Bitcoin Set to Fork into Two Separate Blockchains on October 31, 2026

Bitcoin will undergo a permanent hard fork on October 31, 2026, creating a new blockchain called eCash (ECX). This event will create two separate blockchains: Bitcoin and eCash.

Holders of Bitcoin who control their private keys will automatically receive an equal balance of ECX coins. However, holders on exchanges may not receive ECX if the provider does not support the fork.

The fork involves three launch stages and optional replay protection, which affects transaction safety.

According to German tax rules, the forked coins will be treated as acquired at the original purchase date, impacting tax calculations.