Stephen Coltman, head of macro at 21Shares, explains the divergence between gold and Bitcoin (BTC) in 2026. Gold's rally is driven by central bank purchases for geopolitical security, while BTC is favored by individuals seeking an alternative financial system during crises.
Gold peaked at nearly $5,600 per ounce in January 2026 but fell to $4,497 due to volatility. Financial analysts debate which asset will dominate as a store of value.
Macroeconomist Lyn Alden predicts BTC will outperform gold over the next three years, while Ray Dalio believes gold remains irreplaceable as a reserve asset.
BTC offers 24/7 access, crucial during wartime or emergencies, underscoring its utility for individual investors.
Keywords: BTC, gold, 21Shares, Stephen Coltman, Lyn Alden, Ray Dalio