Recent Bitcoin price predictions become a focal point as the cryptocurrency maintains its position at $63,900, with a modest uptick of 0.15%.

This stability unfolds amidst varying market conditions, including the cooling interest in spot Bitcoin ETFs and notable discussions at the Rio WebSummit, where the potential for Bitcoin’s value to exceed $1 million was suggested.

Such forecasts play a crucial role in shaping investor sentiment and the strategic positioning within the volatile cryptocurrency market.

Spot Bitcoin ETF Interest Wanes as Market Stabilizes

The initial excitement over spot Bitcoin ETFs is waning, with inflows slowing and Grayscale’s Bitcoin Trust (GBTC) seeing continuous withdrawals. Currently, only BlackRock’s iShares Bitcoin Trust (IBIT) and Fidelity’s Wise Origin Bitcoin Fund (FBTC) report positive daily inflows.

ETF researcher James Seyffart notes that this stagnation is common, as most ETFs are not seeing new money. He explains that creation and redemption of ETF shares are driven by demand and cost-effectiveness.

The initial euphoria for the spot #bitcoin ETFs has seemingly dampened and reality is slowly kicking in with inflows recently unable to keep up with the still speedy pace of exits from @Grayscale's Bitcoin Trust $GBTC. @HeleneBraunn reportshttps://t.co/LaEaBzYYLz

— CoinDesk (@CoinDesk) April 16, 2024

• Hashdex’s CIO, Samir Kerbage, remains optimistic about a potential surge in inflows as institutions complete due diligence on BTC investments.
• GBTC’s high fees and outflows may reflect broader investor skepticism.

This normalization in the ETF market suggests a shifting investor sentiment, possibly impacting Bitcoin’s short-term pricing dynamics.

Iraq Eyes Flare Gas Capture for Crypto Mining, Stirring Speculation

Iraq’s commitment to capture flare gas—a byproduct of oil extraction—has sparked speculation about potential cryptocurrency mining initiatives.

Deputy Prime Minister Muhammad Ali Tamim highlighted partnerships aimed at utilizing this technology for renewable energy and energy independence.

Tell me your country is going to start mining #Bitcoin for the U.S. without telling me…

Iraq’s deputy prime minister:

‘The Government of Iraq is working for the prosperity of the Iraqi people, at the same time to pay their debts of the Iraqi nation, especially when it comes… https://t.co/S4gxAdHrLb

— Joe Kerr⚡ (@Boomstick44) April 15, 2024

Typically, flare gas contributes to pollution when burned off or wasted. Notably, the Rumaila oil field is already harnessing this gas.

• Texas-based Giga, a Bitcoin mining company, uses flare gas, suggesting Iraq might explore similar ventures.
• Converting flare gas to electricity instead of direct mining could offer environmental and economic benefits.

Iraq’s exploration of using flare gas for crypto mining could influence the Bitcoin ecosystem, potentially impacting its decentralization and overall energy consumption.

Animoca Founder Predicts Bitcoin to Exceed $1 Million at Rio WebSummit

At the WebSummit in Rio, Yat Siu, founder of Animoca Brands, predicted that Bitcoin’s value could exceed $1 million, seeing it as more than just a store of value but also as a prestigious symbol in the digital economy.

Monica Long, president of Ripple, commended Brazil for its clear regulatory framework and vibrant crypto community, focusing on practical crypto uses rather than just Bitcoin’s pricing. Siu highlighted Web3’s role in enhancing financial inclusion, particularly in the Philippines and Latin America.

‘Bitcoin will reach over $1M’ — Animoca founder at WebSummit Rio https://t.co/mrIit0XMJi #Web3 #ETF #Gaming

— Crypto Mak (@crypto__mak) April 17, 2024

• Ripple is collaborating with banks to leverage blockchain for efficient international transfers.
• Discussions at the summit also covered the expansion of Bitcoin ETFs into new markets.

Siu’s bullish outlook and ongoing discussions about Bitcoin’s institutional adoption and practical applications could heighten investor interest and investment in the cryptocurrency sector.

Bitcoin Price Prediction

Bitcoin (BTC/USD) is currently priced at $63,900, showing a modest increase of 0.15%. The cryptocurrency faces a critical resistance near its pivot point at $64,626.

If it surpasses this level, there could be momentum towards higher resistance levels at $67,063, $69,394, and $72,732.

However, Bitcoin is currently showing signs of potential downside pressure with immediate support found at $61,659. Further declines could test supports at $58,829 and $55,754.

Disclaimer: Crypto is a high-risk asset class. This article is provided for informational purposes and does not constitute investment advice. You could lose all of your capital.