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Where is Crypto Going in 2026? | Ben Cowen


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Is the crypto cycle already over? Ben Cowen returns to break down what a post-euphoria cycle looks like, why Bitcoin may have already topped, and how 2026 could play out across crypto, stocks, and macro. We explore the case for a prolonged bear market, why a true alt season may not arrive, and the narrow scenarios where Ethereum could still make a fleeting run at new highs. From Fed policy and labor markets to AI stealing investor attention, this episode maps the competing paths ahead and what patient investors should be watching next.


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TIMESTAMPS


0:00 Intro

0:49 Bitcoin's Cycle & its Implications

2:18 Ethereum's Performance & Expectations

8:58 Future Predictions for Ethereum

10:39 Comparing Ethereum to Tesla

12:32 The State of the Altcoin Market

18:26 Disappointment & Hope for ETH Holders

20:23 Macro Factors Affecting Crypto

24:37 Why No Euphoria This Cycle?

32:56 The Shift of Investor Attention

37:56 The Future of Crypto Cycles

44:16 The Need for Utility in Crypto

56:14 Gold vs. Bitcoin: A Comparison

59:45 Bitcoin's Unique Position in the Market

1:02:31 Patience and Strategy for Crypto Investors

1:06:01 Closing & Disclaimers


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RESOURCES


Ben Cowen

https://x.com/intocryptoverse


Ben’s Channel

https://www.youtube.com/@intothecryptoverse


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Not financial or tax advice. See our investment disclosures here:

https://www.bankless.com/disclosures

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