In 2025, Bitcoin's dominance in the cryptocurrency market remained robust, with substantial institutional demand reflected in the $31 billion combined flows to Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs. This indicates a strong preference for major assets as retail investors shifted focus back to Bitcoin and Ethereum, signaling a potential end to the anticipated altcoin season. Despite recent price fluctuations, Bitcoin's market value is approximately $1.75 trillion, with a circulating supply nearing its hard cap of 21 million coins. This consolidation phase is crucial as it suggests that institutional players are still favoring Bitcoin over altcoins, which are currently under heavy supply pressure.
Recent data indicates that Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs are experiencing persistent outflows, with Bitcoin ETFs recording $188.6 million in net outflows over four consecutive days. This trend suggests a weakening institutional appetite as market participants engage in year-end derisking. Conversely, XRP ETFs have seen inflows of $43.89 million, highlighting a divergence in institutional interest within the crypto space. The cumulative net inflows for XRP spot ETFs have surpassed $1.12 billion since their launch, indicating strong institutional support despite declining social sentiment.
Bitcoin is currently trading around $87,450, having slipped 1.2% over the past 24 hours. The price remains trapped in a downward channel, with key support levels identified between $85,000 and $90,000. A breakout above $90,500 could signal a bullish reversal, while sustained pressure below $84,500 may indicate further declines. Additionally, the options market is influencing Bitcoin's price stability, with a significant $24 billion options trap set to expire soon.
This could lead to increased volatility as market makers adjust their positions, potentially triggering a breakout or breakdown in the near term.
The current market dynamics suggest a cautious outlook for Bitcoin as institutional flows fluctuate. While some investors are cashing out, others are accumulating, indicating a split sentiment among market participants. The recent surge in gold prices, reaching over $4,500 per ounce, may also impact crypto investments as investors seek safe-haven assets. As we approach 2026, the potential for Bitcoin to reclaim higher price levels remains contingent on macroeconomic factors and institutional engagement.
Analysts remain optimistic about Bitcoin's long-term prospects, especially if liquidity conditions improve and market sentiment shifts positively.
BlackRock is actively expanding its digital assets team, with new roles being posted in New York, London, and Singapore. This recruitment drive includes positions ranging from associate to senior leadership roles, focusing on product strategy, research, fund services, and compliance. Notably, a managing director role in New York offers a salary range of $270,000 to $350,000, emphasizing the firm's commitment to enhancing its crypto initiatives, including tokenization and stablecoins.
Spain is set to fully implement the Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCA) by July 2026, following its initial adoption plans unveiled in 2023. This regulation will standardize the issuance and marketing of cryptocurrencies, categorizing them into utility tokens, security tokens, and stablecoins. Additionally, the DAC8 directive will require crypto exchanges to report user information starting January 1, 2026, enhancing transparency and regulatory oversight across EU member states.
The SEC charged three purported crypto trading platforms and four investment clubs with allegedly defrauding investors of over $14 million.
Crypto scams are rapidly migrating into private group chats, where fraudsters pose as trusted experts, use AI-powered deception, and funnel retail investors toward fake trading platforms, prompting a fresh SEC warning about rising losses and evolving tactics.
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