This week, Bitcoin celebrates its 17th anniversary — transforming from a niche experiment to a cornerstone of global finance. Released by Satoshi Nakamoto on October 31, 2008, the Bitcoin whitepaper established the groundwork for a decentralized digital currency devoid of intermediaries.
Seventeen years later, its influence extends across governments, major corporations, and institutional investors.
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How Bitcoin Evolved from Rebellion
Once regarded as “money for hackers,” Bitcoin is now included in the portfolios of some of the world’s largest financial players.
BlackRock alone possesses roughly 3% of Bitcoin’s circulating supply, while publicly traded companies collectively own over 725,000 BTC.
Another 300,000 BTC is held by private entities, showcasing the cryptocurrency’s significant integration into corporate finance.
Sebastián Serrano, CEO and co-founder of Ripio, noted that Bitcoin’s growth has validated its early supporters.
“When we launched Ripio in 2013, we anticipated significant impact — and time has confirmed this,” he remarked. “Seventeen years after the whitepaper, the outcomes are irrefutable.”
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Governments Join the Movement
Bitcoin is now part of national treasuries, with approximately 31% of its supply held by centralized entities, including governments, ETFs, and public companies, signaling clear institutionalization.
El Salvador continues to recognize Bitcoin as legal tender, reinforcing its role beyond mere speculation.
Michael Rihani, head of crypto at Nubank, stated that Bitcoin’s role in mainstream finance confirms its legitimacy as an asset class.
“This transition connects traditional and digital finance, broadening access and enhancing credibility,” he explained.
Brazil’s B3 exchange now features Bitcoin ETFs and BDRs related to global funds, offering traditional investors fresh opportunities.
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Bitcoin has also made its way into the political scene. Former US President Donald Trump — who was previously a critic — now accepts Bitcoin donations and aims to position the US as a leader in mining and blockchain innovation.
In Argentina, President Javier Milei endorses Bitcoin as “money returning to the people,” serving as a safeguard against inflation and financial mismanagement.
Nayib Bukele of El Salvador has taken a further step by declaring it legal tender and establishing state reserves.
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These actions illustrate that Bitcoin has transitioned from a tech topic to a political symbol.
For reform-minded leaders, it embodies sovereignty and financial liberty. For regulators, it signifies a disruptor to be either integrated or controlled.
What’s in Store for Bitcoin?
Trading at around $110,000, Bitcoin stands at a crossroads: consolidation or evolution. Institutional adoption continues to rise, alongside innovation.
Technological advancements like the Lightning Network and tokenization on Bitcoin’s base layer could transform global value transfer.
All signs indicate one conclusion — Bitcoin is the most precious and transparent asset of the last decade, with a capped supply of 21 million coins.
