Bitcoin Could Drop 56% in U.S. Midterm Year Election Years: Binance Report

Global financial markets could face sharp volatility during U.S. midterm election years, but historical data suggests that strong recoveries often follow once political uncertainty clears, according to a new report from Binance Research.

how election cycles, geopolitical tensions, and macroeconomic pressures are currently converging to create a fragile environment for investors.

According to the research, U.S. midterm election years have historically produced some of the largest market swings in the four-year political cycle.

Data cited in the report shows that the S&P 500 typically experiences an average peak-to-trough drawdown of about 16% during these years. Bitcoin has historically recorded average declines of around 56% during the same election cycle.

“Midterm years bring volatility,” the report stated. “The S&P 500 sees average drawdowns of around 16%, while Bitcoin has historically fallen roughly 56%.”

Researchers say the volatility is largely driven by political uncertainty, shifting policy expectations, and investor caution while waiting for election outcomes.

Beyond the political cycle, the report also pointed to growing geopolitical tensions and supply disruptions as key factors affecting markets.

Recent developments in the Middle East have raised concerns about energy supply routes and global trade flows, especially around the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important oil shipping channels.

Oil prices have experienced dramatic swings in recent days, moving sharply within a short period. Bitcoin and equities have also reacted to geopolitical headlines, reflecting how closely global markets are now linked.

Despite the short-term uncertainty, Binance Research highlighted that the period following midterm elections has historically delivered strong returns for investors.

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“The real opportunity lies post-election,” the report said. “Markets often rally strongly once uncertainty clears.”

Historical data shows that the S&P 500 has never posted a negative return in the 12 months following midterm elections since 1939, with average gains of around 19%.

Bitcoin has also performed strongly during the same period. In the three complete post-midterm cycles since 2014, Bitcoin recorded average gains of approximately 54%.

“Such periods are often followed by attractive windows for accumulating quality assets,” the researchers concluded, pointing to the historically strong market performance after midterm elections.

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