Bitcoin breaks $111,000 barrier, fueled by regulatory optimism

(Web Desk): Bitcoin surged to a new all-time high above $111,000 on Thursday, continuing its strong rally despite falling US stock markets.

Early London trading saw the cryptocurrency peak at $111,886.41, according to Coin Metrics, before settling near $110,900.

Experts attribute Bitcoin’s rise to a combination of positive momentum, growing optimism over US crypto regulations, and renewed institutional interest.

James Butterfill, head of research at crypto asset manager CoinShares, said the rally reflects investors seeking alternative stores of value amid macroeconomic uncertainty.

The recent downgrade of the US sovereign credit rating by Moody’s has further bolstered Bitcoin’s appeal as a hedge against fiat currency instability.

Meanwhile, the GENIUS Act, a US bill aimed at regulating stablecoins, has advanced through a key Senate procedural vote, signaling progress on the regulatory front.

Support from influential figures also helped lift the market.

US President Donald Trump and crypto advocate David Sacks have promoted a pro-crypto agenda, while JPMorgan CEO Jamie Dimon—long a Bitcoin skeptic—announced the bank will allow clients to purchase the digital currency.

Bitcoin’s divergence from the tech-heavy Nasdaq, which fell on Wednesday, suggests investors are increasingly viewing the cryptocurrency as a safe haven amid growing financial uncertainty.