Crypto used as inflation hedge in Argentina, Venezuela Curbs on foreign currency transactions boost its appeal Many virtual coin users hurt by tumbling prices this year By David Feliba BUENOS AIRES, Dec 14 (Thomson Reuters Foundation) - The "crypto winter" has shattered the money-making hopes of many small investors around the world, but in inflation-plagued Argentina, cryptocurrency converts are holding on. Inflation is expected to reach 100% this year in South America's No. 2 economy, and for many Argentine retail investors the priority is to protect the value of their savings - traditionally by buying dollars, but increasingly virtual coins.