$BTC

$BTC, or Bitcoin, is the first and most well-known cryptocurrency, launched in 2009 by an anonymous person or group using the pseudonym Satoshi Nakamoto. It operates on a decentralized, peer-to-peer network powered by blockchain technology, which records all transactions on a public ledger. Bitcoin was designed as a digital alternative to traditional currencies, enabling secure and borderless payments without intermediaries like banks. Its supply is limited to 21 million coins, which contributes to its value and scarcity. Bitcoin has become popular both as a store of value—often referred to as "digital gold"—and as a speculative investment. It's known for price volatility, influenced by factors like market demand, investor sentiment, regulation, and macroeconomic trends. Over time, Bitcoin has gained broader acceptance, including use by companies, institutional investors, and even some governments. Despite ongoing debates over its energy use and regulation, Bitcoin remains a dominant force in the evolving world of digital assets.