by “`html
Bitcoin (BTC) has experienced a remarkable upswing, soaring by approximately 13% this week. As of Friday, it approached a new record price of $124,500. This upward momentum has experts like Geoffrey Kendrick, head of digital asset research at Standard Chartered, predicting a swift move to $135,000 is on the horizon.
Understanding Bitcoin’s Current Surge
Kendrick notes that the U.S. government shutdown is exerting a significant influence on market dynamics, a factor that has not been as pivotal in previous shutdowns. During the earlier 2018-2019 government shutdown, Bitcoin operated under a different set of market conditions. Today, BTC is closely correlated with U.S. government risks, particularly as measured by U.S. Treasury term premiums. This relationship indicates that the prevailing uncertainty surrounding the shutdown is serving as a bullish catalyst for Bitcoin’s current rally.
Market Predictions Amid Uncertainty
As traders on the prediction marketplace Polymarket assign more than a 60% probability to the shutdown lasting between 10-29 days, Kendrick forecasts that Bitcoin will continue its upward trajectory throughout this uncertain period. The potential for sustained volatility often attracts investors looking for safe-haven assets, and Bitcoin has increasingly been viewed as such.
ETF Trends and Their Impact on Bitcoin Prices
In addition to market conditions, Kendrick highlights a notable shift in Exchange-Traded Fund (ETF) investor behavior. While gold ETFs have outperformed their Bitcoin counterparts recently, with gold hitting record prices, spot Bitcoin ETF flows are anticipated to catch up. According to Kendrick, $58 billion in net Bitcoin ETF inflows have been recorded so far, with an impressive $23 billion from 2025 alone.
This week, Bitcoin ETFs attracted over $2.25 billion without including Friday’s session. Kendrick estimates that these ETF vehicles could draw in an additional $20 billion in investments by year-end, reinforcing his optimistic Bitcoin price target of $200,000. This potential influx of capital is crucial for maintaining Bitcoin’s upward momentum.
Why Bitcoin Stands Out in Today’s Market
The growing interest in Bitcoin, especially among institutional investors, underlines its status as a digital asset with significant potential. Unlike traditional assets, Bitcoin offers unique benefits, such as decentralization and limited supply, which make it an appealing option for those looking to diversify their portfolios.
How to Invest in Bitcoin
If you’re considering investing in Bitcoin, it’s essential to understand the various avenues available. You can explore options like buying Bitcoin directly through exchanges, or consider investing in a Bitcoin ETF. Each method comes with its own set of advantages and risks, so it’s important to do your research. For step-by-step guides on buying cryptocurrencies, check out our resources on how to buy cryptocurrency, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, and more.
The Broader Implications of Bitcoin’s Rise
The implications of Bitcoin’s potential rise extend beyond just price predictions. A significant increase in Bitcoin’s value could lead to greater mainstream acceptance of cryptocurrencies. As more institutions adopt Bitcoin as part of their investment strategies, it solidifies its position as a viable alternative to traditional assets.
Conclusion: What Lies Ahead for Bitcoin
As the situation unfolds, investors and analysts alike will be closely watching the trends surrounding Bitcoin. The interplay between government policy and market dynamics will likely continue to shape the cryptocurrency landscape. With Standard Chartered’s bullish outlook, now may be the perfect time for investors to reconsider their positions in Bitcoin as it gears up for a potential breakout to $135,000 and beyond.
For further insights into the world of cryptocurrencies, including updates on XRP and market predictions, visit our detailed articles on XRP price predictions and more.
“`
Meta Description: Bitcoin is on the verge of a surge towards $135K, driven by market dynamics and ETF trends, according to Standard Chartered. Explore the factors influencing this bullish outlook, including the impact of the U.S. government shutdown and how to invest in Bitcoin effectively.
