$BTC Bitcoin ($BTC) is the world’s first and most well-known cryptocurrency, launched in 2009 by an anonymous creator known as Satoshi Nakamoto. It operates on a decentralized blockchain network, allowing peer-to-peer transactions without the need for intermediaries like banks. Over the years, Bitcoin has grown from a niche digital asset to a globally recognized store of value, often referred to as "digital gold." Investors use BTC as a hedge against inflation, and it plays a key role in the broader crypto ecosystem. Despite market volatility, Bitcoin continues to attract attention from institutions, developers, and retail traders alike, shaping the future of finance.