Bitcoin (BTC) is the first and largest cryptocurrency, introduced in 2009 by an anonymous person or group known as Satoshi Nakamoto. It runs on a decentralised network with no central bank or single operator.

How it works

Bitcoin lets people send value directly to one another, with transactions recorded on a public blockchain and secured by a Proof of Work network of miners. Its supply is capped at 21 million coins, released gradually through a process called halving.

Things to keep in mind

People describe Bitcoin in different ways, from a payment network to a store of value. It remains the most widely recognised crypto asset, and its price can be highly volatile.