Interest Grows in Bitcoin as [Retail] Investors Swap Cash for Coins

In the last several weeks, Bitcoin have been on a roll – and not only because of its price. The digital currency has come under growing attention from authorities, both in the U.S. and internationally, who are seeking to figure out what it is and how best to govern it.

Bitcoin's appeal among investors — and speculators — has increased dramatically since its price eclipsed that of gold for the first time earlier this month. There are currently more than 1,000 electronic currencies in circulation, including ones based on Ethereum and Nxt, a cryptocurrency that does not need mining as Bitcoin does.

The price of Bitcoin surpassed $1,025 on Wednesday morning, which is up from $950 at the end of December and close to quadruple what it was only two years ago when it was trading at roughly $250 per coin. However, other investors say they're growing weary of volatility and want something dependable like gold or cash — not digital tokens that might be for nothing tomorrow or even shortly after today's markets shut. It's all about liquidity, said Nick Colas, founder of DataTrek Research and a top Bitcoin trader. If you're seeking for something that's liquid and can be turned into dollars or euros simply within minutes or hours, then Bitcoin is definitely where