Bitcoin (BTC), the pioneering cryptocurrency, was introduced in 2008 by the pseudonymous Satoshi Nakamoto, revolutionizing digital finance. Operating on a decentralized ledger called the blockchain, Bitcoin enables peer-to-peer transactions without intermediaries. Its supply is capped at 21 million coins, a feature designed to create scarcity.
The price of Bitcoin today is approximately $94,530.93, with a market capitalization of around $1.88 trillion. Its value has experienced significant volatility since its inception, reaching an all-time high of $108,388 in December 2024.
A key event in Bitcoin's protocol is the "halving," which occurs roughly every four years and reduces the rate at which new bitcoins are created. The most recent halving took place on April 20, 2024, decreasing the block reward for miners to 3.125 BTC. The next halving is expected in 2028.
While offering benefits like decentralization, lower transaction fees, and potential as a store of value, Bitcoin also carries risks including price volatility, regulatory uncertainty, and security concerns. Its groundbreaking technology continues to evolve, influencing the broader cryptocurrency landscape.
