Bitcoin price prediction trends are heating up as the world’s largest cryptocurrency trades at $116,874, gaining 1.81% in the past 24 hours and holding steady near a key breakout point.
Market sentiment is being shaped by a mix of strong technical signals, growing mainstream adoption, and shifting global regulations. In the U.S., more retailers are rolling out Bitcoin payment options, while traders are closely watching the $117,350 resistance level as a potential trigger for a fresh rally toward recent highs.
On-chain data shows continued accumulation, suggesting long-term holders remain confident despite short-term volume dips. Across the Atlantic, European regulators are taking a more cautious stance, creating a notable policy divide that could influence market flows.
Against this backdrop, a new contender is gaining traction – Bitcoin Hyper, a Bitcoin-native Layer 2 built on the Solana Virtual Machine, offering high-speed, low-cost transactions and a fast-moving presale already attracting millions in funding.
Mainstream Adoption Accelerates in the U.S.
Bitcoin’s recent resilience comes amid growing real-world use cases. U.S. convenience store chain Sheetz, with over 750 locations, is now offering 50% off all purchases between 3 pm and 7 pm when paid in Bitcoin or other cryptocurrencies through Flexa.
Payments are instantly converted to fiat, reducing volatility for merchants.
Other retailers are following suit – Steak ‘n Shake recently reported a 50% savings on payment fees for Bitcoin transactions compared to credit cards. These moves indicate U.S. businesses increasingly see digital assets not just as investments but as functional payment tools.
Policy Divide Between the U.S. and Europe
While adoption is rising in the U.S., Europe’s regulatory stance is becoming more cautious. The European Banking Authority has finalized rules imposing a 1,250% risk weight on “unbacked” crypto assets like Bitcoin, meaning EU banks will need €12.5 million in capital for every €1 million in Bitcoin holdings.
By contrast, U.S. policy is turning more crypto-friendly. President Donald Trump recently announced plans to allow cryptocurrencies in 401(k) retirement plans, potentially unlocking a $9 trillion market.
This news boosted crypto stocks, with Coinbase up 3%, Galaxy Digital up 6%, and Bitmine Immersion up 8%.
Technical Outlook: Bullish Flag Pattern Intact
From a technical analysis standpoint, Bitcoin is holding within a bullish flag pattern after peaking at $123,255 in late July. The lower bound aligns with an upward trendline from April and the 50-day SMA at $113,154, creating a strong support zone.
Momentum is turning positive, with the daily RSI at 54 after recovering from oversold levels. A sustained move above $117,350 could pave the way back to $123,255, with further targets at $126,981 and $131,574. If $113,150 fails, short-term support lies at $110,725 and $107,768.
Bitcoin Price Prediction: Near-Term Targets
Analysts see the $117,350 breakout level as critical. Clearing it with high volume could spark a fresh rally toward $125,000 and beyond. Current on-chain data shows strong accumulation and exchange outflows, suggesting long-term holders are staying firm.
Even with bullish momentum, volume has dipped 4.52% in the past day to $66.81 billion, a sign that near-term volatility could increase. For now, the Bitcoin price prediction consensus remains tilted toward an upside move as long as support levels hold.
