Bitcoin is expected to reach $150,000 in 2026, according to analysts at Standard Chartered and Bernstein, implying a 74% upside from its current price of $86,000. The S&P 500 has advanced 15% year to date, while Bitcoin has declined 5%. This would mark the first year since 2014 where the S&P 500 has risen while Bitcoin has declined.
Historically, Bitcoin has peaked 12-18 months after each halving event and then fallen, only to gradually recover until the next halving event. However, some analysts believe that spot Bitcoin ETFs will drive adoption among institutional investors, leading to robust gains in the future.
Analysts at Standard Chartered expect Bitcoin to hit $500,000 by 2030 (implying 480% upside), and Bernstein expects it to reach $1 million by 2033 (implying 1,060% upside).
The improving regulatory environment and simplicity of spot Bitcoin ETFs are driving institutional investors to add Bitcoin to their portfolios. The U.S. House of Representatives has approved the Clarity Act, which clarifies digital asset jurisdiction, and Senate approval is expected in 2026.
Despite these predictions, history suggests that Bitcoin could deliver lackluster returns next year. Investors should carefully consider this before investing in Bitcoin or any other cryptocurrency.
Source: https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/bitcoin-doing-something-last-seen-2014-wall-street-analysts-say-will-happen-2026