Bitcoin continues to gain traction as the ultimate savings technology and monetary revolution. After an extremely eventful 2024 and prices above $100k, we expect not to slow down any time.
No matter how 2025 will truly play out, it already stands out as a pivotal year. From the lingering effects of the 2024 halving to innovations in renewable energy and geopolitical movements, Bitcoin’s journey as a global financial phenomenon continues to unfold.
We already explained why Bitcoin reached $100k in 2024, now let’s look at what we think lies ahead for 2025.
This blog post covers 10 areas that will most likely play an important role in Bitcoin’s growth.
Here are ten key developments to watch in 2025:
1. The Bitcoin Halving Could Boost Market Growth
The 2024 Bitcoin halving, which reduced mining rewards from 6.25 BTC to 3.125 BTC, tightened the supply of new Bitcoin, amplifying its scarcity and reinforcing its monetary policy. Historically, halvings have preceded bull runs, driven by the basic principle of supply and demand. In 2025, this reduced issuance is expected to heighten competition among retail and institutional investors seeking to acquire the increasingly scarce asset.
Bitcoin’s halving cycles exemplify its core value of absolute scarcity, which sets it apart from inflationary fiat currencies. As mining becomes less rewarding, miners may turn to more energy-efficient technologies and operations in regions with cheap renewable energy. This combination of scarcity and innovation could drive Bitcoin toward new price highs while solidifying its position as the world’s most resilient digital asset.
The delayed effects of the halving will likely spark renewed market interest, with institutional investors increasing allocations in anticipation of long-term gains. As supply diminishes and demand surges, Bitcoin could experience a transformative year, aligning with the historical patterns seen in previous cycles.
2. The U.S. Could Declare Bitcoin a Strategic Reserve Asset
Trump’s administration could issue an executive order within its first 100 days designating Bitcoin as a strategic reserve asset. Such a move would represent a significant milestone, showcasing Bitcoin’s acceptance as a cornerstone of financial resilience and geopolitical strategy.
However, it’s unclear whether this will come to fruition. Here are three possible scenarios of how this could play out:
- Moderate Approach: Retaining Seized Bitcoin
The U.S. already holds significant amounts of Bitcoin from seizures, such as those acquired in criminal investigations. Opting not to sell these holdings, the government could quietly position Bitcoin as a de facto strategic reserve asset without formally acknowledging its status. This would subtly reinforce Bitcoin’s importance while keeping options open for future policy developments. - Bullish Scenario: Active Acquisition
In this scenario, the U.S. actively purchases Bitcoin to bolster its strategic reserves, potentially reallocating assets such as gold to fund these acquisitions. Proponents like Senator Cynthia Lummis have advocated for such bold steps, arguing that Bitcoin is a superior store of value in the digital age. A large-scale acquisition of Bitcoin by the U.S. could trigger a domino effect, pressuring other nations to secure their own reserves. This move could fuel a global bull market, significantly driving up Bitcoin prices as governments and institutions vie for limited supply. - Bearish Scenario: Quiet Holdings Without Recognition
Alternatively, the administration might hold Bitcoin reserves without formally recognizing its strategic value, treating it as a speculative asset rather than a reserve currency. While this approach avoids bold declarations, it risks losing the strategic advantage to countries more willing to integrate Bitcoin into their financial systems.
3. More Nation-States Could Acquire Bitcoin
Countries like El Salvador and Bhutan have already showcased the benefits of adopting Bitcoin, from fostering financial inclusion to leveraging renewable energy for mining. Their successes have laid a blueprint for other resource-rich nations, particularly those seeking greater economic sovereignty and resilience.
By incorporating Bitcoin into their financial strategies, nations can reduce reliance on foreign currencies while hedging against inflation. Additionally, energy-abundant countries can use surplus renewable energy for Bitcoin mining, transforming what might otherwise be wasted power into economic opportunity.
In 2025, more nations could follow suit, positioning themselves as innovation hubs and attracting foreign investment. As geopolitical competition over Bitcoin heats up, the asset’s decentralized and permissionless nature will continue to appeal to nations seeking independence from traditional financial systems.
4. Bitcoin Mining Could Drive Renewable Energy Innovation
Bitcoin mining in 2025 is poised to become a major driver of renewable energy adoption. As miners seek cost-effective and sustainable energy sources, they increasingly turn to surplus renewable energy to power their operations, which helps stabilize energy grids and create new revenue streams.
This synergy between Bitcoin mining and renewable energy could accelerate clean energy infrastructure development, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and promoting environmental sustainability. Countries with abundant renewable energy, such as Iceland and Norway, are well-positioned to lead this transformation.
The narrative surrounding Bitcoin’s environmental impact could shift dramatically as mining catalyzes green innovation. By integrating Bitcoin into renewable energy strategies, nations and companies can address environmental concerns while advancing economic growth.
5. Bitcoin ETFs Could Continue Their Success Story
Bitcoin ETFs gained tremendous traction in 2024, attracting over $100 billion (!) in inflows. These products simplify Bitcoin investment, providing traditional investors with easy access to the asset while increasing liquidity and market stability.
As more institutional investors enter the space through ETFs, demand for Bitcoin is likely to rise, further solidifying its position as a mainstream financial asset. This increased adoption will drive innovation in financial products tied to Bitcoin, including derivatives and structured investment vehicles.
The success of Bitcoin ETFs demonstrates the growing institutional appetite for digital assets, setting the stage for even greater adoption in 2025. This trend underscores Bitcoin’s transition from a niche investment to a cornerstone of global finance.
6. A FAANG Company Could Add Bitcoin to Its Balance Sheet
2025 could be the year a major FAANG company—such as Apple, Amazon, or Google—allocates part of its treasury to Bitcoin. With these firms sitting on massive cash reserves, even a modest 5% allocation could send powerful signals to the market.
Previous corporate Bitcoin purchases have historically boosted investor confidence, often resulting in double-digit increases in share prices. A FAANG company’s involvement would reinforce Bitcoin’s legitimacy and inspire other corporations to follow suit.
This move would highlight Bitcoin’s role as a hedge against inflation and a store of value, further bridging the gap between traditional finance and the emerging digital asset ecosystem.
7. Lightning Network Adoption Could Skyrocket
The Lightning Network is set to revolutionize Bitcoin transactions in 2025, enabling fast and low-cost payments at scale. Companies like PayPal and Stripe could integrate Lightning for seamless transactions, bringing Bitcoin into the mainstream as a medium of exchange.
Nation-states and retail businesses will likely embrace the network, leveraging its cross-border payments and everyday purchases capabilities. The rise of mobile wallets with Lightning support will further drive adoption, especially in developing economies.
As Bitcoin’s scalability solution, the Lightning Network will transform it from a store of value to a functional global currency.
Bitcoin payments made via the Lightning Network was 5.98% in 2022, 7.95% in 2023, and reached 14.51% in 2024.
8. The Impact of MiCA in Europe
Implementing the Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCA) in 2025 will provide a unified framework for cryptocurrency regulation across the EU. By simplifying compliance, MiCA will attract institutional investors and foster innovation in the European crypto market.
This regulatory clarity will help legitimize Bitcoin as a financial asset and pave the way for more widespread adoption across Europe. Countries like Germany, France, and Switzerland could take leading roles in integrating Bitcoin into their financial ecosystems.
As a result, Europe will become a more attractive destination for crypto businesses and investors, accelerating Bitcoin adoption on the continent.
9. Institutional Bitcoin Lending Could Boom
Institutional-grade lending platforms could flourish in 2025, offering Bitcoin-backed loans and new financial products for high-net-worth individuals and corporations. These platforms will enhance Bitcoin’s liquidity, enabling holders to leverage their assets without selling.
El Salvador’s Bitcoin-backed bonds could inspire similar initiatives, potentially creating new investment opportunities globally. By integrating with decentralized finance (DeFi) protocols, traditional financial institutions could attract more investors.
This growth in lending markets will strengthen Bitcoin’s role in the financial system, driving adoption among institutions and long-term holders alike.
10. Europe Could Join The ‘Bitcoin as a Strategic Asset’ Discussion
European nations are increasingly considering Bitcoin’s role as a strategic financial asset. In Germany, the 2025 elections could see Bitcoin-friendly policies gain momentum, while France has advocates pushing for Bitcoin in the European Parliament.
Switzerland could influence broader European policies, positioning itself as a key player in Bitcoin’s adoption. Though outright purchases of Bitcoin by European governments are unlikely, the discussion signals a shift in attitudes toward its strategic importance.
This growing interest underscores Bitcoin’s potential to reshape global financial systems, even in regions traditionally cautious about adopting digital assets.
Conclusion: A Bullish Year Ahead for Bitcoin
2025 will be the most exciting in Bitcoin’s 15-year history.
The signs point to a bullish year ahead, from the transformative impact of the 2024 halving to nation-state adoption, corporate treasury moves, and advancements in renewable energy innovation.
With clearer regulations, increasing institutional involvement, and growing global recognition, Bitcoin is ready to strengthen its role as the ultimate savings technology.
Buckle up—2025 is going to be an exciting ride!
Disclaimer: Relai services are exclusively recommended for Swiss and Italian residents. None of this content constitutes investment advice. Always conduct your own research before investing in any digital asset.
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