I really enjoyed reading this post because I also had the same question about cryptos when I first got to know about them. Then over time, I got exposed to more cryptos and I realised most of them are similar in nature, i.e. they would incentivise users to stake their tokens in exchange for some form of rewards (e.g. interest or even rebate from Visa cards!). Which actually isn't much different from the concept of "locking" fiat in time deposits or insurance plans.