Bitcoin has achieved a historic milestone, surpassing $100,000 for the first time as retail and institutional investors fuel a cryptocurrency rally tied to optimism surrounding Donald Trump’s anticipated return to the White House.
The flagship cryptocurrency peaked at $103,000 late Wednesday before stabilising at $102,900. This surge marks a 45% gain since election day, driven by expectations of a more favourable regulatory environment under Trump’s leadership.
The rally has also buoyed other cryptocurrencies, with market sentiment shifting sharply toward risk-on trading strategies.
Retail interest in bitcoin has reached its highest level since 2020, according to analytics firm CryptoQuant, as small-scale investors flock to capitalise on the rally. On the institutional side, exchange-traded funds (ETFs) focused on bitcoin and ethereum have experienced strong inflows, signalling confidence among larger players.
Valentin Fournier, a BRN analyst, noted, “Institutional inflows remain robust, underscoring growing confidence in digital assets.”
Crossing the $100,000 threshold pushes bitcoin into uncharted price discovery territory, raising the prospect of further short-term gains. However, Fournier urged caution, pointing to the Fear and Greed Index, which now exceeds 80—an indication of “extreme greed.”
“With such strong market enthusiasm, investors should brace for increased volatility and the possibility of profit-taking,” Fournier warned.
Bitcoin’s historic rise signals growing acceptance and confidence in digital currencies, with both retail and institutional investors increasingly viewing them as viable assets. As market participants await Trump’s policy direction, the cryptocurrency sector appears poised for heightened activity and scrutiny.
For now, the cryptocurrency world celebrates a milestone that reaffirms bitcoin’s dominance in the digital asset space while keeping a wary eye on market dynamics.