Bitcoin (BTC) is the first and most well-known cryptocurrency, a digital currency that has revolutionized the world of finance. It was created in 2009 by Satoshi Nakamoto, an individual (or group of individuals) whose true identity remains a mystery.
Here are the main characteristics of Bitcoin:
* Decentralization: Bitcoin is not controlled by a central bank or government. Instead, it operates on a distributed network of computers around the world. This makes it resistant to censorship and manipulation by authorities.
* Security: Bitcoin transactions are protected by complex cryptography, making them very secure and virtually impossible to forge.
* Transparency: All Bitcoin transactions are recorded in a public, viewable ledger called the blockchain. This ensures transparency and traceability of all operations.
* Limited supply: The maximum number of Bitcoins is capped at 21 million coins. This scarcity of supply makes it a scarce asset, similar to gold, and potentially contributes to its value growth in the long term.