In 2024, cryptocurrency saw renewed trust and integration into mainstream finance, driven by regulation, compliance, and Bitcoin’s surge past $100,000. ETFs expanded market access, and Bitstamp secured a MiFID MTF license to offer crypto derivatives. CEO Jean-Baptiste Graftieaux highlights growing institutional demand, evolving global regulations, and crypto’s strengthening role in the financial system as 2025 approaches.
As 2024 draws to a close, Jean-Baptiste Graftieaux, CEO of Bitstamp, the world’s oldest cryptocurrency exchange, highlights pivotal developments in the cryptocurrency sector and shares his outlook for 2025.
The year 2024 marked a significant turning point for cryptocurrency, with enhanced regulation and compliance efforts helping to integrate digital assets into mainstream finance.
Graftieaux commented, “2024 was a pivotal year for cryptocurrency. Strengthened regulations further integrated crypto into mainstream finance, while a focus on compliance and security bolstered trust in the sector.”
“Bitcoin had an extraordinary year, with its price soaring by approximately 130%, driven by enhanced regulation and strong support from the incoming U.S. administration. Crossing the $100,000 mark in December was a landmark moment”, he added.
Renewed trust and growing accessibility
Efforts to address past challenges have contributed to renewed confidence in the cryptocurrency sector. Bitstamp, in particular, played a role in restoring assets to those affected by the Mt. Gox collapse, demonstrating the industry’s commitment to rectifying historical missteps.
Graftieaux noted, “Trust in crypto grew in 2024 after the sector put right some historical wrongs. Bitstamp was one of the exchanges to help restore assets to those who lost out from the Mt. Gox collapsed a decade ago.
Exchange-traded funds (ETFs) emerged as a major trend, opening crypto markets to a wider range of investors. Additionally, Bitstamp secured its landmark MiFID MTF licence in October, which will enable us to offer crypto derivatives to institutional and retail customers—further highlighting the evolution of the industry.”
The global regulatory landscape
Regulatory frameworks around the world are increasingly adapting to support cryptocurrency, further embedding it as a vital component of decentralised finance. This evolution has made crypto investments more accessible and flexible, paving the way for continued growth.
Graftieaux remarked, “Global regulatory frameworks are adapting to support crypto, solidifying its position as a cornerstone of the decentralized financial system and making crypto investment more accessible and flexible.
We’re excited about the renewed confidence in cryptocurrency and the growing recognition of its benefits by world leaders.”
He added, “In 2025, cryptocurrencies are poised to strengthen their place in the global financial system. While the exuberance of late 2024 may cool, the sector’s fundamentals remain robust.
The incoming U.S. administration’s favourable stance on crypto, coupled with expected macroeconomic improvements, could boost digital asset values while preserving their appeal as an inflation hedge.
ETFs were a game-changer in 2024, making crypto investment more accessible to both retail and institutional investors. This trend will likely continue, supported by new U.S. regulations and the rollout of MiCA in Europe, which aims to increase market transparency.”
Building momentum in the evolving crypto sector
Bitstamp’s focus on safety, compliance, and innovation positions the platform to cater to both retail and institutional investors as demand for indirect investment products grows.
Graftieaux concluded, “As crypto gains recognition as a versatile asset class, institutional demand for indirect investment products will grow. Bitstamp’s dedication to safety, security, and compliance positions us to serve both retail and institutional customers effectively.
We look forward to building on this momentum, fostering trust, and championing innovation as the sector continues to evolve.”
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