Bitcoin Set to Soar in 2025: Standard Chartered Predicts $200K by Year-End
Standard Chartered Bank has released an optimistic outlook for Bitcoin’s performance in the second half of 2025, projecting the world’s most valuable cryptocurrency will climb to $135,000 by the end of Q3 and reach a remarkable $200,000 by the close of the year.
This bullish forecast is grounded in substantial institutional interest, particularly from U.S.-based exchange-traded funds (ETFs) and corporate treasuries. The bank also cites favorable U.S. regulatory momentum as a key supporting factor behind Bitcoin’s projected surge.
Bitcoin's Strong Q2 Performance
Despite falling slightly short of its earlier forecast of $120,000, Bitcoin set a new all-time high of $112,000 in the second quarter—significantly higher than its Q1 opening level of $85,000. The price rally was primarily fueled by impressive capital inflows. According to Geoff Kendrick, Head of FX and Digital Assets Research at Standard Chartered, spot Bitcoin ETFs in the U.S. attracted $12.4 billion during Q2, equivalent to roughly 120,000 BTC. Meanwhile, corporate treasuries added another 125,000 BTC to their holdings—making Q2 one of the strongest quarters for both categories.
ETF and Treasury Buying to Accelerate
Kendrick believes these trends will intensify in the coming months. ETF and corporate treasury acquisitions, totaling 245,000 BTC in Q2 alone, are expected to rise further in Q3. Cumulatively, spot Bitcoin ETFs have seen net inflows of $48.7 billion since launching in January 2024—a signal of growing mainstream investor confidence.
Interestingly, Bitcoin ETFs outperformed their gold counterparts, with Q2 inflows eclipsing the $6.9 billion that went into gold ETFs. This trend suggests a shift in investor preference, even in a global environment marked by uncertainty and geopolitical risks.
“We don’t view Bitcoin as a geopolitical hedge,” Kendrick noted, “but the fact that Bitcoin ETF inflows exceeded gold's is a strong indicator of rising demand Best Crypto To Invest in 2025.”
Regulatory Tailwinds and Market Catalysts
In terms of policy developments, two potential catalysts are capturing investor attention. First, the anticipated passage of a U.S. stablecoin regulation bill could lend further legitimacy to the crypto ecosystem. Second, there's growing speculation that former President Trump, should he return to office, may appoint a new Federal Reserve Chair before October ends.
Kendrick sees both developments as net positives for Bitcoin's trajectory. “These factors, combined with strong ETF and treasury flows, set the stage for Bitcoin to hit a fresh all-time high in Q3,” he said. The bank’s interim price target remains firm at $135,000.
Looking Ahead: The Halving Effect
As Q4 approaches, attention may shift toward the effects of the 2024 Bitcoin halving, historically followed by periods of volatility or correction. However, Standard Chartered suggests that strong institutional demand—particularly through ETFs and treasury accumulations—will likely absorb any downward pressure.
In conclusion, the bank is holding steady on its bold year-end prediction: Bitcoin hitting $200,000 by December 2025.
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