Bitcoin's price hovered near flatline around $83,700 at the time of writing, but Maelstrom Chief Investment Officer Arthur Hayes has reignited discussions with his latest prediction. Hayes has once again forecast a significant rally for Bitcoin, this time providing a potential timeline for it to reach $1 million by 2030.
Hayes' thesis is centered on the burgeoning artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure industry and the substantial capital being poured into data centers and computing. He believes that if the revenues generated by these data centers do not justify the scale of investment, a major correction could occur. Such a downturn might pressure highly leveraged companies and financial institutions exposed to the sector.
Hayes has previously characterized the AI infrastructure boom as a credit-driven phenomenon, suggesting its potential unraveling could prompt significant responses from governments and central banks. His view is that policymakers might inject substantial liquidity into the financial system to counter stress, creating a macroeconomic environment favorable to Bitcoin.
The specific timing of Hayes' prediction, with the strongest rally phase potentially arriving in late 2027 or early 2028, is notable. He has previously identified this period as when the financial structure supporting the AI infrastructure boom could face increased pressure, citing a potential mismatch between the lifespan of AI hardware and the repayment schedules of financing arrangements.
Hayes had previously set a nearer-term target of approximately $125,000 for Bitcoin by the end of 2026, a reduction from earlier, higher forecasts, though he maintains a bullish long-term outlook. Meanwhile, recent US PCE inflation data came in cooler than expected, easing concerns about a hawkish stance from the US Federal Reserve. According to the CME FedWatch Tool, there is a 62% probability that the Fed will keep interest rates unchanged in October.