Bitcoin News Today: Bitcoin hits $118,000 driven by U.S. regulatory clarity and institutional demand

Bitcoin surged past $118,000 on August 10, 2025, driven by a combination of favorable U.S. regulatory developments and increased institutional participation in the cryptocurrency market [4]. The rise was attributed to regulatory clarity, including the approval of 401(k) retirement plans allowing Bitcoin investments, as reported by major exchanges such as Binance and Coinbase [5]. The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission’s evolving stance has played a central role in legitimizing Bitcoin as a viable asset class, prompting a marked increase in trading volumes and investor confidence [5].

The surge has been accompanied by a notable rise in open interest in Bitcoin futures, reaching $120 billion in late July 2025 [1]. This figure reflects a deepening level of engagement across both retail and institutional markets, with long-term holders participating in profit-taking and contributing to overall liquidity [5]. Analysts have noted that the market’s resilience, particularly after a brief correction in late July, suggests strong underlying demand and the potential for further gains [1].

The U.S. policy environment has been a key catalyst in Bitcoin’s recent price action. The approval of spot Bitcoin ETFs and the government’s increasingly pro-crypto stance have attracted capital inflows from both institutional and retail investors [4]. Despite these developments, some uncertainty emerged following the resignation of Donald Trump’s former crypto adviser, Bo Hines, which introduced volatility and speculation about future regulatory direction [2]. However, the broader market has remained relatively stable, with Bitcoin maintaining a firm position above $116,000 in early August [1].

Looking ahead, financial analysts have identified potential for further upward movement. Donald Dean, a market analyst, highlighted a volume shelf between $116,000 and $118,000, suggesting that a breakout above this level could propel Bitcoin toward $131,000 based on Fibonacci extension levels [8]. However, this projection remains speculative and contingent on continued market momentum and regulatory clarity. As of August 10, Bitcoin traded just above $118,000, showing a 1.38% increase over the previous 24 hours [5]. Meanwhile, the Fear & Greed Index registered a score of 67, indicating a bullish but cautious sentiment among investors [9].

Bitcoin’s performance reflects a broader shift in how financial markets view digital assets. With a realized market cap surpassing $1 trillion and sustained institutional interest, the cryptocurrency continues to solidify its role as a store of value and a hedge against macroeconomic uncertainty [5]. The next several weeks will be critical in determining whether this all-time high marks the beginning of a new bull cycle or a temporary peak. Analysts expect the price to remain within a $115,000 to $117,000 range in the short term, pending further regulatory developments and macroeconomic signals [9].

Source:

[1] AInvest, [https://www.ainvest.com/news/bitcoin-news-today-bitcoin-hits-118-000-bullish-policy-shifts-rising-futures-open-interest-2508/](https://www.ainvest.com/news/bitcoin-news-today-bitcoin-hits-118-000-bullish-policy-shifts-rising-futures-open-interest-2508/)

[2] AInvest, [https://www.ainvest.com/news/bitcoin-news-today-bitcoin-surges-118-000-trump-adviser-resigns-policy-uncertainty-2508/](https://www.ainvest.com/news/bitcoin-news-today-bitcoin-surges-118-000-trump-adviser-resigns-policy-uncertainty-2508/)

[4] TaxTMI, [https://www.taxtmi.com/news?id=49188](https://www.taxtmi.com/news?id=49188)

[5] The, [https://m.economictimes.com/crypto-news-today-live-10-aug-2025/liveblog/123209774.cms](https://m.economictimes.com/crypto-news-today-live-10-aug-2025/liveblog/123209774.cms)

[8] NewsBTC, [https://www.newsbtc.com/news/bitcoin/bitcoin-volume-shelf-indicates-possible-launch-to-131000-analyst/](https://www.newsbtc.com/news/bitcoin/bitcoin-volume-shelf-indicates-possible-launch-to-131000-analyst/)