Bitcoin Continues to Outperform Stocks and Gold, Surges Past $26k.

Bitcoin has surged 50% this year, outperforming major stock indexes and commodities, despite the collapse of major crypto-focused banks. The recent rise is attributed to the failures of traditional banks, which have highlighted the power of decentralized currencies. Bitcoin is seen as a way for investors to protect themselves against central bank moves and is viewed as a store of value due to its finite supply. The stress on the financial sector could slow down the pace of rate hikes from the Fed, which could help risk assets, such as stocks and bitcoin.