Bitcoin (BTC-USD) reached its highest price in two years, surpassing $45,000 for the first time since April 2022, fueled by anticipation of the U.S. approval of a spot Bitcoin ETF.

Bitcoin (BTC-USD) is currently changing hands at $45.8K, almost 8% up.

The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is set to approve a Bitcoin ETF after a long wait, citing concerns about volatility and market manipulation.

The decision, which could be made as early as January 10th, has ignited a current rally among investors who anticipate a positive outcome.

Bitcoin has increased by a significant 175% in the past year. It performed better than both gold and global stocks, although it hasn't returned to its 2021 peak of $69,000.

Stocks to watch on Tuesday as Bitcoin surpassed the $45,000 threshold: Coinbase Global (COIN). Riot Platforms (RIOT). Marathon Digital (MARA). Hut 8 Mining (HUT). Cleanspark (CLSK). MicroStrategy (MSTR), Cipher Mining (CIFR), Stronghold Digital (SDIG), Hive Digital Technologies (HIVE), Bitdeer Technologies (BTDR), Bakkt (BKKT) and Bitfarms (BITF).