Bitcoin Mining

Bitcoin mining is the process by which new bitcoins are created and transactions are verified and added to the blockchain network. It involves powerful computers solving complex mathematical problems to secure the Bitcoin network and maintain its decentralized nature. Individuals, companies, and even specialized mining pools participate in this process, known as miners. These miners play a crucial role in ensuring the integrity and security of the Bitcoin network. As the number of bitcoins in circulation is limited, mining also serves as a means of distributing new bitcoins. Miners are rewarded with newly minted bitcoins for their computational efforts and the energy they contribute to the network. Bitcoin mining has evolved over time, with the advent of more efficient hardware and the rise of mining farms. These farms, often operated by companies, leverage economies of scale to maximize their mining capabilities. Additionally, mining protocols and algorithms have been developed to adapt to the increasing computational power and maintain the network's stability. Crypto exchanges facilitate the trading of bitcoins, allowing miners to convert their earned bitcoins into traditional currencies or other cryptocurrencies. This dynamic ecosystem of people, companies, protocols, and blockchain networks collectively contribute to the functioning and growth of Bitcoin and the broader cryptocurrency market.


Policy

Why Crypto Mining Needs Nuclear Power

With Bitcoin besieged by environmental critics, two scientists make the case for cleaner “baseload” power.

A nuclear power station in Antwerp, Belgium.

Finance

Sphere 3D, Gryphon Sign Hosting Services Deal With Core Scientific

The agreement covers as many as 71,000 bitcoin mining machines.

Core Scientific's mining facility in Calvert City, Ky. (CoinDesk archives)

Policy

Bitcoin Miner Greenidge Generation to Sell $50M in Bonds

The company expects to raise about $48 million from the offering.

Crypto mining machines

Markets

Market Wrap: Bitcoin Declines as Indicator Shows Rally Could Lose Steam

Comments from J.P. Morgan CEO Jamie Dimon contributed to a sour mood across crypto markets.

Bull and bear (Shutterstock)

Policy

Bitcoin Mining Is Reshaping the Energy Sector and No One Is Talking About It

In other news: Ted Cruz understands bitcoin mining’s potential role in a greener energy system.

(Jared Evans/Unsplash)

Finance

China FUD Over Bitcoin Mining Is ‘Now Moot,’ Luxor Report Says

Bitcoin’s hashrate is expected to climb back near its all-time highs, potentially helping mining profitability, as China’s grip on the sector subsides.

(artiemedvedev/iStock/Getty Images Plus)

Markets

Crypto Miners Hoarding Bitcoins as Price Surges Above $55K

Riot Blockchain, Marathon Digital and Hut 8 have all been “hodling” the bitcoin they’ve mined in September.

Inside Bitmain Technologies Ltd.'s Bitcoin Mine

Finance

Crypto Miners Marathon Digital, Hut 8 Rally as Bitcoin Tops $50K

The Bitcoin blockchain’s hashrate has increased, and so has mining difficulty, but investors are betting the largest cryptocurrency’s recent price gains might translate to profit growth.

An Antminer bitcoin mining machine pictured in 2018. (Carlos Becerra/Bloomberg via Getty Images)

Policy

Want Cleaner Bitcoin Mining? Subsidize It

Politicians who complain about bitcoin’s environmental impact should consider a little Pigovian economics.

Coinmint facility in Massena, N.Y., 2018 (Nic Carter)

Finance

Marathon Digital Secures $100M Revolving Line of Credit With Silvergate Bank

The bitcoin mining firm said the loan will be used for operations and to acquire new mining equipment.

Máquinas de minería de bitcoin (Shutterstock)