After a strong Q1 where Bitcoin nearly reached $74,000, investor optimism has waned as the cryptocurrency has steadily declined. However, entering a historically favorable quarter keeps hopes alive.
Bitwise’s Chief Investment Officer, Matt Hougan, indicated that Bitcoin could hit $80,000 by Q4 2024, contingent on key factors. He highlighted the importance of the U.S. elections, noting that a divided Congress could create a more supportive environment for crypto, with current odds suggesting a 20% chance of a Democratic sweep versus 32% for Republicans.
Macroeconomic conditions are also crucial, with expectations for a 50 basis point rate cut from the Federal Reserve and additional fiscal stimulus from China.
Hougan cautioned that unexpected setbacks, such as legal issues or security breaches, could hinder Bitcoin’s performance. A positive market sentiment, similar to the ‘DeFi Summer of 2020,’ could enhance Bitcoin’s prospects.
Traditionally, October has been a strong month for Bitcoin, averaging a 23% gain. However, this year has started poorly, with Bitcoin experiencing its worst October opening since 2013, falling 6.5% from above $64,000 to around $60,100. Although it rallied to nearly $65,000 by October 7, it has since dropped back below $61,000.
Bitcoin soared to a new all-time high above $119,000 on July 13, extending its bullish momentum on the back of institutional accumulation, shrinking exchange reserves, and technical breakout patterns.
A major shift in the crypto cycle may be approaching as Bitcoin dominance (BTC.D) once again reaches critical long-term resistance.
Galaxy Digital CEO Mike Novogratz reignited a long-running feud with economist and gold advocate Peter Schiff after the latter criticized Биткойн yet again.
Gold advocate Peter Schiff issued a stark warning on monetary policy and sparked fresh debate about Bitcoin’s perceived scarcity. In a pair of high-profile posts on July 12, Schiff criticized the current Fed rate stance and challenged the logic behind Bitcoin’s 21 million supply cap.