Standard Chartered Revises Bitcoin Year‑End Target, Says $100K May Be Too Low

Standard Chartered’s global head of digital asset research, Geoff Kendrick, indicated that the bank’s year‑end Bitcoin forecast of $100,000 could be understated. He cited recent price action, short‑position liquidations and a rebound in spot Bitcoin ETF inflows as drivers that may push Bitcoin toward its $126,000 all‑time high.

Rally Drivers

Kendrick noted that the latest rally is largely powered by short liquidations, while inflows into spot Bitcoin exchange‑traded funds (ETFs) have begun to recover. He added that low open interest may allow additional investors to re‑enter as prices rise.

Forecast Adjustments

In a February 12 note, Standard Chartered lowered its year‑end Bitcoin target from $150,000 to $100,000 and its Ether target from $7,500 to $4,000. At that time, the bank expected Bitcoin to dip to around $50,000 and Ether to $1,400 before a later recovery.

Industry Perspectives

Other market observers have also signaled a potential end to the bear market. Swan Bitcoin CEO Cory Klippsten suggested a Bitcoin bottom could occur in October, while 10x Research founder Markus Thielen said a close above $63,000 in August would confirm a bottom.

Current Price Context

At the time of writing, Bitcoin was trading at $76,844, up 24% over the past week according to CoinGecko data.