**Bitcoin's Rollercoaster Year: A Mixed Bag for Investors**
Bitcoin (BTC) has been a standout performer over the past year, surging 124% since September 2023, according to a recent VanEck report. Despite this impressive growth, a recent dip has left some investors jittery.
Key highlights:
- Bitcoin's market cap now stands at $1.25 trillion, making up 56% of the total crypto market.
- VanEck predicts Bitcoin's long-term bull run will continue, driven by its growing role as a value store and transfer medium.
- The introduction of spot BTC ETFs in January has seen rapid adoption, amassing $55 billion in assets.
However, Bitcoin miners haven't fared as well. The April halving event, which cut mining rewards in half, has significantly impacted their profitability. VanEck notes a 97% drop in the Bitcoin Hashprice, a key profitability metric for miners.
Overall, while Bitcoin's adoption and institutional interest are on the rise, the mining sector faces substantial challenges.