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What Is Bitcoin?

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What Is Bitcoin?

The 5-minute primer: what BTC is and why investors hold it.

Bitcoin (BTC) is a decentralized digital currency: no bank or government issues it, and transactions are recorded on a public ledger called the blockchain. Its supply is capped at 21 million coins, which is why many investors treat it as a scarce digital asset.

Why do investors hold it?

Three common reasons: long-term growth potential, diversification away from stocks and cash, and liquidity — bitcoin trades 24/7 and can be sent anywhere in minutes.

What moves the price?

Supply and demand, overall crypto sentiment, regulation news, and macro trends like interest rates. Expect sharp swings: double-digit moves in a week are normal for crypto.

Start small

You do not need a whole coin. Bitcoin divides into tiny units, so a $100 deposit already gives you real exposure. See our where to buy page if you need coins first.