Bitcoin (BTC) set a new all-time high above $106,000 earlier this week, fueling optimism among traders who are now targeting the $120,000 mark as the cryptocurrency enters the traditionally bullish period of December. Over the past eight years, Bitcoin has posted gains in six Decembers, with returns ranging from 8% to a remarkable 46% in 2020.

Several factors have contributed to Bitcoin’s recent rally. Key drivers include increased speculation surrounding U.S. president-elect Donald Trump’s potential to establish a federal Bitcoin reserve and significant Bitcoin purchases by major companies like Riot Platforms and MicroStrategy. In addition, the rising influx of funds into Bitcoin exchange-traded funds (ETFs) has boosted the asset’s price. Analysts note that traditional financial inflows are becoming an increasingly important factor in Bitcoin’s price action.

“Unlike previous crypto cycles, TradFi (traditional finance) inflows are now the primary driver of Bitcoin sentiment and price movements,” said Augustine Fan, head of insights at SOFA. “This shift is expected to continue as more institutions and high-net-worth individuals adopt digital asset strategies, recognizing the revenue opportunities in this evolving market.”

Bitcoin’s recent price behavior has also demonstrated strong upward momentum, with higher lows indicating sustained bullish trends. Traders are particularly focused on the formation of a potential bullish continuation pattern, suggesting that more gains are likely ahead.

December has historically been a favorable month for Bitcoin, known for what is often referred to as the “Santa Claus Rally.” Over the last eight years, Bitcoin has closed December in the green six times, with gains of 8% to 46%, driven by increased demand during the holiday season.

Looking ahead, many traders are optimistic about Bitcoin’s potential in 2024 and beyond. “We believe Bitcoin has tremendous upside, and it could easily hit $125,000 by the end of 2025,” said Jeff Mei, COO of crypto exchange BTSE. “While some may argue that the rally has already been priced in, we see the current surge as just the beginning.”

Mei highlighted that as institutional investors, family offices, and high-net-worth individuals begin to allocate portions of their portfolios to Bitcoin, inflows are expected to skyrocket. “With Trump’s pro-crypto appointments, continued rate cuts, and stimulus spending from China, the case for Bitcoin remains incredibly strong,” Mei added.