Bitcoin, the pioneer of cryptocurrency, has once again reaffirmed its dominance in the digital asset market. Currently, Bitcoin commands over 53% of the total crypto market share, a level of strength not seen in the past three years.
As per CoinGecko data, Bitcoin’s market capitalization stands at an impressive $1.27 trillion. In contrast, the combined market capitalization of all cryptocurrencies is valued at $2.43 trillion, with Ethereum holding 15.9% of the market share, amounting to $389 billion.
Bitcoin’s ascendancy this year is remarkable, particularly given that alternative coins, or altcoins, tend to outperform Bitcoin in bullish market conditions. Despite the resurgence of meme coins during Bitcoin’s record-breaking highs earlier in the year, other major cryptocurrencies like Ethereum and Cardano did not experience the same level of rally, partly due to the “wealth effect.”
Meltem Demirors, former chief strategy officer at CoinShares, noted on Twitter the changing dynamics in the market, with Bitcoin gains no longer flowing into alternative coins and smaller crypto assets as significantly as before.
Interestingly, Bitcoin’s dominance has continued to rise even with the steady growth of Tether (USDT), the world’s largest stablecoin and the third largest cryptocurrency after Bitcoin and Ethereum. Stablecoins are pegged to fiat currencies and are not always factored into calculations of Bitcoin dominance due to their distinct value propositions.
Despite Bitcoin’s stronghold, the launch of Ethereum exchange-traded funds (ETFs) last week did not result in the anticipated surge for Ethereum. In fact, there were net outflows from these new investment products post-launch, contrary to predictions that ETFs would drive Ethereum’s growth over the next few months.
While altcoins might currently be underperforming, signs suggest that they could be on the cusp of a resurgence. CryptoQuant CEO Ki Young Ju pointed out on Tuesday that whales are gearing up for a potential altcoin rally, evident from the increasing number of limit buy orders for non-Bitcoin and non-Ethereum assets.
A rising trend in the cumulative buy-sell volume difference for altcoins over the past few months indicates growing interest and demand for these assets among investors.
In conclusion, while Bitcoin remains the undisputed leader in the cryptocurrency market, there are promising signs that altcoins could stage a comeback soon, catching the attention of investors and traders.
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