Bitcoin Gains 43.5% in Q3 2026, Ethereum Surges 71% – Near‑Record Quarterly Performance

Bitcoin’s price has risen from around $58,500 at the start of Q3 2026 to about $84,000, a gain of roughly 43.5%. This positions the quarter as the second‑best third‑quarter performance in Bitcoin’s history, behind the 80.4% surge recorded in 2017.

Ethereum Sets a New Quarterly Record

Ethereum (ETH) has appreciated about 71% during the same period, surpassing its previous Q3 high of roughly 66.5% set in 2025. The rally marks the strongest summer performance for ETH on record.

Factors Behind the Momentum

• Increased demand for Bitcoin exchange‑traded funds (ETFs) and higher spot trading volume.
• Profit‑taking has remained relatively subdued, limiting downward pressure.
• Bitcoin cleared several investor cost‑basis levels that had previously constrained its recovery.
• The market absorbed the large September 25 quarterly options expiry without major volatility.

Key Resistance Levels

Bitcoin now faces resistance near its mean MVRV price of about $96,700, a level that would bring it close to the psychological $100,000 mark.

Outlook for Q4

With a few days left in September, both assets could extend their gains. Historically, the fourth quarter has been stronger for crypto, so continued buying pressure could set the stage for further upside.