RUNE is the native token of THORchain, a cross-chain decentralised exchange that allows for the swapping of cryptocurrencies between blockchains with no central intermediaries. This allows for the direct exchange of cryptocurrencies in their native forms. The network uses an Automated Market Maker (AMM) mechanism to ensure the accuracy of price data without the need for off-chain price feeds. RUNE has four key roles: providing liquidity to the network as a settlement asset, securing the network through economic incentives, governing the network through on-chain priority signalling, and offering incentives via reward payouts, charging fees and subsidising gas.