Why Bitcoin Prices Whipsawed This Week

This latest cryptocurrency market news led to a whipsaw in Bitcoin prices this week.

cryptocurrency, crypto, blockcahin

Image source: Getty Images

What happened?

Bitcoin (CRYPTO:BTC) prices saw a massive sharp rally on Wednesday, as they jumped by over 10% to above US$40,000 per BTC during intraday trading. However, the most valuable cryptocurrency in the world turned negative again today. At the time of writing, Bitcoin was down 7% for the day at around US$39,000 — almost erasing all its gains from yesterday. Let’s find out what could be the primary reason for the cryptocurrency market and Bitcoin whipsaw this week.

So what?

In the last few months, Bitcoin prices have seen a sharp correction, as investors remain worried about increasing regulatory crackdowns on cryptocurrencies across the world. While China has already banned all cryptocurrency mining and trading activities in the country, investors fear that the U.S. might also create strict regulations to control cryptocurrencies. These fears are one of the key reasons why Bitcoin prices have consistently been falling lately after hitting their all-time high level near US$69,000 in November 2021.

On Wednesday, the White House revealed that U.S. president Biden “will sign an Executive Order outlining the first ever, whole-of-government approach to addressing the risks and harnessing the potential benefits of digital assets and their underlying technology.” This new order focuses on several factors, including protecting consumers and investors and financial stability.

Investors cheered this latest update, as these steps didn’t appear as strict for the cryptocurrency market as investors anticipated, triggering a sharp rally in key cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum. However, Bitcoin’s price today erased most of its Wednesday’s gains, as investors continued to speculate about the outcome of Biden’s executive order to assess crypto-related risks.

Now what?

If you have been following the cryptocurrency market for some time, you might be aware that such huge volatility is not very uncommon in Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies. That said, uncertainties related to the outcome of the ongoing assessment in the U.S. market could heighten Bitcoin volatility further in the near term.

However, if you have a high-risk appetite and want to gain from the increasing popularity of cryptocurrencies, Canadian investors may want to consider investing in the shares of crypto mining companies like Hut 8 Mining and Hive Blockchain. Instead of directly pouring your hard-earned money into the extremely volatile crypto market, investing in such crypto stocks could help you benefit from Bitcoin price trends with relatively fewer risks.

The Motley Fool owns and recommends Bitcoin and Ethereum. Fool contributor Jitendra Parashar has no position in any of the stocks mentioned.

More on Investing

hand stacks coins
Dividend Stocks

3 Canadian Stocks That Could Be an Ideal Fit for a $7,000 TFSA Investment

A balanced TFSA portfolio starts with the right stocks -- here are three strong contenders.

Read more »

Real estate investment concept
Dividend Stocks

A Reliable Monthly Dividend Stock With a 4.5% Yield Worth Considering

Morguard North American Residential REIT (TSX:MRG.UN) offers a compelling 4.5% yield as it transforms from high-risk payer to blue-chip contender…

Read more »

man in suit looks at a computer with an anxious expression
Dividend Stocks

If I Could Only Buy and Hold a Single Stock, This Would Be It

Thomson Reuters has quietly doubled its financials since 2019. With AI tailwinds, a fortress balance sheet, and 9% legal growth,…

Read more »

panning for gold uncovers nuggets and flakes
Metals and Mining Stocks

1 Gold and Silver Mining Stock to Buy in April

Gold trades above $3,000 and silver above $90. Two mining stocks stand out right now: Agnico Eagle and Endeavour Silver.…

Read more »

stocks climbing green bull market
Investing

The Canadian Stocks I’d Consider If I Had $5,000 to Invest in 2026

In today’s volatile market, investors can balance risks and returns with a balanced portfolio of growth, defensive, and dividend-paying stocks.

Read more »

man crosses arms and hands to make stop sign
Dividend Stocks

The Dividend Stock I Own and Have Zero Intention of Ever Selling

Here's why this dividend stock isn't just one of the best to buy on the TSX, but one you'll never…

Read more »

hot air balloon in a blue sky
Dividend Stocks

3 Canadian Stocks That Could Benefit From a Softer Economy

These three TSX names try to defend a portfolio in a softer economy with essential demand, monthly income, or a…

Read more »

groceries get more expensive as inflation rises
Stocks for Beginners

2 Canadian Stocks That Could Outperform if Inflation Stays Sticky

Sticky inflation could keep pushing investors toward hard assets, and these two miners offer real leverage to gold and silver…

Read more »