The 2026 Crypto Economic Calendar: Events to watch in the year ahead

If 2025 kept investors on edge, 2026 looks set to do the same. Gold continues to tag new highs, while one of the original crypto networks is set for a halving event later this year. Add to this major US crypto regulation, tariffs, and shifting trade policy.

Below we look at the main events that shaped markets in 2025, and the key economic events to watch in 2026.

2025 key events 

Last year, markets were shaped by a mix of price milestones, macroeconomic shocks, and regulatory developments. Bitcoin reached a new all-time high above $100,000, while shifts in US trade policy triggered periods of sharp volatility across both crypto and traditional markets. Ethereum implemented a major network upgrade aimed at improving efficiency and usability, and US lawmakers passed the first federal framework for stablecoins. 

Together, these events reflected how closely crypto markets have become intertwined with global policy, regulation, and broader financial conditions. Here are the key events from 2025. 

1. Bitcoin breaks $100K

In January 2025, Bitcoin peaked near $109,000, driven by the launch of the US. Strategic Bitcoin Reserve. 

2. The April tariff selloff

Early April 2025 saw a sharp market crash as new US trade tariffs were announced.

3. Ethereum’s Pectra upgrade

The Pectra upgrade, executed 7 May 2025, overhauled Ethereum’s efficiency. It raised the staking limit to 2,048 ETH and introduced “smart accounts,” aiming to make the network significantly more scalable and user-friendly for institutional use.

4. The GENIUS Act

The passing of the GENIUS Act provided the first clear federal framework for stablecoins. By bringing stablecoin issuers under federal oversight, it legitimized the “on-chain” dollar and brought trillions in institutional liquidity to DeFi.

5. The October liquidation

Despite a strong “Uptober,” crypto and stock markets saw major sell-offs as the US said it would impose 100% tariffs on Chinese imports. 

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What to look out for in 2026

Ondo on Solana 

Q1 2026 

Ondo, a crypto platform that helps users earn yield on crypto and stablecoins, plans to deploy its tokenised asset products on Solana, adding a high-throughput blockchain to its supported networks.

Why investors care

This could increase usage of Ondo products while driving additional activity on Solana, benefiting both ecosystems if adoption follows.

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The CLARITY Act 

Q1 – early Q2 

The CLARITY Act is a major US crypto market structure bill designed to clarify which regulators oversee crypto assets and how they should be treated under US law. The bill has faced several hurdles as it makes its way through the US system, most recently with key players such as Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong withdrawing support over opposition to certain provisions, particularly those relating to stablecoins and yield. If White House advisers are to be believed, the bill will happen, it’s just a question of when. 

Why  investors care

Regulatory clarity can unlock institutional participation, reduce legal risk, and support long-term growth, while setbacks could stall momentum. 

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Fed interest rate decision 

18 March 

As expected, the Fed left rates unchanged in its first meeting of the year, but the next one in March could set the tone for the rest of the year, as it decides whether to continue on its path of caution, or whether to trim rates. 

Why investors care 

In the Fed’s September 2025 dot plot, FOMC members projected a median interest rate of 3.25%-3.50% by the end of 2026, implying just one additional 0.25% rate cut for the year, while JP Morgan forecasts the possibility of two cuts for the year. 

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Fed Chair term ends

May 2026 

Jerome Powell’s term as Fed Chair concludes at the beginning of May this year, opening the possibility of a new leader with a different policy outlook. Speaking from the World Economic Forum in late January, President Trump said, “I’ll be announcing a new Fed chairman in the not too distant future. I think he’ll do a very good job.” Powell and Trump have been at odds about monetary policy, the Fed Chair arguing for caution and restraint, while Trump has pressured the Fed Chair to lower interest rates. 

Why investors care 

A change in leadership could alter how aggressively the Fed fights inflation or supports growth, influencing markets for years to come. If President Trump gets his way, the next incumbent would be more lenient to influence from the White House about lowering interest rates, historically supportive of risk-on assets like crypto and stocks.

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Mt. Gox repayments 

1 July – 31 October 

It’s been delayed many times, but creditors of the defunct Mt. Gox exchange are scheduled to receive Bitcoin, Bitcoin Cash, and cash repayments after more than ten years of legal proceedings. 

Why investors care 

Large capital distributions introduce uncertainty. If recipients sell, prices could face pressure, but it could also give markets confidence if the event doesn’t result in obvious sell-pressure.

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Litecoin Halving 

~30 July 2026

Litecoin’s halving will reduce the block reward paid to miners, cutting the supply of new LTC entering the market every day. Halvings are pre-programmed events designed to make the asset scarcer over time.

Why investors care

A slower rate of new supply can make the crypto scarcer over time, which may influence how the market values it, particularly if demand holds steady or increases.

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Implementation of GENIUS Act 

Mid-2026

The GENIUS Act, signed into law in July 2025, sets the first US rules for payment stablecoins, with full guidance expected by mid‑2026. 

Why investors care

The GENIUS Act sets clear rules for stablecoins, reducing regulatory uncertainty and risk, which could influence adoption, trading, and integration with banks and crypto platforms.

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2026 US mid-term elections 

3 November 

US voters will decide control of Congress halfway through President Trump’s second term. Midterm elections happen every two years, and primarily determine control of Congress and influence the president’s legislative agenda.

Why investors care

Election outcomes influence fiscal policy, regulation, and legislative priorities, including crypto regulation, all of which can ripple through financial markets. It’s still way too early to call, but many analysts say there could be a shift in power, considering current approval ratings and Democratic victories in recent elections.

*This information is not intended to be nor does it constitute financial, tax, legal, investment or other advice; nor is it a call to trade. The information is intended as general market commentary for information purposes only. Before making any decision or taking any action regarding your finances, you should consult a qualified Financial Advisor.