Standard Chartered Predicts Bitcoin Could Hit $500K Before Trump’s Presidency Ends

Standard Chartered, a British multinational bank, has made a bold prediction that Bitcoin (BTC) could reach $500,000 before the end of Donald Trump’s presidency. The bank cites a more favorable regulatory environment and easier access to Bitcoin as key reasons for this potential surge.

Bitcoin’s Road to $500K: Yearly Milestones

The bank outlines a step-by-step price trajectory for Bitcoin:

• $200,000 in 2025
• $300,000 in 2026
• $400,000 in 2027
• $500,000 in 2028, before stabilizing in 2029

Currently, Bitcoin is priced at $98,600, up 43% from $68,800 before Trump’s November election victory. If Bitcoin reaches $500,000, it would mark a 407% increase from its current level. At that price, Bitcoin’s market cap would hit $10.5 trillion, surpassing Apple and Microsoft, and accounting for nearly half of gold’s $19.4 trillion market cap.

Bitcoin ETFs Driving Demand

“The ETFs have attracted a net $39 billion of inflows so far, supporting the theory of pent-up demand being unleashed by increased access,” Global Head of Digital Assets Research at Standard Chartered, Geoff Kendrick, wrote in a release.

The introduction of Bitcoin spot exchange-traded funds (ETFs) in the U.S. in January 2024 has made it easier for institutional investors to enter the market, fueling demand and driving prices higher.

Regulatory Shifts Strengthening Bitcoin’s Case

Standard Chartered also sees regulatory improvements in the U.S. as a key factor. Kendrick highlighted the repeal of Staff Accounting Bulletin (SAB) No. 121, which previously required companies to list digital assets as liabilities. He called this an “important step” for the industry.

Why Trump’s Crypto Strategy Could Be Game-Changing

Kendrick also pointed to Trump’s January 23 executive order to evaluate a national digital asset stockpile. This move could push central banks to consider Bitcoin investments, which may reduce Bitcoin’s volatility and make it more attractive to traditional investors.

As price swings decrease, Bitcoin’s role in diversified investment portfolios—particularly alongside gold—could grow. Over time, as institutional investors adjust their holdings, Bitcoin could see sustained long-term growth.