In a surprising turn of events, Bitcoin, the world’s leading cryptocurrency, has defied the odds by reaching a two-month high despite the US dollar’s resurgence in 2023. This remarkable rally has left many crypto enthusiasts both puzzled and hopeful about the digital currency’s future, as highlighted by Santiment, a crypto analyst.
📈💸 With the #dollar returning around a 2023 high, this rise in fiat value has normally had a negative impact on #crypto. But at least with #Bitcoin, a 2-month high was still able to be hit today. Digital gold and physical gold are moving up in tandem. https://t.co/OJBmNP9aQF pic.twitter.com/EKvrJzKqXs
— Santiment (@santimentfeed) October 19, 2023
The dollar’s strengthening usually exerts downward pressure on cryptocurrencies, as they are often seen as alternative assets. However, Bitcoin seems to be charting its own course this time, surging past the $29,000 mark overnight as Chinese markets opened. It has continued its upward trajectory, showing a 2% increase, with traders now speculating about a potential retest of resistance at $32,000.
The bullish trend is being ascribed by some traders to a shift in sentiment, largely propelled by the increasing excitement surrounding a potential Bitcoin spot exchange-traded fund (ETF). In a notable move, Grayscale, a significant player in the cryptocurrency investment sector, has recently submitted a fresh ETF application to the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).This move follows their court victory in August, adding to the growing optimism surrounding Bitcoin ETFs.
On the other hand, BlackRock, another financial giant, has adjusted its ETF application to emphasize that Bitcoin remains unregulated. This adjustment is viewed as a signal of the SEC’s commitment to refining and potentially approving cryptocurrency-related ETF applications.
While the timing of the SEC’s decision remains uncertain, it’s worth noting that they are legally required to make a decision by January. However, some market insiders speculate that approval might come even before the Christmas holidays, injecting further excitement into the crypto space.
The SEC’s recent decision to drop its case against Ripple executives Brad Garlinghouse and Chris Larsen over the sale of XRP securities has raised eyebrows. The move came without the provision of a clear explanation, leading many to speculate that it signifies a potentially less aggressive regulatory stance.
Beyond the cryptocurrency realm, macroeconomic factors are also in play. Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell’s recent statements imply that an interest rate hike is not imminent, providing additional support for Bitcoin’s surge.
Inflation is currently stabilized just below 4%, which remains a concern. Additionally, US President Joe Biden’s proposal to allocate $70 billion in aid to Ukraine and Israel adds geopolitical complexity to the equation.
Tensions in the Middle East, with a focus on potential involvement from Hezbollah and regional actors, could impact energy costs and global stability. As Bitcoin’s price continues to rise, its correlation with the Chinese Yuan (CNY) crossing the 7.3 to the dollar is noteworthy. Deleveraging in China and Middle East tensions may influence the cryptocurrency market.
Lastly, the US Treasury’s use of the Patriot Act to target crypto mixers is raising concerns, with experts noting that the role of crypto in financing terrorism may be exaggerated. Bitcoin’s surprising ascent in the face of a strengthening dollar and the anticipation of a Bitcoin ETF has caught the attention of traders and investors alike. As it continues its upward trajectory, market dynamics and geopolitical events will undoubtedly play pivotal roles in shaping its future performance.
