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Toyota’s Global Production Falls for Eighth Consecutive Month Amid Declining U.S. and China Sales

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

October 30, 2024

Toyota Motor Corporation reported an eighth consecutive month of declining global production in September, largely due to decreased sales and production in its two major markets: the United States and China. The company’s global output for the month dropped by 8% compared to the same period last year, totalling 826,556 vehicles. Production in the United States fell by 14%, while output in China declined by 19%.

In the U.S., production suffered due to a temporary halt in manufacturing and delivery of the Grand Highlander and Lexus TX SUVs. This pause was initiated because of an airbag issue, though Toyota confirmed that production resumed for these models on October 21.

Meanwhile, in China, Toyota has been challenged by intense competition from local brands shifting aggressively towards electric vehicles (EVs) and plug-in hybrids. As a result, Toyota has seen its market share affected by this growing demand for EVs, which are increasingly favoured by Chinese consumers.

Global sales for Toyota were also down in September, with a 7% year-over-year drop to 853,149 vehicles. Sales in the U.S. plunged 20%, while China saw a 9% decrease, and domestic sales in Japan slipped by 6%.

For the first nine months of 2024, Toyota reported total vehicle sales of 7.4 million, marking a 2% decline year-over-year as the automaker continues to navigate challenges across its key markets.

Bitcoin in 2025: The Boldest Predictions for a Record-Breaking Year

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

December 31, 2024

After an impressive 150% surge in 2024, Bitcoin has captured the attention of investors and industry experts alike. As the world’s largest cryptocurrency crosses the $100,000 mark, the stage is set for new milestones in 2025. From regulatory shifts to institutional adoption, here are the boldest forecasts shaping Bitcoin’s future:

A Year of Transformation: Bitcoin’s 2024 Journey

In December 2024, Bitcoin soared past $100,000, fuelled by regulatory advancements and political changes. The victory of Donald Trump in the U.S. presidential election brought promises of a more crypto-friendly administration, including the replacement of SEC Chairman Gary Gensler. Trump’s proposed creation of a strategic Bitcoin reserve and broader deregulation sent ripples of optimism through the market.

Key events like the approval of the first U.S. Bitcoin exchange-traded funds (ETFs) and the halving cycle—a supply-reducing event occurring every four years—further bolstered Bitcoin’s rally. Despite lingering concerns from the 2023 scandals involving FTX and Binance, the cryptocurrency rebounded strongly, doubling in value.

What’s Ahead: Predictions for 2025

CoinShares: $80,000–$150,000

James Butterfield, head of research at CoinShares, anticipates Bitcoin trading between $80,000 and $150,000. The price trajectory hinges on regulatory actions under the Trump administration, which could amplify institutional interest. Butterfield notes the potential for Bitcoin to eventually reach 25% of gold’s market capitalization, aligning with a $250,000 long-term target.

Matrixport: $160,000

Crypto financial services provider Matrixport predicts Bitcoin could hit $160,000, spurred by the sustained demand for spot ETFs, favourable macroeconomic conditions, and growing global liquidity. The firm also expects Bitcoin’s notorious volatility to ease, resulting in less severe corrections compared to previous cycles.

Galaxy Digital: $185,000

Alex Thorne of Galaxy Digital sees Bitcoin surpassing $150,000 in early 2025 and closing the year at $185,000. Thorne attributes this growth to a confluence of factors, including institutional adoption, corporate integration, and even national-level investments. Galaxy Digital projects that spot Bitcoin ETFs will manage over $250 billion in assets by 2025.

Standard Chartered: $200,000

Standard Chartered’s Jeffrey Kendrick envisions Bitcoin doubling to $200,000 by the end of 2025. The prediction hinges on accelerating institutional inflows, which have already added 683,000 BTC to portfolios this year. Kendrick expects pension funds to play a pivotal role as reforms under the Trump administration facilitate broader ETF adoption.

Carol Alexander: $200,000

University of Sussex finance professor Carol Alexander shares the $200,000 forecast, though she warns that volatility will remain a challenge. While favourable regulation in the U.S. may boost prices, the unregulated nature of crypto exchanges will keep uncertainty alive.

Bit Mining: $180,000–$190,000

Yuwei Yang of Bit Mining projects Bitcoin will peak between $180,000 and $190,000, driven by lower interest rates, Trump administration policies, and increased institutional adoption. However, Yang cautions that sharp corrections could bring the price as low as $80,000.

Opportunities and Risks

While optimism reigns, experts highlight potential risks, including geopolitical tensions, market disruptions, and unexpected regulatory measures. Tightening trade relations between the U.S. and China or shifts in Federal Reserve policies could temper Bitcoin’s bullish momentum.

The Bottom Line

As Bitcoin continues its ascent, 2025 could mark a pivotal year for the cryptocurrency. Whether it’s reaching $200,000 or navigating the challenges of a rapidly evolving market, Bitcoin remains a transformative force in the financial world. Investors and enthusiasts alike are watching closely, ready for what promises to be another groundbreaking chapter.