- Bitcoin has grown from being worthless in 2009 to having a market capitalization of nearly $900 billion in just 15 years, defying critics and becoming a top 10 global asset.
- Bitcoin ATMs were introduced in 2013 to allow exchanging local currencies for Bitcoin; growth was initially slow but there are now nearly 34,000 active globally.
- Over 825,000 Bitcoin blocks have been mined, recording millions of transactions on the blockchain, and adoption is increasing despite restrictions in some countries.
On January 3, 2009, the mysterious Satoshi Nakamoto mined the first Bitcoin block, known as the genesis block. In the 15 years since, Bitcoin has overcome critics, haters, and agitators to become one of the top ten most valuable assets in the world.
Bitcoin ATM Network Growth
Bitcoin ATMs were first introduced in October 2013 to allow people to exchange local currencies for Bitcoin. While growth was slow initially, thousands of crypto ATMs were installed annually as Bitcoin adoption increased. At its peak in 2021, nearly 40,000 Bitcoin ATMs were active globally. As of January 2023, nearly 34,000 remain in operation.
Nearly 1 Million Bitcoin Blocks Mined
15 years after its creation, Bitcoin miners continue to validate transactions and mine new blocks for rewards. Over 825,000 blocks have been mined, recording millions of transactions permanently on the blockchain. Neither the miners nor investors show any signs of stopping.
Mainstream Bitcoin Adoption
Despite strong resistance, people in countries with hyperinflation first realized Bitcoin’s potential as the future of money. El Salvador made Bitcoin legal tender, giving confidence to other countries to reconsider it. However, countries like China still restrict its use given Bitcoin’s ability to provide freedom from centralization.
Bitcoin’s Price Journey from Worthless to Priceless
Defying odds, Bitcoin now boasts a nearly $900 billion market capitalization accumulated in just 15 years. In 2010, 10,000 BTC bought 2 pizzas. Today 1 BTC could start a pizzeria. Bitcoin can now purchase real estate, vacations, concert tickets, and more without involving banks. It ranks 9th among the world’s most valuable assets.
Conclusion
Few could have predicted Bitcoin’s journey from worthless to nearly priceless. But its resilience proves the faith placed in it by believers. As global adoption increases, Bitcoin continues to change finance and empower individuals worldwide.
