Crypto markets drop, Powell hints at fewer cuts, and Ethereum ETFs record inflows

The third week of December was rough for crypto prices. The Nasdaq Crypto Index™ (NCI™) fell 9.7%, led by lackluster performance from Bitcoin (-3.2%) Ethereum (-2.3%) and Solana (-6.4%). This negative performance comes after weeks of strong price action in the crypto market, fueled by a series of positive developments. On Wednesday, the Fed lowered rates once again but Chair Powell suggested these cuts may slow.

Bitcoin ETFs experience strong selling spree after positive streak of days

US spot Bitcoin ETFs experienced a record $680 million in net outflows on Thursday, ending a 15-day streak of positive flows totaling $6.7 billion. This could indicate potential profit-taking by investors, given Bitcoin’s impressive 119% appreciation since the start of the year. If we are indeed at the beginning of a bull market, corrections during this cycle are expected to be nominally larger, as BTC, currently valued at around $100,000, has the potential for further appreciation throughout this cycle.

Ether ETFs record inflows in December

ETH ETFs attracted $1.66 billion in new investments this December, accounting for 74% of their $2.24 billion total inflows since inception and reflecting growing institutional interest beyond Bitcoin. The strong inflow-to-market cap ratio signals rising confidence in Ethereum, potentially paving the way for a broader range of regulated crypto products to gain prominence.

From Hashdex: With the year’s end approaching, we would like to invite our readers to explore our Outlook 2025, as it offers key insights to help investors confidently navigate the crypto market in this upcoming year.