$BTC

Bitcoin ($BTC), launched in 2009 by pseudonymous creator Satoshi Nakamoto, is the pioneering decentralized cryptocurrency. Operating on a blockchain—a public, immutable ledger—it eliminates intermediaries like banks through peer-to-peer transactions secured by proof-of-work mining. With a capped supply of 21 million coins, Bitcoin is often dubbed "digital gold" for its scarcity and potential as a hedge against inflation. Its price volatility attracts traders but poses risks. While adoption grows among institutions and nations, concerns persist over its energy-intensive mining process and regulatory challenges. As a trailblazer in decentralized finance, Bitcoin reshapes perceptions of money, blending innovation with debates over sustainability and mainstream integration.