Bitcoin tests $106K as Congress could act this week and JP Morgan turns bullish
Bitcoin briefly rose over $106,000 on Sunday, navigating a period of high network activity, record transaction fees, and a dramatic reversal from JPMorgan.
But another catalyst is emerging: U.S. congressional action that could reshape the regulatory landscape and spark Bitcoin’s next rally.
JPMorgan’s Bold Flip: BTC Could Hit $150K in 2025
After years of skepticism, Wall Street giant JPMorgan now sees Bitcoin as poised for significant gains. In its latest research note, the bank forecasts that BTC could rise to $150,000 by year-end, citing several bullish drivers:
- Increased institutional adoption, driven by spot ETFs and corporate demand;
- Reduced miner sell pressure, which has stabilized supply dynamics;
- State-level crypto policy momentum, especially from Florida and Texas.
“We believe Bitcoin’s fundamentals now support an extended rally,” JPMorgan analysts wrote, calling BTC “undervalued relative to its macro and institutional tailwinds.”
Bitcoin Transaction Fees Surge to 2025 Highs
While price holds steady, on-chain data reveals surging activity. Bitcoin transaction fees recently spiked to their highest level of the year:
- Average fees crossed $38 per transaction, reflecting congestion from Ordinals, BRC-20 tokens, and growing user engagement.
- Network mempools remain backed up as more capital and speculation flow into the ecosystem.
High fees, while sometimes frustrating, signal one thing: demand is back — and it’s accelerating.
Congress to Debate Landmark Stablecoin Bill as Senate Vote Nears
A U.S. Senate vote is expected next week on the Genius Act, a bipartisan bill to regulate stablecoin issuers and formally integrate crypto into the financial system.
Sen. Bill Hagerty (R-TN), the bill’s sponsor, called it “the first-ever pro-growth framework for payment stablecoins.”
The legislation was recently revised to address Democratic concerns about consumer protection and national security, which had stalled its progress earlier this month due to links between the crypto industry and President Trump’s administration.
“We’re ready to revolutionize the financial system,” said Bo Hines, a senior advisor to Trump, expressing confidence the bill will pass and reach the president’s desk soon.
Crypto firms have long pushed for clear regulation. “The industry wants rules,” said Ira Auerbach of Offchain Labs. “Set the framework, and innovation will thrive.”
#Bitcoin Price Suddenly Soars As Congress Predicted To ‘Make History’$BTC#CryptoCommunity
— Everything Crypto (@EverytngCrypto) May 18, 2025
Behind the scenes in Washington, Congress is preparing to act on more long-awaited crypto legislation — and this may be the most underappreciated catalyst for Bitcoin in 2025.
Several bipartisan bills are advancing, including:
- The Digital Asset Market Structure Bill, which would classify most cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin, as commodities under the CFTC;
- A bill to exempt small crypto transactions (under $200) from capital gains tax, unlocking more retail utility;
- Potential guidance for ETF oversight.
“Congressional clarity could open the floodgates,” said one policy advisor close to the negotiations. “If passed, it will give institutional investors the green light to go all-in.”
What’s Next for Bitcoin?
Bitcoin’s outlook for the second half of 2025 hinges on three major catalysts:
1. Institutional Flows and JPMorgan’s Target
ETF inflows and growing demand from hedge funds and corporate treasuries could drive BTC toward the $150,000 target outlined by JPMorgan.
2. Network Utility and On-Chain Activity
Soaring fees and congestion hint at real adoption and sustained demand — not just speculative trading. Layer-2 solutions could help scale BTC for broader use.
3. Congressional Action
If crypto-friendly legislation passes, it could create the most favorable U.S. regulatory environment in Bitcoin’s history, encouraging more retail and institutional participation.
Final Thoughts
Bitcoin is no longer just a speculative asset. As it trades securely above $100,000, major players like JPMorgan are validating its role in the global financial system.
With surging fees, rising altcoin momentum, and potential U.S. legislation on deck, the crypto market is primed for another explosive chapter — and Bitcoin may lead the charge once again.
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