Bernstein Forecasts Bitcoin Surge to $150,000 by 2026

Bernstein has issued a report suggesting Bitcoin may reach $150,000 by the end of 2026. The prediction comes amid what Bernstein calls a “confidence crisis” rather than a structural failure in the current bear market. As analyst Gautam Chhugani put it, “We are predicting a $150,000 target for Bitcoin by the end of 2026, viewing the current bear market more as a ‘confidence crisis’ rather than a structural failure.”

The report, led by analyst Gautam Chhugani, underlines institutional interest as a key factor. Early 2026 witnessed $1.1 billion in inflows from U.S. spot Bitcoin ETFs, a trend expected to grow significantly, potentially reaching an annual $50 billion.

The anticipation of institutional investment is projected to stabilize Bitcoin prices against retail selling pressures. This viewpoint distinguishes the present market from previous downturns driven by systemic collapses and hidden leverage.

Unlike prior cycles, where structural problems weakened the market, Bernstein’s analysis indicates the absence of such systemic failures. This supports a view that current conditions may steadily encourage sustained growth, primarily driven by institutional flows.

Future Bitcoin prices may reflect stronger institutional reliance rather than dependency on halving cycles. Bernstein’s stance suggests a different trajectory, focusing on external capital and new market dynamics.

Bernstein’s analysis implies a potential reshaping of market drivers, with institutional demand taking precedence. Historical trends suggest that such shifts could lead to more robust pricing frameworks, altering expectations of Bitcoin’s future market behavior.