Bitcoin is a decentralized, encrypted digital currency that represents a means of exchange and storage of value based on blockchain technology. It was launched in 2009 by a person or group of people under the pseudonym "Satoshi Nakamoto". Bitcoin has several aspects that distinguish it from traditional currencies, starting with its decentralized nature, which means that there is no central entity such as governments or banks that controls it.
Bitcoin is also transparent, as anyone can access the blockchain history and verify the authenticity of transactions made.
Another aspect that distinguishes Bitcoin is that it is considered a means of protection against inflation, as the total supply of Bitcoin is pre-determined according to its protocol, which is different from traditional currencies that can be printed more by central banks. In addition, Bitcoin is also an effective way to transfer money across borders quickly and at a low cost compared to traditional methods.
Despite its benefits and advantages, Bitcoin is also considered a high-risk investment due to its extreme price fluctuations and exposure to political, economic and technological factors. They experience significant variation in value over time, making them attractive to investors looking for high-risk investment opportunities with high potential returns.