Bitcoin Slumps to 50% Below Record High Amid Prolonged Market Downturn

Bitcoin's performance in the first half of 2026 has been bleak, according to Binance Research. The cryptocurrency ended June near $60,000 after a 32% decline since January. This marks a third consecutive quarterly loss for Bitcoin, and it's not alone, broader financial markets are also experiencing weakness.

The drop is significant enough that Bitcoin is now over 50% below its record high of nearly $126,000 set in October 2025. This prolonged downturn has lasted 275 days, putting pressure on market sentiment, DeFi activity, and trading volumes at CEXs.