Wall Street Revises Bitcoin Forecasts: What Investors Need to Know
The cryptocurrency market continues to evolve, with Bitcoin (BTC) at the center of attention. Recently, two Wall Street giants, Standard Chartered and Bernstein, have reevaluated their price targets for Bitcoin amid decreasing institutional interest and shifts in the broader market landscape.
Standard Chartered’s Bitcoin Projections
Known for its historically bullish stance, Standard Chartered has scaled back its predictions in light of reduced corporate treasury participation and diminished exchange-traded fund (ETF) inflows. The bank now forecasts Bitcoin to reach $150,000 by the end of 2026, a significant reduction from its earlier estimate of $300,000. Additionally, the long-term target of $500,000 has been postponed to 2030.
According to Geoffrey Kendrick, Standard Chartered’s global head of digital assets, companies that once fueled Bitcoin’s accumulation no longer have the market valuations or incentives to maintain that strategy. “We think that Bitcoin buying by DATs has run its course, while we expect ETF inflows to resume periodically. We expect a consolidation rather than outright selling,” Kendrick commented.
Bernstein’s Long-Term Confidence in Bitcoin
Meanwhile, Bernstein has adopted a slightly different approach. While lowering its near-term peak prediction from $200,000 to $150,000 by the end of 2026, the firm maintains that Bitcoin is entering a new phase of sustained growth. Bernstein analysts predict the cryptocurrency could approach $200,000 by late 2027 and potentially soar to $1 million by 2033.
Current Market Trends and Challenges
Bitcoin is currently facing heightened market pressure, with its price hovering at $93,938—a 30% drop from its October 2025 peak above $126,000. Despite this, the cryptocurrency witnessed a short-term rally, gaining over 4% in the last 24 hours. However, ETF outflows, including $60 million on Monday and BlackRock’s IBIT seeing $2.3 billion in withdrawals in November, are raising concerns. These pullbacks suggest some investors are stepping away from the long-term holding strategies that traditionally fuel rebounds after significant sell-offs.
Smart Investment Tip
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Looking Ahead
As major players like Standard Chartered and Bernstein adjust their forecasts, it’s clear that Bitcoin’s growth journey will be shaped by evolving market dynamics. While the short-term outlook suggests a cautious approach, the long-term potential remains optimistic for investors willing to navigate the volatility.
