If you think the crypto market will be a continuous celebration in 2026, you might be disappointed.

This year's market experienced several major dips, with Bitcoin fluctuating between the high point and the $80k-$90k range. As 2026 approaches, major institutions are releasing outlook reports, but their conclusions are highly divided—reflecting the overall market's uncertainty.

**Bitcoin Outlook**

Mainstream institutions generally believe there is a chance to break through the 2025 high in the first half of the year, but the overall trend will be highly volatile. Price predictions are quite extreme—optimists see $150k to $250k (traditional financial institutions estimate around $170k, with some star analysts even more aggressive, calling for over $200k), while conservatives stick to the $70k-$130k range. As for those predicting $1M? Most are just sensational headlines to attract attention.

Galaxy's analysts openly state that 2026 is too difficult to predict, so they are betting on the end of 2027—by then, Bitcoin might really reach $250k.

**Ethereum and L2 Opportunities**

Ethereum is expected to trade within the $5k-$10k range. The main reasoning is that the L2 ecosystem is accelerating, demand for stablecoins is growing, and the on-chain adoption of real-world assets (RWA) is gaining momentum… all of which could continue to support Ethereum's ecosystem.

Overall, 2026 is not just a peak bull market but a year of transformation. Institutional entry is intensifying, and market rules are being rewritten. Volatility and opportunities often go hand in hand.