21 Experts Predict Where Crypto Prices Are Heading: Bitcoin at $695K and Ether at $21K
February 18, 2026
Over the next nine years, Finder.com’s team of cryptocurrency experts anticipates significant growth in the value of digital currencies. Bitcoin (BTC) is expected to reach an average high of $695,882 by 2035, showing a substantial 923% increase from its current price of $68,000. Ether (ETH) is predicted to hit $21,856, while dogecoin (DOGE) and shiba inu (SHIB) are estimated to reach $0.82 and $0.0001010, respectively. These projections suggest remarkable gains that far surpass the historical average return of traditional investments like the stock market.
Despite these optimistic forecasts, less than half of the panelists consider investing in these digital assets a viable option at present. The experts were surveyed not only on their pricing predictions but also on their recommendations regarding buying, holding, or selling cryptocurrency holdings. This discrepancy is intriguing, as the anticipated returns are exceptionally high compared to conventional investments.
The divergence between the experts’ predictions and investment advice is most pronounced in the case of bitcoin (BTC). The average panel projection for bitcoin by the end of the year is $133,688, but individual opinions vary widely. Some experts believe that bitcoin has the potential to reach $1 million by 2035, while others are more conservative, predicting an outcome as low as $100. This stark contrast highlights differing perspectives on the role of cryptocurrency in society and the future of digital assets.
Josh Fraser, the co-founder of Origin Protocol, draws a parallel between bitcoin and gold, suggesting that bitcoin’s increasing institutional adoption through exchange-traded funds (ETFs), corporate treasuries, and regulated custody will solidify its position as a global digital reserve asset. On the other hand, John Hawkins, the head of the University of Canberra School of Government, remains skeptical about bitcoin’s intrinsic value, questioning its utility as a widespread payment mechanism.
Ether, dogecoin, and shiba inu also face substantial price volatility in the coming years, with some panelists predicting significant increases in value, while others foresee a decline. Ether is expected to soar over 30 times its current value by 2035, reflecting a similar trajectory to bitcoin’s growth. Memecoins like dogecoin and shiba inu have also garnered attention, with some experts projecting triple-digit percentage gains. Despite these predictions, only a small percentage of panelists advocate for investing in these digital assets, underscoring the cautious approach taken by financial experts.
In conclusion, while the future of cryptocurrency holds promise for substantial financial gains, the experts’ recommendations indicate a degree of uncertainty and skepticism surrounding these digital assets. The disparity between price projections and investment advice underscores the complexity of the cryptocurrency market and the diverse opinions within the expert community.
