Bitcoin may have concluded its four-year cycle, hinting at a year of downside despite predictions for a prolonged cycle due to regulatory support. Timmer suggests a potential “off year” for Bitcoin in 2026. Shaughnessy, on the other hand, expects new all-time highs post-market crash recovery. Institutional investment and regulatory progress may shape 2026.

Smart money traders are betting on a short-term decline for top cryptocurrencies, with net short positions on Bitcoin but net long positions on Ether. Social sentiment took a hit as Bitcoin dropped below $85,000, leading to bearish commentary on various platforms. Regulatory progress and stablecoin legislation could impact crypto integration into financial infrastructure.

Read more at Cointelegraph: $65K Bitcoin Bottom 2026, End Bull Cycle