The cryptocurrency market has been buzzing with activity lately, particularly for Bitcoin. Bitcoin has managed to liquidate $85 million worth of shorts, causing significant pain for those betting against it. This surge in price, which saw Bitcoin trading above $70,000, has sparked renewed interest and excitement. Traders have been closely watching this movement, trying to predict if the price will continue to climb.

Bitcoin’s Price Surge and Market Reactions

Bitcoin’s unexpected rise past $70,000 has taken the market by surprise. Relentless buying pressure has pushed the price to new heights, reaching nearly $72,000 at one point. This surge has led to the liquidation of $85 million in Bitcoin shorts within 24 hours, according to CoinGlass. Statistician Willy Woo noted that the bulls are tackling significant resistance levels. Some traders are even predicting that Bitcoin could reach $100,000 if it breaks past these levels.

 

The Role of U.S. SEC in Bitcoin and Ethereum ETF Speculation

The recent speculation surrounding the approval of Ethereum ETFs by the U.S. SEC has also played a role in Bitcoin’s price movements. The potential approval of these ETFs has increased market optimism, driving prices higher. Bloomberg analysts have raised the probability of a spot Ethereum ETF approval to 75%, further fueling the market rally. This speculation has not only impacted Ethereum but also contributed to the overall bullish sentiment in the cryptocurrency market, including Bitcoin.

Update: @JSeyff and I are increasing our odds of spot Ether ETF approval to 75% (up from 25%), hearing chatter this afternoon that SEC could be doing a 180 on this (increasingly political issue), so now everyone scrambling (like us everyone else assumed they’d be denied). See… https://t.co/gcxgYHz3om

— Eric Balchunas (@EricBalchunas) May 20, 2024

Bitcoin and Ethereum ETF Speculation Driving Market Dynamics

As traders anticipate the approval of Ethereum ETFs, Bitcoin has also benefited from this positive sentiment. The possibility of the U.S. SEC approving these ETFs has led to significant short liquidations across the market. Over $260 million in shorts have been liquidated, with Ethereum shorts alone accounting for over $115 million and Bitcoin shorts just over $99 million. The anticipation of institutional capital entering the market through these ETFs is driving prices higher and liquidating bearish positions.

👀

all long / spot plays are playing out currently

ETF bros probably triggering under exposed people to fomo back in, so important days to come this week

especially ahead of ETH Spot ETF dialogue

BTC briefly tagged $70K, start of spot supply area may run topside liquidity…

— Skew Δ (@52kskew) May 20, 2024

Bitcoin’s Future Outlook and Potential Challenges

Despite the recent bullish momentum, there are still doubts about whether Bitcoin’s price rally can be sustained. Some analysts, like Credible Crypto, caution that the current conditions may not support a long-term move higher. They point to major resistance levels and high funding rates as potential obstacles. However, if the U.S. SEC approves the Ethereum ETFs, it could provide a significant boost to market confidence, potentially pushing Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies to new heights.

In summary, Bitcoin’s recent price surge and the liquidation of $85 million in shorts have created a wave of excitement in the cryptocurrency market. The speculation surrounding the approval of Ethereum ETFs by the U.S. SEC has further fueled this rally, impacting both Bitcoin and Ethereum prices. While the future remains uncertain, the potential for significant gains is on the horizon if these ETFs receive approval.