- •Bitcoin reaches a new all-time high of $126,000.
- •Google search trends are 50% lower than in 2021.
- •Suggests quieter retail interest despite price surge.
Bitcoin just broke records, hitting an all-time high of $126,000. It’s a moment that should be lighting up social media and news headlines. But there’s a strange silence. Despite this major milestone, Google search interest for “Bitcoin” is down 50% compared to its last bull run in 2021.
So, why is Bitcoin booming — but the buzz isn’t?
Institutional Demand Over Retail FOMO
One major reason could be the shift in market drivers. The 2021 bull run was heavily driven by retail investors, meme culture, and widespread media coverage. In contrast, this rally appears to be fueled by institutional investment, including spot Bitcoin ETFs and major financial players entering the scene.
With big money driving prices up quietly, there’s less need for hype to push the market forward. It’s a professional rally, not a meme-fueled frenzy.
INSIGHT: $BTC at ATH $126K , but Google search trends are 50% lower than during the 2021 bull run. pic.twitter.com/t6nRgrjFsP
— Cointelegraph (@Cointelegraph) October 6, 2025
What This Means for Crypto Adoption
The data shows a maturing market. Fewer retail searches suggest that everyday investors may be sitting this one out — at least for now. But the infrastructure and investment from traditional finance could make this a more sustainable bull run in the long term.
Still, the lack of mainstream attention could mean plenty of upside remains if public interest returns. Historically, retail interest lags behind price movement. So, the real wave of FOMO might be yet to come.