Bitcoin surpasses $81,000 as Elon Musk warns of financial emergency

Bitcoin has surpassed $81,000 for the first time, driven by comments from Elon Musk urging President-elect Donald Trump to use the cryptocurrency to tackle the U.S. national debt. Musk warned of a potential financial emergency due to excessive government spending. Trump has previously suggested using Bitcoin to address the $35 trillion debt. Following his election victory, Bitcoin's value increased nearly 5% in one day, reflecting a broader surge in cryptocurrencies. Trump has promised favorable regulations for digital currencies and plans to replace the current SEC chair, signaling a potential shift towards a more supportive environment for cryptocurrencies. Bitcoin has risen over 80% this year, with other cryptocurrencies also gaining value.