Bitcoin climbed past the $11,000 level for the first time since mid-July to lead gains among the biggest cryptocurrencies, as risk assets across Asia tumbled on escalating trade war tensions.
The largest cryptocurrency surged as much as 12% from Friday’s close and traded at $11,565 at 12:50 p.m. in Hong Kong, according to consolidated Bloomberg pricing. The Bloomberg Galaxy Crypto Index tracking a basket of cryptocurrencies jumped as much as 7.2% as rival digital coins including Ether and XRP also rallied.
“With the turmoil in markets and the streets, suddenly digital gold doesn’t seem like such a bad idea,” said Jehan Chu, managing partner at blockchain investment and advisory firm Kenetic Capital. “Bitcoin is increasingly seen not only as a bet on the future, but as a shelter for the present.”
China’s yuan fell past 7 per dollar, a key psychological level for traders, roiling global markets and driving other currencies lower. The risk-off shift intensified on reports China had asked state buyers to halt imports of American agriculture imports, further escalating trade tensions after U.S. President Donald Trump last week proposed adding 10% tariffs on another $300 billion in Chinese imports starting Sept. 1……..read more
Source: Bloomberg
