Bitcoin Core Developer: Bitcoin’s Vulnerability Is Not Linked to Quantum Threats, 2026/02/20 12:06:46

Bitcoin Core developer Matt Corallo stated in the Unchained podcast that the sluggish growth of the leading cryptocurrency is not attributable to the hypothetical threat posed by quantum computers capable of breaching the Bitcoin blockchain—rather, the community is merely seeking a “scapegoat” to blame for the decline of BTC.

He mentioned that if investors were genuinely concerned about quantum attacks, it would have resulted in increased interest in Ethereum. Previously, the Ethereum Foundation announced that enhancing the network’s resilience against quantum threats would be one of its priorities for 2026, alongside the development of interoperability. However, following a significant market downturn in October, Ethereum dropped by 58% and is currently trading above $1,957 with a market capitalization of approximately $237 billion.

Corallo pointed out that quantum computing poses a long-term risk to Bitcoin; however, market participants do not view it as an immediate threat. He believes that the current weakness of BTC is linked to competition for investment capital, with a substantial portion of funds being directed towards artificial intelligence development.

Not all members of the crypto industry concur with this assessment. Capriole Investments founder Charles Edwards suggested that the risk of quantum threats is already partially factored into Bitcoin’s price until developers provide effective protective measures.

Canadian entrepreneur Kevin O’Leary previously remarked that utilizing quantum computers to hack Bitcoin seems impractical compared to their application in fields such as medical research. At the same time, he acknowledged that large companies might approach Bitcoin investments cautiously, awaiting assurances from developers regarding the network’s protection against potential quantum threats.