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Thiel Highlights Bitcoin’s Strong Historical Performance

Bitcoin (BTC) remains steady within the mid-$90,000 range, following a recent decline from its all-time high (ATH) of $108,135. While analysts closely monitor the cryptocurrency’s price movements, large-scale Bitcoin investors appear to be less focused on short-term volatility.

Thiel, referencing Bitcoin’s historical trends, encouraged retail investors to consider a long-term investment strategy. He noted that Bitcoin has ended the year with a lower price on only three occasions in its 14-year history, including during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Thiel shared this insight:

"My advice, for example, to my kids is to set aside a small amount each month in Bitcoin and forget about it. Over a span of two, three, or four years, it tends to grow—and that’s the approach people should take."

Thiel also underscored Bitcoin’s consistent growth over time, highlighting its average annual appreciation of 29% to 50%. Nevertheless, he acknowledged that Bitcoin remains a high-risk asset, which may deter cautious investors until it gains broader acceptance or official recognition from a leading global economy.

For example, the introduction of a strategic Bitcoin reserve by the United States could enhance its legitimacy as an asset class, potentially inspiring other nations to follow suit. Thiel suggested that such a move could serve as a major catalyst for Bitcoin’s price to reach new peaks by 2025.

Thiel further pointed to the increasing involvement of institutional investors through Bitcoin exchange-traded funds (ETFs) and favorable regulatory measures under the Trump administration as potential drivers for Bitcoin’s growth this year.

Retail Investors Increasing Bitcoin Holdings

Although Thiel’s advice was primarily directed at retail investors, recent data indicates many are already planning to expand their Bitcoin holdings. In a poll conducted by MicroStrategy CEO Michael Saylor, over 75% of the 65,164 respondents revealed intentions to own more Bitcoin by the end of 2025 than they currently do.

This optimism is fueled by several bullish events in 2024, including ETF approvals, the Bitcoin halving, and Trump’s victory in the November election.

Growing Corporate Adoption of Bitcoin

The trend of corporations adopting Bitcoin continues to gain momentum. For instance, MARA Holdings already includes Bitcoin on its balance sheet, while Hut 8, a competing crypto mining firm, recently increased its holdings to exceed 10,000 BTC.

Additionally, companies like Japan-based Metaplanet and Canada’s Rumble joined the Bitcoin movement in 2024. Bitcoin ETFs have also seen rapid adoption, accumulating over 1 million BTC within a year of their launch.

Despite this progress, skepticism persists. Japan’s Prime Minister recently expressed reservations about creating a strategic Bitcoin reserve, highlighting ongoing uncertainties in some sectors.

As of now, Bitcoin is trading at $97,229, reflecting a 0.7% increase over the past 24 hours.