Lumen (XLM) is the native cryptocurrency of the Stellar network, designed to facilitate cross-border transactions and improve financial inclusion. Stellar aims to connect banks, payment systems, and people, allowing for fast, low-cost transfers of money across different currencies.Lumen serves multiple purposes within the Stellar ecosystem. It acts as a bridge currency, enabling the exchange of different currencies seamlessly. This means users can convert one type of currency to another without having to go through multiple exchanges, streamlining the process.Additionally, Lumen is used to pay for transaction fees on the Stellar network, ensuring that transactions remain efficient and secure. It also plays a role in preventing spam, as users must hold a minimum amount of XLM to create an account on Stellar.Developed by the Stellar Development Foundation, XLM has gained traction due to its focus on real-world use cases, especially in underserved regions where banking services are limited. Its ability to facilitate near-instant transfers at minimal costs makes it a valuable asset for individuals and businesses looking to enhance cross-border transactions.