Gold Surges While Bitcoin Lags

Gold has posted a strong upward move in recent weeks. April gold futures closed the week at $5,247.90, while tokenized gold product PAX Gold (PAXG) was trading around $5,404.14 at the time of observation. Mow characterizes gold’s current positioning as “overextended,” implying that the metal may have moved too far above its long-term trend.

In contrast, Bitcoin appears to be trading at a relative discount. Based on comparisons with gold’s market capitalization and global money supply metrics, Bitcoin is estimated to be between 24% and 66% below its historical trend alignment. From a macro perspective, such a deviation has previously preceded upward price adjustments in BTC.

Understanding the Bitcoin-to-Gold Z-Score

One of the key indicators highlighted in the analysis is the Z-score of the Bitcoin-to-gold ratio. This statistical metric measures how far a data point deviates from its historical average. A Z-score of zero indicates alignment with the mean, while negative readings suggest the asset is trading below its long-term norm.

Currently, the Bitcoin-to-gold Z-score stands at approximately -1.24. Historically, when this ratio has fallen below -2, Bitcoin has experienced significant rallies. For instance, in November 2022—during the collapse of FTX—the metric dropped below -3, followed by a price increase of more than 150% over the subsequent 12 months. A similar pattern emerged in March 2020 during the pandemic-driven market crash, when Bitcoin fell to around $3,717 and later surged more than 300% within a year, ultimately reaching roughly $69,000 in November 2021.

The Bearish Counterargument: $50,000 in Play?

Not all market participants share the bullish outlook. Some analysts warn that ongoing geopolitical tensions and investor uncertainty could weigh further on crypto markets. In this view, Bitcoin’s recent price structure resembles elements of the 2022 bear cycle.

BTC has declined more than 50% from its peak to a low near $60,000 before staging a modest recovery toward the $66,400 level. Whether Bitcoin closes the valuation gap with gold through a rally—or faces renewed downside toward $50,000—remains a central question for the market.

You can also freely share your thoughts and comments about the topic in the comment section. Additionally, don’t forget to follow us on our Telegram, YouTube, and Twitter channels for the latest news and updates.

The post Bitcoin Trading at a Discount to Gold: Is a Rally Brewing? appeared first on Coin Engineer.

As debate over Bitcoin’s long-term trajectory intensifies, Jan3 founder Samson Mow has offered a Musk-centered projection that stands out for its timing rather than its certainty. Mow suggests that 2026 could represent a clear break in Elon Musk historically cautious relationship with Bitcoin. The claim is being read not as a simple investment call, but as a signal that market sentiment may pivot around timing rather than price alone.

In a brief post shared on X over the weekend, Mow implied that Musk could make a large-scale Bitcoin move. While no explicit roadmap was offered, the emphasis on 2026 appeared deliberate. Coming after years of aggressive crypto predictions that failed to materialize, the comment sparked cautious curiosity rather than outright enthusiasm.

Elon Musk Historically Distant Bitcoin Stance

Musk’s interest in cryptocurrencies is well documented, but Bitcoin has always occupied an uneasy position. Tesla’s decision in May 2021 to halt Bitcoin payments over environmental concerns became the clearest symbol of that distance. This was followed in July 2022 by the company selling %75 of its Bitcoin holdings, reinforcing skepticism around any renewed commitment.

Still, Mow argues that 2026 presents a different equation. Energy infrastructure shifts, improvements in mining efficiency, and mounting macroeconomic pressures are quietly rearranging the backdrop against which Musk’s decisions are made.

A Seven-Figure Bitcoin Scenario

Mow is known for his bullish outlook on Bitcoin’s long-term value. He has repeatedly suggested that Bitcoin could reach seven-figure territory by 2026. Based on CoinMarketCap data, his previously cited $1.33 million target would represent a %1,367 increase from current levels.

According to Mow, this outlook is not driven solely by retail speculation. He points to the growing possibility of nation-states evaluating Bitcoin as a reserve asset—an evolution he believes could bend the price curve away from gradual appreciation toward sudden repricing. He has previously described this transition as a move “from incremental growth to abrupt repricing.”

Why Bitcoin continues to rise remains a frequent question. Limited supply and expanding institutional interest are often cited first. Yet many observers believe the real pressure comes from less visible state-level interest and the expectations it creates. Even so, this backdrop does not guarantee a smooth or uninterrupted climb in the short term.

Not Everyone Shares the Same Conviction

Mow’s confidence is not universally shared. Bitwise CIO Matt Hougan has outlined a more measured outlook for the coming decade, suggesting solid returns are plausible without extreme price spikes. In the wake of repeatedly missed high-end forecasts, this restraint has resonated with a segment of the market.

Figures like Arthur Hayes and Tom Lee have previously argued that Bitcoin could reach $250,000 by the end of 2025—predictions that persisted even during market pullbacks.

Other Notable Forecasts From Mow

Mow’s 2026 thesis extends beyond Bitcoin alone. Among his other notable expectations:

• Strategy (MSTR) shares reaching $5,000

• Bitcoin outperforming gold and silver

• At least one country issuing Bitcoin-backed bonds

When pressed about the accuracy of his past predictions, Mow tends to deflect. Asked how many had played out as expected, his answer was brief and revealing: “Let’s not look back.”

You can also freely share your thoughts and comments about the topic in the comment section. Additionally, don’t forget to follow us on our Telegram, YouTube, and Twitter channels for the latest news and updates.

The post Samson Mow: Is 2026 a Turning Point for Elon Musk and Bitcoin? appeared first on Coin Engineer.

“The Real Bull Market Is About to Begin”

According to Mow, the past year represents a transitional phase rather than a failure of Bitcoin’s long-term trajectory. He suggests that the market conditions seen throughout 2025 resemble a bear market in structure and sentiment, even though prices previously reached record highs. In his view, this period of pressure and consolidation may be the foundation for a bull run that could extend well into the next decade.

Bitcoin analyst PlanC has echoed this interpretation, describing 2025 as a year that tested market resilience. From this perspective, investors who endured the drawdowns and negative sentiment may be positioned ahead of a stronger and more sustained growth cycle.

Bitcoin May Close the Year in the Red

Historically, Bitcoin has never posted two consecutive years with negative annual returns. However, current price action suggests that this pattern could be challenged. Since the start of the year, Bitcoin has declined by approximately 9%, trading near the $87,000 level.

This performance stands in stark contrast to optimistic projections made earlier in the year, when forecasts of $250,000 by year-end gained traction. As prices failed to meet those expectations, market confidence weakened, contributing to persistently low sentiment.

Throughout December, the Crypto Fear & Greed Index remained in the “extreme fear” zone, reflecting heightened caution and uncertainty among investors.

Divided Outlooks for 2026

Looking ahead to 2026, the industry remains split. Some veteran market participants anticipate a deeper correction, with potential downside targets ranging between $60,000 and $65,000. These forecasts suggest that another bearish phase could emerge once the current cycle fully resets.

On the other hand, several prominent voices remain constructive. Strategy CEO Phong Le has emphasized that Bitcoin’s underlying fundamentals remained strong throughout 2025, despite price weakness. Similarly, Bitwise CIO Matt Hougan believes that 2026 could mark a return to positive momentum rather than a prolonged downturn.

Overall, while short-term uncertainty persists, the debate surrounding Bitcoin’s long-term direction is increasingly focused on structural strength rather than cyclical noise.

You can also freely share your thoughts and comments about the topic in the comment section. Additionally, don’t forget to follow us on our Telegram, YouTube, and Twitter channels for the latest news and updates.

The post Samson Mow: A Decade Bull Run For Bitcoin! appeared first on Coin Engineer.

“The Real Bull Run Has Yet to Begin”

Following Bitcoin’s brief drop below $100,000 earlier this week, Mow remarked that the current price range only slightly outpaces inflation:

“The Bitcoin bull run hasn’t started yet. At these levels, we’re only marginally outperforming inflation.”

Analysts have attributed the recent downturn to U.S.–China trade tensions and broader macroeconomic headwinds. Data from CoinGecko shows that Bitcoin dipped to $99,607 on Wednesday.

Despite the pullback, Mow remains optimistic. In a series of posts on X (formerly Twitter), he emphasized that Bitcoin still has “plenty of upside,” highlighting that it continues to outperform the 3% U.S. inflation rate.

The “Christmas Candle” and 2026 Outlook

When asked whether Bitcoin might experience a dramatic holiday surge — often referred to as a “Christmas god candle” — Mow confidently replied that he was “not uncertain.”

The Jan3 founder, who has previously predicted a sharp move toward $1 million per BTC, also commented on market cycle theories:

“Bitcoin has been mostly flat throughout 2025. If you believe in cycles, then it hasn’t topped yet. That could mean a cycle peak in 2026 — or perhaps a long, generational bull run similar to gold’s post-ETF era.”

Mow: “Bitcoin OGs Aren’t Selling”

Macro analyst Jordi Visser recently suggested that Bitcoin is in a phase where early holders are offloading their coins to new market participants. Mow dismissed these claims, arguing that such fears are exaggerated:

“People are fearful because they created their own theory that OGs are selling above $0.1M. It’s incredible how people self-sabotage with fear. Focus on the big picture — Bitcoin will add another zero, it’s only a matter of when.”

He added that he doesn’t know “any OGs who are actually selling,” reinforcing his belief in long-term accumulation among early adopters.

Jan3’s Take on Market Sentiment

While the Crypto Fear & Greed Index has fallen back into “extreme fear” territory, Jan3’s internal model paints the opposite picture:

“The market is crying, but Bitcoiners are still stacking. The index reads 23 — which for us means extreme greed, because Bitcoiners fear missing sats, not price drops.”

Mow’s remarks suggest that despite temporary volatility, long-term confidence in Bitcoin remains strong, and the next true bull cycle may only be getting ready to start.

You can also freely share your thoughts and comments about the topic in the comment section. Additionally, don’t forget to follow us on our Telegram, YouTube, and Twitter channels for the latest news and updates.

The post Samson Mow: “The Bitcoin Bull Run Hasn’t Started Yet” appeared first on Coin Engineer.

“A Quantum Breakthrough Could Happen in Five Years”

Yakovenko estimated that there’s a 50% chance of a major leap in quantum computing power within the next five years. Drawing parallels to the rapid acceleration of artificial intelligence, he argued that technological progress may come much faster than most expect.

“Bitcoin should migrate to a quantum-resistant signature scheme,” he urged, noting that waiting too long could leave the network vulnerable at a critical time.

Why the Quantum Threat Matters

Bitcoin’s security is built on the Elliptic Curve Digital Signature Algorithm (ECDSA). This cryptographic method relies on the difficulty of solving the elliptic curve discrete logarithm problem — something classical computers cannot do efficiently.

Quantum computers, however, are theoretically capable of breaking this system, undermining the foundation of wallet security and transaction validation.

This concern isn’t exclusive to Yakovenko. Earlier this year, Naoris Protocol founder David Carvalho warned that advanced quantum machines might crack Bitcoin’s current encryption in less than five years.

The Challenge of Making Bitcoin Quantum-Resistant

In theory, Bitcoin could adopt quantum-resistant cryptography. But doing so would require a hard fork, one of the most contentious and disruptive types of upgrades in blockchain systems.

Given Bitcoin’s conservative culture and the community’s hesitancy toward drastic protocol changes, implementing such a transition would be politically and technically complex.

Divided Opinions in the Bitcoin Community

While Yakovenko and others push for urgency, not everyone in the Bitcoin ecosystem agrees.

• Adam Back, CEO of Blockstream, believes existing quantum computers don’t currently threaten Bitcoin, though he admits they could in the long run. In his view, it would likely take at least two decades before quantum machines reach a level where they endanger the network.

• Samson Mow, founder of Jan3, takes a similar stance. He acknowledges the risk but argues it’s still far in the future: “This is a real risk, but at least a decade away. Many other systems will fail before Bitcoin does.”

You can also freely share your thoughts and comments about the topic in the comment section. Additionally, don’t forget to follow us on our Telegram, YouTube, and Twitter channels for the latest news and updates.

The post Are Quantum Computers a Threat to Bitcoin? Solana’s Founder Weighs In! appeared first on Coin Engineer.

A “Strong Possibility” for Strategic Bitcoin Reserve

In a recent statement, Thorn suggested that the US government could officially confirm the formation of a Strategic Bitcoin Reserve in 2025, recognizing Bitcoin as a strategic national asset.

He emphasized that markets may be underestimating the likelihood of such an announcement, pricing in far less probability than what he believes is realistic.

Signs the Plan is Moving Forward on Bitcoin

In March, President Donald Trump signed an executive order that set the framework for the creation of a Strategic Bitcoin Reserve and a broader Digital Asset Stockpile. While a detailed strategic plan hasn’t been released to the public yet, several developments suggest momentum is building.

Just days ago, US lawmakers introduced a bill requiring the Treasury Department to assess the feasibility and technical considerations of implementing the reserve. Additionally, by late July, the White House’s crypto liaison confirmed that the initiative remains on the administration’s agenda, despite limited references in its recent digital asset policy updates.

Skepticism Remains

Not all experts are convinced that progress will happen so quickly. Dave Weisberger, former chairman of CoinRoutes, argued that the timeline is more likely to stretch into 2026, pointing out that the government might prefer to quietly accumulate Bitcoin to a target threshold before making any public announcements.

The Risk of Falling Behind

Among Bitcoin advocates, there is growing concern that any delay could put the US at a disadvantage compared to other nations. Samson Mow, founder of Jan3, stressed earlier this year that the US “must start” acquiring Bitcoin in 2025 to avoid being front-run by other countries:

“The risk is that nations like Pakistan could act first if the US hesitates.”

This concern isn’t unfounded. Kyrgyzstan has already advanced legislation to establish a state-backed crypto reserve, while in Indonesia, Bitcoin advocacy groups have been in talks with government officials about how such a strategy could stimulate economic growth.

You can also freely share your thoughts and comments about the topic in the comment section. Additionally, don’t forget to follow us on our Telegram, YouTube, and Twitter channels for the latest news and updates.

The post Could the US Establish a Strategic Bitcoin Reserve Before the End of 2025? appeared first on Coin Engineer.

“We Didn’t Sell Any Bitcoin”

Tether CEO Paolo Ardoino stated on Sunday that the company had not sold any of its Bitcoin holdings. Instead, Tether continues to allocate profits into Bitcoin, gold, and land acquisitions. His statement directly countered claims made by YouTuber Clive Thompson, who cited a decline in Tether’s BTC reserves from 92,650 to 83,274 between Q1 and Q2 2025.

You Might Be Interested In: Sonic SVM Research: Can New Stablecoins Shake Up the Old Order?

Jan3 CEO Samson Mow debunked this theory, explaining that the shift was due to a transfer of 19,800 BTC to Twenty One Capital (XXI), not a sell-off.

Transfers to XXI Explained

According to Mow, Tether moved 14,000 BTC in June and 5,800 BTC in July to support XXI, a Bitcoin-native financial platform. If those transfers are included, Tether’s overall Bitcoin position actually increased. Ardoino reaffirmed this, emphasizing that the BTC was “moved, not sold.”

Currently, Tether holds more than 100,521 Bitcoin, worth approximately $11.17 billion, according to BitcoinTreasuries.NET.

El Salvador Boosts Gold Reserves

Meanwhile, El Salvador made headlines with a separate reserve diversification strategy. The country added 13,999 ounces of gold, worth $50 million, marking its first gold purchase since 1990. Previously, El Salvador built a Bitcoin reserve of 6,292 BTC, though no new BTC purchases have been reported since February.

You can also freely share your thoughts and comments about the topic in the comment section. Additionally, don’t forget to follow us on our Telegram, YouTube, and Twitter channels for the latest news and updates.

The post Tether Denies Bitcoin Sell-Off Rumors! appeared first on Coin Engineer.

Unlike investor Dan Tapiero, who is optimistic about both Bitcoin and Ethereum, Mow disagrees. Known as a Bitcoin maximalist and a strong critic of Ethereum, Mow is also one of the firm believers that BTC could reach $1 million in the near future.

When Will Bitcoin’s Rally Begin? Samson Mow Replies

In a recent post, Samson Mow stated that Bitcoin’s price is unlikely to recover from its current lows unless its market dominance increases. He made this comment while quoting Dan Tapiero, founder and CEO of 10T Holdings and 1RoundTable Partners.

Tapiero had previously noted that “the Bitcoin and Ethereum bull market still has much further to run,” showing his support for both major cryptocurrencies.

Mow, however, has a different view of Ethereum. According to him, ETH is currently in the “final stages of a pump-and-dump.” He believes that once Ethereum resumes its long-term downtrend against Bitcoin, BTC will start running again with strength.

Bitcoin Bounces Back From $112,000

Last week, Bitcoin dropped by 5.35%, falling from the $118,502 level down to $112,163. Over the past 24 hours, though, BTC has regained some ground, rising by nearly 1%.

You can also freely share your thoughts and comments about the topic in the comment section. Additionally, don’t forget to follow us on our Telegram, YouTube, and Twitter channels for the latest news and updates.

The post Samson Mow Shares His Bitcoin Prediction! When Will BTC Rise Again? appeared first on Coin Engineer.

Speaking on Thursday during the Coin Stories program, Semler noted: “There are many who believe that once the Trump administration ends, Bitcoin will experience a sharp decline again.”

Confidence in Bitcoin is Rare, But Semler Remains Committed

Semler, who founded hedge fund firm TCS Capital Management back in 2001, holds a clear view on the impact of political conditions on the future of crypto. While U.S. President Donald Trump recently gave the green light to the Bitcoin Strategic Reserve, some experts—like JAN3 founder Samson Mow—believe this supportive stance might not last under a future administration.

However, Semler doesn’t share this pessimism. On the contrary, he is doubling down. In May 2024, the company he leads, Semler Scientific, became the second publicly listed U.S. company to adopt Bitcoin as part of its treasury strategy.

In a statement released on Thursday, the company revealed plans to increase its Bitcoin holdings nearly 23-fold over the next 2.5 years. Currently holding 4,449 BTC, the firm aims to reach 105,000 Bitcoin by 2026. Their short-term goal is to hold 10,000 BTC by the end of this year.

Traditional Finance’s Doubt Signals a Buying Opportunity

Semler views the general doubt in financial markets as a bullish indicator for investors:

“When you invest in something the majority doesn’t believe in and turn out to be right, the returns are much greater,” says Semler, adding that such opportunities have always brought him the highest profits throughout his career.

“We are in a fantastic position to show people that they are missing out on a major opportunity,” he continues. Semler explains that his success has often come from staying outside of the mainstream.

“I actually embrace negativity. I’m a contrarian investor,” he concludes.

Hedge Funds Slowly Turning to Bitcoin

Although Semler might seem like a lone voice, data shows that hedge funds are increasingly moving toward crypto. In October 2024, a study conducted by PwC and the Alternative Investment Management Association revealed that 47% of hedge fund managers operating in traditional markets are now exposed to crypto.

This figure was 29% in 2023 and 37% in 2022.

Previously, in June 2021, Intertrust Global conducted a survey asking 100 hedge fund CFOs about their crypto asset expectations. An overwhelming 98% responded that by 2026, they expected an average of 7.2% of their assets to be allocated to cryptocurrencies.

You can also freely share your thoughts and comments about the topic in the comment section. Additionally, don’t forget to follow us on our Telegram, YouTube, and Twitter channels for the latest news and updates.

The post Bitcoin Concerns in a Post-Trump Era: Insights from Eric Semler appeared first on Coin Engineer.

Originally, this restriction aimed to discourage excessive use of block space for non-payment purposes. However, developers now say the limit no longer serves a purpose and that its removal will lead to a more efficient and transparent data flow.

What Is the Impact of Removing OP_RETURN?

OP_RETURN is a special transaction output that allows small pieces of data to be stored on the Bitcoin blockchain. It gained popularity during the ordinals hype in early 2024. Unlike standard outputs, OP_RETURN data is unspendable and doesn’t bloat the UTXO set.

You Might Be Interested In: Elon Musk Talks About the Name of a New Memecoin!

Users had already found ways to bypass the restriction, often using fake output addresses that were more damaging to the network. Developers argue that lifting the limit will promote network consistency, a cleaner UTXO set, and better reflect real-world Bitcoin usage.

Mixed Reactions from the Community

The change is not without controversy. Well-known Bitcoiner Samson Mow commented that users could simply stick with version 29.0 or use an alternative client. Others criticized the lack of proper consensus, suggesting the update was rushed without broader agreement.

The decision reignites a long-standing debate: Is Bitcoin solely a financial tool, or should it also function as a decentralized publishing platform?

You can also freely share your thoughts and comments about the topic in the comment section. Additionally, don’t forget to follow us on our Telegram, YouTube, and Twitter channels for the latest news and updates.

The post Bitcoin Core Removes Controversial OP_RETURN Limit appeared first on Coin Engineer.