BITCOIN - A LONG WAY FROM AN EVERYDAY CURRENCY: EXPERT BLOG

Last updated: June 19, 2025, 20:58 | Written by: Marc Andreessen

Is Bitcoin destined to be more than just ""digital gold""?The narrative surrounding Bitcoin has always been multifaceted.Initially envisioned by Satoshi Nakamoto as a peer-to-peer electronic cash system, a revolutionary means of facilitating online payments directly between parties without the need for traditional financial intermediaries, Bitcoins journey has been anything but straightforward.While it has undoubtedly established itself as a leading cryptocurrency and a valuable asset, questions remain about its viability as an everyday currency. Bitcoin - A Long Way From an Everyday Currency: Expert BlogLong and expensive transactions, scalability hurdles, and the emergence of strong competitors in the digital payment space cast a shadow on its potential. What is Bitcoin? According to Satoshi himself, Bitcoin was designed to be a peer-to-peer electronic cash that would allow online payments to be sent between parties without a financial institution. It accomplishes this by broadcasting transactions in an append-only public ledger.Can Bitcoin overcome these challenges and finally fulfill its original purpose of becoming a ubiquitous payment system, or will it remain primarily a store of value? Skip to main content Bitcoin Insider. MenuThis Expert Blog, part of Cointelegraph's new series, dives deep into the current state of Bitcoin and explores its future prospects in the realm of everyday transactions.

The Vision of Bitcoin as Electronic Cash

According to its creator, Satoshi Nakamoto, Bitcoin was conceived as a decentralized digital currency that could enable seamless and permissionless transactions. Long and expensive transactions, strong competitors, scalability issues - does Bitcoin have a chance to finally become a payment system? Expert Blog is Cointelegraph s new series ofThe core concept was to eliminate the need for trust in central authorities, like banks, by leveraging cryptography and a distributed ledger, the blockchain. Bitcoin s global currency status is no longer a distant dream. In 2025, major companies now accept Bitcoin payments, and some countries use it for government transactions. This shift is reshaping international finance, challenging traditional systems, and sparking regulatory debates worldwide.This blockchain serves as a public and immutable record of all Bitcoin transactions, ensuring transparency and security. Expert Take Bitcoin - A Long Way From an Everyday Currency: Expert Blog . Long and expensive transactions, strong competitors, scalability issues - does Bitcoin have a chance to finally become aBitcoin promised a future where individuals could transact directly with each other, bypassing traditional financial institutions and their associated fees and restrictions.

However, the reality of Bitcoins evolution has been more complex. Retailers now accept Bitcoin, making purchases seamless. John Smith, a fintech expert, stated, Bitcoin enhances payment efficiency. Businesses benefit from lower transaction fees and faster settlements. This trend encourages wider adoption and everyday use of Bitcoin in commerce. Environmental Sustainability of Bitcoin MiningWhile the underlying technology has proven remarkably resilient, its practical application as an everyday currency has faced significant obstacles.

Challenges to Bitcoins Everyday Use

Several factors hinder Bitcoins widespread adoption as a common medium of exchange. Whether Bitcoin will ever become a widely used everyday currency depends on several factors. Technological solutions like the Lightning Network could help make transactions faster and cheaper. Improved user-friendliness of wallets and simpler payment tools could also contribute to mainstream adoption.These challenges include:

Transaction Speed and Cost: Bitcoin transactions can be slow and expensive, especially during periods of high network congestion. Expert Blog a nova s rie de artigos da Cointelegraph dos l deres da ind stria cripto. Ela abrange de tudo, da tecnologia Blockchain e criptomoedas at a regulamenta o ICO e an lise de investimentos. Se voc quiser se tornar nosso autor convidado e ser publicado na Cointelegraph, mande-nos um e-mail para .Confirmations can take several minutes, or even hours, and transaction fees can fluctuate wildly, sometimes reaching prohibitively high levels.
Scalability Issues: The Bitcoin blockchain has a limited capacity, which restricts the number of transactions it can process per second. BLOG. Deep Dive Into Breez 2025 Lightning Network Report: Bitcoin As Everyday Currency. For the untrained eye, Bitcoin is just a store of value, but hard data tells a different story. Join us as we explore the Breez report, the current Lightning Network ecosystem, and analyze the most interesting companies using it and building on it.This scalability bottleneck can lead to delays and increased fees, making Bitcoin less practical for everyday purchases.
Volatility: Bitcoins price volatility is a significant barrier to its adoption as a stable currency. Why Bitcoin is Gaining Popularity; Bitcoin in Retail; Online Gambling and Bitcoin; Bitcoin, initially seen as a speculative investment, is now used for everyday transactions. As more businesses and consumers embrace this change, Bitcoin is actively integrating into the global financial system. Why Bitcoin is Gaining PopularityThe rapid fluctuations in value make it difficult for businesses to price goods and services in Bitcoin and for consumers to trust it as a reliable store of value for everyday transactions.
Competition from Other Cryptocurrencies: The cryptocurrency landscape is crowded with alternative digital currencies, many of which offer faster transaction speeds, lower fees, or greater scalability than Bitcoin. Unlike physical currency, Bitcoin does not have a central bank fund. It truly has traveled a long way from being an internet experiment to becoming an asset worldwide. Henry is an expertThese competitors pose a challenge to Bitcoins dominance in the payment space.
User Experience: While improving, Bitcoins user experience can still be complex and intimidating for newcomers. 99 Bitcoins is the largest information source for non technical newbies including Bitcoin basics, Bitcoin trading tips and techniques and even information about mining Bitcoins. 34 -2 RankSetting up a wallet, understanding transaction fees, and ensuring the security of private keys can be daunting for non-technical users.

Solutions and Innovations: Paving the Way for Everyday Use

Despite these challenges, the Bitcoin community is actively developing solutions and innovations to enhance its functionality as a payment system.Some of the key advancements include:

The Lightning Network: A Layer-Two Solution

The Lightning Network is a layer-two scaling solution built on top of the Bitcoin blockchain. Long and expensive transactions, strong competitors, scalability issues - does Bitcoin have a chance to finally become a payment system? Expert Blog is Cointelegraph s new series of articles by crypto industry leaders. It covers everything from Blockchain technology and cryptocurrencies to ICO regulation and investment analysis. If you want to become our guest author and MoreIt enables faster and cheaper transactions by allowing users to create payment channels between themselves. However, a groundbreaking report co-authored by Danny Stagg of Breez and Dan O Prey of 1A1z reveals that bitcoin is rapidly transforming into something far more dynamic: an everyday currency that s reshaping how we transact in the digital age.Transactions within these channels are settled instantly and with minimal fees. Bitcoin - a long way from an everyday currency: expert blog. Bitcoin - a long way from an everyday currency: expert blog. AboutOnly the opening and closing of the channels are recorded on the main Bitcoin blockchain, reducing congestion and improving scalability. What is Bitcoin?Bitcoin (BTC) is the first successful decentralized cryptocurrency. It uses peer-to-peer technology to operate without the need for a central authority behind it. Bitcoin transactions are registered on open-source software.Bitcoin uses blockchain technology to ensure transactions are secure and censorship-resistance.The Lightning Network is considered by many to be the most promising path towards making Bitcoin a viable option for everyday microtransactions.

Taproot and Schnorr Signatures: Enhancing Scalability and Privacy

Taproot is a recent upgrade to the Bitcoin protocol that introduces several improvements, including Schnorr signatures.Schnorr signatures are more efficient and private than the previous ECDSA signatures, allowing for smaller transaction sizes and increased scalability. La preocupaci n con esto es que al eliminar el valor de utilidad de Bitcoin, los mayores flujos de capital de origen fiduciario en monedas m s tiles tambi n podr an alentar una reducci n en la relevancia de Bitcoin y, por lo tanto, causar el efecto contrario. Parece que con su cuota de mercado menguante, esto ya podr a estar sucediendo.Taproot also enhances privacy by making complex smart contracts appear as regular transactions on the blockchain.

Sidechains: Expanding Functionality and Experimentation

Sidechains are separate blockchains that are linked to the main Bitcoin blockchain. In countries facing extreme currency devaluation, Bitcoin is not just rising. It s becoming essential. In places like Argentina, Nigeria, and Venezuela, local currencies have collapsed. People in those countries are using Bitcoin to preserve wealth and move money across borders when their own systems have failed them. Even in more stableThey allow for experimentation with new features and functionalities without affecting the core Bitcoin protocol.Sidechains can be used to implement faster transaction speeds, greater privacy features, or smart contract capabilities.

Bitcoin ETFs and Increased Accessibility

The approval of Bitcoin ETFs (Exchange Traded Funds) has opened up Bitcoin to a much wider range of investors, particularly retail investors who may have been hesitant to directly purchase and store Bitcoin.These ETFs provide a regulated and accessible way to gain exposure to Bitcoins price movements, further legitimizing it as an asset class.

Bitcoin in 2025: A Glimpse into the Future

Predicting the future of any technology is inherently difficult, but we can extrapolate based on current trends and developments. 它改變了我的生活，我也遇到了很多人。但是我想花一點時間來面對一下比特幣的現實面，尤其是在經歷了第一手價值今年的大幅上漲以及隨之而來的普羅大眾的興趣之後，其中很多人都急於購買這個貨幣，儘管他們根本不知道它到底是什麼。什麼是Bitcoin?Let's consider a hypothetical scenario for Bitcoin in 2025:

Increased Adoption by Businesses: More and more businesses, both online and brick-and-mortar, are likely to accept Bitcoin as a form of payment.This trend is driven by the potential for lower transaction fees, faster settlements (especially through the Lightning Network), and access to a global customer base.
Government Use Cases: In countries facing economic instability or currency devaluation, governments may explore using Bitcoin for certain transactions, such as cross-border payments or asset storage. Bitcoin as everyday money For Steven Geller, Head of Bitcoin Engineering at Block, the narrative has already started to shift. Over the next 2 3 years, the big story for bitcoin is itsThis could provide a more stable and secure alternative to traditional financial systems.
Lightning Network Dominance: The Lightning Network has matured into a robust and user-friendly payment system, enabling instant and near-free Bitcoin transactions for everyday purchases.
Regulatory Clarity: Clearer regulations surrounding Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies are established in many jurisdictions, providing greater certainty for businesses and investors.

However, it's also important to acknowledge potential challenges:

Continued Volatility: Bitcoins price volatility may persist, hindering its adoption as a stable medium of exchange for everyday transactions.
Competition from Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs): Central banks around the world are exploring the issuance of their own digital currencies, which could compete directly with Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies.
Security Risks: Despite advancements in security, Bitcoin wallets and exchanges remain vulnerable to hacking and theft.

The Breez Report: Bitcoin Payments: From Digital Gold to Everyday Currency

A groundbreaking report co-authored by Danny Stagg of Breez and Dan O Prey of 1A1z, titled ""Bitcoin Payments: From Digital Gold to Everyday Currency,"" provides compelling evidence that Bitcoin is indeed evolving into a more dynamic medium of exchange.The report highlights the transformative power of Bitcoin payments and explores how they are reshaping the way we transact in the digital age. The live Bitcoin price today is $104,364.35 USD with a 24-hour trading volume of $50,255,072,425.45 USD. We update our BTC to USD price in real-time.It emphasizes that Bitcoins global currency status is no longer a distant dream but a rapidly approaching reality.

This report supports the idea that the Lightning Network plays a crucial role in Bitcoins evolution towards an everyday currency. Expert Blog is Cointelegraph rsquo;s new series of articles by crypto industry leaders. It covers everything from Blockchain technology and cryptocurrencies to ICO regulation and investment analysis. If you want to become our guest author and get published on Cointelegraph, please send us an email at [email protected]By enabling instant and low-cost transactions, the Lightning Network addresses the scalability and transaction fee issues that have historically hindered Bitcoins adoption for smaller payments.

Why Bitcoin is Gaining Popularity as a Payment Method

Several factors contribute to Bitcoins increasing popularity as a payment method:

Lower Transaction Fees: Compared to traditional payment systems, Bitcoin can offer significantly lower transaction fees, especially for international payments.
Faster Settlements: Bitcoin transactions, particularly those conducted through the Lightning Network, can settle much faster than traditional bank transfers.
Global Accessibility: Bitcoin is a global currency that can be used by anyone with an internet connection, regardless of their location or access to traditional banking services.
Privacy and Security: Bitcoin transactions offer a higher degree of privacy and security compared to traditional payment methods.
Decentralization: Bitcoin is decentralized, meaning it is not controlled by any single entity, such as a government or financial institution.

Examples of Bitcoin Use in Everyday Transactions

While widespread adoption is still in progress, examples of Bitcoin being used in everyday transactions are becoming increasingly common:

Online Retail: Numerous online retailers now accept Bitcoin as a form of payment for goods and services.
Travel Bookings: Several travel agencies and airlines allow customers to book flights and hotels using Bitcoin.
Restaurants and Cafes: Some restaurants and cafes accept Bitcoin payments, often through mobile payment apps that integrate with the Lightning Network.
Freelance Services: Many freelancers and independent contractors accept Bitcoin as payment for their services.

Expert Perspectives on Bitcoins Future

Experts hold diverse opinions on Bitcoins future as an everyday currency:

Steven Geller, Head of Bitcoin Engineering at Block: Believes the narrative around Bitcoin is shifting towards its utility as a payment system.
Michael Saylor, Founder of MicroStrategy: Views Bitcoin primarily as a store of value and ""only money"".
John Smith, Fintech Expert: States that Bitcoin enhances payment efficiency, benefiting businesses through lower transaction fees and faster settlements.

Environmental Considerations of Bitcoin Mining

The environmental impact of Bitcoin mining is a valid concern that needs to be addressed.Bitcoin mining consumes significant amounts of electricity, and if this electricity is generated from fossil fuels, it can contribute to carbon emissions.However, the Bitcoin mining industry is increasingly transitioning to renewable energy sources, such as solar, wind, and hydro power. After that, he believed, Bitcoin had a lot of space for upward movement, expecting it to catch up with gold in terms of price growth. Saylor calls Bitcoin only money Michael Saylor, founder of Strategy and a Bitcoin permabull, has published a photograph of himself meeting the Winklevoss twins at the recent Bitcoin 2025 annual event.Furthermore, researchers are exploring more energy-efficient mining algorithms and technologies.

What is Bitcoin?Addressing Common Questions

Let's address some frequently asked questions about Bitcoin:

What exactly is Bitcoin?

Bitcoin (BTC) is a decentralized digital currency that uses peer-to-peer technology to operate without the need for a central authority, such as a bank or government. Bitcoin changes this paradigm entirely, offering a way to move money electronically at a fraction of the cost. For instance, transferring hundreds of millions of dollars on-chain can cost less than $10, while smaller bitcoin payments using Lightning can settle in real-time for fractions of a cent.Bitcoin transactions are recorded on a public ledger called the blockchain.

How does Bitcoin work?

Bitcoin transactions are verified by a network of computers (miners) through a process called mining.Miners compete to solve complex mathematical problems, and the first miner to solve the problem adds a new block of transactions to the blockchain. Breez and 1A1z have unveiled a groundbreaking new report titled Bitcoin Payments: From Digital Gold to Everyday Currency, exploring the transformative power of bitcoin payments on the way people move money. The report examines how bitcoin, long considered digital gold, is returning to an everyday medium of exchange, unlocking newIn return, the miner receives a reward in the form of newly created Bitcoins.

Is Bitcoin secure?

Bitcoin is generally considered to be secure due to its decentralized nature and the cryptographic security of the blockchain. Long and expensive transactions, strong competitors, scalability issues - does Bitcoin have a chance to finally become a payment system? Please note, this is a STATIC archive of website cointelegraph.com from, cach3.com does not collect or store any user information, there is no phishing involved.However, Bitcoin wallets and exchanges are vulnerable to hacking and theft, so it's important to take precautions to protect your Bitcoins.

How can I buy Bitcoin?

You can buy Bitcoin on various cryptocurrency exchanges, such as Coinbase, Binance, and Kraken.You can also buy Bitcoin through peer-to-peer marketplaces or from Bitcoin ATMs.

How can I use Bitcoin to pay for goods and services?

You can use Bitcoin to pay for goods and services at businesses that accept Bitcoin as a form of payment.You can also use Bitcoin to send money to other people.

Conclusion: Bitcoins Journey Continues

While Bitcoin may still be a long way from becoming a truly ubiquitous everyday currency in the traditional sense, significant progress is being made. Cash App is one of the most beginner-friendly ways to send Bitcoin. If you already use it to send money to friends or pay for everyday expenses, you ll feel right at home using it to send crypto. The interface is clean, the process is fast, and most importantly, it supports real Bitcoin transfers to external wallets.The development and adoption of layer-two solutions like the Lightning Network, coupled with advancements in scalability and privacy, are paving the way for faster, cheaper, and more user-friendly Bitcoin transactions. In January 2025 the SEC approved 11 exchange traded funds to invest in Bitcoin. There were already a number of Bitcoin ETFs available in other countries, but this change allowed them to be available to retail investors in the United States. This opens the way for a much wider range of investors to be able to add some exposure to cryptocurrencyAs more businesses and consumers embrace Bitcoin, and as regulations become clearer, its role in the global financial system is likely to continue to expand.Whether it becomes the primary currency for daily purchases or a niche payment option alongside other digital and traditional currencies, Bitcoins impact on the future of finance is undeniable.Its journey from internet experiment to a worldwide asset is a testament to the power of decentralized technology, and its story is far from over.The future will depend on continued innovation, addressing environmental concerns, and fostering user-friendly adoption to unlock the full potential of Bitcoin as an everyday currency.