Bitcoin Rallies to Second-Best Q3 on Record, Outpacing Most Other Years

Bitcoin's third quarter is shaping up to be its second-strongest on record, according to CoinGlass data. The cryptocurrency has gained approximately 43.5% during the July-September period, making Q3 2026 one of the most impressive quarters in Bitcoin's history.

This performance marks a significant turnaround for Bitcoin, which lost 22.2% in the first quarter and shed another 14.09% in Q2. The roughly 43.5% gain would snap a two-quarter losing streak and edge out 2013's 40.6% gain by three percentage points.

Historically, the third quarter has been relatively subdued, with an average return of just 8.73%. However, this year's performance is notable, as only the explosive 80.41% gain recorded in 2017 has surpassed it.