$BTC Bitcoin (BTC) is the first and most well-known cryptocurrency, created in 2009 by an anonymous person or group known as Satoshi Nakamoto. It operates on a decentralized, peer-to-peer network using blockchain technology.

Key Features of Bitcoin:

1. Decentralized: No central authority (like a bank or government) controls it.

2. Limited Supply: Only 21 million BTC will ever exist, making it scarce like digital gold.

3. Blockchain Technology: Every transaction is recorded on a public ledger, making it transparent and secure.

4. Mining: New bitcoins are created through a process called mining, which involves solving complex cryptographic puzzles.

5. Use Cases: Digital store of value, borderless payments, hedge against inflation, and increasingly accepted as an investment asset.

Why Bitcoin Matters:

First-mover advantage: The original cryptocurrency that inspired thousands of others.

Global acceptance: Accepted by companies, investors, and even some governments.

High volatility: While risky, it offers high reward potential, especially for traders.