what is a genesis block 
a genesis block is the first block on a blockchain the genesis block is the first block on the bitcoin blockchain the bottom linethe genesis block is the first block on the bitcoin blockchain but it is also a term that can be used to refer to the first block on any blockchain it is special to cryptocurrency fans because it signifies an attempt to transition away from the current financial system which is full of third parties chipping away at people s finances and causing widespread problems through corrupt practices the comments opinions and analyses expressed on investopedia are for informational purposes online read our warranty and liability disclaimer for more info 