Retail enthusiasm needed for bitcoin's price to reach $180k, predicts BitcoinIRA COO Chris Kline.

Retail enthusiasm needed for bitcoin's price to reach $180k, predicts BitcoinIRA COO Chris Kline.

Bitcoin (BTC) has shown remarkable resilience and growth in recent weeks, with the cryptocurrency edging slightly below $109,000 on July 2, 2025, after recording its highest weekly close in history [1]. Despite this positive momentum, Chris Kline, the co-founder and chief operating officer of BitcoinIRA, believes that retail enthusiasm is crucial for Bitcoin's price to reach $180,000.

Kline, speaking on the launch of Ethereum staking for crypto IRAs by BitcoinIRA, highlighted the importance of retail investors in driving Bitcoin's price further. "Retail enthusiasm is key to pushing Bitcoin's price to new heights," Kline said. "We are seeing a growing number of investors, especially those in retirement portfolios, who are interested in cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum."

BitcoinIRA's expansion into Ethereum staking marks a significant move to broaden investment opportunities for its users. The platform plans to introduce staking options for Solana (SOL) and Polkadot (DOT) in the future, giving clients more ways to grow their crypto retirement portfolios [2].

The introduction of Ethereum staking comes at a time when Bitcoin's institutional and corporate demand remains robust. Japanese investment firm Metaplanet added 2,205 BTC to its holdings, bringing the total to 15,555 BTC, while the Blockchain Group acquired 116 BTC, increasing its holdings to 1,904 BTC [1].

Moreover, the potential extension of the US tariff pause to August 1 could offer a mixed bag for riskier assets like Bitcoin. While the extension may postpone immediate downside risk, it also prolongs uncertainty [1].

As Bitcoin continues to gain traction, the cryptocurrency's dominance ratio remains high, indicating strong investor interest. However, a drop in Bitcoin dominance could signal a shift in investor sentiment towards altcoins, potentially triggering altcoin rallies.

In conclusion, while institutional and corporate demand for Bitcoin remains strong, retail enthusiasm is essential for Bitcoin's price to reach $180,000. BitcoinIRA's expansion into Ethereum staking and other cryptocurrencies highlights the growing interest in cryptocurrencies among investors seeking to diversify their portfolios.

References:
[1] https://www.fxstreet.com/cryptocurrencies/news/bitcoin-price-forecast-btc-holds-just-below-109-000-after-record-weekly-close-202507070945
[2] https://www.newsbreak.com/the-associated-press-510077/4089134543743-bitcoinira-announces-ethereum-staking-for-crypto-iras