Bitcoin breaks $86,000

Bitcoin rose above $86,000 on Monday, its highest level since late January, up 5.8% and marking a 34% gain over the past three months.

Crypto winter may be ending

Bitwise's CIO Matt Hougan told CNBC he believes the crypto winter that began after Bitcoin hit $126,000 in October 2025 is over and predicts the strongest bull market in crypto history.

“I think this will actually be the strongest and longest-running bull market in crypto's history.”

Fundamentals improved during slump

While Bitcoin prices fell, blockchain transaction volumes increased and major firms like BlackRock entered the market, suggesting underlying strength despite the price decline.

Clarity Act failure may help crypto

The Senate blocked the Clarity Act last week, but Hougan argues this helps crypto because the current SEC and CFTC leadership are the most pro-crypto in U.S. history and will set favorable rules independently.

“It's the most pro-crypto SEC in the history of the U.S.; it's the most pro-crypto CFTC in the history of the U.S.”

Money rotating from AI to crypto

Investors are shifting capital out of AI stocks that have dominated markets as the AI boom levels off, redirecting momentum-driven investment back into cryptocurrency.

Price targets point higher

Analysts at BTIG say if Bitcoin holds above $75,000, bulls can target $82,000 on the way to $90,000, suggesting further upside potential in the near term.