Bitcoin & Ethereum ignite first major 2026 rally — institutional capital floods in
What happened: After a period of range-bound trade, Bitcoin surged above $97,000, while Ethereum approached $3,400, sparking nearly $700 million in short liquidations and broad market participation. Strong inflows — about $1.2 billion into crypto ETFs — helped fuel the momentum as traders reacted to eased U.S. core inflation and growing rate-cut expectations.
Why it matters: Breaking key resistance around $95,000 signals renewed bullish sentiment and can pull more capital into crypto markets early in the year. Higher Bitcoin and ETH prices often trigger leverage re-entries and broader alpha search across altcoins.
Source: XT Blog — Bitcoin & Ethereum major 2026 rally (+ETFs/+short liquidations).
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XRP ETF inflows top $1.37 billion — institutional demand shifts narrative
What happened: According to 247WallSt, cumulative XRP ETF inflows have now exceeded $1.37 billion — the strongest sustained institutional demand among major crypto ETFs so far in 2026.
Why it matters: This contrasts with recent BTC/ETH ETF outflows and highlights that capital is selectively rotating into diversified and alt-focused investment products. A strong inflow narrative helps underpin XRP’s price and its emerging narrative as an institutional play.
Source: 247WallSt — XRP ETF inflows hit $1.37B.
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Ethereum bullish forecasts intensify — could ETH outperform BTC in 2026
What happened: Analysts from Standard Chartered see 2026 as “the year of Ethereum”, highlighting network adoption, DeFi growth, stablecoins, RWAs and ETF optimism as key drivers. Price targets suggest a potential move toward much higher levels versus Bitcoin, underlined by growing ecosystem demand.
Why it matters: If Ethereum outperforms Bitcoin, it may signal a broader shift in capital allocation strategies — particularly for institutional players seeking diversified exposure across digital assets. Growing adoption of ETH-based products may reinforce this trend.
Source: Standard Chartered Ethereum outlook report.
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U.S. crypto regulation bill hits delays — market pricing in uncertainty
What happened: The U.S. Senate Banking Committee postponed the markup of the Digital Asset Market Clarity Act, a major crypto regulation bill. This delay comes amid political pushback and a détente from Coinbase on certain provisions; related legislative sessions are being rescheduled.
Why it matters: Regulatory clarity remains a huge catalyst (or headwind) for institutional capital flows. Postponement of a unified regulatory framework often leads to short-term volatility as traders and institutions recalibrate expectations.
Source: Equiti — U.S. regulatory setback and market reaction.
