Why can't there be more than 21 million bitcoins?

3 answers

• May 01, 2022 · 3 years ago
  The maximum supply of bitcoins is limited to 21 million to ensure scarcity and prevent inflation. This restriction is built into the Bitcoin protocol and is a fundamental aspect of its design. By limiting the supply, Bitcoin maintains its value and prevents the devaluation that can occur with unlimited printing of traditional fiat currencies. This scarcity also creates a sense of digital gold, making Bitcoin a store of value.
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• May 01, 2022 · 3 years ago
  The 21 million supply limit of bitcoins is a deliberate decision made by the creator of Bitcoin, Satoshi Nakamoto. It was implemented to mimic the scarcity of precious metals like gold. Just like gold, which has a limited supply in the world, Bitcoin's limited supply makes it valuable and ensures that it cannot be easily manipulated or inflated.
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• May 01, 2022 · 3 years ago
  The reason why there can't be more than 21 million bitcoins is due to the consensus rules of the Bitcoin network. These rules are enforced by the network's participants, known as miners. The supply limit is hardcoded into the Bitcoin software, and any attempt to change it would require a majority consensus from the network. This ensures that the supply remains capped at 21 million and prevents any individual or group from arbitrarily increasing the supply.
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