Perplexity AI Forecasts Bitcoin Price Surge to $180K-$230K by End of 2026

The AI model Perplexity has released a bold Bitcoin price prediction, estimating that BTC will reach $180,000 to $230,000 by the end of 2026. This forecast is based on what the model calls a 'slow bull institutional phase' rather than a sharp speculative spike.

According to Perplexity, record ETF inflows projected to top $300 billion, combined with sovereign adoption through a US Strategic Reserve, will overwhelm the post-halving supply shock and drive demand. Potential Fed rate cuts will also add a structural bid, as enhanced liquidity tends to push capital toward risk assets.

Regulatory clarity through the GENIUS Act is seen as legitimizing corporate treasury allocation, giving more companies permission to hold Bitcoin on their balance sheets. Even the base case here is aggressive, with a new all-time high near $150,000 to $200,000 treated as the expected outcome rather than the stretch scenario.

The bear case is not dismissed, however. If ETF flows stall or a macro recession triggers deleveraging, Perplexity sees Bitcoin retesting support between $60,000 and $80,000.