$BTC Bitcoin (BTC) is the world’s first and most well-known cryptocurrency, launched in 2009 by the anonymous figure Satoshi Nakamoto. It operates on a decentralized peer-to-peer network, allowing users to send and receive value without relying on banks or intermediaries. Bitcoin is powered by blockchain technology, a public ledger that records all transactions securely and transparently. With a fixed supply of 21 million coins, Bitcoin is often referred to as "digital gold" due to its scarcity and use as a hedge against inflation. It has gained global recognition as both an investment asset and a tool for financial freedom, especially in regions with unstable currencies or limited banking access. While its price can be highly volatile, Bitcoin continues to attract institutional and retail investors alike. Over the years, it has sparked the development of thousands of other cryptocurrencies and remains at the forefront of the growing digital asset ecosystem.