Bitcoin Ethereum Rebound Expected as Gold and Silver Pause

Crypto analyst Tom Lee says Bitcoin and Ethereum may surge once gold and silver take a break. According to Lee, precious metals are currently “sucking oxygen out of everything” in the markets.

In a CNBC clip, Lee explained that rising gold and silver prices are drawing attention and funds away from crypto. Gold recently hit $5,070 per ounce, while silver has also seen strong gains. Meanwhile, Bitcoin trades near $88,700 and Ethereum sits around $2,924.

Precious Metals vs. Bitcoin

Lee suggests that as long as gold and silver are performing strongly, investors experience FOMO toward these safer assets instead of crypto. He calls this a rotation of capital, where money flows from risky assets into safe-haven assets during uncertain times.

Historically, this rotation pattern is common. When safe-haven assets like gold and silver rally, risk-on assets such as equities and cryptocurrencies often remain flat. Once precious metals pause or correct, Lee predicts that capital will flow back into crypto.

Bitcoin and Ethereum Could Rebound

Lee sees a potential rebound for both Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH) once gold and silver slow down. He emphasizes that the fundamentals for crypto remain solid despite the recent stagnation.

This dynamic explains why Bitcoin and Ethereum have underperformed in early 2026, even after strong gains in 2025. For example, Bitcoin largely stayed flat this year, while gold gained roughly 30% over the previous year.

What Investors Should Know

Lee’s analysis highlights a broader market trend. Safe-haven assets often compete with risk-on investments for investor attention. When gold and silver rally, they can temporarily hold back other markets, including crypto.

For crypto investors, the key takeaway is patience. A pause in precious metal gains may trigger renewed interest in cryptocurrencies. Analysts like Lee believe this rotation could set the stage for a stronger BTC and ETH performance later in 2026.

Market Implications

The recent stagnation in crypto does not always mean weakness. Instead, it reflects a natural movement of capital into perceived safer assets. If history repeats, Bitcoin and Ethereum could benefit once gold and silver ease, creating opportunities for strategic investors.