Who controls the Bitcoin network?
Nobody owns the Bitcoin network much like no one owns the technology behind email. Bitcoin is controlled by all Bitcoin users around the world. While developers are improving the software, they can't force a change in the Bitcoin protocol because all users are free to choose what software and version they use.
Is Bitcoin useful for illegal activities?
The majority of cryptocurrency is not used for criminal activity. According to an excerpt from Chainalysis’ 2021 report, in 2019, criminal activity represented 2.1% of all cryptocurrency transaction volume (roughly $21.4 billion worth of transfers). In 2020, the criminal share of all cryptocurrency activity fell to just 0.34% ($10.0 billion in transaction volume).
Doesn't Bitcoin unfairly benefit early adopters?
Early adopters might have an advantage over the latecomers but I won't consider it as unfair. These people are the ones who laid their trust in Bitcoin during its nascent stage without paying heed to the risks concerned. Now, if they are reaping fruits of their decision, there is no harm in it.
What about Bitcoin and taxes?
The IRS US generally treats gains on cryptocurrency the same way it treats any kind of capital gain. That is, you'll pay ordinary tax rates on short-term capital gains (up to 37 percent in 2021 and 2022, depending on your income) for assets held less than a year.
What determines bitcoin’s price?
The price of Bitcoin is determined in the same way that the value of the U.S. dollar is determined: supply and demand. Like fiat currency, when the demand for bitcoin increases, the price increases. When demand for bitcoin falls, the price falls.
