Bitcoin, the largest cryptocurrency by market cap, has experienced a significant surge, reaching its highest level this year. The price of BTCUSD is up nearly 90%, signaling a return of investor interest after a challenging period for the crypto markets, which included bankruptcies and exchange failures.

Although still below its all-time high of approximately $68,000 in November 2021, Bitcoin has broken the $31,000 mark, a level it hadn't surpassed since April when it briefly reached $31,005. Prior to that, the cryptocurrency had not traded above $30,000 since June 2022, before the events that led to the collapse of FTX in November.

One factor contributing to the recent boost in Bitcoin prices is the filing of an application by BlackRock (BLK), a prominent asset management giant, for a spot Bitcoin exchange-traded fund (ETF). BlackRock's filing stated that its iShares Bitcoin Trust would only issue new shares if they were backed 1:1 with BTC. Following this move, other traditional financial institutions such as Invesco (IVZ) and Wisdomtree (WT) have refined previously rejected ETF applications.

Investors are hopeful that approval from the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for these new ETFs could lead to increased trading volumes for digital assets. The SEC has previously rejected applications for spot Bitcoin ETFs. However, the regulator surprised the market by granting approval for a 2X leveraged Bitcoin fund. The Volatility Shares' 2X Bitcoin Strategy ETF, considered riskier than a spot ETF, is set to begin trading under the BITX ticker on June 27.

Despite the challenges faced by the cryptocurrency sector, including the collapse of the FTX exchange and a stringent regulatory environment, the industry has demonstrated resilience. Cameron Winklevoss, founder of Gemini and Genesis crypto firms, stated that the "window" to buy Bitcoin before the floodgates of ETFs open is closing fast, highlighting the anticipation surrounding regulatory developments.

The surge in Bitcoin's price and the renewed investor interest reflect a positive sentiment in the cryptocurrency market. As Bitcoin continues to make headlines, market participants eagerly await further developments and the potential impact of ETF approvals on trading volumes and the overall digital asset landscape.