Bitcoin Surges to Record High of $104,000

Bitcoin has surged past the $100,000 mark, reaching an all-time high of nearly $104,000, driven by investor optimism for a favorable regulatory environment following Donald Trump's selection of Paul Atkins as SEC Chair. This significant price increase, marking a 50% gain since the November elections, also restored Bitcoin's dominance in the crypto market to 57%. Concurrently, global stock markets have reached new peaks, buoyed by positive comments from Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell, although U.S. stock futures showed slight dips. In California, a second Trump administration could jeopardize the state's ambitious high-speed rail project, which is already facing a $4.7 billion funding shortfall for a crucial segment. Meanwhile, the tragic killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson in Manhattan has left the company in shock, as police seek the assailant. The cryptocurrency market remains vibrant, with altcoins like Ethereum Classic and Bitcoin SV also experiencing significant gains alongside Bitcoin's rally.