$BTC

Bitcoin (BTC) is the world’s first and most well-known cryptocurrency, created in 2009 by an anonymous person or group using the name Satoshi Nakamoto. It operates on a decentralized, peer-to-peer network without the need for a central authority like a bank or government. Transactions are verified through a process called mining, which uses cryptographic algorithms and adds them to a public ledger called the blockchain.

Bitcoin was designed as a digital alternative to traditional money, offering features like limited supply (capped at 21 million coins), transparency, and resistance to censorship. Its decentralized nature makes it attractive to those seeking financial independence or an alternative to inflation-prone fiat currencies.

Over time, Bitcoin has evolved from a niche digital currency into a widely recognized asset, often compared to digital gold due to its perceived value as a store of wealth. Its price is highly volatile, influenced by market sentiment, regulation, and global events.

Despite criticism over its energy consumption and use in illicit transactions, Bitcoin has gained increasing adoption among investors, companies, and even some governments. As blockchain technology continues to develop, Bitcoin remains a cornerstone of the crypto ecosystem, symbolizing the shift toward decentralized finance and digital innovation.