The highly-anticipated 2024 bitcoin bull run has not gone according to plan, despite the asset breaking its 2021 all-time high early on. As Bitcoin struggled to maintain its momentum towards the $100,000 mark, Perplexity identified several factors that could potentially fuel another run by the end of 2024.
Earlier this year, Bitcoin made history by reaching a new all-time high before the anticipated halving. This achievement was driven by the significant demand for spot BTC ETFs in the United States, which were approved in mid-January. The community was optimistic that the 2024 rally would be remarkable, especially after the halving event. Nevertheless, the fourth halving occurred in April as scheduled, but the market sentiment has been less than enthusiastic since then.
Despite coming close to surpassing the March ATH of nearly $74,000 in May and early June, Bitcoin failed to break through and experienced sharp declines shortly after. In early August, the price dipped below $50,000, disappointing many investors who were hopeful for a sustained bull run.
According to the AI chatbot Perplexity, Bitcoin’s current sluggish performance could be reversed if certain factors improve. The first key factors listed were overall market sentiment and investor confidence. Perplexity noted that the current sentiment is cautious, with a fear and greed index indicating fear among investors. A shift towards a more optimistic sentiment characterized by increased trading volumes and positive news cycles could help restore confidence in Bitcoin and potentially lead to higher prices.
Regulatory approvals, particularly for spot ETFs, were initially seen as positive developments in 2024. However, global regulators have not followed suit, which could change after upcoming elections in the United States, especially if a crypto-friendly candidate like Donald Trump comes into power. Moreover, Bitcoin adoption levels are lower compared to previous years, indicating a need for increased adoption in transactions and financial products to support a potential bull run.
Perplexity also highlighted macroeconomic conditions, such as inflation and interest rates, as factors that historically impact the crypto market. Recent market reactions to promises of interest rate cuts in the US by Powell suggest that external economic factors continue to influence Bitcoin’s performance.
The 2024 bitcoin bull run has faced challenges and setbacks that have hindered its progress towards the coveted $100,000 mark. While there are potential factors that could support a reversal in Bitcoin’s performance, including improved market sentiment, regulatory approvals, increased adoption, and favorable economic conditions, the current landscape remains uncertain. Investors and analysts will need to closely monitor these factors to gauge the future trajectory of Bitcoin in the coming months.