Core Viewpoint - Citi projects modest but meaningful momentum for cryptocurrencies, specifically bitcoin and ether, heading into the new year, with price targets set for year-end 2025 and beyond [1][2]. Price Projections - For year-end 2025, Citi expects bitcoin to be priced at $133,000, slightly down from a previous forecast of $135,000, while ether is projected to rise to $4,500 from $4,300 [1]. - Bitcoin could potentially reach as high as $156,000 if equity markets rally, or drop to $83,000 under recessionary conditions. Ether's bullish case stands at $6,100, with a significantly lower bear case [2]. 12-Month Outlook - Looking ahead 12 months, Citi sets a target of $181,000 for bitcoin, driven by sustained inflows, particularly through exchange-traded funds (ETFs). Ether is expected to reach $5,400 in the same timeframe [3]. - Bitcoin is viewed as better positioned to capture new inflows due to its scale and "digital gold" narrative, while ether may benefit from staking and DeFi-linked yields [3]. Regulatory Environment - Favorable regulation, especially in the U.S., is anticipated to act as a tailwind for the cryptocurrency market, although macro risks such as recessionary pressures could pose challenges to the bullish outlook [3].
Citi Sees Bitcoin Hitting $181K in 2026 as ETF Flows Drive Crypto Higher