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Great, let's delve into the world of cryptocurrencies, their historical significance, and key features.

Understanding the significance of cryptocurrencies requires revisiting the financial crisis of 2008. Many believe that this event was the catalyst that led to the creation of the first cryptocurrency, Bitcoin (BTC), by the pseudonymous entity, Satoshi Nakamoto. The introduction of Bitcoin presented the world with a revolutionary concept: a decentralised digital currency immune to governmental control and macroeconomic fluctuations.

This groundbreaking innovation brought forward the concept of a trustless, peer-to-peer financial system based on blockchain technology. Blockchain, a form of Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT), is essentially an immutable digital database shared among a network of computers, known as nodes, that records all transactions of a particular cryptocurrency. This technological framework provides full transparency and security to the cryptocurrency transactions.

One key feature of cryptocurrencies is their utility as a hedging instrument against traditional investment assets. Given the relatively lower correlation with traditional financial assets like stocks and bonds, cryptocurrencies add a diversification element to an investor's portfolio.

Another key feature and perhaps the most fascinating aspect of cryptocurrencies is their decentralised nature. This implies that they are not controlled by any central bank, government, or other authoritative organizations. However, their value is purely influenced by demand and supply dynamics, and the trust of their users.

Smart contracts are another salient feature in certain cryptocurrencies, enabling transactions and agreements to be carried out without needing a third party. These self-executing contractual states are written in the code of a blockchain, thus facilitating total automation and transparency.

Lastly, cryptocurrencies have brought forth the potential for financial inclusion. With only a smartphone and an Internet connection, anyone around the world can access crypto-based financial services, thereby omitting the traditional bureaucratic procedures of the banking systems.

Crypto adoption has been growing steadily over the years, owing to its key features and potential to revolutionise the financial landscape. It's no longer an obscure, misunderstood technology; it has spawned an industry that caters to payments, investments, remittances, and even the world of art and music through non-fungible tokens (NFTs).

In conclusion, cryptocurrencies, with their roots tied to the call for a decentralised financial system, have grown into a powerhouse with multifaceted applications and features. From being a hedge against traditional asset classes, enabling smart contracts, and promoting financial inclusion, cryptocurrencies are reshaping the financial and technological landscape. Amid this evolving scenario, it remains vital to continually reassess and understand this burgeoning sector's dynamics.