$BTC Bitcoin (BTC) is the first and most well-known cryptocurrency, introduced in 2009 by an anonymous individual or group using the pseudonym Satoshi Nakamoto. It operates on a decentralized, peer-to-peer network using blockchain technology, which records all transactions in a secure and transparent manner. Bitcoin allows users to send and receive digital value without the need for intermediaries like banks. It is limited in supply, with a maximum of 21 million coins, making it deflationary by design. Bitcoin has become a popular asset for investment, often referred to as "digital gold" due to its potential as a store of value. Its price is highly volatile and influenced by market demand, regulatory developments, and macroeconomic trends. Bitcoin can be used for payments, although its primary use today is as a speculative investment. Despite criticism regarding energy consumption and scalability, Bitcoin remains a central figure in the global cryptocurrency landscape.