Bitcoin (BTC) continued to trade sideways, consolidating near the $44,000 mark as market participants weighed its next directional move amid muted volatility. Despite BTC’s sluggish performance, Ethereum and Ripple emerged as the week’s standout performers, both rallying significantly as altcoin market optimism returned.
Ethereum climbed over 8% in the last 24 hours, surging past $3,200 after a surge in network activity and growing anticipation for its next upgrade. Ripple followed suit, gaining nearly 6% as its SEC legal battle showed signs of nearing resolution, fueling renewed confidence among investors. The divergence reflects shifting dynamics in the crypto space, with traders focusing on projects showing tangible progress.
Analysts remain cautious about Bitcoin’s trajectory, citing technical resistance around $45,000 and a lack of strong macroeconomic drivers. However, Ethereum’s and Ripple’s rallies signal a returning appetite for risk assets, potentially setting the stage for a broader altcoin season if Bitcoin can break free of its consolidation.
