Bitcoin remained largely unchanged on Friday, after a recent rise brought the cryptocurrency close to surpassing the $100,000 mark again as risk appetite was bolstered by China's indication of its willingness to engage in trade talks with the United States.

Investor sentiment was also bolstered by the announcement of Strategy (NASDAQ:MSTR), the main owner of Bitcoin, regarding a $21 billion stock offering, despite the company reporting a loss for the fifth consecutive quarter.

The broader cryptocurrency prices rose on Friday following China's statements, tracking a rise in risk-driven markets, particularly stocks. However, the range of cryptocurrency gains was limited, as the strong uptick seen in late April seemed to be fading now.

Bitcoin stabilized at $96,999.0000 by 17:20 Saudi time, after rising to a high of $97,226.1000 earlier in the session.

Bitcoin improves as China signals its openness to trade talks with the United States

The gains in Bitcoin on Friday came largely after China's Ministry of Commerce stated that it was open to trade talks with the United States, following attempts at dialogue from Washington.

The statements revived hopes for trade negotiations between the world's two largest economies, after they became embroiled in a bitter trade war in April.