And as Bitcoin recently convincingly cleared the $102k threshold yet again, institutional heavyweight JPMorgan Chase is now paying attention: In a big way… by massively boosting its Bitcoin ETF exposure. Bitcoin regaining this important support level and now JPMorgan’s most recent filings provide a green light for investors exploring to find the best crypto to buy right now.
JPMorgan’s Latest Bitcoin Gambit: A Bet on the Future of Crypto ETFs
It boosted its holdings of BlackRock’s iShares Bitcoin Trust (IBIT) by 64% during Q3 2025, increasing from approximately 3.2 million shares to more than 5.2 million, a value between $312 and $343 million. This puts the bank among the largest institutional holders of Bitcoin ETFs — trailing only a few larger entities.
In addition to spot ETF shares, JPMorgan has positions in derivatives that are much more sophisticated: around $68 million of IBIT call options and about $133 million worth of put options. These tactics reflect the bank’s bullish perspective, but also control risk by using tactical hedges. Analysts at JPMorgan now predict that Bitcoin could rise to as high as $170,000 in the next 6 to 12 months, based on:
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A sustained drop in Bitcoin’s volatility compared with gold, making it more attractive as a digital store of value
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Evidence that the futures market-led liquidation phase is drawing to a close, which should help momentum begin to firm again upside.
Can High School Finance Classes Help Us Better Understand Bitcoin Price Action?
Bitcoin’s recent retest and subsequent war to defend $102,000 also validates a key demand area from $98,200 to $102,120. From a technical perspective, $100,300 is seen as the crucial mean support level — for staying above this target in order to prevent the market from sliding down to $93,700, 10% below current prices.
On the positive side, a push above $104,300 resistance (and daily close above $108,173) would open up additional upside towards $112,000 and possibly even $117,500. The RSI (14) struggles to find a direction, still below 50—suggesting buying pressure with caution—a near RSI crossover could begin the next bullish move.
Institutional Interest: Bitcoin vs. Ethereum
JPMorgan’s bullish approach on Bitcoin ETFs stands in stark contrast to its lack of exposure to Ethereum. The bank’s filings display just 66 shares of BlackRock’s iShares Ethereum Trust (which cost about $1,700), which demonstrates an even stronger institutional faith in Bitcoin ETFs as a regulated onramp.
Why Universities Are Betting on the Bitcoin-ETF Push
Institutions are doubling down on Bitcoin ETFs for several reasons:
Regulatory Clarity and Transparency
ETFs provide a traditional, regulated model that solves for custody, compliance and reporting issues – which are important as crypto regulation is still in flux.
Risk Management through Hedging
In mixing spot ETF positions with calls and puts, institutions can have limited downside while maintaining upside on Bitcoin.
Bitcoin as a Treasury Reserve Asset
So in the last post, we explored ideas why Bitcoin can be considered a future treasury reserve asset.
Institutions increasingly see Bitcoin as a digital alternative to gold — an asset for holding through a period of inflation and a vehicle for managing treasuries.
Market Maturation and Lower Volatility
Advancements in AI-generated trading and covered-call strategies are helping to stabilize Bitcoin’s price swerves, so it is more appetizing for long-term holders.
Current Market Risks and Outlook
Although institutional demand is increasing — Bitcoin ETFs saw around $7.8 billion inflows in Q3 2025 — Bitcoin is not immune to macro shocks. Over $20 billion liquidated after the October crash, fueled by trade war fears and shorting.
If there is a break below $100,300, the price may possibly decline further towards the $90,000 support level. On the other hand, a strong close above $112,000 on high volume could trigger a short squeeze and fresh rally.
What This Means for Cryptocurrency Investors
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Bitcoin ETFs as Favorite Entry Point
JPMorgan’s pile of ETFs illustrates the advantages of regulated products for both retail and institutional investors. -
Emphasize Bitcoin More Than Altcoins
Since Ethereum ETFs are sidelined, Bitcoin is the de facto digital asset for portfolio construction. -
Keep an Eye on Volatility Levels
The key level to watch for traders is $100,300 as support; a break suggests caution while a hold opens the door back to new highs. -
Take a Medium- to Long-Term View
Institutional strategies indicate a period of somewhat predictable volatility, which benefits patient investors.
Final Thoughts
JPMorgan’s high bets on Bitcoin ETFs—and Bitcoin’s strong bounce off the $102,000 mark—show what a totem BTC remains in the crypto market. But while challenges remain, increasing influence among institutional investors and improved market infrastructure offer a better outlook for Bitcoin’s role as digital gold. Investors eyeing the best crypto to buy now, and while it won’t directly go into Dogecoin, making an allocation in Bitcoin — particularly via an ETF — presents a harmonic blend of growth with risk management.
Disclaimer
This is for informational purposes and should not be considered financial advice. Cryptocurrency investments carry inherent risks. Always do your own research and/or consult a professional investor before making an investment.
