Bitcoin Price Preparing For ‘Next Leg Down,’ Slams Peter Schiff, as VanEck Stays Bullish Despite Missed $180K Target

The Bitcoin price narrative at the end of 2025 has become one of the most polarizing debates in modern financial markets. On one side, veteran Bitcoin critic Peter Schiff has once again issued stark warnings, claiming the Bitcoin price is preparing for its “next leg down” after failing to sustain recent highs. On the other, institutional voices such as VanEck continue to project long-term bullishness, even after their much-discussed $180,000 price target was not achieved within the expected timeframe. This divergence in outlook highlights the complexity of Bitcoin’s current position and underscores why the Bitcoin price remains one of the most closely watched indicators across global markets.

As macroeconomic uncertainty persists, investors are struggling to reconcile short-term volatility with long-term adoption trends. The Bitcoin price is no longer driven purely by retail speculation but is increasingly influenced by institutional flows, regulatory clarity, and broader risk sentiment. In this environment, contrasting opinions like Schiff’s bearish stance and VanEck’s optimism are not just noise; they represent fundamentally different interpretations of where Bitcoin fits in the future of finance.

This article explores why Peter Schiff believes the Bitcoin price is heading lower, why VanEck remains confident despite missing its ambitious target, and how these opposing views reflect deeper forces shaping the cryptocurrency market. By examining technical signals, macroeconomic conditions, and institutional behavior, we aim to provide a balanced, in-depth analysis of what may lie ahead for Bitcoin.

Bitcoin Price at a Critical Crossroads in Late 2025

The Bitcoin price has reached a pivotal moment as 2025 draws to a close. After experiencing periods of strong momentum earlier in the year, Bitcoin has entered a consolidation phase marked by increased volatility and uncertainty. This behavior has reignited debates over whether the asset is preparing for another significant decline or merely pausing before its next upward move.

Market participants are particularly sensitive to this phase because Bitcoin has matured into a macro asset. Its price movements now correlate more closely with global liquidity conditions, interest rate expectations, and risk appetite. As a result, short-term fluctuations in the Bitcoin price often reflect broader economic anxieties rather than isolated crypto-specific events.

This context is crucial for understanding why voices like Peter Schiff’s resonate with some investors. His warnings tap into fears that Bitcoin’s recent resilience may be masking underlying weakness. At the same time, bullish institutions argue that consolidation is a natural part of Bitcoin’s long-term growth cycle.

Peter Schiff’s Bearish Take on the Bitcoin Price

Peter Schiff has long been one of Bitcoin’s most vocal critics, and his latest comments have once again stirred controversy. According to Schiff, the Bitcoin price is showing technical and fundamental signs that suggest another downturn is imminent. He argues that Bitcoin’s inability to break decisively above key resistance levels indicates waning momentum and declining speculative interest.

Schiff’s perspective is rooted in his broader skepticism toward cryptocurrencies as stores of value. He frequently contrasts Bitcoin with gold, emphasizing gold’s historical role and intrinsic properties. In his view, Bitcoin’s reliance on narrative-driven demand makes it vulnerable to sharp corrections, especially in an environment of tightening financial conditions.

By declaring that the Bitcoin price is preparing for the “next leg down,” Schiff reinforces his belief that recent stability is temporary. He sees current price levels as unsustainable without continuous inflows of new capital, which he believes may be drying up as risk appetite fades.

Technical Signals Fueling Bearish Sentiment

Technical analysis plays a significant role in shaping bearish narratives around the Bitcoin price. Analysts pointing to chart patterns note that Bitcoin has struggled to maintain higher highs, a classic sign of weakening trend strength. Momentum indicators have also shown signs of divergence, suggesting that buying pressure may be losing steam.

For critics like Schiff, these signals confirm the idea that Bitcoin is entering a corrective phase. They argue that previous cycles have shown similar patterns before sharp declines, reinforcing the notion that history may repeat itself. From this perspective, the Bitcoin price is vulnerable to sudden drops triggered by negative macroeconomic news or shifts in investor sentiment.

However, technical indicators are inherently interpretive, and bullish analysts counter that consolidation phases often precede major breakouts. This disagreement highlights why the Bitcoin price remains such a contentious topic among market observers.

VanEck’s Bullish Stance Despite Missing the $180K Target

In contrast to Schiff’s pessimism, VanEck has maintained a constructive outlook on the Bitcoin price. While the firm’s widely publicized $180,000 target was not reached within the anticipated period, VanEck has emphasized that long-term fundamentals remain intact. According to their analysis, Bitcoin’s adoption curve and supply dynamics continue to support higher valuations over time.

VanEck’s bullish thesis is grounded in Bitcoin’s fixed supply and its growing acceptance as a digital store of value. The firm views missed short-term targets not as failures but as recalibrations within a broader trajectory. From this standpoint, the Bitcoin price does not need to meet specific milestones on a rigid timeline to validate its long-term potential. This perspective resonates with institutional investors who prioritize multi-year horizons over short-term price action. For them, Bitcoin’s role within diversified portfolios is evolving, and temporary setbacks do not negate its strategic appeal.

Institutional Confidence and Long-Term Adoption Trends

One of the strongest arguments supporting VanEck’s optimism is the continued growth of institutional involvement. Over recent years, the Bitcoin price has increasingly reflected participation from asset managers, hedge funds, and even corporate treasuries. This shift has introduced greater liquidity and reduced some of the extreme volatility seen in earlier cycles.

Institutional confidence is often tied to Bitcoin’s integration into traditional financial systems. Regulated products, custody solutions, and clearer compliance frameworks have made it easier for large players to gain exposure. These developments suggest that Bitcoin’s relevance extends beyond speculative trading, reinforcing bullish long-term projections. From this angle, short-term fluctuations in the Bitcoin price are viewed as noise rather than signals of structural weakness. VanEck and similar institutions argue that adoption metrics and network fundamentals provide a more reliable guide to future value.

Macroeconomic Forces Shaping the Bitcoin Price

The Bitcoin price does not exist in isolation, and macroeconomic conditions play a critical role in determining its direction. Interest rate policies, inflation expectations, and currency stability all influence investor behavior. In periods of economic uncertainty, Bitcoin has alternated between acting as a risk asset and a hedge, depending on prevailing narratives.

Peter Schiff’s bearish outlook is partly informed by expectations of tighter financial conditions. He argues that higher interest rates reduce the appeal of non-yielding assets like Bitcoin. Conversely, bullish analysts contend that persistent inflation and currency debasement concerns could ultimately drive demand for Bitcoin as an alternative store of value. This tug-of-war between macro forces adds another layer of complexity to Bitcoin price predictions. It explains why equally credible analysts can arrive at drastically different conclusions using the same data.

Market Psychology and the Power of Narrative

Market psychology remains a powerful driver of the Bitcoin price. Narratives often shape perception as much as fundamentals, influencing how investors interpret news and price movements. Schiff’s warnings contribute to a bearish narrative that emphasizes risk and fragility, while VanEck’s optimism supports a narrative of maturation and inevitability.

These competing stories can coexist, creating periods of heightened volatility as sentiment shifts. For traders, understanding narrative dynamics is essential for navigating short-term movements. For long-term investors, filtering out noise becomes a critical skill. The Bitcoin price, therefore, reflects not just economic realities but collective belief. This interplay between psychology and fundamentals is what makes Bitcoin uniquely challenging to analyze.

What the Current Debate Means for Investors

For investors, the clash between bearish and bullish perspectives underscores the importance of strategy and risk management. Those focused on short-term gains may find Schiff’s warnings relevant, especially if technical weakness persists. Long-term investors, however, may align more closely with VanEck’s thesis, viewing pullbacks as opportunities rather than threats.

Understanding where one fits within this spectrum is essential. The Bitcoin price can accommodate multiple interpretations simultaneously, and successful investors often tailor their approach to their time horizon and risk tolerance. Rather than choosing sides outright, many market participants benefit from acknowledging the validity of both arguments. This balanced view allows for more informed decision-making in an unpredictable environment.

Conclusion

The debate over the Bitcoin price at the end of 2025 captures the essence of the cryptocurrency market itself. Peter Schiff’s assertion that Bitcoin is preparing for its “next leg down” reflects enduring skepticism rooted in traditional financial thinking. Meanwhile, VanEck’s continued bullishness, despite missing a $180,000 target, highlights confidence in Bitcoin’s long-term fundamentals and adoption trajectory.

These opposing views are not mutually exclusive. Short-term corrections can coexist with long-term growth, and volatility remains an inherent feature of Bitcoin’s evolution. For investors and observers alike, the key lies in understanding the forces behind each perspective and recognizing that the Bitcoin price is shaped by a complex blend of technical signals, macroeconomic conditions, and human psychology.

FAQs

Q: Why does Peter Schiff believe the Bitcoin price is heading for another decline?

Peter Schiff believes the Bitcoin price is vulnerable because he views it as lacking intrinsic value and being heavily dependent on speculative demand. He points to technical weakness and macroeconomic tightening as signs that current price levels may not be sustainable, reinforcing his long-standing bearish stance.

Q: How does VanEck justify staying bullish after missing its $180K Bitcoin price target?

VanEck justifies its bullish outlook by focusing on long-term fundamentals rather than short-term milestones. The firm argues that Bitcoin’s fixed supply, increasing institutional adoption, and role as a digital asset class support higher valuations over time, even if specific targets are delayed.

Q: Can both bearish and bullish views on the Bitcoin price be correct at the same time?

Yes, both views can be valid depending on the timeframe. The Bitcoin price may experience short-term declines due to technical or macroeconomic factors while still maintaining a positive long-term trajectory driven by adoption and scarcity.

Q: How do macroeconomic conditions influence the Bitcoin price debate?

Macroeconomic factors such as interest rates, inflation, and liquidity conditions significantly affect the Bitcoin price. Tightening conditions may pressure prices in the short term, while long-term concerns about currency stability can support bullish narratives.

Q: What should investors focus on when evaluating Bitcoin price predictions?

Investors should consider their time horizon, risk tolerance, and the broader context behind each prediction. Evaluating technical trends, macroeconomic signals, and adoption metrics together can provide a more balanced understanding of potential Bitcoin price movements.