Bitcoin Breaks $100,000 For First Time
Bitcoin has crossed the $100,000 milestone for the first time, fueled by growing optimism around pro-cryptocurrency policies in the U.S. The surge in value coincided with President-elect Donald Trump's appointment of Paul Atkins, a vocal crypto advocate, as the next chair of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Bitcoin peaked at $103,280 this week, marking a 45% increase since the November 5th election.
Trump’s nomination of Atkins signals a potential shift in regulatory attitudes toward digital assets. A former SEC commissioner, Atkins has long argued against overregulation of markets. On Truth Social, Trump praised Atkins as a “proven leader” who believes digital innovations are vital to strengthening the U.S. economy.
The crypto-friendly atmosphere has energized the digital currency community. Crypto investor Dan Held called Bitcoin's milestone a symbol of “financial freedom” and a rejection of traditional financial systems. Meanwhile, Anthony Pompliano, founder of Professional Capital Management, described the event as “ an epic milestone,” celebrating the foresight of early adopters.
Trump’s embrace of Bitcoin marks a striking turnaround from his earlier skepticism, where he dismissed it as a “scam.” Now, he has pledged to make the U.S. the global leader in crypto innovation, promising initiatives like a “strategic national Bitcoin stockpile”. During his campaign, he accepted cryptocurrency donations and even launched a crypto business, World Liberty Financial, alongside his sons.
The recent rally also reflects a broader trend of institutional interest in Bitcoin. Exchange-traded funds (ETFs) like BlackRock’s iShares Bitcoin Trust have played a major role in driving demand. Since its launch earlier this year, the IBIT ETF has grown to $45 billion in value, with a $4.1 billion increase in just the last month.
Despite its record-breaking rise, Bitcoin remains controversial. Critics point to its use in cybercrimes and its notorious price volatility. However, supporters of crypto argue that it provides a decentralized alternative to traditional currencies, especially in times of economic uncertainty.
Trump’s SEC pick and pro-crypto policies have sparked hope among enthusiasts that Washington will ease strict regulations, making Bitcoin more accessible. As the world’s most popular cryptocurrency continues its ascent, some believe this milestone is just the beginning of Bitcoin’s journey toward becoming a mainstream financial asset.
For now, Bitcoin’s historic surge is being celebrated as a win for the crypto community—and perhaps as a sign of what’s to come under Trump’s administration.
