Bitcoin nears $94K, eyes breakout as gold stalls; ETF flows surge

  • Bitcoin rallied to $93,600 (+12.2% weekly) despite mixed US-China trade signals.
  • US Spot Bitcoin ETFs saw nearly $1.3 billion net inflows this week, signaling strong institutional demand.
  • Analysts suggest Bitcoin is decoupling from risk assets, acting more like “digital gold.”

The cryptocurrency market showed renewed vigor recently, with Bitcoin pushing towards $94,000, although the rally encountered some friction Wednesday following cautious remarks from US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent regarding the timeline for a comprehensive US-China trade deal.

Despite this, strong institutional inflows and a potential divergence from traditional risk assets are fueling speculation about Bitcoin’s next major move.

Bitcoin (BTC) climbed 2.6% over the preceding 24 hours and logged a 12.2% gain over the past seven days, reaching levels near $93,600 – territory not seen since early March.

While Bitcoin led the charge, broader crypto market strength was evident.

The CoinDesk 20 index, tracking top digital assets (excluding stablecoins, memecoins, and exchange tokens), rose 4.2% over 24 hours.

Altcoins like Sui (SUI) posted impressive 24% gains, with Cardano (ADA) and Chainlink (LINK) also advancing around 7%.

Crypto-related equities, after a strong start, saw gains moderate throughout the day.

Mining firms Bitdeer (BTDR) and Core Scientific (CORZ) pared back double-digit advances to close up roughly 4%, while Coinbase (COIN) and MicroStrategy (MSTR) finished with gains of 2.1% and 1.4%, respectively.

The backdrop for this rally included seemingly conflicting signals on the trade front. Earlier in the week, President Donald Trump suggested tariffs on China would “come down substantially” post-deal.

However, Secretary Bessent tempered expectations on Wednesday, stating no unilateral offer to cut tariffs had been made and predicting a full resolution would likely take “two to three years to achieve.”

Decoupling debate: Bitcoin mirrors gold amid uncertainty?

This persistent trade uncertainty, paradoxically, might be contributing to Bitcoin’s strength relative to traditional markets. Some analysts believe the market may be moving past the initial shock of tariff threats.

“Markets priced in the initial tough stances and tariff threats, which kept a lid on risk appetite over the past two months,” Paul Howard, director at crypto trading firm Wincent, told CoinDesk.

“History suggests that once the opening volleys pass, more constructive developments and easing volatility typically follow,” he added, suggesting this environment could ultimately support risk assets like crypto.

The narrative of Bitcoin acting as “digital gold” – a hedge against macroeconomic uncertainty and potential currency debasement – appears to be gaining traction.

Institutional conviction: ETF flows surge past $1 billion this week

Underscoring the renewed interest, particularly from larger players, has been the significant turnaround in flows for US-listed spot Bitcoin ETFs.

According to SoSoValue data, these funds have attracted nearly $1.3 billion in net inflows so far this week alone, marking their strongest daily inflow on Tuesday since mid-January.

“This [crypto] rally isn’t retail-driven hype—it’s institutional capital positioning ahead of what many see as a new monetary and political regime,” asserted Matt Mena, crypto research strategist at digital asset manager 21Shares.

“More investors are turning to it not just as a speculative asset, but as a flight to safety amid rising uncertainty across traditional markets.”

Gold pauses, bitcoin poised? Historical patterns eyed

Adding another layer to the bullish case is the recent performance of traditional gold.

After a remarkable run that saw it surge 35% over four months to breach $3,500 per ounce, gold prices pulled back Wednesday, down roughly 2.5% to around $3,290.

Some analysts interpret this stalling action in gold, following its massive rally, as potentially bullish for Bitcoin.

Charles Edwards, founder of Capriole Investments, highlighted this dynamic.

Posting a chart on X (formerly Twitter), he noted that historically, Bitcoin’s major upward moves have often followed significant gold rallies, albeit with a lag of a few months.

“Bitcoin is showing significant strength,” Edwards stated.

“We have decoupled from risk assets and the market is now starting to front-run the fact that bitcoin is digital gold. If risk assets were to decay further from here, BTC is the ultimate QE [quantitative easing] hedge.”

Eyes on $95K: resistance looms despite bullish momentum

Despite the strong price action and positive indicators, technical hurdles remain.

Matt Mena from 21Shares cautioned that Bitcoin faces near-term resistance around the critical $95,000 level.

He suggested a potential pullback could occur before a decisive breakout above this zone. Successfully clearing $95,000 is seen by many traders as key to unlocking further significant upside potential.

The combination of renewed institutional demand, the compelling “digital gold” narrative gaining traction as traditional gold pauses, and supportive historical patterns suggests Bitcoin may be gearing up for its next major leg higher, with the $95,000 level serving as the immediate gateway.

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Tesla’s Bitcoin holdings top $1B again, but stock drops 41% in 2025

  • EV sales fell 13%, production down 16%, causing 20% segment decline.
  • Bitcoin holdings valued over $1 billion as BTC hits $93,000.
  • Tesla holds 11,509 BTC with no transactions this quarter.

Tesla has reaffirmed its strategic bet on Bitcoin despite disappointing quarterly earnings, a plunging stock price, and slowing electric vehicle sales.

As of March 31, 2025, the company holds 11,509 Bitcoin, currently valued at just over $1 billion after a 6% rise in the cryptocurrency’s price to $93,000.

This development comes at a time when Tesla is under pressure from shareholders following a 41% decline in its stock price this year and growing scrutiny around CEO Elon Musk’s political involvement.

Revenue down, deliveries slump

Tesla’s Q1 2025 revenue reached $19.34 billion, falling short of Wall Street’s projection of $21.37 billion.

The shortfall is largely tied to the company’s main business—electric vehicles—which saw a 13% drop in deliveries and a 16% dip in production.

This led to a 20% year-over-year decline in revenue from its core segment.

Tesla’s declining delivery numbers mirror broader industry challenges, but some of the headwinds are unique to the company.

Ongoing protests and concerns around Musk’s dual focus—spanning political appointments and social media commentary—have amplified investor unease.

Despite this, Tesla made no changes to its Bitcoin position during the quarter, signalling a clear intention to maintain it as a long-term asset.

Bitcoin strategy remains unchanged

Tesla’s current holding of 11,509 BTC was first acquired in February 2021, with about 75% of it sold off in July 2022.

The remainder has been left untouched.

At the end of 2024, this stash was worth approximately $1.076 billion. By the close of Q1 2025, Bitcoin’s 12% decline had reduced the value to around $951 million.

However, with Bitcoin prices rebounding to $93,000, the portfolio’s worth has climbed back above the $1 billion mark.

New rules introduced by the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) require companies to mark their digital asset holdings to market value at the end of each quarter.

Under this regime, Tesla previously recorded a $600 million unrealised gain in Q4 2024 due to Bitcoin’s rally.

Tesla’s decision not to buy or sell any Bitcoin in Q1 2025 signals a “HODL” stance—mirroring the strategy of other corporate holders like Strategy and Metaplanet, which also treat Bitcoin as a hedge or strategic reserve.

Musk shifts from DOGE to Tesla

Elon Musk, whose support for Dogecoin (DOGE) has frequently made headlines, announced plans to scale back his involvement with the meme coin.

He said his time allocation would shift in May 2025 as DOGE operations become more self-sufficient.

This renewed focus on Tesla comes as analysts call for urgent strategic moves.

Dan Ives of Wedbush labelled the company’s situation a “code red,” suggesting that Tesla may need to rethink parts of its financial strategy, including how it handles its Bitcoin holdings, if current challenges continue.

Meanwhile, BeInCrypto forecasts that crypto markets will remain unstable until mid-May due to global economic uncertainty and trade pressures.

However, the broader outlook for digital assets, especially Bitcoin, is more bullish for the second half of the year.

Analysts expect a rebound driven by post-halving effects, institutional buying, and regulatory clarity in the US.

As Tesla navigates financial turbulence, its firm stance on Bitcoin indicates that the cryptocurrency is now more than just a side bet—it’s part of a calculated strategy.

Whether that strategy pays off in Q2 and beyond may depend as much on Musk’s leadership as on Bitcoin’s next move.

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Bitcoin gains 12%, mirrors gold as trade war, recession fears mount

  • Bitcoin gained 12% in two weeks to April 22, showing resilience amid US-China tariffs.
  • Observers note Bitcoin decoupling from stocks, behaving more like gold (safe haven).
  • US plans for a Strategic Bitcoin Reserve potentially bolster its asset status (Nansen CEO).

Bitcoin has demonstrated notable strength in recent weeks, seemingly shrugging off the escalating trade tensions between the US and China that have unsettled broader financial markets.

This resilience, marked by a significant price increase, is fueling observations that the cryptocurrency is increasingly behaving like a traditional safe-haven asset, akin to gold, rather than mirroring the volatility often seen in tech-heavy indices like the Nasdaq.

Divergence amid trade turmoil

In the two weeks leading up to April 22, Bitcoin registered a solid 12% price gain.

This upward movement occurred even as the trade dispute intensified, with the US imposing tariffs reported up to 125% on China, prompting reciprocal measures from Beijing.

Unlike many other assets sensitive to global trade disruptions, Bitcoin appeared relatively insulated, strengthening the argument for its potential role as a store of value during geopolitical uncertainty.

Alex Svanevik, CEO of crypto intelligence firm Nansen, highlighted this trend, noting Bitcoin’s apparent “decoupling” from traditional stock markets.

“Unlike altcoins and major indexes like the S&P 500, Bitcoin has remained relatively stable despite the global trade tensions,” Svanevik observed, according to the analysis.

However, he cautioned that while resilient to specific trade issues, Bitcoin remains susceptible to broader macroeconomic headwinds, particularly the growing fears of a potential economic recession.

Bolstering the safe-haven narrative: US reserve plans

Adding another layer to Bitcoin’s evolving status is the concept of a potential US Strategic Bitcoin Reserve.

Plans outlined in a presidential executive order suggest the government intends to hold Bitcoin, initially comprising assets seized in criminal investigations.

More significantly, the order details potential future strategies for acquiring more Bitcoin, possibly funded through tariff revenues or by re-evaluating the Treasury’s gold certificates to generate surplus funds, potentially avoiding the need to sell existing gold reserves.

Svanevik believes such “regulatory developments will play a significant role in Bitcoin’s growth as a global asset,” potentially enhancing its legitimacy and appeal.

Recession shadow looms despite crypto gains

While Bitcoin charts its course, the macroeconomic outlook remains clouded. Concerns about a potential US recession are intensifying, acting as a significant counterweight to bullish sentiment in risk assets.

A recent report from JPMorgan notably increased its estimated probability of a US recession occurring in 2025 from 40% to 60%.

The report underscored that existing tariffs, particularly citing the high 145% tariff on China in this context, continue to pose a “significant threat to global growth.”

Against this backdrop, the Federal Reserve is anticipated to begin easing monetary policy, likely starting in September 2025 with further rate cuts expected through January 2026.

While monetary easing could stimulate the economy, it might also influence demand dynamics for assets perceived as riskier, potentially including Bitcoin, depending on how investors weigh inflation hedges versus growth prospects.

Navigating an uncertain future

Bitcoin’s trajectory appears increasingly shaped by a complex interplay of factors.

Its resilience during the recent trade friction supports the narrative of it maturing into a gold-like store of value.

Continued institutional interest and potential government actions like the Strategic Reserve could further solidify this perception.

However, the looming threat of a broader economic downturn and ongoing regulatory developments, particularly in the US, remain critical variables.

As global economic anxieties persist, Bitcoin’s ability to maintain its appeal as a hedge against turbulence will be closely watched.

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BTC nears resistance zone as analysts flag potential pullback to $76,600

  • Key resistance zone flagged between $86,549 and $88,244.
  • MicroStrategy buys 6,556 BTC worth $555.8 million.
  • $90,000 is seen as a psychological and technical barrier.

Bitcoin has surged back to near $89,000, inching closer to its all-time high and setting the stage for what could be a significant breakout.

According to crypto analyst Michael van de Poppe, the flagship cryptocurrency is now approaching a crucial resistance band between $86,549 and $88,244.

This level has historically been difficult to breach, often leading to temporary corrections.

However, the current market sentiment, combined with macroeconomic cues like a potential US-China deal, is fuelling speculation about a fresh rally past $90,000.

In a tweet posted earlier this month, van de Poppe shared a technical chart highlighting Bitcoin’s rebound and its current position near a historical resistance level.

He suggested that Bitcoin may first dip to retest support at $80,982 before making another attempt at a breakout.

A further decline to $76,604 is also possible if current support fails to hold, marking a retest of a previous support level that could now act as resistance.

Bitcoin gains 1.5% as whale accumulation boosts sentiment

Bitcoin’s rise above $88,500 has been aided by strong accumulation from institutional players.

Notably, US-based corporate holder MicroStrategy recently acquired 6,556 BTC at a total cost of around $555.8 million.

The purchase comes amid growing interest in Bitcoin as a hedge against inflation and geopolitical risks, and appears to have given the market a confidence boost.

According to CoinMarketCap, Bitcoin gained 1.5% in the past 24 hours, adding to its 4.7% weekly gain.

The surge has also lifted overall crypto market capitalisation past $2.7 trillion.

Source: CoinMarketCap

Van de Poppe noted that despite nearing overbought territory, the market may remain bullish if Bitcoin consolidates above $88,000.

A sustained rally past $90,000 could open up a move towards new highs, while failure to maintain support around $80,000 could send prices lower.

Analyst warns of pullback to $76,604 if support fails

Technical indicators show that Bitcoin’s RSI is approaching critical levels, suggesting a temporary correction could occur.

Still, many traders are watching the $90,000 resistance level as the next major milestone.

If Bitcoin manages to flip $90,000 into support, it could mark a psychological and technical breakthrough.

Historically, this kind of pattern has led to rapid price discovery.

However, if momentum fades, the cryptocurrency may struggle to hold onto gains and revisit lower support zones.

Van de Poppe outlined that a correction to $76,604 would still be within healthy limits and could act as a springboard for a future rally.

The price level was previously a key support and remains one to watch in the near term.

Macro trends could support the Bitcoin push

On the macroeconomic front, van de Poppe hinted at the potential impact of global events.

In particular, signs of de-escalation between the US and China could reduce market anxiety, prompting increased risk appetite among investors.

Geopolitical calm, combined with institutional accumulation and favourable regulatory signals, may set the stage for Bitcoin to finally break through its upper resistance.

However, short-term volatility should not be ruled out, especially as the asset hovers near historically reactive zones.

As of 14 April, Bitcoin is trading just above $88,606.

All eyes are now on whether the world’s largest cryptocurrency can consolidate its gains and surge through $90,000 in the coming sessions.

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Bitcoin eyes $100K? Hayes cites treasury buybacks, weak dollar as catalysts

  • Bitcoin surged past $87,700, fueled by a weakening US dollar and potential US Treasury buybacks.
  • Arthur Hayes predicts Treasury buybacks could be a “bazooka,” pushing BTC past $100K (“last chance” below).
  • Weak dollar (lowest since March 2022) and rising gold correlation support Bitcoin’s appeal.

Bitcoin’s recent climb, momentarily cresting $87,700, is drawing significant attention, with prominent analysts pointing towards macroeconomic shifts and potential government actions as key drivers that could propel the cryptocurrency well beyond the $100,000 threshold.

The convergence of a weakening US dollar, anticipated US Treasury debt buybacks, and sustained institutional interest is painting an increasingly bullish picture for the digital asset.

Macro tailwinds: dollar dips, treasury ‘bazooka’ eyed

A primary factor supporting Bitcoin’s ascent is the declining value of the US dollar, which recently touched lows not seen since March 2022.

As the dollar weakens, assets like Bitcoin often become more appealing to global investors seeking a hedge against fiat currency devaluation.

Adding potent fuel to this narrative is the prospect of the US Treasury repurchasing its own debt.

Arthur Hayes, the influential co-founder of BitMEX and current CIO of Maelstrom, has highlighted this potential move as a significant catalyst.

He posited that upcoming Treasury buybacks could inject substantial liquidity into the financial system, effectively acting as a “bazooka” for Bitcoin’s price.

Hayes went so far as to suggest this period might represent the “last chance” for investors to acquire Bitcoin below the $100,000 mark, anticipating that these buybacks could easily push the price past that psychological barrier.

Technical signals and institutional trust bolster case

The bullish sentiment finds resonance in technical analysis and continued institutional adoption.

Ryan Lee, Chief Analyst at Bitget Research, noted that Bitcoin’s price chart recently completed a “descending wedge breakout,” a technical pattern often interpreted as supportive of further upward movement.

This technical picture is complemented by Bitcoin’s growing correlation with gold, another traditional safe-haven asset, which itself has surged nearly 30% this year.

Furthermore, global institutional appetite for Bitcoin appears unwavering despite recent price volatility.

Reports indicate that investment firms, notably from Japan and the UK, have maintained their commitment, channeling capital into the cryptocurrency.

This sustained institutional inflow signals enduring confidence in Bitcoin’s long-term value proposition.

Analysts eye six-figure targets amid fiat expansion

As Bitcoin tests resistance levels nearing $90,000, some analysts are setting their sights considerably higher.

Jamie Coutts of Real Vision forecasts that expanding fiat money supply (M2) could drive Bitcoin to as high as $132,000 by the end of the year.

This projection finds company with analysis from economist Timothy Peterson, who, citing historical market patterns, suggests Bitcoin could potentially reach $138,000 within the next three months.

Political pressures add fuel to the fire

The intricate macroeconomic picture is further complicated by the political landscape.

President Donald Trump’s public calls for the removal of Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell have intensified market expectations of potential interest rate cuts.

Such cuts, aimed at stimulating the economy, would likely exert further downward pressure on the US dollar, potentially creating an even more favorable environment for Bitcoin’s price appreciation.

A note of caution amidst the bullish chorus

Despite the confluence of positive indicators, some market observers urge caution regarding short-term price action.

Analyst Michaël van de Poppe warned that weekend rallies can sometimes prove ephemeral and that Bitcoin might face a pullback before decisively conquering key resistance zones.

The $91,000 level is widely seen as the next significant hurdle.

Until Bitcoin firmly establishes itself above this mark, the possibility of short-term corrections remains.

Nonetheless, the combination of weakening fiat dynamics, anticipated liquidity injections via Treasury buybacks, robust institutional support, and supportive technical patterns creates a compelling narrative for Bitcoin’s continued ascent towards, and potentially well beyond, the $100,000 milestone.

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