Bitcoin has gained 38.90% between July and September, putting the third quarter of 2026 on track to become its fourth-best quarterly performance ever. Only 2012, 2017 and 2013 produced stronger third-quarter returns, at 87.14%, 79.8% and 49.4%, respectively. Bitcoin recently topped $87,000, its highest level since late January, as the SEC (U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission) advanced efforts to create a cryptocurrency regulatory framework, including for tokenized U.S. stocks, despite the CLARITY Act’s failure. The rebound accelerated after Bitcoin reclaimed $80,000 in late August, alongside Treasury debt buybacks, lower bond yields and a weaker dollar. Strategy (NASDAQ:MSTR) also resumed buying, acquiring 1,665 Bitcoin for $142.7 million last week. Long-term forecasts cited in the source include Peter Brandt’s projection of $200,000 to $250,000 by early 2029 and potentially $600,000 by late 2029, as well as financial advisor Ric Edelman’s $500,000 target for 2030. BTC was up 1.30% over 24 hours at $83,923 and remained down 5.46% year to date.