Bitcoin has come tantalizingly close to breaking the $100,000 barrier, fueled by hopes for supportive U.S. regulations and growing interest from institutional investors. The cryptocurrency surged to $98,344 early Friday in New York, after hitting a record $99,505 earlier in the day. This rally has pushed the overall crypto market up by $1 trillion since President-elect Donald Trump’s election victory on November 5.
Regulatory Shifts and Trump’s Support
A pivotal moment in U.S. crypto regulation is on the horizon. SEC Chair Gary Gensler, known for his tough stance on cryptocurrencies, is set to step down on January 20, coinciding with Trump’s inauguration. Industry insiders expect the regulatory environment to become more favorable under Trump, who has voiced strong support for digital assets.
Adding to the optimism, Trump’s transition team is reportedly exploring the creation of a White House role specifically dedicated to digital-asset policy, signaling a direct line of communication between the crypto industry and the incoming administration.
Institutional Momentum on Wall Street
Wall Street is also showing increasing enthusiasm for Bitcoin. Charles Schwab’s incoming CEO, Rick Wurster, announced plans to offer spot crypto trading once regulations permit. Meanwhile, MicroStrategy, a prominent Bitcoin investor, is ramping up its token acquisitions.
The introduction of options tied to Bitcoin exchange-traded funds (ETFs) has further buoyed market sentiment. ETFs investing in Bitcoin have seen net inflows of $6.8 billion since Election Day, bringing their total assets above $100 billion.
Bitcoin’s Role as a Store of Value
For Bitcoin advocates, the $100,000 milestone represents a significant validation of the asset’s potential as a modern store of value. Many see it as a counter to skeptics who criticize Bitcoin for its volatility, alleged ties to crime, and lack of inherent value.
However, not everyone is convinced. UBS Wealth Management’s EMEA Chief Investment Officer, Themis Themistocleous, expressed skepticism on Bloomberg Television, stating, “Bitcoin is not something you can value. It’s very volatile, and there are better hedges like gold.”
A New Era for Crypto Under Trump
Trump’s presidency could mark a turning point for the crypto market. Once a critic of digital assets, Trump has shifted his stance, influenced by significant campaign contributions from crypto firms. He has even hinted at creating a U.S. Bitcoin reserve, although the feasibility of such a plan remains uncertain.
This renewed optimism has overshadowed memories of the 2022 crypto crash, which exposed widespread fraud and risky practices, leading to the collapse of major platforms like FTX. Trump’s promise to establish a more crypto-friendly regulatory framework offers a fresh start for the industry.