$BTC

Bitcoin (BTC) is a decentralized digital currency created in 2009 by an anonymous entity known as Satoshi Nakamoto. It operates on a peer-to-peer network, allowing users to send and receive payments without the need for intermediaries like banks. Transactions are verified by network nodes through cryptography and recorded on a public ledger called the blockchain.

One of Bitcoin's key features is its limited supply of 21 million coins, which introduces scarcity and aims to prevent inflation. Bitcoin can be divided into smaller units, with the smallest being a satoshi, equivalent to 0.00000001 BTC.

Bitcoin has gained popularity as a store of value and a speculative investment, often referred to as "digital gold." It has also been adopted by various merchants and businesses for transactions. However, it faces challenges such as regulatory scrutiny, price volatility, and environmental concerns related to its energy-intensive mining process.

Despite these challenges, Bitcoin continues to be a significant player in the cryptocurrency market, influencing the development of thousands of other cryptocurrencies and blockchain technologies. Its ongoing evolution and adoption will likely shape the future of finance and digital assets.