As the crypto community eyes the next major bull cycle, Fundstrat’s internal research team has quietly updated its price projections. While co-founder Tom Lee continues to talk up Bitcoin’s long-term upside, the fund’s own models paint a more moderate path back to the coveted $60,000 level by 2026.
Lee’s Public Bullish Case
Tom Lee has been one of Bitcoin’s most vocal champions, forecasting six-figure prices and rapid institutional adoption. His keynote appearances and social media posts have emphasized scarce supply dynamics, the coming halving effect, and growing corporate treasury allocations as key drivers for a sustained rally.
According to Lee’s narrative, Bitcoin’s next major leg up could be fueled by renewed retail interest once macro headwinds ease, combined with fresh inflows from pension funds and sovereign wealth managers seeking digital asset exposure.
Fundstrat’s Internal Forecasts
Behind closed doors, however, Fundstrat analysts have adopted a more phased outlook. Their scenario projection breaks down as follows:
- 2024: Continued consolidation between $30,000 and $45,000 as market participants await clearer policy signals.
- 2025: Gradual uptrend through $50,000 driven by halving anticipation and improved on-chain metrics.
- 2026: Breakout toward $60,000 as network effects and ETF-driven flows gain momentum.
While still bullish, the internal roadmap suggests a steadier ascent rather than an immediate surge to six figures.
Key Drivers to Watch
Fundstrat’s analysts highlight several catalysts that could accelerate Bitcoin’s climb:
- Regulatory Clarity: Any green lights or clearer guidelines for spot Bitcoin ETFs could unlock fresh capital.
- Institutional Adoption: Major corporate balance sheets adding BTC would bolster confidence.
- Macro Environment: Easing inflationary pressures and dovish monetary policy may turn the tide in favor of risk assets.
- Halving Mechanics: The 2024 block reward halving is expected to tighten supply further, laying groundwork for the next bull market.
Implications for Traders and Investors
For active traders, the forecast paints an opportunity window to accumulate dips toward support around $35,000–$40,000. Longer-term holders may view the period leading up to 2026 as a chance to average into positions ahead of the anticipated breakout.
Risk management remains key, with position sizing and stop-loss strategies helping to navigate potential volatility. Those seeking exposure without direct spot ownership might consider derivatives or structured products tied to Bitcoin’s performance.
Looking Ahead
Although Fundstrat’s public commentary echoes Tom Lee’s optimism over Bitcoin’s long-term trajectory, the fund’s private models underscore a more measured climb back to $60,000. As 2026 draws nearer, market participants will monitor regulatory developments, macro trends, and on-chain signals to gauge whether the cryptocurrency’s next peak will match or exceed those projections.