Hayes: Bitcoin to Surpass $90,000 and Hit $126,000
Arthur Hayes, BitMEX co-founder and CIO of Maelstrom, predicts Bitcoin will surpass $90,000 and return to its October 2025 high of $126,000, calling it a "foregone conclusion." He cites two tailwinds: AI capex driving credit creation by central banks, and the U.S.-Iran war forcing nations to shift from dollar assets to commodities. Hayes believes these inflationary pressures will fuel Bitcoin's outperformance, noting its recent gains against Nasdaq and gold since the war began. He also reveals Maelstrom's altcoin positions: large holdings in HYPE and ZEC, with NEAR as the next pick based on privacy and intent-based architecture. However, he flags two risks: an unabsorbable mega-AI IPO/merger, or a 2028 Democratic candidate running on an anti-AI platform that curtails capex lending. The November 2026 midterms are a minor speed bump. Hayes advises buying now, as a selling time will come later.
Key facts
- Bitcoin predicted to hit $126,000, with $90,000 as explosive breakout level.
- Two tailwinds: AI capex fueling bank credit, and war shifting dollar reserves.
- Maelstrom fund holds HYPE, ZEC, and next pick NEAR.
- Risks: unabsorbable mega-AI deal or 2028 anti-AI presidential campaign.
- Buy now; selling time is later, says Hayes.