Bitcoin and Ethereum Dips as Inflation Concerns Lingers

Bitcoin and Ethereum Dip Amid Inflation Concerns

On Wednesday, Bitcoin (BTC), the world's leading cryptocurrency, retreated to the $96,000 range. This represents a notable 15% drop from its all-time high of $108,000, achieved in December 2024. Other altcoins also experienced price corrections, with the overall Market Fear & Greed Index hovering at 54 out of 100 (Neutral) according to CoinMarketCap data.

Crypto Market Reacts to Inflation

Ether's price plummeted 7% in the past 24 hours, trading at $3,355. Dogecoin (DOGE) and Avalanche (AVAX) also witnessed declines exceeding 10% in the same period. These developments align with broader market reactions to the US Job Openings and Labor Turnover Survey (JOLTS) data.

CoinGlass reports indicate that the sudden price drop triggered a significant liquidation of around $300 million in long positions across derivatives markets. This substantial leverage flush, the first of its kind in 2025, caught investors off guard, contributing to the downturn in crypto markets. The decline is part of a wider asset devaluation trend, including stocks, driven by concerns over persistent inflation.

US stock indices declined, with the Nasdaq dropping over 1% and the S&P 500 losing 0.4% in late morning trading, as indicated by ISM data.

Market Sentiment Remains Positive

Despite recent price declines, market sentiment remains predominantly optimistic. Analysts anticipate that Ethereum's price could reach unprecedented heights, with some forecasts suggesting it may hit $12,000 by the end of 2025.

The realization of Ethereum's potential hinges on two key factors: the successful deployment of its upcoming Pectra upgrade and favorable regulatory conditions, notably under the presidency of Donald Trump.

Long-term holders' confidence in Ethereum has surged, with the percentage of investors holding their tokens for over a year growing from 59% in January 2024 to 75% by December 2024. This contrasts with Bitcoin, which has experienced a decline in long-term holders during the same period, reflecting increased optimism regarding Ethereum's prospects.

While some experts remain conservative, predicting price ranges between $5,418.74 and $6,224.22, Fidelity Digital Assets' researchers assure investors that it's not too late to embrace the digital asset revolution. They describe the current phase as the "dawn of a new era" that will likely extend for years, if not decades.