Bitcoin’s long-established four-year cycle, which has historically governed its price behavior, appears to be ending, according to a new report by Bernstein. The asset manager argues that Bitcoin is entering a new phase driven by strong institutional demand, which is likely to reduce the influence of its halving events on price movements. Bernstein now projects that Bitcoin could reach $200,000 by 2027 and $1 million by 2033. This forecast comes after observing changes in institutional buying behavior, which has shifted from speculative to strategic.
Bitcoin’s Price Cycle Is Changing
Traditionally, Bitcoin’s price movements were closely tied to its halving cycles, which occur approximately every four years. These events reduce the block reward for miners, thus decreasing the supply of new coins entering the market. The halving has been a key driver for Bitcoin’s price growth in the past, often followed by significant price increases after each cycle. However, Bernstein analysts now believe that these halving events are no longer the dominant factor in Bitcoin’s price.
Instead, institutional demand, particularly through products like Bitcoin exchange-traded funds (ETFs), is playing a major role in reshaping Bitcoin’s market cycle. Matthew Sigel from VanEck explained that institutions are driving a more elongated bull cycle, one that is no longer constrained by the typical four-year rhythm. This trend is evident in the consistent ETF inflows, which are occurring even during market downturns, further confirming that institutions are now viewing Bitcoin as a long-term strategic asset rather than a short-term speculative opportunity.
Bitcoin Is Becoming a More Stable Asset
According to Bernstein’s outlook, Bitcoin’s maturing role in financial markets is evident in its rising price resilience. Unlike previous cycles where retail investors drove volatile price swings, the growing influence of institutional investors is stabilizing Bitcoin’s price. ETF inflows during corrections, for instance, have remained stable, with outflows not exceeding 5%, even during significant market declines. This behavior suggests that institutional buyers are holding long-term positions in Bitcoin, which helps smooth out short-term price fluctuations.
The asset manager further emphasizes that Bitcoin’s growing liquidity, better custody solutions, and broader institutional participation will drive its long-term price trajectory. As institutional investors increase their exposure to Bitcoin, its price is expected to become more predictable and less influenced by retail market sentiment. Bernstein believes that these factors will not only stabilize Bitcoin’s price but also push it toward a broader acceptance as a store of value, similar to gold.
Bitcoin’s Future as a Strategic Asset
Bernstein’s report also discusses the future of Bitcoin as a competitor to traditional stores of value like gold. Analysts argue that as global economic uncertainty grows, Bitcoin will increasingly be seen as a safer alternative to other assets, especially with rising institutional adoption. This trend is supported by recent developments, including the passage of a new crypto bill in Indiana, which is expected to further increase institutional demand for Bitcoin.
The firm’s predictions suggest that Bitcoin’s rise will be driven by its ability to attract more institutional capital over the next several years. With stronger liquidity, more secure custodial solutions, and greater acceptance by traditional finance, Bitcoin’s role as a store of value is expected to strengthen. Bernstein projects that by 2027, Bitcoin’s price could peak at $200,000, with continued growth leading it to $1 million by 2033.
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