Investors in India are likely to consult numerologists and astrologers before taking the plunge. India\'s Money Control newsletter reported at the weekend on some predictions for Bitcoin\'s fortunes in the year ahead.

Astro-numerologist Sanjay B Jumaani said that the steep price hike in Bitcoin might be attributable to the number 5, a number belonging to Mercury (Roman god of Merchants). The foundation for this argument is that Satoshi Nakamoto (creator of Bitcoin) was born on April 5th, although this fails to take into account that no-one knows who that might be. Jumaani is not recommending speculation, however, and reminds followers that Mercury is renowned for his tricksy temperament, saying that Bitcoin investment is slippery and could go either way.

Another astrologer, Richa Pathak of Jyotishdham, predicted that Bitcoin could be \"expected to do well until the end of July, owing to the strong position of Jupiter and Venus. A combination of Mars with Retrograde Saturn should initiate sharp volatility between March 7th and May 2nd, while prices could be affected after August brings \"the debilitation of Venus and its placement in Virgo.\"

September sees Venus moving into Libra (signifying balance) and a period of stability until mid-October, when changes in the planetary position of Jupiter will bring back Bitcoin volatility...!