Bitcoin Forecasts, ETF Records, and Continued Purchases in El Salvador: Key News of the Week

The cryptocurrency market continues to be in the spotlight, with new forecasts for Bitcoin, increasing interest in ETFs, and ongoing cryptocurrency purchases in El Salvador. Let’s break down what this week brought for everyone following the industry’s development.

1. Michaël van de Poppe Predicts New Historical High for Bitcoin in February

Renowned analyst Michaël van de Poppe, founder of MN Trading, forecasts that Bitcoin (BTC) could reach a new historical high in February 2025. In a recent statement, he highlighted that the current market situation and price levels remaining above $93,000 provide a high probability that the cryptocurrency may break its previously set record.

According to van de Poppe, despite the volatility that characterizes the cryptocurrency market, these factors support his optimism. He noted that market activity and bullish momentum at the start of 2025 could serve as the foundation for a new record price for Bitcoin.

Additionally, CryptoQuant analysts point out an interesting factor—the funding rate for perpetual contracts has turned negative, which has historically preceded a strong bullish movement six times. This also provides additional support for BTC’s growth potential.

2. El Salvador Continues to Buy Bitcoin

El Salvador continues to maintain its position as one of the largest Bitcoin buyers among countries. Yesterday, the country’s government purchased another 11 BTC, once again drawing attention to their long-term strategy regarding cryptocurrencies.

El Salvador became the first country in the world to adopt Bitcoin as an official payment method in 2021, and since then, it has never stopped increasing its reserves. These purchases continue despite fluctuations in the cryptocurrency markets, underscoring the country’s strategic position aimed at the future development of digital assets.

Some analysts believe that El Salvador may continue to increase its Bitcoin reserves, especially if the cryptocurrency’s price continues to rise, which could lead to substantial economic and political dividends for the country in the long term.

3. Record Inflows into Bitcoin ETFs in the US

Bitcoin ETFs (Exchange-Traded Funds) in the US continue to gain popularity and attract significant investment sums. In January 2025, US Bitcoin ETFs attracted a record $5 billion. This confirms growing interest from institutional investors and major market players, as well as reinforces confidence in Bitcoin’s future as a stable financial instrument.

Analysts predict that by the end of 2025, this figure could reach $50 billion, significantly exceeding the $35.2 billion recorded in 2024.

Notably, funds that attracted the most investments include BlackRock, which raised $3.2 billion in its Bitcoin ETF IBIT in January 2025. Fidelity’s FBTC and Bitwise’s BITB also showed impressive results, attracting $1.3 billion and $125 million, respectively.

These high numbers draw attention to Bitcoin ETFs as an alternative and more accessible way for institutional investors to gain exposure to the cryptocurrency market without the technical difficulties associated with directly buying and holding Bitcoin.

4. FTX Creditors Will Begin Receiving Payments on February 18

Creditors of the bankrupt cryptocurrency exchange FTX, who are owed less than $50,000, have received official notifications that payments will begin on February 18, 2025. This is a long-awaited event for many exchange clients whose funds were frozen after the platform’s collapse in late 2022.

FTX has stated that payments will be made in stages, starting with the smallest creditors. According to new data, several thousand individuals could receive compensation. However, the asset liquidation and payment process will take several months, and not all creditors will be able to recover their full amounts.

The FTX exchange continues working on returning assets to its clients despite the challenges associated with investigations and legal proceedings.

Outlook for the Cryptocurrency Market

In 2025, the cryptocurrency market continues to show strong growth and stability, despite prolonged volatility. Forecasts for Bitcoin appear highly optimistic: analysts believe the cryptocurrency may break its historical high in the near future. Increased interest in Bitcoin ETFs and the ongoing Bitcoin purchases by El Salvador further confirm positive momentum in the market.

On the other hand, issues such as the liquidation of FTX debts remain important factors that will affect the overall picture. Regulatory and platform security issues continue to be relevant.

Key Takeaways:

– Bitcoin is on track to hit a new historical high, with a high likelihood of growth in February 2025.
– El Salvador continues to actively buy Bitcoin, confirming its long-term strategy.
– Records in Bitcoin ETF investment inflows indicate continued growth in institutional investor interest.
– Payments to FTX creditors began on February 18, 2025, marking an important step in the liquidation process.

The cryptocurrency market is continuing to pick up steam, and 2025 looks set to be an even more dynamic year for investors and market participants.