In a recent interview with CNBC, Changpeng Zhao, founder of Binance, expressed his long-term confidence in Bitcoin, suggesting the digital asset may enter a super cycle by 2026. Zhao, who prefers holding assets like Bitcoin and BNB over active trading, shared insights into his investment philosophy, emphasizing a strategic buy-and-hold approach.
Zhao noted that Bitcoin typically adheres to a four-year cycle characterized by sharp price increases followed by significant declines. However, he believes this cycle may be disrupted, stating, “I have very strong feelings that 2026 will probably be a super cycle for Bitcoin.” He attributed this potential shift to the evolving regulatory landscape in the U.S. and a similar trend in other nations that could redefine Bitcoin”s market dynamics.
Highlighting the challenges of predicting short-term market movements, Zhao pointed out that while immediate price fluctuations are uncertain, the long-term trajectory appears more predictable. “If you look at a five or ten-year horizon, it”s very easy to predict — we”re going up,” he remarked. Historically, Bitcoin tends to reach a peak every four years before experiencing a substantial downturn, but Zhao suggests that the current environment may lead to a break from this pattern.
His comments resonate with a broader sentiment of optimism surrounding regulatory clarity and the growing institutional adoption of cryptocurrencies. Supporting Zhao”s super-cycle hypothesis, on-chain data reveals Bitcoin”s increasing significance in global finance. In 2025, Bitcoin processed around $25 trillion in transaction volume, surpassing traditional payment giants like Visa and Mastercard.
When questioned about Bitcoin”s current price outlook, Zhao acknowledged the ambiguity over the next year but reaffirmed his bullish stance for 2026. Echoing this optimism, veteran investor Lawrence Lepard stated on the “What Bitcoin Did” podcast that Bitcoin could experience substantial price surges during the next liquidity-driven wave, despite the likelihood of significant corrections along the way.
Overall, Zhao”s insights into Bitcoin”s potential future underscore the interplay between regulatory developments, market dynamics, and the evolving role of cryptocurrencies in the global financial ecosystem.
