The cryptocurrency landscape is booming. With Bitcoin currently trading near $97,350 and approaching the historic $100,000 milestone, a perfect storm of global events is driving the digital asset to new heights. From the high-profile TOKEN2049 Dubai event to widespread cryptocurrency adoption in the Middle East and Coinbase's groundbreaking Bitcoin-backed lending service, the momentum is at an all-time high.

TOKEN2049 Dubai: Global Cryptocurrency Exhibition

TOKEN2049 in Dubai (April 30–May 1, 2025) attracted over 15,000 attendees from more than 160 countries, establishing itself as the most influential cryptocurrency gathering of the year. The conference highlighted visionary leaders like CZ of Binance and Eric Trump, and revealed key developments such as:

  • Stablecoin-Supported Investment: A $2 billion deal by an organization using $1 stablecoins on TRON in exchange for Binance equity.

  • Practical Utility: Mesh's integration of Apple Pay now enables stablecoin payments across retail and e-commerce operations.

  • Political Support: Eric Trump's keynote speech criticizing the global financial system, calling cryptocurrency the path to financial sovereignty.

Middle East: The new cryptocurrency capital

Dubai and the broader UAE region are emerging as a global cryptocurrency stronghold, driven by:

  • Real estate with Bitcoin: Dubai developers are accepting BTC for real estate transactions.

  • Banking Services: Emirates NBD's digital platform Liv now offers cryptocurrency trading services.

  • Infrastructure Growth: DMCC will launch a dedicated 'Cryptocurrency Tower' in 2027 for blockchain companies.

This regional pivot to blockchain-based infrastructure shows that the Middle East is quickly positioning itself as a global leader in cryptocurrency adoption.

Coinbase Bitcoin-Backed Loans: No selling, borrow big

Coinbase recently launched a groundbreaking product allowing US users to borrow up to $1 million USDC without selling their Bitcoin. Key highlights:

  • No liquidation needed for liquidity: Users retain ownership of their BTC while still accessing capital.

  • Attractive Terms: Interest rates as low as 5%.

  • Strong market response: $100 million in loans processed within 100 days of launch.

This product is a breakthrough for long-term holders and signals that cryptocurrency is integrating with mainstream financial services.

Organizations doubling down

Big players are acting with conviction:

  • Strategic Fund: Doubling Bitcoin holdings fund to $42 billion.

  • Metaplanet: Issuing bonds to expand Bitcoin positions and establish operations in the United States

  • Riot Platforms: Securing $100 million from Coinbase Credit by using BTC as collateral.

Such activities contribute significantly to Bitcoin's bullish trend in the second half of 2025.

The Verdict: If $100,000 is within reach, then $150,000 will be the next target

As the global market positively reacts to easing US-China trade tensions and cryptocurrency events fostering optimism, Bitcoin is in a perfect position.

With increasing support from institutions, innovative DeFi products, and widespread adoption booming in the Middle East, the likelihood of Bitcoin surpassing $100,000 this May has never been stronger.

And with a high probability of BTC prices returning to ATH above $100,000, the next step toward $150,000 seems closer than ever.