Bitcoin

Bitcoin is the pioneer of blockchains and cryptocurrencies, introduced in a white paper released in 2008 by an apparently pseudonymous person or group of people known as Satoshi Nakamoto. The document described a peer-to-peer method of transferring money without the use of financial institutions. The cryptocurrency known as bitcoin or BTC debuted in 2009. Transactions are recorded on a public ledger (a blockchain) by entities known as miners who engage in process called proof-of-work. Miners are rewarded for doing that by getting newly minted bitcoin. Some proponents view BTC as an alternative to fiat currencies and a hedge against inflation. Bitcoin has inspired the creation of numerous other cryptocurrencies and blockchain projects.

DISCLOSURE: This text was written with the assistance of AI, then reviewed by a person

Markets

Falling Bitcoin-Ether Spread is Music to Altcoin Traders' Ears

The funding rate spread has collapsed, indicating increased appetite by traders to speculate further out on the risk curve.

By Omkar GodboleFeb 28, 2024

Policy

Man Who Laundered Billions in Bitcoins Says Bitcoin Fog Was a Help: Bloomberg

Ilya Lichtenstein, who pleaded guilty in the Bitfinex case last year, is now a U.S. witness who testified about his use of Bitcoin Fog and other mixers to hide loot.

By Jesse HamiltonFeb 27, 2024

Ilya Lichtenstein, who pleaded guilty with wife Heather Morgan in the plundering of Bitfinex, is now testifying against the mixer he used. (Alexandria Sheriff's Office)

Finance

Bitcoin-Focused Payments App Strike Rolls Out Services to Africa

"Many countries on the continent are grappling with high inflation rates and devaluing currencies, making it challenging for people to save and build wealth," the firm said in a blog post.

By Krisztian SandorFeb 27, 2024