On May 22, 2025, Bitcoin reached a new all-time high of $111,986.44, coinciding with the 15th anniversary of “Bitcoin Pizza Day“—the date marking the first real-world transaction using Bitcoin. In 2010, developer Laszlo Hanyecz paid 10,000 BTC for two pizzas, a sum now valued at over $1.1 billion.

Institutional Inflows Drive Price Surge

The recent price rally is largely attributed to substantial inflows into cryptocurrency exchange-traded funds (ETFs), with U.S.-listed spot Bitcoin ETFs attracting approximately $4.2 billion in May alone. These investment vehicles have now accumulated over $40 billion in total assets, demonstrating growing institutional confidence in Bitcoin as a legitimate asset class. 

Regulatory Developments and Market Sentiment

Positive regulatory developments have also played a role in boosting investor sentiment. The U.S. Senate recently advanced a key stablecoin bill, and President Trump has expressed intentions to sign crypto regulation into law by August, providing much-needed clarity for the industry. 

Market Analysts Urge Caution

Despite the optimistic outlook, market analysts advise caution, suggesting that the rally might encounter resistance due to potential market corrections or external economic pressures. Experts highlight the importance of monitoring volatility and shifting market sentiment that could affect the sustainability of this upward trend. 

Global Celebrations and Cultural Impact

The milestone has been celebrated globally, with cryptocurrency exchange Bitget distributing free pizzas to over 2,000 people in honor of Bitcoin Pizza Day. The event underscores Bitcoin’s evolution from a niche digital currency to a mainstream financial asset with a market capitalization exceeding $2 trillion.