Crypto markets maintained upward momentum through the first trading session of 2026, defying geopolitical headwinds after a U.S. strike on Venezuela. Bitcoin traded in a narrow range around the $92,900–$93,000 mark, surpassing resistance levels observed in late December 2025. Ethereum held firm above $3,000, reflecting sustained demand for smart contract platforms amid a broader risk-on environment. Trading volumes increased modestly, with Bitcoin volume up 1.06% and Ethereum volume rising by 0.38% over the past 24 hours, according to CoinMarketCap data. Altcoins including XRP, BNB, Solana, Tron, and Hyperliquid each recorded gains exceeding 5%, highlighting growing market depth beyond the two largest tokens.
Technical indicators signalled constructive momentum, with the Crypto Fear & Greed Index shifting to neutral for the first time since October 2025. On-chain metrics pointed to a tightening of exchange balances, suggesting reduced selling pressure near key price thresholds. Stablecoin supply inflows remained robust, providing liquidity for rally participants and supporting price floors. Institutional activity resumed after holiday thinness, as U.S. spot Bitcoin exchange-traded funds reported combined net inflows of $646 million on January 2. Market analysts noted that the return of TradFi liquidity and algorithmic trading has strengthened intraday price resilience.
Memecoins and thematic tokens also attracted attention, with SoSoValue data showing AI-focused tokens leading sector gains by more than 6% over the weekend. DeFi and Layer-2 protocols saw renewed deposit activity, while NFT sector volumes increased by 12% as collectors responded to fresh project announcements. Market capitalization across the crypto sector rose 0.86% to $3.14 trillion, signalling a broad-based advance. Traders remain cautious of macro risks, with upcoming U.S. nonfarm payroll data and Federal Reserve commentary set to influence volatility in the coming days. For now, cryptocurrency markets have begun 2026 on firmer footing, blending geopolitical risk factors with robust technical foundations and improving sentiment.
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