Bitcoin (BTC) has cemented its position as the fastest-growing asset over the past decade, vastly outperforming traditional assets such as the S&P 500, gold, and US Treasury bonds.
According to a new report from CoinGecko, since 2014, BTC’s cumulative return has reached an impressive 26,931.1%. To put this into perspective, a $100 investment in Bitcoin back then would be worth over $26,931 today.
In contrast, the report noted that the S&P 500, one of the main stock market benchmarks, returned 193.3% over the same period. Gold and 5-year Treasury bonds posted returns of 125.8% and 157.1%, respectively. Meanwhile, crude oil showed a much lower performance, returning just 4.3%.
Bitcoin: Short and long term performance
Over the past few years, Bitcoin has continued to surprise. In 2024, the asset recorded a 129% year-to-date return, establishing itself as the best-performing cryptocurrency.
CoinGecko analysts point out that in addition to being a high-growth asset, BTC also exhibits unique behavior compared to traditional assets. Between 2017 and 2021, the market witnessed two significant bull cycles. Currently, Bitcoin is in another bull cycle, but the asset's volatility remains high, requiring caution from investors.
When looking at its relationship with other markets, Bitcoin shows an unstable correlation. With the S&P 500, for example, the asset has shown greater alignment since 2020, especially during key economic events such as the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the correlation with gold tends to be inverse, suggesting that investors move to the precious metal when BTC faces difficulties.
Looking at the past 10 years, Bitcoin has not only outperformed other assets, but it has also redefined the concept of return on investment. With peak cycles and intense corrections, the asset continues to attract investors focused on long-term growth.
While its volatility remains a challenge, Bitcoin's trajectory shows that it has an important place in a diversified portfolio.
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