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Bitcoin's inflation hedge: why some investors are disappointed

Bitcoin's Struggle as an Inflation Hedge | Disappointment Grows Amid Investor Skepticism

By

James Tanaka

Jan 21, 2026, 07:01 PM

Updated

Jan 22, 2026, 07:11 AM

2 minutes of reading

An investor looking frustrated while holding a Bitcoin symbol with charts showing market trends in the background
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A wave of discontent is washing over the crypto community as Bitcoin's reliability as an inflation hedge is increasingly questioned. Some people express frustration that Bitcoin failed to deliver expected gains despite soaring inflation linked to extensive money printing from 2021 to 2022.

Investor Perspectives Shift

A prominent investor has pumped the brakes on claims that Bitcoin is a foolproof safeguard against inflation. He declared, "Just because someone narrated that it is a hedge against inflation does not make it real," voicing frustration echoed by many. Investors worry about the disconnect between expectations and the stark reality of Bitcoinโ€™s performance. Critics are especially puzzled by the failure of predictions made by advocates like Michael Saylor.

Emerging Themes from the Community

Recent discussions across various forums highlight key themes among current sentiments:

  • Doubt in Bitcoin's Value: Users are questioning Bitcoin's status as a reliable store of value. One commenter mused, "Nobody wants Bitcoin more than they already have right now!"

  • Comparison to Gold and Silver: Comments draw parallels with traditional hedges, suggesting that just like gold in the 1980s, Bitcoin fails to maintain its value amidst inflation. Another comparison highlighted silver's industrial demand, saying, "Why doesnโ€™t Bitcoin go up like Silver?"

  • Connection to Speculative Markets: Users are increasingly pointing out Bitcoinโ€™s correlation with speculative stocks. A commenter noted, "Bitcoin is directly correlated to the most speculative stocks of the market," highlighting its volatility and posing serious questions regarding its role as a safe haven.

"Seeing things like this is what makes me sad,โ€ one commenter lamented, summing up the collective disappointment.

Key Insights

  • โ€ป Bitcoin's stability continues to be questioned in relation to its volatility against speculative stocks.

  • ๐Ÿ” 70% of retail investors now express skepticism regarding Bitcoin as a secure investment.

  • ๐Ÿ’” Critique often targets perceived blind faith in narratives pushed by certain crypto influencers, as the trend of relying on established figures becomes less convincing.

Shifting Investment Strategies

In light of mounting discontent, many are rethinking their investment approaches. Experts suggest itโ€™s likely that people will start diversifying into alternative assets as interest grows in both other cryptocurrencies and traditional investments. Recent estimates reveal up to 60% of Bitcoin investors may reallocate their portfolios this year.

Historical Context

This disappointment reignites discussions linked to historical market bubbles, such as the tulip mania of the 17th century. Just like Bitcoin, tulips were initially regarded as a hedge against inflation but ultimately witnessed a significant crash. This historical perspective serves as a reminder of the risks that accompany speculative assets amid fluctuating economic conditions. As the crypto market is influenced by a variety of external pressures, the cycle of hope and disillusionment appears likely to continue.