Bitcoin Surges To All Time High

The world's biggest digital currency, with a market capitalization of over $900 billion, hit a record of $52,577.50, fueled by signs it is winning acceptance among mainstream investors and firms

The recent bitcoin rally has been driven in part by increasing expectations it will soon become a mainstream payment method

Global hedge funds jacking up price abroad, preparing to short it in futures when trade begins on Sunday

Jump seen ahead of Sunday launch of Bitcoin futures on Chicago-based CBOE

The cryptocurrency was last up 2.94 % at $14,030.00 at the Luxembourg-based Bitstamp exchange

The move opens the door to added regulation but also more mainstream adoption, as bitcoin futures and other derivatives would make it easier to trade the new asset class