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Standard Chartered Declares the End of the Crypto Winter

Standard Chartered has announced the end of the crypto winter, forecasting Bitcoin to reach $100,000 by year-end as market conditions improve.

Mercation Admin
June 15, 2026 1 min read
Standard Chartered Declares the End of the Crypto Winter

Standard Chartered has declared that the prolonged downturn in the cryptocurrency market, often referred to as the "crypto winter," has come to an end. Geoff Kendrick, the bank's head of digital assets research, indicated in a recent note that Bitcoin's dip to around $59,000 on June 5 marked the cycle's low point. He confidently stated, "Winter is over. Welcome back to crypto spring," and set a target of $100,000 for Bitcoin by year-end, suggesting a potential 70% increase from current levels. Kendrick also predicted that Ether may outperform Bitcoin as market conditions improve.

The turnaround in the cryptocurrency market seems to be influenced by several favorable developments. Firstly, the completion of SpaceX's IPO alleviated liquidity pressures that had previously forced traders to sell Bitcoin for cash. Following the IPO, SpaceX shares saw a 19% rise on their first trading day, which may reduce ETF-related selling pressure.

Secondly, a potential peace agreement between the US and Iran has emerged, following recent declarations that the conflict is nearing resolution. This geopolitical shift has contributed to a drop in oil prices, further supporting market stability.

Lastly, after experiencing substantial outflows of around $5 billion since mid-May, Bitcoin ETFs recorded their largest inflow in a month on Friday, with $85 million returning to the funds. This influx has helped Bitcoin recover to approximately $64,000, boosting overall market sentiment.

As Bitcoin surpassed the $65,000 mark and leading altcoins experienced gains of 10-20% over the weekend, analysts note that the market is showing signs of renewed enthusiasm. However, they caution that the full effects of these recent developments may take time to materialize, and the situation remains fluid.

Market Overview

  • Bitcoin rose 3% to $66,500; Ethereum increased 7% to $1,780; Solana also gained 7% to $73.
  • Other notable cryptocurrencies included ZCash (+28%) and WLD (+23%).
  • Oil prices fell by 5% to $80, while gold saw a 2.8% increase.
  • US stock futures are up, with the DOW up 0.9% and Nasdaq up 2%.