Bitcoin (BTC) is the pioneering decentralized cryptocurrency, conceived in 2008 by the pseudonymous Satoshi Nakamoto. It enables peer-to-peer digital cash transactions without intermediaries like banks. Transactions are verified by a distributed network through a process called mining, which involves solving complex computational puzzles to add new blocks of transactions to the public, an immutable ledger known as the blockchain.
Bitcoin's supply is capped at 21 million coins, creating scarcity. It has evolved from a niche technology to a significant digital asset, experiencing substantial price volatility. As of April 30, 2025, Bitcoin is trading around $94,500. It's used for investment, transactions, and as a store of value by individuals and institutions globally.