Basic Info
Hello everyone. I'm John, a veteran Web3 reporter. Today, I'll be talking about Bitcoin. Bitcoin is known as the leading cryptocurrency, but I'll start by explaining the basics of why it's called "digital gold." Let's start with an overview of Bitcoin.
Bitcoin is a digital currency proposed in 2008 by a person or group named Satoshi Nakamoto. This currency allows users to transact directly with each other without the need for a central bank or administrator. The Bitcoin network records transactions using a distributed ledger called a blockchain, which makes it highly transparent and difficult to tamper with[1].
The reason why Bitcoin is called "digital gold" is because it has properties similar to gold. Gold exists in limited quantities and is known as an asset that maintains its value against inflation and geopolitical risks. Bitcoin is also scarce, with a total supply of only 2100 million coins. Furthermore, because it is in digital form, it is easy to carry around like physical gold. For these reasons, it has attracted attention as "digital gold" [2].
If you are interested in Bitcoin, start by choosing an exchange. Compare fees and ease of use.click hereUse this guide to find the one that's right for you.
Next, let's briefly review the history of Bitcoin. The first software was released in January 2009, and the first transaction in which Bitcoin was exchanged for a physical product (two pizzas) took place on May 22, 2010. This day is known as "Bitcoin Pizza Day." At the time, 10,000 Bitcoins were worth approximately 4500 yen, but as of 2025-10-06 JST, their value had risen significantly [3].
The fundamental value of Bitcoin is determined by the balance of supply and demand. When many people recognize its value and start buying it, the price rises. On the other hand, when sales increase, the price falls. This mechanism is similar to the traditional gold market. Because Bitcoin is not a legal currency, it has high volatility (the magnitude of price fluctuations), but this is also one of its attractions.
Let's get this straight: Bitcoin, as a digital asset, has the potential to be a scarce and store of value like gold. Next, let's look at the technical aspects.
Technology Pillars & Architecture
Let me explain the technical foundation of Bitcoin in detail. First, let me focus on the blockchain. A blockchain is a chain of transaction data connected in units called blocks. Each block contains information about the previous block, preventing tampering.[1]
Next, there is a mechanism called Proof of Work (PoW). In this system, people called miners compete to add new blocks by performing complex calculations. Miners who perform the calculation correctly receive new Bitcoins as a reward. This process maintains the security of the network. PoW consumes a lot of energy, but it supports the reliability of Bitcoin [2].
Bitcoin's architecture is based on a peer-to-peer (P2P) network. Users connect directly with each other to verify transactions. There is no central server, so there is no single point of failure and it is highly durable. Transactions are securely signed using public key cryptography, which allows for proof of who made a transaction while maintaining anonymity.
Furthermore, the supply of Bitcoin is adjusted through an event called the halving. Approximately every four years, the mining reward is halved. At the 2024 halving, the reward was reduced to 3.125 Bitcoin. This increases Bitcoin’s scarcity and reinforces its image as “digital gold” [3].
To summarize the technical pillars, the blockchain, PoW, and P2P network work together as a trinity. These create immutable value like gold in a digital form. I think you will understand the appeal of Bitcoin better if you understand how it works.
Community & Ecosystem
The Bitcoin community is global. Developers maintain the Bitcoin code as open source, allowing anyone to contribute. It is primarily made up of software called Bitcoin Core, which is regularly updated.[1]
The ecosystem includes wallet providers, exchanges, and mining pools. For example, exchanges like Coinbase and Binance make it easy to buy and sell Bitcoin. Additionally, a Layer 2 solution called the Lightning Network is being developed to improve transaction speeds, thereby increasing Bitcoin's scalability.[4]
The Bitcoin Conference is held every year as a community event. At the 2024 event, thousands of people gathered and discussed ideas. New ideas are born at these events. Bitcoin continues to evolve thanks to the power of the community.
Furthermore, businesses are also adopting Bitcoin. MicroStrategy holds a large amount of Bitcoin and uses it as “digital gold” for asset management.[3] As such, the ecosystem is diverse, spanning individuals and businesses.
Let's think about the importance of the community here. Bitcoin has no central control, so it is based on the trust of participants. Why not take a look at the forums and official documentation and consider joining?
Use-Cases & Integrations
Bitcoin's primary use cases are as a store of value and remittance. Like gold, it is used as a long-term asset. For example, it acts as an inflation hedge. Demand for Bitcoin increased during the inflationary period of 2022 [2].
In terms of remittance, cross-border transactions are easy. It has lower fees and takes less time than traditional bank transfers. It is used in developing countries for remittances from overseas. Bitcoin-based DeFi (Decentralized Finance) applications are also emerging.
An example of integration is payment systems. PayPal and Square support Bitcoin payments. These services have become more widespread since 2021. Furthermore, Bitcoin is also being used in the NFT (non-fungible token) market [5].
Another use case is in hedge fund portfolios, where institutional investors are incorporating Bitcoin as an alternative to gold. As of October 6, 2025, Bitcoin ETFs (exchange-traded funds) have been approved, making them more accessible.[3]
These examples show how Bitcoin is being integrated into everyday life. We recommend trying it out with a small amount first.
Future Vision & Expansion
The future of Bitcoin is one of continued adoption. The roadmap includes improvements to privacy and scalability. For example, the Taproot upgrade will be released in 2021, adding smart contract functionality.[1]
The key to scalability is the evolution of Layer 2 technology. The Lightning Network processes transactions off-chain, improving speed. This makes micropayments a reality.
There is also a growing movement to position Bitcoin as "digital gold." With geopolitical risks expected to increase in 2025, gold prices are rising, and Bitcoin is also moving in tandem with them. [3] In the future, there is a possibility that Bitcoin may coexist with central bank digital currencies (CBDCs).
However, scaling also presents challenges. There is a need to reduce energy consumption. The community is pushing for sustainable mining. Pursuing this vision reveals Bitcoin's potential.
Risks & Limitations
Bitcoin also has risks. First, its price is volatile. Its price can fluctuate dramatically in a short period of time, so investors should be cautious when investing in it. Many people suffered losses during the market crash in 2022 [3].
Second, there is the risk of regulatory restrictions. Governments around the world may restrict Bitcoin. In Japan, the revised Payment Services Act came into effect in 2017, improving security, but there is no international consensus.[4]
There are also security limitations. Wallets can be hacked, and managing private keys is important. There is also the risk of a 51% attack, which could result in network domination, but this is not realistic at a scale like Bitcoin.
From an environmental perspective, the energy consumption of PoW is a concern. As of 2025-10-06 JST, the use of renewable energy is increasing, but the problem has not been completely resolved [2].
Please understand these risks and try to diversify your investments. Bitcoin is attractive, but don't put everything into it.
Expert Commentary
Here are some comments from trusted media. In a CoinDesk article, Jerry O’Shea of Hashdex cited Bitcoin’s reaction to the tariffs as evidence of “digital gold.” The article was published on May 11, 2025, at 11:00 AM JST.[3]
Additionally, an article in Bitcoin Magazine, dated May 16, 2025, points out that calling Bitcoin "digital gold" is an understatement. It emphasizes its revolutionary nature as a currency.[4]
An article in CoinDesk JAPAN discusses the possibility that Bitcoin could reach a new all-time high in tandem with the movement of gold prices. The article was published on 2025-10-02 JST [3].
These comments show that experts have a multifaceted view of Bitcoin's value. We hope you will take these opinions into consideration.
Recent Trends & Roadmap
As a recent trend, an article published on September 15, 2025, compared the similarities between Bitcoin and gold, emphasizing its high resistance to inflation.[2]
Also, on 2025-07-13 JST, BTC Digital called Ethereum "digital gold," which has also been discussed in the context of Bitcoin.[3]
The roadmap includes an update scheduled for 2025, which aims to improve scalability. The most recent update within the last 30 days was a CoinDesk article dated 2025-10-02 JST, reporting on Bitcoin price trends.[3]
Following the trend, Bitcoin is becoming a presence on a par with traditional assets. As of 2025-10-06 JST, the market is booming.
FAQ
How do I buy Bitcoin?
Register on an exchange and purchase with fiat currency. See our beginner's guide.
What is digital gold?
It refers to a digital asset that acts as a store of value, similar to gold. Bitcoin is a prime example.
What is the total amount of Bitcoin?
Limited to 2100 million copies.
Are there any risks?
There are price fluctuations and restrictions, so be careful.
What will the future value be?
It depends on the expansion of recruitment, but there are many positive views.
My Feelings, Then and Now
If you are interested in Bitcoin again, let's compare fees and ease of use.click here.
Why is Bitcoin called "digital gold"? By following the basics of cryptocurrency with verifiable information, we can see that Web3 is not just a fad, but is progressing toward infrastructure development. Going forward, we will be paying close attention to the growth in developer adoption and how the provided tools mature in real-world use.
免責事項: This article is for informational purposes only. Please be sure to conduct your own research (DYOR) before making any investment or strategic decisions.
References
- [1] Official website or official blog — https://bitcoin.org/
- [2] Technical documentation (either Whitepaper/Docs/GitHub) — https://bitcoin.org/bitcoin.pdf
- [3] Trusted Media Article — https://www.coindeskjapan.com/
- [4] Public Announcements, Audits, Reports, etc. (Non-X) — https://bitcoinmagazine.jp/
- [5] Major aggregators — https://diamond.jp/crypto/