What Was Happening in 2024
2024 was a landmark year for Bitcoin. In January, the SEC approved 11 spot Bitcoin ETFs, unleashing a wave of institutional capital. Billions of dollars flowed into Bitcoin through BlackRock's iShares Bitcoin Trust (IBIT) and competing products. In April, the fourth halving cut the block reward from 6.25 to 3.125 BTC. By October, Bitcoin surged past $100,000 for the first time, driven by post-election optimism and ETF inflows.
Starting a DCA in January 2024 at $42,500 meant buying into the beginning of a new bull cycle. Prices rose steadily through the year, with your purchases spanning $42,500 to $97,500. The average cost was around $67,000, above today's price of $68,000. This is the reality of buying through a bull market: most of your purchases are near or above the current price.
With Bitcoin currently in correction territory, 2024 starters are roughly at breakeven. Historically, this is not unusual for DCA investors who start mid-cycle. The returns tend to materialize over the following 2-3 years as the next cycle plays out.
The Crashes You Survived
Starting in 2024, you have experienced one major drawdown so far: the correction from October 2025's peak near $115,758 to $68,000 today, a 41% decline. Many of your 2024 purchases in the $60,000-$97,000 range are currently underwater. This is the uncomfortable middle period that every DCA investor goes through. History suggests patience is rewarded, but the current drawdown is real and ongoing.
- 2025-2026 Correction: -41% ($115,758 to $68,000)
Run your own scenario
Try different amounts, frequencies, and start dates with real historical data.
Open DCA Calculator →Ready to start your own plan? Read our Bitcoin savings plan guide. Wondering if you should invest all at once instead? See our DCA vs lump sum analysis. Not sure how much to allocate? Our sizing guide walks through practical frameworks.