Bitcoin Faces Worst Start in History
2026 has proven to be a challenging year for Bitcoin. It has seen a cumulative drop of 23% over the first 50 trading days, marking the worst annual start since its inception.
In January, Bitcoin dropped by 10%, and by February, it experienced a further 15% decline. If this trend continues, it will be the first time ever that Bitcoin sees two consecutive monthly drops at the start of the year. This could also mark the weakest two-month performance since 2022.
On-Chain Data Highlights Deep Correction
According to Checkonchain, during typical bearish years, Bitcoin's average index reading at day 50 is around 0.84. However, the current reading stands at just 0.77, indicating that the current correction is significantly deeper than historical averages.
- Bitcoin fell 17% in 2025
- Post-election years usually outperform election years historically
- Current price action reflects heightened market stress
Historically, years following U.S. presidential elections have tended to perform better than the election year itself, particularly during bullish cycles. Yet after a 17% decline in 2025, Bitcoin continued to weaken in 2026, an unusual pattern that has drawn widespread market attention.