What is Bitcoin?

Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes and not financial advice. bunq doesn't give trading advice. Manage crypto at your own risk. Always do your own research or consult a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. Cryptocurrency investments come with risks, including the potential loss of the principal invested. Prices can fluctuate significantly. bunq Crypto is managed through our partner Kraken.

What is Bitcoin?

Bitcoin is digital money you can send, save, or invest. It gives you full control over your finances.

It runs on blockchain, a secure public record that anyone can check but no one can change. Only 21 million Bitcoin will ever exist, which makes it a scarce and valuable digital asset.

It launched in 2009 and gave the world an alternative way to think about money. One that doesn’t play by old rules.

Learn more about the basics of crypto: Here.

Why Do People Care About Bitcoin?

Bitcoin gives you more freedom over your money. Here’s why people are into it:

• Limited Supply: Only 21 million Bitcoin exist

• Global Access: Anyone with an internet connection can use it

• Built-in Security: Protected by tech, not tied to any one company or government

• Total Transparency: Every transaction is recorded publicly on the blockchain

• Freedom and Control: No banks, no middlemen, no waiting

It started as a new way to pay. Now it’s also a powerful tool to invest and store value.

How Bitcoin Works

Bitcoin uses a system called blockchain. Here's how it stays secure and independent:

• Blockchain: A public digital ledger that records every transaction

• Proof of Work: Specialized computers verify each transaction by solving puzzles

• Decentralization: Thousands of computers keep it running without any central authority

Every time you send Bitcoin, the network confirms it and adds it to the blockchain. That’s how it all stays transparent and trustworthy.

Want to dive deeper? Our partner Kraken explains it here.

How to Get Started with Bitcoin

You don’t need to be an expert. Just open your bunq app and get going:

1. Open your bunq app

2. Go to the Crypto tab

3. Choose Bitcoin (BTC)

4. Decide how much you want to invest, starting from just €1

5. Confirm and track your Bitcoin alongside your regular accounts

No new accounts. No complicated setup. Just tap, buy, and go.

How Bitcoin Fits into the Bigger Picture

Bitcoin is part of a bigger shift. People are rethinking how they spend, save, and send money.

• Fast Payments: Send money across borders without delays

• Digital Gold: Hold it as a long-term store of value

• Innovation: Bitcoin opened the door to thousands of new ideas in finance and tech

It’s one of the many ways people today are taking more control over how they manage their money.

Choosing the Right Platform Matters

You can buy, sell, and manage Bitcoin right inside the bunq app. No switching platforms. No hidden steps.

• Start with as little as €1 and trade at your own pace, with fees as low as 0.25% for bunq Elite users.

• Enjoy the safety and security of a bank while exploring crypto. Plus, turn on Safety Shield for extra protection on your profits!

Easy to use. Simple to understand. Fully in your control.

Explore Bitcoin at Your Own Pace

With bunq, you can take small steps, learn as you go, and keep everything in one place. No pressure. No confusion. Just the tools you need to get started with confidence.

Ready to get started? Explore bunq Crypto today!