Six Trends That Will Change the Crypto Markets in 2026, According to MB Methodology

Mercado Bitcoin (MB), one of the most important trading platforms in Latin America, has released a comprehensive study identifying six key directions that will enhance the cryptocurrency industry in the coming year. The report is based on a methodology developed in collaboration with researchers from the University of California (UCLA), offering deeper insights into how the digital asset ecosystem is evolving. Through careful analysis and market-based data, MB demonstrates how different sectors of crypto are ready to drive change in global trade.

Bitcoin and the Potential to Double or Triple in Value

MB’s most significant prediction focuses on Bitcoin’s position in the global store of value market. The company estimates that Bitcoin could reach 14% of the gold market capitalization by the end of 2026, implying a price more than 100% higher than current levels. Currently, Bitcoin is at $78.30K, while its ratio to gold is only 5.65%, indicating a substantial growth potential.

The methodology used by MB is not just a simple forecast but the result of scientific study. Using the “Bitcoin Valuation Framework,” the team employs a Total Addressable Market (TAM) approach to determine Bitcoin’s theoretical value. Instead of applying traditional cash flow models to a purely monetary asset, analysts started with the global store of value market, using gold as the primary reference point. The study asked: what portion of this market could Bitcoin capture under different levels of user adoption?

The adoption by institutional investors has already played a crucial role in this dynamic. Companies and funds have accumulated over 1.09 million Bitcoin, showing that digital assets are no longer just experimental technology but a serious store of value. Bitcoin’s unique characteristics—digital, supply-limited, and independent—are attracting investors seeking alternatives to traditional safe havens.

Stablecoin Sector Reaching Half a Trillion

The stablecoin sector proves to be one of the fastest-growing parts of the crypto ecosystem. MB expects the market capitalization to reach $500 billion by 2026, up from the current $307 billion. This growth results from several factors: increased regulatory clarity, adoption across various industries, and use as a cross-border payment instrument.

In 2025, the stablecoin sector grew approximately 50% year-over-year, a momentum driven by greater understanding among regulators and institutions of the benefits of stable-value tokens. Tether (USDT) remains the dominant player, capturing 60.5% of the market, while others are growing faster.

The role of stablecoins has evolved from a trading tool to an essential infrastructure providing liquidity and accelerating the movement of money worldwide. For many countries and industries, stable-value tokens offer solutions where traditional banking systems have yet to reach.

Altcoin ETF - The New Democratization of Investment

Following approval by US regulators of altcoin exchange-traded funds (ETFs) in late 2025, a new phase of democratized access has begun. Investors can now invest in selected altcoins such as XRP, Solana, and Chainlink through traditional brokerage accounts.

XRP ETFs have attracted around $1.47 billion, while Solana ETFs have brought in an additional $1.09 billion in locked assets. Both cryptocurrencies demonstrate operational excellence and growing use case adoption, fueling institutional interest. MB estimates that the total altcoin ETF segment will grow to at least $10 billion by the end of 2026, with XRP and Solana accounting for about 80% of inflows.

This shift indicates a higher market maturity, where investors are willing to explore diversification beyond Bitcoin and Ethereum.

Tokenized Real-World Assets - The Fastest Growing Sector

The global volume of tokenized real-world assets is expected to increase by 200%, reaching $54 billion. This momentum is driven by regulatory breakthroughs in key markets: the European Union has provided greater flexibility for blockchain transactions, while the United States recognizes blockchain-based records for asset transfers.

Leading institutional players—BlackRock, Franklin Templeton, and WisdomTree—have already launched their own tokenized fund offerings. This movement signifies a fundamental shift in how traditional assets can become digital and accessible to a broader audience.

Tokenization offers multi-layered benefits: faster settlement, reduced operational costs, and improved transparency for all stakeholders.

Prediction Markets Truly Growing

Prediction markets like Polymarket and Kalshi have become centers of decentralized forecasting. MB estimates that the capital locked in these platforms could reach $20 billion by the end of 2026, up from less than $1 billion today.

This growth is driven by numerous global events: the 2026 World Cup, presidential elections in major economies, and climate-related scenarios increasingly popular among risk-aware investors. The peer-to-peer architecture of prediction markets offers transparency and aligned incentives unmatched by traditional betting or insurance markets.

AI Agents Bringing Life to the On-Chain Economy

The final trend is the growing role of blockchain-integrated AI agents in automating transactions and optimizing on-chain activity. These agents are beginning to utilize new technical standards such as x402 and ERC-8004 to support transparency and efficient micropayments.

MB estimates that the daily trading volume conducted by AI agents will exceed $1 million by 2026, four times the current level. This phenomenon represents a new frontier in automation and on-chain economy.

The combination of all six trends demonstrates a profound transformation in the crypto landscape by 2026. The methodology developed by Mercado Bitcoin in collaboration with UCLA helps us understand not only where the market is headed but why and how this sustainable growth will generate value across the industry.