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Bitcoin's average q4 return: insights into 2025 performance

Bitcoin's Q4 Performance | Average Return at 78.66% vs. Current -2.48%

By

Isabella Schmidt

Oct 25, 2025, 01:11 AM

Edited By

John McAfee

2 minutes reading time

A graph showing Bitcoin's fourth quarter returns with a decline this year, highlighting the need for gains in November and December.
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Bitcoin's average return for Q4 typically sits at 78.66%, but this year it's posting a disappointing -2.48% as the crypto community braces for potential volatility. Concerns are rising about whether historical trends will hold true in 2025, as many are left pondering the future of Bitcoin.

Declining Optimism Among Investors

The stark contrast between historical averages and current performance has sparked intense debate. Several commenters voiced skepticism about the relevance of past data. One remarked, "That data is completely worthless and has zero predictive capacity."

Despite Bitcoin's past bullish Q4s, some believe the expectations for this quarter are misguided. "Itโ€™s becoming clear that 2025 is just an inverse of what the crypto retail is expecting," noted another forum participant.

Retail Challenges

A common thread in discussions is the financial strain faced by younger investorsโ€”often the demographic most involved in crypto. With rising costs for essentials like groceries and housing, many feel financially crippled. One user pointed out that the 18-35 age group generally has no money to invest in crypto when they can barely afford their basic needs.

"Retail has no money" โ€“ A user comment reflecting widespread concern.

Institutional Influence and Market Cycles

Another topic highlighted is the changing dynamics of market cycles. Some believe that institutional investment has reshaped historical cycles significantly, leading to diminished gains. As one user summarized, "Cycle isnโ€™t dead, itโ€™s just smaller."

Key Takeaways

  • โš ๏ธ Current Q4 shows a -2.48% return, contrasting sharply with the average 78.66%.

  • ๐Ÿ”„ Many argue that historical data lacks predictive power.

  • ๐Ÿ’ธ Younger investors struggle with financial pressures, affecting their ability to participate in crypto markets.

  • ๐Ÿ“‰ Users express doubt about the market cycle's long-term sustainability.

The expectation for a turnaround remains uncertain as Bitcoin approaches the end of the year. Will the upcoming months shift the trend, or is this just part of an ongoing downturn? Only time will tell.

Forecasting the Bitcoin Landscape

As Bitcoin approaches the end of 2025, thereโ€™s a strong chance that market sentiment may shift if inflation eases, which could positively influence investment trends. Experts estimate around a 60% probability that renewed interest from institutional investors could propel Bitcoin towards a more favorable Q4, especially as financial pressures on younger individuals begin to stabilize. However, the uncertainty remains high due to potential regulatory changes and ongoing economic pressures that could hinder retail participation. If these institutional inflows occur, we might see Bitcoin attempting to reclaim some of its historical returns, although expectations should be tempered given recent performances.

A Timely Comparison to the Dot-Com Boom

Looking to the late 1990s and early 2000s, the dot-com boom offers an interesting lens through which to view the current state of Bitcoin. During that period, many believed in the limitless growth potential of internet companies, only to experience a drastic market correction that birthed new industry leaders from the rubble. Much like todayโ€™s crypto climate, the excitement was palpable, yet the reality was often disappointment among investors who couldnโ€™t hold on through the turmoil. It highlights how market enthusiasm can be both a driving force and a double-edged sword; recent pressures on Bitcoin may parallel that era's struggle before emerging stronger. This suggests that while Bitcoin faces challenges, it could ultimately emerge as a more robust asset as the environment evolves.