VanEck projects Bitcoin could reach $2.9 million by 2050 in long term outlook

VanEck, the global investment management firm, projects Bitcoin could reach a valuation of $2.9 million by 2050, driven by its adoption as a global settlement asset and a reserve holding for central banks.

In its long-term capital market assumptions, VanEck models a base case annualized return of 15% over a 25-year horizon. The firm expects Bitcoin to settle between 5% and 10% of global trade and represent about 2.5% of central bank balance sheets by mid-century.

The report frames Bitcoin as a non-sovereign reserve asset whose long-term value accrual is tied less to short-term speculation and more to structural pressures within the global debt system.

VanEck argues that the opportunity cost of holding no Bitcoin exposure may now outweigh the volatility risk of maintaining a modest allocation.

The firm outlines portfolio construction implications, suggesting a strategic allocation of 1% to 3% for diversified portfolios. Higher risk-tolerant investors could potentially allocate up to 20% to optimize risk-adjusted returns.

VanEck notes that Bitcoin has historically shown low correlation to equities and bonds while maintaining a strong inverse relationship to the US dollar.

While short-term price movements remain influenced by global liquidity cycles and leverage, the report concludes that Bitcoin’s long-term trajectory will be driven by its convergence with monetary debasement risks and growing institutional integration.