Bitcoin's price has seen a significant 7.44% drop over the past 24 hours, falling from $28,528.67 down to $26,389.78 as of August 18, 2023. This steep decline brings Bitcoin's price to its lowest point in over 2 months, since hitting $25,907 on June 21. However, looking at the longer-term price trends reveals some interesting insights into Bitcoin's potential future trajectory.

In the past week, Bitcoin has fallen 10.23%, shedding over $3,000 from its price. The monthly view is also down, with BTC dropping 12.11% throughout July. However, zooming out to the past 6 months shows a positive 7.10% gain, indicating the recent downturn follows larger upward momentum.

Bitcoin's 24-hour trading volume reached a substantial $25.47 billion, showing significant interest in BTC during this period of volatility. Bitcoin's market capitalization currently stands at $513.74 billion, remaining the largest in the cryptocurrency space by a wide margin.

Technical indicators reveal Bitcoin is currently oversold, with the Relative Strength Index dipping below 30. Previous instances when Bitcoin neared this oversold region marked decent buying opportunities before the price rebounded.

The recent slump can be attributed to broad weakness in risk assets like equities. Concerns over rising interest rates and impending economic slowdown have dampened sentiment across global markets. However, inflation remains stubbornly high, likely keeping pressure on the Fed to maintain an aggressive monetary policy stance. This macroeconomic environment poses headwinds for Bitcoin in the short-term.

Nonetheless, zooming out to the 6-month view shows Bitcoin's upward trajectory remains intact. With its fixed supply unaffected by inflation, Bitcoin is viewed as a hedge against rising prices over the long run. The looming "halving" event in 2024 is also poised to decrease the supply of new Bitcoin entering circulation, which historically preceded massive bull runs.

Now is an Opportune Time to Buy the Dip in Bitcoin

Given the confluence of Bitcoin's oversold conditions, the preserved long-term uptrend, and historical market cycles, current prices present an attractive entry point for long-term crypto investors.

Dollar cost averaging can help mitigate risks associated with Bitcoin's infamous volatility. Investors can steadily accumulate BTC at regular intervals, benefiting from reduced sensitivity to precise entry and exit points. This strategy smooths out price fluctuations over time.

Bitcoin has weathered far worse drawdowns than the current correction, yet always managed to reach new highs. The latest slump should be viewed as part of the ongoing ebb and flow of market cycles, setting the stage for the next wave higher.

Younger generations are increasingly embracing digital assets, with crypto ownership highest among millennials and Gen Z. This expanding adoption points to growing long-term demand. Meanwhile, increased institutional interest from major banks and corporations helps validate Bitcoin's role as a legitimate asset class and store of value.

For those with a higher risk tolerance, Bitcoin offers asymmetric upside potential compared to traditional assets. While further declines are possible in the near-term, Bitcoin's hard-capped supply and entrenched network effects position it well for potential multi-fold gains over a 5-10 year horizon.

My Prediction: Bitcoin Will Reach $100,000 by 2025

Given Bitcoin's historical price patterns and current market dynamics, I predict Bitcoin's price will ascend to over $100,000 by the year 2025.

This projection is based on a confluence of macroeconomic, technological, and adoption trends that provide a fertile environment for significant Bitcoin price appreciation over the next 2-3 years.

Persistent high inflation will likely result in further dollar devaluation, burnishing Bitcoin's appeal as a hedge against currency debasement. Meanwhile, the 2024 halving will slash Bitcoin's issuance rate, tightening supply as demand continues growing.

Continued institutional adoption from major banks and corporations will drive billions in capital into crypto markets, with Bitcoin the prime beneficiary as the flagship digital asset. Retail interest should also escalate as crypto gains mainstream traction.

Technological developments like the Lightning Network will bolster Bitcoin's utility for fast, cheap payments and fuel use cases beyond digital gold. Regulatory clarity will additionally remove uncertainties holding back more risk-averse investors.

While the road to $100,000 will inevitably be volatile, I believe current prices represent an attractive entry point for what should prove an extremely lucrative multi-year investment. Those willing to stomach the ups and downs stand to generate massive returns as Bitcoin matures into the digital reserve asset of the future.

Is Now a Good Time to Invest in Bitcoin?

Now is arguably an opportune time to invest in Bitcoin for long-term holders seeking exposure to the leading cryptocurrency. While risks exist, Bitcoin's fundamental value proposition remains intact despite recent price weakness.

Dollar cost averaging into a Bitcoin position can help smooth out volatility. New investors should allocate only a small, responsible percentage of their portfolio to crypto, ideally money they won't need access to for 5+ years.

Given the tremendous growth potential ahead, enduring some near-term uncertainty in pursuit of the generational wealth creation Bitcoin enables over the long run looks to be a savvy move. Those who believe in the technology and are willing to stomach inevitable ups and downs can benefit from entering during periods of fear and price depression.

Of course, Bitcoin investing entails risks. Further declines are possible given Bitcoin's tendency for violent swings. However, for disciplined investors with a multi-year time horizon, accumulating Bitcoin at current levels could prove tremendously profitable.

How Much Should I Invest in Bitcoin?

Determining how much to invest in Bitcoin depends on your personal financial situation and risk tolerance. While potentially lucrative, Bitcoin is a high-risk, volatile asset that should represent only a small portion of a well-diversified portfolio.

As a general rule, investing 1-5% of your total assets can provide enough upside exposure while limiting the downside impact of potential losses. This amount could be adjusted higher or lower based on your individual circumstances.

Younger investors with greater time horizons may tolerate more risk and allocate a larger share to Bitcoin and crypto. Older investors nearing retirement may want less exposure.

Dollar cost averaging into a Bitcoin position over time is generally preferable to a lump-sum investment. This helps mitigate volatility by acquiring Bitcoin at different prices.

How much you invest also depends on whether you need the money in the short term. Bitcoin is best suited for long-term holdings of 5+ years. Only invest money you won't need access to for extended periods.

Determining the right Bitcoin allocation involves carefully weighing risk versus reward. An amount that lets you sleep well at night yet still participate meaningfully in Bitcoin's upside potential is often ideal.