As global markets enter a recovery phase following the sharp volatility experienced in 2025, leading financial institutions around the world have begun to clarify their cryptocurrency strategies for 2026.
The appearance of eight institutions, including giants like BlackRock, Fidelity, and JPMorgan Chase, signals a new structural era in the cryptocurrency markets.
The most striking common point in the assessments from institutions was the increasing institutional consensus regarding stablecoins. Organizations state that stablecoins are no longer merely a technological experiment; they have become a decisive factor in monetary sovereignty, the reshaping of financial infrastructure, and global payment systems. It is noted that the institutionalization process is irreversible and that traditional capital will continue to enter the crypto ecosystem through more sophisticated methods, regardless of market conditions.
However, significant disagreements persist among institutions regarding the classic “four-year cycle” structure of crypto markets. Developments in regulations, product innovation, Bitcoin spot ETFs, altcoin ETFs, and derivatives suggest that institutions are already positioning themselves for structural opportunities in 2026 and beyond. On the other hand, almost all institutions maintain optimism about the overall outlook for the forecast markets.
- BlackRock points out that as the adoption of stablecoins accelerates, there is a risk of a contraction in the use of fiat currencies, especially in developing countries. This process, they say, could challenge government control over money.
- Fidelity predicts that more countries may buy Bitcoin. However, it warns that a potential bear market could put downward pressure on prices if companies are forced to sell their digital assets. It states that the four-year cycle is not entirely over and that new investor profiles will continue to enter the market.
- Coinbase: Optimistic overall. It suggests that DAT and token economies will evolve into a “2.0” model, with token holders’ economic interests becoming more directly linked to platform usage. The total market capitalization of stablecoins is projected to reach approximately $1.2 trillion.
- VanEck argues that the current decline may be limited to around 40%, with the market already pricing in 35% of it. They believe the four-year cycle remains valid and that 2026 will be more of a year of consolidation.
- Galaxy Digital predicts a wide price range for Bitcoin in 2026; while uncertainty persists in the short term, it estimates that BTC could reach $250,000 by the end of 2027. It also suggests that over 50 spot altcoin ETFs could be launched in the US, with net inflows into spot crypto ETFs potentially exceeding $50 billion.
- 21Shares: Expects the asset size of crypto ETFs under management to exceed $400 billion by 2026.
- JPMorgan Chase predicts that stablecoins will become more attractive in the financial services sector, driven by the growing demand for alternatives to the US dollar.
- Forbes states that the relationship between crypto and artificial intelligence will continue to strengthen, institutional adoption will progress steadily, and even if the market cools, there will be no stagnation in sector value.
*This is not investment advice.