Bitcoin price hits record $75,000 for the first time. Here's why

For much of the year, Bitcoin had been trading within a narrowband below $70,000, but election-day developments have driven fresh interest in the asset.

In Short

• Bitcoin hits record high of $75,000 amid US election results
• Trump’s potential edge boosts Bitcoin’s price, sparking investor interest
• Analysts see Bitcoin gains if Donald Trump wins, risks if Kamala Harris wins

Bitcoin surged to a record high of $75,000 on Wednesday as investors closely watched the ongoing US election results, with many betting on former President Donald Trump’s potential edge in the race.

The cryptocurrency rose sharply, reaching as much as $75,000 according to Coin Metrics, and remained 7% higher at $74,392.00 in early trading.

At 10:14 am, Bitcoin's price stood at $74,628.18, up 7.56%. This marks a new peak for Bitcoin, surpassing its previous record of $73,797.68 set on March 14.

For much of the year, the cryptocurrency had been trading within a narrow band below $70,000, but election-day developments have driven fresh interest in the asset.

Market sentiment suggests Bitcoin could remain volatile until the election outcome is confirmed.

Some analysts believe a win for Vice President Kamala Harris could bring downside risks, as her stance may not favor crypto markets. Conversely, a Trump victory is seen as potentially bullish for Bitcoin, with traders anticipating further gains based on his historically more favorable stance towards deregulation and market freedom, factors that many investors link to Bitcoin's appeal.

Alongside Bitcoin’s rally, stocks with cryptocurrency exposure also advanced in after-hours trading. Coinbase, a major cryptocurrency exchange, rose 3%, while MicroStrategy, a software company heavily invested in Bitcoin, climbed 4%.

These moves highlight investor optimism in crypto-related assets amid the election’s influence on broader financial markets.

Bitcoin’s latest rally highlights its role as an alternative asset during times of economic and political uncertainty. As election results continue to trickle in, all eyes are on Bitcoin to see whether it will sustain its new record levels or experience further volatility as the political landscape becomes clearer.