$BTC **BTC (Bitcoin)**

Bitcoin (BTC) is the first decentralized cryptocurrency, launched in 2009 by Satoshi Nakamoto. It operates on blockchain technology, enabling peer-to-peer transactions without intermediaries. With a fixed supply of 21 million coins, BTC is often called "digital gold" due to its scarcity. Its price is highly volatile, influenced by demand, adoption, regulation, and macroeconomic trends. Major institutions now hold BTC as a hedge against inflation. While some countries embrace it as legal tender, others restrict its use due to energy concerns (mining consumes significant electricity) and financial risks. Despite challenges, Bitcoin remains the dominant crypto, shaping the future of decentralized finance.