Yes, I've been using digital currencies since early 2000s, and when cryptocurrencies first appeared the idea of a decentralized payment system was a godsend but

Yes, I've been using digital currencies since early 2000s, and when cryptocurrencies first appeared the idea of a decentralized payment system was a godsend but even back then it was investment schemes that received the most attention sadly. One great idea that never materialized was anonymous services could be insured finally, so you could bootstrap your hobby exchange with an insurance guarantee held by semi-trusted people in the scene. For example a small instant exchange requiring no sign up, with a $10k multi-sig insurance fund and since the blockchain is open you can at all times verify that said instant exchange is not exceeding their insurance.