Bitcoin, the world’s leading cryptocurrency, took a slight hit today, dipping 0.11% to $116,702, according to CoinDesk data. Despite this minor setback, it’s been a banner year for Bitcoin, with a robust 25% increase since January, trailing just behind gold’s impressive 29% rise. Both assets have outshined other major asset classes, as per the latest insights from financial strategist Charlie Bilello shared on X.
A Year of Strong Performance
In the investment universe, Bitcoin and gold have emerged as the stars of 2025. Bilello’s data highlights not only their dominance but also their unique positioning this year. Emerging market stocks, with a 15.6% uptick, and the Nasdaq 100’s 12.7% gain, seem to pale in comparison. U.S. large caps, mid-caps, and small-caps have also trailed, showing modest returns of 9.4%, 0.2%, and 0.8%, respectively. This marks the first time these two heavyweights have taken the top spots in Bilello’s annual asset class rankings—a nod to their growing appeal among investors seeking refuge from market turbulence. As explored in Bitcoin is now bigger than Amazon: Here’s how it became a top-5 asset, Bitcoin’s rise to a top-5 asset underscores its increasing influence in the financial world.
Long-Term Triumph: Bitcoin’s Unmatched Returns
Here’s the catch: while gold has long been touted as a reliable store of value, Bitcoin’s meteoric rise since 2011 is nothing short of staggering. A jaw-dropping 38,897,420% total return places Bitcoin in a league of its own, dwarfing all other asset classes in Bilello’s dataset. In contrast, gold’s cumulative return of 126% over the same period positions it behind equity benchmarks like the Nasdaq 100, U.S. large caps, and even mid and small caps.
Peter Brandt, the veteran trader, chimed in on August 8, stating, “Some think gold is a great store of value—and it is. But the ultimate store of value will prove to be Bitcoin.” His remarks resonate with a growing narrative that Bitcoin’s scarcity and decentralization elevate it above traditional hedges. As Bitcoin continues to hover above the six-figure mark, traders are keeping a close eye on its ability to retest this year’s peak near $123,000. For more insights into recent market movements, see Bitcoin Tops $116K as Bullish Signals Spur Confidence: Crypto Daybook Americas.
The Broader Implications
Bitcoin’s towering 141.7% average annual gain since 2011 underscores its potential to revolutionize the financial landscape. In comparison, gold has seen a modest 5.7% increase, while the Nasdaq 100, U.S. large caps, and other major equity benchmarks have recorded gains ranging from 4.4% to 18.6%. Such figures spark curiosity about whether Bitcoin’s trajectory can sustain its momentum or if market dynamics will shift.
Looking ahead, market enthusiasts are keenly observing macro data and the broader risk appetite across equities and commodities. The cryptocurrency’s resilience amid a volatile macroeconomic backdrop—alongside its historical outperformance—fuels speculation about its role in future financial portfolios. As one expert put it, “The numbers speak for themselves, but the real question is whether Bitcoin can maintain its edge in an ever-evolving market.”
As we forge ahead in 2025, investors and analysts alike are left pondering Bitcoin’s path. Will it continue to outpace gold and other traditional assets, or will the winds of change alter its course? Only time will tell. But one thing’s for sure: Bitcoin’s narrative is far from over, and its potential to redefine the concept of value remains a topic of heated debate.
Source
This article is based on: Bitcoin Trails Gold in 2025 but Dominates Long-Term Returns Across Major Asset Classes
Further Reading
Deepen your understanding with these related articles:
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- Bitcoin’s Bounce Might Not Be Bullish Yet; $117,000 is the Line It Must Cross First
- Bitcoin Set To Hit $189K As Global Liquidity Tops $127T – Analysts
Steve Gregory is a lawyer in the United States who specializes in licensing for cryptocurrency companies and products. Steve began his career as an attorney in 2015 but made the switch to working in cryptocurrency full time shortly after joining the original team at Gemini Trust Company, an early cryptocurrency exchange based in New York City. Steve then joined CEX.io and was able to launch their regulated US-based cryptocurrency. Steve then went on to become the CEO at currency.com when he ran for four years and was able to lead currency.com to being fully acquired in 2025.
