$BTC Bitcoin (BTC) is a decentralized digital currency, introduced in 2009 by an unknown person or group using the pseudonym Satoshi Nakamoto. Unlike traditional currencies issued by governments, Bitcoin operates without a central authority, relying on a peer-to-peer network to verify transactions through a process called mining. These transactions are recorded on a public ledger known as the blockchain, which ensures transparency and prevents double-spending.

Bitcoin has a fixed supply of 21 million coins, making it deflationary by nature. It is stored in digital wallets and can be sent globally with relatively low fees and without intermediaries. As the first cryptocurrency, Bitcoin has inspired the development of thousands of alternative cryptocurrencies and played a crucial role in shaping the broader blockchain and decentralized finance (DeFi) space.

Over time, Bitcoin has evolved from a niche digital experiment to a widely recognized store of value, often referred to as "digital gold." It is traded globally and continues to influence financial innovation and regulation.