$BTC Bitcoin (BTC) is the first and most well-known cryptocurrency, created in 2009 by an anonymous person or group under the name Satoshi Nakamoto. It operates on a decentralized blockchain network, enabling peer-to-peer transactions without intermediaries like banks. Bitcoin's supply is capped at 21 million coins, making it a deflationary asset. Its price is highly volatile, driven by factors like institutional adoption, regulatory news, and macroeconomic trends. Many view Bitcoin as "digital gold," a store of value and hedge against inflation. However, critics highlight its energy-intensive mining process and potential use in illicit activities. Despite fluctuations, Bitcoin remains the dominant cryptocurrency, influencing the broader crypto market. Its long-term role in finance—whether as a currency, asset, or both—continues to evolve.