Frequently asked questions about Bitcoin
Am I too late to Bitcoin?
No, you’re not too late to Bitcoin. Global adoption is still under 5%, and demand is growing among individuals, institutions, and even governments. With a fixed supply of 21 million, Bitcoin remains scarce no matter the price. It’s still early in its adoption curve—and offers long-term value as both a financial asset and a tool for personal freedom. Bottomline: The best time to learn about Bitcoin was yesterday. The second-best time is today. You’re still early.
Who created Bitcoin?
Bitcoin was created by an anonymous person or group using the pseudonym Satoshi Nakamoto. In October 2008, Satoshi published the Bitcoin whitepaper, outlining a decentralized digital currency that solved the double-spending problem without needing a central authority. The first version of the Bitcoin software was released in January 2009. Satoshi continued communicating with early developers and contributors through forums and emails until gradually disappearing between 2010 and 2011. Despite many theories, Satoshi’s true identity remains unknown. Importantly, Satoshi never profited from their invention, leaving over 1 million mined coins untouched. This anonymity helped reinforce Bitcoin’s decentralized nature—no founder, no central figure to control or manipulate it.
Isn’t Bitcoin too volatile?
Bitcoin’s price can swing, but long-term holders (4+ years) have seen strong growth. Volatility is normal in early-stage technologies and may decline as adoption increases. For reference, owning Tesla stock is more volatile than owning Bitcoin.
Is Bitcoin bad for the environment?
Bitcoin does use a lot of energy. However, it actually incentivizes clean energy by monetizing surplus renewable power. Over half of Bitcoin’s energy use comes from sustainable, renewable sources today. It also uses less energy than the legacy banking or gold systems.
Isn’t Bitcoin just used by criminals?
No. Illicit use is a tiny fraction of Bitcoin transactions—smaller than for cash. Blockchain transparency actually makes it easier to track bad actors.
Can’t governments just ban Bitcoin?
Governments can restrict usage, but banning it outright is difficult to impossible because it’s decentralized and global. Countries like China have tried but Bitcoin continues to function as usual.
Will Bitcoin be replaced by another cryptocurrency?
Bitcoin is unlikely to be replaced because it’s the most secure, decentralized, and trusted cryptocurrency. New coins may offer features, but none match Bitcoin’s proven track record as digital money. It is the first and only truly decentralized cryptocurrency. Other projects may be decentralized in some ways, but none match Bitcoin’s level of neutrality, censorship resistance, and lack of centralized control.
Is Bitcoin a Ponzi scheme?
No. A Ponzi scheme requires promised returns from new investors’ money. Bitcoin doesn’t promise returns—its price is driven by open market supply and demand.
Can Bitcoin be hacked?
The Bitcoin network itself has never been hacked, but users can be hacked if they don’t secure their wallets properly.
Is quantum computing a threat to Bitcoin?
Quantum computing could pose a future threat, but current quantum tech isn’t advanced enough to break Bitcoin’s security. Developers are monitoring it and can upgrade protections if needed. When quantum computing becomes a reality, the entire world’s global financial and banking systems will likely be at more risk than Bitcoin.