Bitcoin Mining

Bitcoin mining is the process by which new bitcoins are created and transactions are verified and added to the blockchain network. It involves powerful computers solving complex mathematical problems to secure the Bitcoin network and maintain its decentralized nature. Individuals, companies, and even specialized mining pools participate in this process, known as miners. These miners play a crucial role in ensuring the integrity and security of the Bitcoin network. As the number of bitcoins in circulation is limited, mining also serves as a means of distributing new bitcoins. Miners are rewarded with newly minted bitcoins for their computational efforts and the energy they contribute to the network. Bitcoin mining has evolved over time, with the advent of more efficient hardware and the rise of mining farms. These farms, often operated by companies, leverage economies of scale to maximize their mining capabilities. Additionally, mining protocols and algorithms have been developed to adapt to the increasing computational power and maintain the network's stability. Crypto exchanges facilitate the trading of bitcoins, allowing miners to convert their earned bitcoins into traditional currencies or other cryptocurrencies. This dynamic ecosystem of people, companies, protocols, and blockchain networks collectively contribute to the functioning and growth of Bitcoin and the broader cryptocurrency market.

Videos

Bitcoin Mining's Energy Consumption Debate

How much energy is bitcoin mining really using, and how does it compare to consumption by other industries? Crypto thought-leader Meltem Demirors and Anton Dek of Cambridge discuss crypto's carbon footprint and the proposed solutions to combat it.

May 25, 2021

Policy

Bobby Lee Says Latest China 'Bitcoin Ban' Nothing to Fear and Nothing New

China's government is taking more drastic measures against bitcoin mining. The Ballet CEO thinks this will strengthen the network over time.

By Colin Harper, Blockspace MediaMay 25, 2021

Finance

What Is the Bitcoin Mining Council – And What Should It Become?

Elon Musk and Michael Saylor's plan for a greener bitcoin is light on details so far. Here are some possible approaches, says our columnist.

By David Z. MorrisMay 25, 2021

Bitcoin mining at the CryptoUniverse Farm, in Russia.

Videos

Marathon Digital's CEO Weighs In on Mining Meeting with Musk and Saylor

Marathon Digital Holdings was one of the crypto mining enterprises at Monday's meeting between Elon Musk, Michael Saylor and bitcoin miners. Marathon's CEO Fred Thiel discusses the group's collaboration and his company's interest in becoming one of the most environmentally conscious bitcoin miners in North America.

May 25, 2021

Videos

Marty Bent Asks ‘Why Does Bitcoin Get Picked On?’

During a panel at Consensus 2021, co-founder of Great American Mining and host of “Tales from the Crypt” podcast Marty Bent discusses the misinformed reputation bitcoin miners have with regard to energy consumption.

May 25, 2021

Finance

'This Isn't the Start of OPEC': New Bitcoin Mining Council Just Wants to Promote Greener Practices, Member Says

The Saylor- and Musk-led group won't mess with Bitcoin's code or fungibility, says Argo Blockchain CEO Peter Wall.

By Marc Hochstein, Christie HarkinMay 25, 2021

Policy

3 Things You Need to Know About China's Crypto Crackdown

The crackdown notice from the State Council has sent shockwaves across the crypto industry in China.

By David PanMay 24, 2021

Markets

Bitcoin Rises to Near $40K After Musk Tweets About BTC Mining's 'Promising' Renewable Usage

Elon Musk continues to tweet about bitcoin.

By Muyao ShenMay 24, 2021

Tech

Marty Bent: Bitcoiners Must Fight for Energy Narrative

"There's no energy problem. Bitcoin is the energy solution."

By Benedict GeorgeMay 24, 2021

Videos

Senator Lummis Talks Crypto Regulation, Environmental Standards

Crypto-friendly Senator Cynthia Lummis of Wyoming discusses the need for governmental regulation in the crypto space to encourage responsible innovation. Plus, she shares her thoughts on using renewable energy for bitcoin mining.

May 24, 2021