Bitcoin ($BTC ) is a decentralized digital currency that operates on a peer-to-peer network without the need for a central authority. Launched in 2009 by an anonymous figure, Satoshi Nakamoto, Bitcoin uses blockchain technology to facilitate secure, transparent transactions. Known for its volatility, BTC is seen by many as both an investment asset and a hedge against inflation. Over the years, its adoption has grown, with institutions and individuals using it for various purposes, including payments and as a store of value. As technology advances and regulatory frameworks develop, Bitcoin’s role in the global financial system continues to expand.