Edited By
Lina Zhang

As Bitcoin continues to struggle, many investors debate the reliability of the four-year cycle theory. Some maintain unwavering faith that autumn will reveal the cryptocurrency's true low, while others express skepticism, highlighting the unpredictability of the market.
Recent discussions on various forums show a mix of belief and doubt about the four-year cycle's validity. Many in the community argue that the timing of Bitcoin's price fluctuations is increasingly influenced by broader market factors, rather than the historical patterns established by halving events. One observer commented, "The significance of the halving gets cut in half every cycle, making it less impactful."
Moreover, some expect Bitcoin to face additional drops in value. One noted, "If the cycle holds true, we should be prepared for bitcoin to continue dropping to $45k by December 2026." This prediction stems from concerns about the current market downward trend, with Bitcoin at $68k as of February 2026.
The four-year cycle remains a topic of heated discussion among investors. Supporters believe that historical trends will repeat, arguing that past cycles give credibility to the theory. One commenter stated, "For the fourth time in a row, price appears to have topped in Q4โthe year after the halving." Conversely, skeptics warn that predicting market lows and highs with certainty is risky, emphasizing that the market can shift unpredictably.
Interestingly, another responded bluntly, "I see these exact posts every four years." This sentiment reflects a growing fatigue among some who question whether the cycle can truly be relied upon.
Amidst the discourse, a noticeable divide emerges. Some members appear optimistic, while others are cautious about entering the market. A user shared their strategy, "I wonโt be looking at BTC prices until October thatโs when Iโll start to accumulate." Such varying approaches illustrate the uncertainty that permeates this phase of the crypto market.
"What if 45k never comes?" a commenter pondered, foreshadowing potential frustration for those who follow the typical cycle pattern.
๐ฝ Skepticism is Growing: More people seem to doubt the reliability of the four-year cycle.
โ๏ธ Price Expectations Set: Predictions suggest potential lows around $45k by December 2026.
๐ Investor Strategies Differ: Individuals are split between immediate selling or waiting for further price drops before buying back in.
The upcoming months could be pivotal for Bitcoin as investors await to see whether the historical cycle proves accurate once more.
Experts estimate there's a strong chance Bitcoin could dip to around $45,000 by December 2026 if current trends hold true. The ongoing market pressures suggest that the path to recovery might not be straightforward. Investors are watching closely for signs of a reversal, but with skepticism running high, the probability of fluctuating prices remains considerable. If the cycle's previous patterns break, we may see even more volatility, further complicating predictions for would-be buyers. Mixed sentiment about when to enter the market could keep trading volumes lower until more confidence returns.
Looking back, the experience of the U.S. auto industry in the late 2000s serves as an unusual parallel. Just as the automotive sector grappled with economic downturn and skepticism regarding its recovery, the crypto market now faces similar fears. Ultimately, the resilience of the car industry hinged on adapting to market demands and innovation, and Bitcoin, like cars, may need to evolve to win back investor trust. These historical insights remind us that, while patterns may guide expectations, true stability often arises from adaptability in uncertain times.