Citigroup has issued a 12-month outlook for bitcoin, setting a “base case” price target of $143,000—about 62% above current levels near $88,000—on expectations of renewed ETF inflows and continued strength in traditional equity markets.
“Bitcoin is expected to trade in the $80,000–$90,000 range into the new year, supported by increased adoption and potential U.S. digital-asset legislation in the second quarter,” analysts Alex Saunders, Dirk Willer, and Vinh Vo said in a joint report. They identified $70,000 as a key support level, roughly corresponding to bitcoin’s price ahead of Donald Trump’s 2024 election victory.
The base case assumes robust ETF demand and positive stock market forecasts. Regulatory catalysts—particularly the anticipated passage and signing of the Clarity Act, which has already passed the House—could further boost adoption and fund flows.
Citi also outlined a bear scenario, with a target of $78,500, over 10% below current levels, should a global recession hit. The bull case envisions bitcoin climbing to $189,000, more than doubling from today’s price, driven by strong end-investor demand.
Overall, Citi’s report highlights that while bitcoin remains volatile, regulatory developments, ETF inflows, and equity market performance could drive significant upside over the next year.
