Key Highlights
-
Bitcoin has emerged as a well-recognized asset globally, competing against vast pools of capital across various markets.
-
Sectors like AI, residential real estate, and U.S. Treasuries collectively hold over $100 trillion in value.
-
Proponents of Bitcoin need to adopt a long-term strategy as its adoption may not progress linearly.
- 10 stocks we prefer over Bitcoin ›
Bitcoin (CRYPTO: BTC) has faced significant price declines. Currently, it is trading 44% below its all-time high (as of Feb. 9) and has dropped 21% in 2026.
Investors are likely considering various threats to Bitcoin’s position. Other digital assets are gaining traction, with developments in Ethereum, stablecoins, and XRP possibly overshadowing Bitcoin.
Where should you invest $1,000 today? Our analysts have pinpointed the 10 top stocks to buy, and they don’t include Bitcoin. Discover the stocks »
Nonetheless, investors should keep a broader perspective, looking beyond the digital asset sector. Here are three significant trillion-dollar competitive threats to Bitcoin.
A Global Competition for Capital
With a market cap of $1.4 trillion, Bitcoin has garnered interest from individuals, governments, and large financial institutions. It operates on an international scale.
Thus, Bitcoin faces competition from various asset classes that command immense capital. Current interest rate conditions highlight three notable competitive risks.
Significant investments are pouring into companies creating AI-driven products and services, like the “Magnificent Seven” stocks, which collectively have a market cap of $21 trillion. The potential upside remains tremendous, especially with prospects for advanced AI.
Long-Term Perspective for Bitcoin Investors
Market participants—including individuals, businesses, asset managers, and central banks—have varying risk tolerances and investment goals. Not everyone will choose Bitcoin, even if its long-term potential appears promising.
Significant asset classes like AI, real estate, and Treasuries will continue to hold relevance. Hence, Bitcoin advocates must exercise patience and keep a long-term focus. The cryptocurrency is still following an impressive trajectory.
Is Now the Right Time to Buy Bitcoin Stocks?
Before making a decision to invest in Bitcoin stocks, consider this:
The Motley Fool Stock Advisor analyst team has identified the 10 best stocks to consider now, and Bitcoin is not among them. The selected stocks are believed to have substantial growth potential in the coming years.
For instance, had you invested $1,000 in Netflix when it was recommended on December 17, 2004, it could be worth $443,299 today!* Or if you had invested in Nvidia on April 15, 2005, it would have grown to $1,136,601!*
It’s noted that Stock Advisor has an average return of 914%—significantly outpacing the 195% of the S&P 500. Don’t miss out on the latest top 10 list available through Stock Advisor, and join a community of individual investors.
*Stock Advisor returns as of February 10, 2026.
Neil Patel has no positions in any of the mentioned stocks. The Motley Fool has investments in and recommends Bitcoin, Ethereum, and XRP. For further details, refer to the disclosure policy.
The views expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Nasdaq, Inc.
