Few technologies have the ability to stir passionate online debate and baffle the vast majority of the population as bitcoin. The virtual currency has been a constant source of interest and confusion since it thrust itself into the mainstream more than five years ago.
But interest in Bitcoin is now greater than ever, with its sudden crash from $20,000 to $10,000 - a 50 per cent drop in little over a month - renewing a surge of trading, speculation and worry.
But why? Is Bitcoin the future of currency? Is it currency at all? What is it for? And should I buy some? Read on to have your questions answered.
What is Bitcoin?
Bitcoin is a digital currency created in 2009 that uses decentralised technology for secure payments and storing money that doesn't require banks or people's names. It was announced on an email circular as a way to liberate money in a similar way to how the internet made information...