- Standard Chartered sees Bitcoin hitting $200K in 2025, driven by ETFs, corporate demand, and fading post-halving price patterns.
- Institutional momentum and stablecoin regulation boost Bitcoin’s outlook, challenging traditional market cycle expectations.
- Deutsche Bank targets a 2026 crypto custody launch, partnering with Bitpanda and Taurus to serve global institutional clients.
According to Bitcoin Magazine, Standard Chartered has reaffirmed its prediction that Bitcoin could reach $200,000 by the end of 2025. The bank cites powerful institutional tailwinds as key drivers. Notably, it expects continued momentum from spot Bitcoin ETFs and renewed corporate treasury interest in BTC. These factors are projected to push Bitcoin to $135,000 by Q3, with $200,000 in sight by year-end.
Geoff Kendrick, head of digital assets research at Standard Chartered, stated that historical price trends may no longer apply. He noted that the typical post-halving drop—seen roughly 18 months after the event—may not materialize this cycle. Instead, sustained institutional demand could provide structural price support. He emphasized, “The bitcoin halving cycle is dead,”.
ETFs, Macro Trends, and Institutional Buying Set the Tone
Beyond ETF inflows and the accumulation of corporate treasuries, there are a few macroeconomic factors that could really boost Bitcoin’s growth. One key player in this scenario is the possibility of U.S. Fed Chair Jerome Powell stepping down earlier than expected. Such a shift could sway market sentiment and alter risk appetites.
On top of that, the progress being made on stablecoin legislation in the U.S. brings a wave of optimism. With clearer regulations,there may be more institutional investors getting involved, which would help clear up some of the legal fog surrounding crypto assets. Kendrick is optimistic that these changes could act as strong tailwinds for Bitcoin’s upward journey.
The report also underscores the growing belief that Bitcoin is evolving into a mainstream investment asset. As institutional infrastructure strengthens, the likelihood of extreme volatility from retail-driven cycles may fade.
Deutsche Bank Eyes 2026 for Crypto Custody Launch
In parallel, Deutsche Bank is taking firm steps to enter the crypto space. Bloomberg reports that the bank plans to launch its crypto custody service by 2026. The service will allow clients to hold digital assets alongside fiat currencies within its platform.
Furthermore, Deutsche Bank will partner with Bitpanda Technology Solutions and Swiss-based Taurus. Earlier this year, Taurus launched a Solana-based custody platform, Taurus-PROTECT. These collaborations mark a serious commitment from the bank to offer integrated digital asset services.
For context, Deutsche Bank has explored crypto custody since 2020. A 2023 application to Germany’s regulator confirmed its ambitions. Now, with strong partnerships and clear direction, the bank aims to offer trusted crypto services to institutions globally.
