$BTC Bitcoin (BTC), launched in 2009 by Satoshi Nakamoto, revolutionized finance as the first decentralized cryptocurrency. Operating on a blockchain, it eliminates intermediaries, enabling peer-to-peer transactions with transparency and security. With a capped supply of 21 million, Bitcoin is dubbed "digital gold," prized for scarcity and as a hedge against inflation. Despite volatility, its market dominance anchors the crypto space, influencing global finance and inspiring thousands of altcoins. Institutional adoption via ETFs and corporate investments underscores growing legitimacy, though regulatory scrutiny and environmental concerns over energy-intensive mining persist. As a pioneer, Bitcoin remains a symbol of financial sovereignty and technological innovation, shaping the future of money.