$BTC

**Bitcoin (BTC): The Pioneer of Cryptocurrency**

Bitcoin (BTC), launched in 2009 by the pseudonymous Satoshi Nakamoto, is the world’s first decentralized digital currency. Operating on blockchain technology, Bitcoin enables peer-to-peer transactions without intermediaries like banks. With a fixed supply of 21 million coins, BTC is often called "digital gold" due to its scarcity and store-of-value properties.

Bitcoin’s price has seen extreme volatility, reaching an all-time high of nearly $69,000 in 2021 before crashing and later rebounding. It has gained adoption as a payment method, investment asset, and hedge against inflation. However, concerns over energy consumption (due to mining) and regulatory scrutiny persist.

Major institutions and countries have started embracing Bitcoin, with El Salvador making it legal tender. Despite competition from altcoins, BTC remains the dominant cryptocurrency by market cap. Its future hinges on adoption, regulation, and technological advancements like the Lightning Network for faster transactions. Bitcoin continues to shape the future of finance.