$BTC Bitcoin (BTC) is the first and most well-known cryptocurrency, created in 2009 by an anonymous person or group under the pseudonym Satoshi Nakamoto. It operates on a decentralized, peer-to-peer network using blockchain technology to enable secure and transparent transactions without the need for intermediaries like banks. Bitcoin is often considered "digital gold" due to its limited supply of 21 million coins, making it a store of value and a hedge against inflation. Its decentralized nature and widespread adoption have made it the leading cryptocurrency by market capitalization. Bitcoin is used for various purposes, including payments, investments, and as a foundation for financial innovation in decentralized finance (DeFi).