$BNB Here are some of the most interesting and impactful facts about cryptocurrency as of now:Bitcoin’s Origin Story: Launched in 2009 by the mysterious Satoshi Nakamoto (whose identity remains unknown), Bitcoin was the first decentralized cryptocurrency. Its whitepaper introduced blockchain technology, revolutionizing how we think about money and trust in digital systems.Market Size: The total cryptocurrency market cap fluctuates wildly but has hit over $2 trillion at peaks (e.g., late 2021). As of early 2025, it’s still a massive player in finance, though exact figures depend on the day—volatility is a hallmark.Number of Cryptos: Over 22,000 cryptocurrencies exist today, per CoinMarketCap data, ranging from serious projects like Ethereum to meme coins like Dogecoin. Most are obscure or worthless, but the sheer volume shows the space’s creativity (and chaos).Energy Debate: Bitcoin mining uses more electricity annually than some countries—estimates suggest around 150 terawatt-hours, comparable to Argentina. Ethereum’s shift to proof-of-stake in 2022 slashed its energy use by 99%, highlighting a split in crypto’s environmental impact.Adoption Leaders: Countries like El Salvador made Bitcoin legal tender in 2021