Bitcoin (BTC) is the world’s first digital currency and operates without the involvement of banks or governments. It was launched in 2009 by the anonymous developer Satoshi Nakamoto and uses blockchain technology to record transactions securely, transparently, and in a decentralized manner. Bitcoin is often referred to as “digital gold” due to its scarcity and role as a store of value. It is used worldwide as both a means of payment and an investment asset and plays a central role in the growth of the crypto market and the integration of digital assets into the global financial system.