Bitcoin soared past $98,000, hitting a new milestone as easing geopolitical tensions between the US and Russia lifted investor sentiment. The crypto market rallied alongside traditional risk assets, with traders betting that diplomatic progress could reduce uncertainty and fuel continued institutional interest in digital currencies.
The AI token sector saw an even bigger surge, adding $30 billion in market value, led by NEAR Protocol and Bittensor. The growing integration of artificial intelligence with blockchain technology has driven increased speculation, as investors view AI-powered networks as the next frontier in crypto innovation.
Bitcoin/Tether US 1-D Chart as of February 21st, 2025 ( Source: TradingView)
Bitcoin’s latest rally comes amid broader market optimism, with investors shrugging off recent volatility. The world’s largest cryptocurrency has continued to defy expectations, extending its bullish run as demand from both retail and institutional investors remains strong. With the Federal Reserve’s monetary policy outlook still uncertain, crypto traders are closely watching macroeconomic developments for further clues on potential market moves.
Meanwhile, AI-related tokens have gained significant traction, fueled by rising adoption in decentralized applications. NEAR Protocol, which focuses on scalability and developer-friendly AI integrations, led the pack, while Bittensor’s network—designed for decentralized machine learning—saw a surge in interest. The market’s enthusiasm for AI-backed blockchain projects reflects a growing belief that the convergence of these technologies could reshape digital ecosystems.
Despite the strong momentum, some analysts warn of overheating in speculative assets, with Bitcoin nearing uncharted territory and AI tokens experiencing parabolic growth. Any unexpected shift in global macro conditions, including central bank policies or geopolitical tensions, could trigger a sharp correction.
For now, crypto bulls remain firmly in control, with Bitcoin’s price action signaling further upside potential. As institutional adoption grows and AI-powered blockchains gain mainstream recognition, the sector remains one of the most dynamic and closely watched areas in global markets.