Bitcoin and Ethereum Prices Mixed as Second-Half 2026 Outlooks Conflict
As we enter the second half of 2026, the cryptocurrency market is facing a mixed bag of outlooks for the rest of the year. Bitcoin and Ethereum, two of the most widely traded cryptocurrencies, are currently experiencing a tug-of-war between bullish and bearish sentiments.
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According to data from Monday, July 20, 2026, Bitcoin (BTC-USD) opened at $64,680.23, 0.2% lower than Sunday’s opening price. However, as of 9:34 a.m. ET this morning, the price of bitcoin moved up to $64,694.96. Ethereum (ETH-USD), on the other hand, opened at $1,871.21, up 0.5% from Sunday’s opening price. The price of ethereum moved lower this morning to $1,875.30 as of 9:35 a.m. ET.
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While some analysts, such as Darkforst, are predicting losses for top buyers who paid between $75,000 and $126,000 for bitcoin, others, like Standard Chartered, are renewing their $100,000 bitcoin year-end 2026 price target. Prediction market Polymarket is taking a middle road, with top odds on bitcoin closing the year between $70,000 and $75,000 and ethereum finishing 2026 between $2,000 and $2,250.
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Looking at the past month, both bitcoin and ethereum have experienced a surge in prices, with bitcoin up 1.8% and ethereum up 9.4%. However, when compared to the same period last year, the prices are significantly lower, with bitcoin down 38.2% and ethereum down 25.8%.
What is Bitcoin?
Bitcoin is a type of cryptocurrency that operates without government or banking oversight. It relies on a public digital ledger called the blockchain, which validates and records transactions and verifies bitcoin ownership. This decentralized system allows for peer-to-peer payments with no banking intermediary, enhanced security, and defense against manipulation attempts.
Decentralization is a fundamental aspect of cryptocurrencies, and it has enabled the creation of a global, borderless economy. However, this also means that cryptocurrencies are highly volatile and subject to market fluctuations.
For those looking to invest in bitcoin, it’s essential to understand the risks involved. Prices can surge or drop quickly, sometimes without warning. If you’re considering buying bitcoin, assume volatility is part of the deal.
There are several ways to buy bitcoin, including through a crypto exchange, a fintech app, or a traditional brokerage that allows you to buy into a bitcoin ETF. However, before placing a trade, decide what you actually want: full ownership of your bitcoin and private keys or easy price exposure inside a familiar, regulated system.
Bitcoin and Ethereum Price Charts
Whether you’re a seasoned crypto investor or brand new to tracking the value of bitcoin and ethereum, Yahoo Finance’s price-of-bitcoin chart and price-of-ethereum chart below show a visual history of how the currencies’ value continues to move and evolve.
More on crypto from the Yahoo Finance team includes:
- How to trade crypto: A step-by-step guide
- Do you need a bitcoin credit card?
- Can you buy crypto with a credit card?
President Trump called for a strategic bitcoin reserve. How it would work.
How to buy a house with crypto
Yes, crypto is taxed. Here’s when you have to pay.
