Bitcoin surges 9% in week, hits $117,430 on policy shifts

Bitcoin has demonstrated notable strength in July 2025, with market dynamics indicating a continued upward trajectory as the month progresses. Currently priced at $117,430, the cryptocurrency has gained 5% in the past 24 hours and 9% over the past week, reflecting growing investor confidence. This surge in price can be attributed to several key developments, including a significant geopolitical and economic shift that occurred in early April.

On April 2, a major policy change was announced, involving an aggressive package of tariffs aimed at rebalancing global trade. This announcement, dubbed "Liberation Day," initially caused a downturn in traditional stock markets. However, Bitcoin responded in the opposite direction, climbing from around $70,000 to its current range. This divergence highlighted Bitcoin's status as a safe haven asset, particularly in times of economic uncertainty.

One of the most consequential actions following Liberation Day was the establishment of a U.S. strategic Bitcoin reserve. This move, described as a virtual Fort Knox for digital gold, marked the first formal effort by the United States to incorporate Bitcoin into its national reserve strategy. The decision signaled to the global market that Bitcoin was now being viewed through a national security and long-term value lens, further boosting institutional confidence in the asset.

Bitcoin's unique structure, particularly its limited supply of 21 million coins, has always invited comparisons to gold. Unlike fiat currencies, which can be expanded at will by central banks, Bitcoin's fixed issuance model ensures scarcity. This quality becomes particularly attractive in times of economic volatility or strategic financial repositioning, reinforcing Bitcoin's status as a store of value.

As market participants adjust to these developments, Google's AI platform Gemini has analyzed the underlying data and market indicators to offer a short-term forecast. According to its assessment, Bitcoin is expected to reach approximately $120,000 by July 31, 2025, representing a 2.1% increase from current levels. This projection is grounded in a synthesis of price trends, supply-demand mechanics, and the broader policy environment. With less than three weeks until the end of the month, market observers are closely monitoring Bitcoin's performance relative to Gemini's forecast.