Citi Forecasts Strong Momentum for Bitcoin and Ethereum Into 2025

Citi (C) projects a steady but meaningful momentum for the cryptocurrency market heading into the new year, highlighting bullish scenarios for both Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH). In its latest report, the Wall Street bank adjusted its year-end 2025 forecasts, now expecting Bitcoin to reach $133,000, a slight revision from its earlier $135,000 target. Ethereum, meanwhile, saw a modest upgrade, with Citi setting its price outlook at $4,500, up from $4,300.

At publication time, Bitcoin traded around $119,550 while Ethereum hovered near $4,407. Despite minor adjustments, Citi emphasized that both digital assets remain positioned for long-term growth, fueled largely by institutional inflows and the growing appeal of crypto as an alternative investment.

The bank’s forecast covers a wide spectrum of possibilities. In a bullish scenario, Bitcoin could surge to $156,000 if equity markets strengthen and capital inflows accelerate, while a recessionary downturn could drag it down to $83,000. For Ethereum, Citi outlined an upside potential of $6,100, though it also acknowledged the risk of significantly lower valuations under bearish conditions.

Looking ahead 12 months, Citi places Bitcoin’s target at $181,000, hinging on sustained inflows through exchange-traded funds (ETFs). Ethereum is forecasted to rise to $5,400, supported by its staking rewards and decentralized finance (DeFi) ecosystem. The bank underscores Bitcoin’s advantage as “digital gold” due to its scale and recognition, while Ethereum is expected to benefit from yield opportunities in staking and DeFi applications.

Citi also pointed to regulatory clarity, particularly in the U.S., as a key catalyst that could support continued growth. However, it cautioned that macroeconomic risks such as recessionary pressures remain potential threats to the optimistic outlook.

With institutional adoption accelerating and ETFs driving accessibility, Citi sees crypto entering 2025 with strong momentum, positioning both Bitcoin and Ethereum for potentially record-setting performance.