Gold Dips, Bitcoin Recovers? Navigating Shifting Markets in 2026
PARIS, FRANCE – November 17, 2025 – Investors are facing a dynamic landscape as gold prices experience a correction and Bitcoin struggles to regain momentum. New analysis suggests a strategic shift is underway, offering both challenges and opportunities for those looking to build or adjust their portfolios heading into 2026. This is a breaking news update for investors seeking to understand the current market conditions and potential future trends, optimized for Google News and SEO visibility.
Gold: A Buying Opportunity Emerges?
After reaching a historic high of $4,380 in October 2025, the price of gold has fallen below $4,000, representing a 10% decrease. Experts are suggesting this dip could be a favorable entry point for long-term investors. “The ideal is to smooth out your purchases over time,” advises Alexis Monceaux, general manager of the Godot & Fils group. Rather than investing in large, expensive 1 kg ingots (currently exceeding €110,000), Monceaux recommends diversifying with smaller ingots, ranging from 20 to 500 grams, to maintain liquidity. Even smaller bars of 1, 5, and 10 grams are available, though they carry slightly higher manufacturing costs.
For those preferring more traditional routes, gold can be acquired through banks, specialized pharmacies, or reputable online retailers. It’s crucial to retain purchase invoices to benefit from capital gains tax rates (19% plus 17.2% social security contributions, with reductions applying after a three-year holding period) rather than a flat 11.5% tax on sales without proof of purchase.
Bitcoin’s 2025 Disappointment & 2026 Outlook
The cryptocurrency market hasn’t fared much better. Bitcoin, despite representing 60% of the total crypto capitalization, experienced a 12.50% decline in euro value during 2025. This has left approximately 6.5 million French crypto holders disappointed, as the anticipated “euphoric year” failed to materialize.
Coinhouse’s scientific director, Manuel Valente, believes Bitcoin is transitioning away from its traditional four-year cycles and becoming more correlated with traditional financial indicators. The launch of Bitcoin ETFs in early 2024 has brought institutional investors into the fold, now holding 10% of all bitcoins in circulation, which Valente suggests helps stabilize the market. Despite the recent downturn, optimism remains. JPMorgan predicts Bitcoin could reach $170,000 within the next six to twelve months, while Citi forecasts $181,000, a significant jump from its current value.
Beyond Bitcoin: Exploring Alternative Cryptos
While Bitcoin remains dominant, experts suggest exploring other cryptocurrencies. However, caution is paramount. The crypto space is rife with scams, so choosing a platform registered as a digital asset service provider (PSAN) with the AMF and working towards European Mica approval is essential. Platforms like Bitstack, Coinhouse, Crypcool, Paymium, and StackinSat are popular choices, but due diligence is key.
StackinSat founder, Jonathan Herscovici, advocates for regular, incremental investments – “every week or every month” – to mitigate volatility. His platform focuses exclusively on Bitcoin, viewing it as a fundamental store of value and a means of payment, unlike more speculative altcoins.
Custody & Security: Protecting Your Digital Assets
Investors have a choice when it comes to storing their cryptocurrencies: self-custody using physical wallets like Ledger, or entrusting custody to the platform (often for an additional fee). Both options have their pros and cons, and the best approach depends on individual comfort levels and security priorities.
Tax Implications: A Quick Guide
Taxation differs between gold and crypto. Gold sales without an invoice are subject to a flat 11.5% tax. With proof of purchase, capital gains tax (19% + 17.2% social security contributions) applies, with reductions for longer holding periods. Cryptocurrency gains are taxed as income, with a 17.2% social security contribution and a 12.8% income tax rate for occasional operations. Exchanges between cryptocurrencies are generally not taxable.
The current market conditions demand a thoughtful and informed approach. Whether you’re considering gold as a safe haven or exploring the potential of Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies, understanding the risks and opportunities is crucial for building a resilient portfolio. Stay tuned to archyde.com for ongoing coverage of these evolving markets and expert analysis to help you navigate the financial landscape.