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Bitcoin surges as U.S. government shutdown fuels safe-haven demand
The cryptocurrency market has reignited as Bitcoin (BTC) posted a fresh global price record following unexpected market flows tied to the prolonged U.S. government shutdown. Political deadlock over federal budgets drove investors away from risk tied to Washington and toward decentralized assets. Over the past week, Bitcoin rallied roughly 14%, prompting renewed interest from institutional investors and retail participants alike.
Macro drivers: political risk and Treasury yields
Analysts at Standard Chartered, including Jeff Kendrick, note that the current shutdown is affecting crypto markets more directly than past episodes, such as in 2019. The correlation between Bitcoin and U.S. Treasury yields appears stronger, suggesting BTC is increasingly perceived as a hedge against political risk. Standard Chartered has even projected a potential Bitcoin price target of $135,000 if the current trends persist, a forecast that has captured attention across the crypto and blockchain community.
Safe-haven assets: crypto and gold both rise
Alongside Bitcoin, traditional safe-haven assets are also advancing. Gold climbed about 0.5% to $3,876 per ounce as investor concerns intensified after comments from former President Trump about cutting welfare programs. This risk-off sentiment has funneled capital into both precious metals and cryptocurrencies, reinforcing BTC’s emerging role as a store of value in times of geopolitical and fiscal uncertainty.
On-chain data and whale behavior
On-chain metrics reveal that Bitcoin whales sold significant holdings in September, but recent data shows selling pressure has eased. Crypto analysts argue that if this reduced outflow continues, a renewed accumulation phase could begin, supporting further upside in Bitcoin price over coming weeks. Market participants are monitoring on-chain supply, exchange balances, and derivatives flows for signs of sustainable momentum.
As the U.S. shutdown persists, traders and long-term holders will watch macro and on-chain indicators closely. For investors focused on blockchain innovation and digital assets, BTC’s renewed rally underscores how political events can rapidly shift capital into cryptocurrency markets.
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