May 22 is not just any date for the crypto ecosystem: it marks Bitcoin Pizza Day, the milestone that recorded the first purchase made with Bitcoin. Exactly 15 years ago, Laszlo Hanyecz paid 10,000 BTC for two pizzas, a gesture that seemed trivial in 2010, but today symbolizes the start of a global financial revolution.
On the occasion of this anniversary, Binance, the leading global provider of crypto and blockchain infrastructure, is driving a series of celebrations in Latin America and around the world, reinforcing its commitment to the mass adoption of cryptocurrencies.
From two pizzas to one billion dollars
What at the time were 10,000 BTC for a dinner costing US$ 41 now represents a fortune exceeding US$ 1 billion. This contrast reflects the exponential growth of Bitcoin and how it transitioned from a disruptive idea to being established as a significant financial asset in the global economy.
Over these 15 years, BTC has driven the creation of a complete ecosystem: from stablecoins and DeFi to NFTs, payment solutions, and alternative networks like Lightning Network. For many, it is more than just a currency: it is a symbol of financial independence and decentralization.
Latin America: epicenter of adoption
According to recent data from Triple-A, over 560 million people use cryptocurrencies worldwide. Latin America leads this growth with rates that double those of other regions, with Argentina and Brazil as protagonists of the advancement.
In line with this trend, Binance recorded a 63% growth in users in Latin America in 2024, surpassing 270 million global users on its platform.
Pizza, community, and learning
To celebrate this milestone, Binance is organizing in-person events in Buenos Aires, São Paulo, Medellín, and Mexico City, where the community can enjoy educational gatherings, free pizza, and exclusive raffles.
In addition, it launches a series of digital activations on social media and platforms like Telegram, Discord, and WhatsApp. There will be challenges, crypto anecdote contests, and the global challenge #BinancePizza, which will culminate in a special broadcast on May 22, featuring global leaders from Binance.
The largest BTC raffle in history
As part of the campaign, Binance also announced a global raffle of US$ 5 million in Bitcoin, the largest ever conducted by a centralized exchange. Users can participate from May 15 to 28 through exclusive referral links.
Beyond Bitcoin: the impact of Binance Pay
Since 2021, Binance has expanded the reach of digital payments with Binance Pay, a solution that allows payments to be made and received in over 100 cryptocurrencies without fees or intermediaries. Today, it is used by more than 40 million people and has processed over US$ 200 billion in transactions.
This tool reflects how the spirit of Bitcoin Pizza Day remains alive: to create technologies that empower people, reduce barriers, and open economic opportunities worldwide.
Conclusion
Bitcoin Pizza Day is not just a celebration but an opportunity to reflect on the journey taken and the future being built.
From a simple pizza to an alternative financial ecosystem, Bitcoin and cryptocurrencies continue to challenge paradigms and push the limits of what is possible. Binance, with its initiatives in the region, reaffirms its commitment to inclusive and secure crypto adoption for all.
