Quantum fears aren’t behind Bitcoin’s 46% drop, says developer

CoinTelegraph

by Ciaran Lyons

February 20, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Bitcoin’s recent price drop of over 46% isn’t driven by concerns about quantum computing, according to Bitcoin developer Matt Carallo. Speaking on the Unchained podcast, Carallo dismissed claims that quantum fears are responsible for the sell-off, arguing that such a scenario would have likely caused Ethereum (ETH) prices to rise instead. He pointed out that ETH has actually fallen 58% since early October, trading at $1,957 at the time of publication. Carallo suggested that Bitcoiners may be looking for scapegoats to explain the asset’s sluggish performance. Quantum computing fears have been a hot topic in the crypto space, with some claiming that advancements in this field could render current cryptographic methods obsolete, including those used by Bitcoin and Ethereum. However, Carallo argued that if quantum risks were indeed a major factor affecting Bitcoin’s price, other cryptocurrencies like Ethereum would be performing better, as they are often perceived as more vulnerable to such threats. Instead, both Bitcoin and Ethereum have experienced significant declines, suggesting that the sell-off is driven by broader market dynamics rather than specific concerns about quantum computing. The developer’s comments highlight the complexity of crypto markets and the need for a nuanced understanding of price movements. While quantum computing remains a potential long-term threat to blockchain security, Carallo emphasized that current market conditions are more likely influenced by factors such as macroeconomic trends, regulatory uncertainty, and overall investor sentiment. This perspective underscores the importance of avoiding oversimplified explanations for complex phenomena in the crypto space. For readers interested in crypto, this matters because it encourages a critical approach to analyzing price movements and resisting the urge to attribute them to speculative or fear-based narratives. By focusing on real-world factors and avoiding unfounded theories, investors can make more informed decisions. Carallo’s remarks also underscore the importance of diversification in crypto portfolios, as no single factor—whether quantum risks or market trends—is likely to dominate outcomes for all cryptocurrencies.

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Originally published on CoinTelegraph on 2/20/2026