At a time when many investors are still looking for Bitcoin’s next breakout, veteran trader Peter Brandt is urging patience, suggesting the market may not be ready just yet. In his latest outlook, Brandt argues that Bitcoin’s path to a new all-time high could stretch into 2027, not 2026, as many had hoped.
His view is rooted in what he sees as an unfinished market structure. Drawing from historical chart patterns, Brandt believes Bitcoin is still forming a complex base, one that typically involves sharp moves in both directions before a sustained rally can begin.
Cheds, I never want to ignore a possibility. There are no certainties in charting. And, probability does not apply to individual slices of time.
Not an ideal Compound Fulcrum. Let’s follow the P&F work. See example of Copper from 50 years ago
This remains the standard https://t.co/o6QtsC6IDv pic.twitter.com/Nj6PdXY8ql— The Factor Report (@PeterLBrandt) April 13, 2026
At the centre of his thesis is the idea that the market hasn’t fully “cleared out” excess optimism. Brandt points to the need for a deeper pullback, potentially revisiting or dipping below the $60,000 range, before a stronger upward move can take hold.
READ ALSO: What the First Quarter of 2026 Reveals About Where Crypto is Heading
A reset may come before the next rally
According to Brandt, Bitcoin could still face another wave of downside pressure later in 2026, possibly around the third quarter. This phase, often referred to as a “final shakeout,” is typically where weaker hands exit the market, setting the stage for a more sustainable bull cycle.
He has also hinted at a key psychological threshold: a drop below the mid-$60,000 range could trigger the kind of sentiment reset needed for a stronger breakout beyond $75,000.
While the outlook may sound cautious, it doesn’t necessarily signal long-term weakness. Instead, Brandt frames 2026 as a transition year, less about explosive growth and more about consolidation, positioning, and rebuilding momentum.
Analysts split as market cycle evolves
Brandt’s timeline is not universally shared. Some analysts still expect Bitcoin to push toward new highs within 2026, especially with growing institutional involvement and evolving market structure. Others, however, align more closely with his view, noting that Bitcoin’s traditional four-year cycle may be stretching or shifting under new macroeconomic pressures.
Recent market signals add to the uncertainty. Bitcoin remains significantly below its previous peak of around $126,000 recorded in late 2025, with price action showing continued volatility and hesitation rather than clear upward momentum.
Still, Brandt maintains that the broader narrative around Bitcoin remains intact. In his view, the asset continues to function as a long-term store of value, but the road to its next major milestone may take longer and test investor patience along the way.
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