Bitcoin (CRYPTO:BTC) has returned to the spotlight after Citigroup released a wide-ranging price outlook that outlines bullish, base-case, and bearish scenarios for the cryptocurrency over the next 12 months.
Analysts at Citi set a base-case target of $143,000 for Bitcoin, citing expectations of stronger exchange-traded fund participation and greater regulatory clarity across key markets.
The bank’s outlook also includes a bullish scenario that sees Bitcoin climbing as high as $189,000 if institutional demand accelerates and market conditions remain supportive.
On the downside, Citi warned that Bitcoin could fall to $78,500 within the same period if ETF inflows weaken and broader risk sentiment deteriorates.
Citi’s analysts said the growing role of regulated investment products is reshaping Bitcoin’s market structure and lowering entry barriers for large institutional investors.
Spot Bitcoin ETFs were highlighted as a key driver, as they allow exposure to the asset without the operational and custody risks associated with holding Bitcoin directly.