A recent study by Google, Caltech, and quantum startup Oratomic indicates that over 6.7 million BTC-worth approximately $450 billion-is stored in wallets potentially at risk from quantum computing.
The main concern lies with older addresses containing exposed public keys. A significant number of these legacy wallets originated from Bitcoin’s early mining era when block rewards were 50 BTC.
The paper estimates quantum computers could crack standard blockchain cryptography within ten days. Analysts warn this poses a long-term risk to dormant holdings. Publicly reported transfers show more than 85,000 BTC from Satoshi-era wallets have moved in the past year.
Despite the warnings, some experts remain skeptical. Bitcoin security expert Jameson Lopp emphasized the speculative nature of current quantum projections. Meanwhile, analysts like Nic Carter and Charles Edwards suggest Bitcoin may struggle to reach new all-time highs until quantum risks are addressed.
Some price models predict a bottom near $40,000-$50,000 amid macroeconomic pressures and uncertainty around quantum threats.