Bitcoin: first ever crypto that’s only growing in influence

Bitcoin is a decentralized digital currency created in 2009 by an unknown individual using the name Satoshi Nakamoto. It is the first and most well-known cryptocurrency that enables secure peer-to-peer transactions on the internet, designed as an alternative to centralized financial networks after the 2008 crisis. (Read more in our “Bitcoin 101” article)

Bitcoin continues to reign as the most valuable cryptocurrency to date, solidifying its leading position as “digital gold”.

• Recognized store of value and a standalone asset class. Bitcoin currently has a ~$1.3 trillion circulating market capitalization and dominates the cryptocurrency market by 53% [1], solidifying its status as a standalone asset class

• Mainstream penetration. Spot BTC ETFs launched by major financial institutions such as BlackRock, Fidelity, VanEck, and Invesco in 2024 have driven mainstream Bitcoin adoption, attracting 1,110 institutional investors [2] and ~$60 billion in AUM [3]

• Limited supply. Bitcoin's scarcity is built-in, with a 21 million coin cap

• Open-source and decentralized. Bitcoin is an open-source, decentralized system lacking a public founder, allowing transparent development and user engagement to enhance security and resilience

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[1] Messari; as of 30 Sep 2024

[2] Bitwise; as of 20 Aug 2024

[3] The Block; as of 24 Sep 2024