In early 2026, investors are shifting their focus from Bitcoin and Ethereum to precious metals such as gold and silver due to increasing institutional and governance risks. According to NS3.AI, Bitcoin and Ethereum are being traded more like USD-denominated, high-volatility risk assets, which are closely linked to dollar liquidity and leverage. In contrast, gold maintains an 'independence premium' as a hard asset, less influenced by uncertainties in monetary policy. This trend is evident in the rising prices of precious metals and the bearish options positioning for major cryptocurrencies.