$BTC
Bitcoin (BTC), launched in 2009 by Satoshi Nakamoto, is the first decentralized cryptocurrency, operating on a peer-to-peer blockchain network. It enables secure, transparent transactions without intermediaries, using cryptographic proof for validation. With a fixed supply cap of 21 million coins, BTC is often called "digital gold" for its scarcity and store-of-value potential. Its price is volatile, driven by market demand, investor sentiment, and macroeconomic factors. Adoption is growing, with BTC used for payments, remittances, and as a hedge against inflation. However, scalability, energy-intensive mining, and regulatory challenges persist. Bitcoin remains a transformative force in finance, sparking innovation and debate.