Bitcoin‘s (CRYPTO: BTC) latest pullback is reigniting a familiar warning from one of its most persistent critics. Economist Peter Schiff says the world’s largest cryptocurrency could be at risk of a historic collapse if key technical levels fail.

Schiff Flags Critical Breakdown Risk

Schiff warned that a break below the $50,000 level could trigger a deeper unwind, potentially sending Bitcoin down toward $20,000. Such a move would represent an 84% drop from its all-time high—a scale of decline Bitcoin has experienced in prior cycles, but never under today’s conditions.

His warning comes at a time when Bitcoin is struggling to regain upside momentum after a volatile stretch that has tested investor confidence.

Institutional Ownership Raises The Stakes

Schiff argues the current setup is fundamentally different from previous Bitcoin crashes. Institutional adoption has transformed Bitcoin from a retail-driven asset into one deeply integrated with ETFs, hedge funds, and leveraged portfolios.

That shift may increase vulnerability during downturns. Institutional investors tend to follow strict risk management rules, and breakdowns below major support levels can trigger systematic selling, accelerating declines.

Bitcoin’s larger market capitalization also means more capital is exposed, amplifying the potential impact of broad liquidation cycles.

Sentiment Turns Fragile As Volatility Returns

Broader crypto weakness is reinforcing the fragile tone. Market commentators, including CNBC’s Jim Cramer, recently noted that cryptocurrencies were “getting slaughtered,” reflecting growing selling pressure across digital assets.

Bitcoin now sits at a pivotal point. After benefiting from institutional inflows and ETF-driven optimism, the narrative is shifting toward risk management and capital preservation.

Whether Bitcoin stabilizes or enters a deeper correction may depend on how markets respond to key support levels—but Schiff’s warning underscores that downside scenarios remain firmly on the table.

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