, the increased value of Bitcoin and Ethereum has made investing in ICOs using these currencies more attractive to potential investors.