Bitcoin critic Peter Schiff began 2026 predicting the cryptocurrency will decline after 2025 underperformance despite widespread bullish narratives. In a Jan. 1 forecast video, the economist argued that Bitcoin’s failure to rally amid positive catalysts signals exhausted upside and structural weakness ahead.
What Happened: Market Analysis
Schiff presented 2025 performance data showing Bitcoin fell while traditional assets rallied in a Jan. 1 “Year-End Special” episode outlining his 2026 market forecasts.
The economist cited major indexes posting gains: the Dow up 13%, the S&P 500 up 16.4%, and the Nasdaq up 20.4%. Gold rose 64% while silver more than doubled during the same period.
“Everybody on CNBC was pounding the table on when the year began was Bitcoin,” Schiff said, describing narratives including “a Bitcoin president,” “a Bitcoin strategic reserve,” heavy corporate buying, and…
