Amid economic difficulties in China, investors are increasingly turning to Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies as safe havens.
A recent Chainalysis report highlights significant inflows into the country’s over-the-counter (OTC) crypto brokers, with approximately $20 billion entering these platforms each quarter through June, totaling $75.4 billion for the nine-month period.
Despite a 2021 ban on cryptocurrency trading, demand remains robust. Eric Jardine from Chainalysis noted that these OTC services operate in a “gray zone” in China, where enforcement of the ban may be lax. Investors are looking to protect their wealth through cryptocurrencies as the economy falters.
The People’s Bank of China (PBoC) has responded to the situation with a stimulus plan that includes a cut in reserve requirements and interest rates, which is anticipated to bolster confidence in Bitcoin.
Following the announcement, Bitcoin’s price surged to $64,000, and analysts predict it could reach $100,000 due to the stimulus and potential crypto trade between China and Russia.
Market experts believe that recent rate cuts in China and the U.S. Federal Reserve’s own adjustments signal a bullish outlook for Bitcoin, especially as the most lucrative quarter for the cryptocurrency approaches.
Tokyo-based Metaplanet has continued its aggressive Bitcoin strategy, now holding over $400 million in BTC following its latest acquisition.
Bitcoin has staged a strong comeback, briefly pushing beyond $87,000 for the first time in weeks as liquidity conditions improve globally and institutional players show signs of renewed appetite, even while concerns around U.S. trade tensions keep broader markets on edge.
Bitcoin has marked one year since its latest halving event, and long-term holders have reason to celebrate.
A supermarket in Zug, Switzerland, has begun accepting Bitcoin payments, adding to the country’s expanding list of crypto-friendly retailers.