Bitcoin (BTC) has underperformed this year, falling short of both gold and the tech-focused Nasdaq 100 index, despite initial hopes that it would gain from the weakening of fiat currencies.
However, a VanEck executive believes that the leading cryptocurrency is poised for a significant rebound in the coming year.
“Year-to-date, Bitcoin trails the Nasdaq 100 by about 50%, creating an opportunity for it to emerge as one of the best performers in 2026,” stated David Schassler, head of multi-asset solutions at VanEck, in their recently released outlook for 2026.
The current downturn reflects reduced risk tolerance and constrained liquidity; nevertheless, Schassler maintains that Bitcoin’s fundamental appeal remains strong. He noted, “As currency devaluation intensifies and liquidity improves, BTC has historically shown sharp positive reactions.”
“We have been actively accumulating Bitcoin,” he added.
Schassler’s overarching perspective combines monetary depreciation with technological innovation and a growing preference for tangible assets. According to him, increasing reliance on money printing to finance future obligations and political goals will drive investors toward scarce value stores like gold and Bitcoin.
He anticipates gold prices climbing to $5,000 next year—building on its impressive gain exceeding 10% so far this year. “Gold stands out as one of this year’s strongest major assets; we expect its momentum to continue,” he remarked. Currently trading near $4,492 per ounce after surging over 70% this year.
Simultaneously, an understated bull market is emerging within natural resources sectors due to infrastructure needs driven by artificial intelligence advancements, energy transitions, robotics development and efforts toward re-industrialization. These traditional assets are laying down essential groundwork for tomorrow’s economy.
Read more: Gold & silver excel amid currency debasement while bitcoin lags behind