Current crypto market indicators reveal a disparity from the high enthusiasm of 2023, hinting at a possible upswing.
Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH) are mirroring trends similar to past cycles, where they experienced gains of 500% and 1,000% respectively, as per a new analysis by Coinbase Research and Glassnode.
This comparison draws similarities between the current crypto market trajectory and the 2018-2022 period, marked by significant price hikes in both digital currencies.
Bitcoin Halving’s Possible Influence on Cryptocurrency Markets
The study emphasizes various cyclical indicators, like net unrealized profit/loss and supply in profit. These metrics seem to replicate past patterns, suggesting that the current state of the crypto markets doesn’t resemble the peak euphoria of 2023, leaving room for potential market growth.
Coinbase Research acknowledges the optimistic impact of the upcoming Bitcoin halving but remains cautious.
The report lacks concrete evidence, describing the link between the halving event and market performance as somewhat conjectural.
With only three halving events in history, a definitive pattern is yet to be established, especially considering external factors such as global liquidity measures that have influenced past events.
The next Bitcoin halving is expected in April 2024 based on current mining trends, and will halve the block reward from 6.25 to 3.125 BTC.
Examining Ethereum’s Market and Forthcoming Upgrade
In 2023, Ethereum’s (ETH) value rose by over 90%, fueled by various developments including the successful Shapella upgrade and the increasing probability of spot crypto ETFs getting approved. These factors played a significant role in the rise in ETH’s price.
Analysts are now closely watching Ethereum’s upcoming Cancun upgrade, aimed at enhancing scalability and security, and making layer-2 transactions more cost-effective.
The successful execution of the Cancun upgrade could lead to a substantial increase in transaction volume on the Ethereum network.
Coinbase’s report observes that Bitcoin and Ethereum have been through two market cycles, comprising both bull and bear phases. The current cycle, starting in 2022, appears to closely follow the trends of its predecessors.