$BTC

Bitcoin (BTC) is a decentralized digital currency that enables instant payments to anyone, anywhere in the world. Created in 2009 by an anonymous individual or group using the pseudonym Satoshi Nakamoto, Bitcoin operates without a central authority or banks.

Key features:

1. *Decentralized*: Bitcoin's peer-to-peer network allows transactions without intermediaries.

2. *Limited supply*: Only 21 million Bitcoins will exist.

3. *Security*: Transactions are recorded on a public ledger (blockchain) using cryptography.

4. *Anonymity*: Users can make transactions without revealing their identities.

Uses:

1. *Investment*: Many view Bitcoin as a store of value or speculative investment.

2. *Payments*: Bitcoin can be used for online purchases.

3. *Remittances*: Cross-border transactions.

Challenges:

1. *Volatility*: Bitcoin's value can fluctuate rapidly.

2. *Regulation*: Governments' stance on Bitcoin varies.

3. *Scalability*: Bitcoin's network capacity.

Bitcoin's impact:

1. *Financial inclusion*: Access to financial services for underserved populations.

2. *Innovation*: Inspired development of other cryptocurrencies and blockchain applications.