- Bitcoin prices have surged close to their all-time high, fueled by increasing investor concerns about the U.S. dollar and renewed interest from major financial players.
- Traders are betting that a potential policy shift from the Federal Reserve will further boost the cryptocurrency market.
- The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is considering allowing in-kind redemptions for bitcoin exchange-traded funds (ETFs), which could make trading more efficient for investors.
- BlackRock leads the market with its $75 billion spot bitcoin ETF and is among several companies seeking SEC approval for in-kind ETF share processes.
- Market analysts cite heavy buying from institutional investors, suggesting bitcoin prices may soon challenge new highs.
Bitcoin prices have climbed sharply in recent weeks, approaching a reported all-time high of $112,000. The rally is driven by growing fears over the stability of the U.S. dollar, rising interest from large investors, and anticipation of policy changes from financial authorities.
Major traders are speculating that an expected shift by the Federal Reserve could accelerate gains in the cryptocurrency market. SEC commissioner Hester Peirce indicated that in-kind redemptions for bitcoin and cryptocurrency ETFs may be available soon, potentially changing how these products are traded.
Currently, spot bitcoin ETFs require cash transactions for buying or redeeming shares. In-kind redemptions, which would allow investors to swap ETF shares directly for the underlying asset (bitcoin), are under review. As Peirce explained on stage at a Bitcoin Policy Institute event, “I can’t prejudge, but we hear that there’s a lot of interest.” According to Bloomberg Intelligence ETF analyst Eric Balchunas, this change is “huge” because it could lower costs and increase speed for traders.
BlackRock, which holds about $75 billion in its IBIT fund, leads the spot bitcoin ETF market. The company has applied for SEC permission for in-kind transactions, with other firms like Fidelity making similar requests. Peirce added that “Those [forms] are going through the process now.”
Spot bitcoin ETFs have taken off since their U.S. approval in January 2024. Funds now hold a combined 1.4 million bitcoin worth $152 billion. BlackRock’s fund accounts for about 3% of the total bitcoin supply. Some observers warn this concentration could increase market influence for a small number of players.
The overall crypto market has reached approximately $3.4 trillion. Market analyst Alex Kuptsikevich from FxPro noted in an email, “The $3.4 trillion to 3.55 trillion range is a turning point, which has activated sellers and prevented the market from consolidating higher.” He also stated that recent price movements are “a sign of buying by professional market participants and link it to strengthening stocks, which increases the likelihood of reaching $110,000 or even $112,000 as early as this week.”
With growing institutional involvement and potential regulatory updates, observers are watching for further developments that could affect the pace and direction of the cryptocurrency market.
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