On February 16, 2026, Shark Tank investor Kevin O’Leary said that rising worries about quantum computing could make large institutions hold back from putting more money into Bitcoin.
He explained that big investors are starting to look at what future technology might mean for Bitcoin’s safety. If quantum computers become powerful enough one day, they might be able to break the kind of security that protects blockchain networks today.
Kevin O’Leary Explains Bitcoin’s 50% Drop is Tied To Quantum Fears
O’Leary shared a clip from his recent Fox Business interview on X. He explained that he still holds a long position in Bitcoin. But concerns around quantum computing have begun to unsettle some investors.
The Shark Tank investor said the possibility that a quantum computer could one day break the blockchain is making institutions pause, adding that they are unlikely to increase allocations beyond 3% until the issue is addressed.
For context, the world’s largest asset management firm, BlackRock, suggests keeping Bitcoin exposure between 1% and 2% in multi-asset portfolios.
Mr. Wonderful Warns Institutions May Cap Bitcoin Allocation at 3%
Here is what Kevin tweeted:
“Bitcoin just took another brutal correction, down 50%, and no, this isn’t the first time we’ve seen this movie. But something bigger is happening underneath the price action.
Back in October, when everything melted, Bitcoin got slaughtered, and the rest of the market was wiped out, some coins down 80–90%, and they never recovered. Why? Because institutions finally did the math and realized that if you want 90% of the upside and volatility in crypto, you only need Bitcoin and Ethereum. Everything else is just poo-poo coins, worthless, and they got dumped accordingly.
I’m still long Bitcoin, but there’s a new concern floating around now: quantum computing. The idea that a quantum computer could eventually break the chain is making institutions hesitate, and until that gets resolved, don’t expect them to go beyond a 3% allocation. They’ll stay cautious, they’ll stay disciplined, and they’ll wait for clarity. That’s the reality.”
The Quantum Risk For Institutional Investors
O’Leary’s comments align with growing industry worries that future quantum computers could crack Bitcoin’s public keys and expose private ones. Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin has pushed for quicker rollout of quantum-resistant tech on the network. He cited the need for lasting cryptographic protection.
Crypto analyst Willy Woo said it is already a tough sell to get countries and fiduciary institutions to invest in Bitcoin. And quantum-related doubts make that task even harder.
Last month, Coinbase Global Inc. announced the creation of an advisory board to examine the potential impact of quantum computing and get ahead of any future risks. Even those that may take years to materialize.
Mr. Wonderful Expects Regulatory Clarity for Crypto Soon
O’Leary, also known as Mr. Wonderful, said he believes cryptocurrency market structure legislation will be passed before the midterm elections. In January, he had identified May 15 as the expected date for its approval.
If that happens, it could give the industry clearer regulatory direction that many investors have been waiting for. Greater clarity may help ease ongoing concerns and support wider participation from traditional financial players in the crypto market. Could quantum-resistant upgrades unlock larger institutional allocations for crypto? Only time will tell.
