Bitcoin AI Risk Could Affect Prices in 2026, Says Tether CEO

Tether CEO Paolo Ardoino has warned that a possible artificial intelligence (AI) bubble could become Bitcoin’s biggest risk in 2026. He shared this view while speaking about future market trends and growing links between AI and crypto.

Despite the Bitcoin AI risk warning, Ardoino does not expect Bitcoin to face the deep crashes seen in earlier market cycles. He believes stronger institutional involvement could help reduce extreme price drops.

Why AI Could Affect Bitcoin

AI has become one of the fastest-growing sectors in technology. Many investors now pour money into AI-related companies and projects. Ardoino believes this rapid growth could lead to an overheated market.

If an AI bubble bursts, it could trigger panic across financial markets. Bitcoin often reacts to global risk events. This makes it vulnerable during times of sudden fear or uncertainty.

Ardoino says Bitcoin could feel pressure if investors rush to reduce exposure to risky assets. However, he does not see AI as a direct threat to Bitcoin’s long-term value.

Institutional Adoption Changes the Picture

According to Ardoino, Bitcoin’s market structure looks very different today. Large institutions now hold Bitcoin through ETFs, funds, and corporate treasuries. This creates stronger demand and deeper liquidity.

In past cycles, Bitcoin relied heavily on retail traders. When fear hit the market, prices collapsed fast. Ardoino believes this pattern is changing.

Institutions tend to invest with longer time horizons. They also manage risk differently. This could help slow down sharp sell-offs during future downturns.

Fewer Extreme Bitcoin Crashes Expected

Ardoino does not expect Bitcoin to repeat the dramatic crashes of earlier years. He says the market has matured. Better infrastructure, clearer rules, and broader adoption now support prices.

While corrections may still happen, he believes they will be less violent. Bitcoin has also gained recognition as a hedge against inflation and currency weakness.

This growing role could help stabilize prices during global economic stress.

Looking Ahead to 2026

Ardoino’s comments highlight a key shift in crypto thinking. Risks no longer come only from within the crypto space. External trends, such as AI hype, now play a larger role.

Still, he remains confident in Bitcoin’s long-term future. Institutional trust and wider use continue to strengthen the asset.

As 2026 approaches, investors may watch AI markets closely. But Bitcoin’s growing maturity could help it weather future storms better than before.