“The crypto market may be shaky now, but the storm always passes — and when it does, fortunes are made,” says a senior analyst at H.C. Wainwright.
The digital asset market is back in the headlines, and not for reasons that thrill the average investor. Bitcoin has taken a hit, Ethereum is stumbling, and broader market sentiment feels like walking a tightrope. But beneath the surface-level chaos lies a familiar story — one of recalibration before resurgence.
For seasoned crypto enthusiasts, this isn’t their first rodeo. Volatility is a mainstay of the market’s DNA, and history has proven that what looks like a collapse often sets the stage for the next breakout. As new investors question their entry and long-term holders recheck their positions, there’s growing consensus: this is not the time to panic — it’s the time to prepare.
Current Price Snapshot: Where Do BTC and ETH Stand?
| Asset | Price (Apr 9, 2025) | 24H Change | 7D Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bitcoin (BTC) | $77,398 | -2.04% | $74,772 – $80,138 |
| Ethereum (ETH) | $1,478.33 | -5.71% | $1,397 – $1,586 |
Bitcoin dipped below $75,000 earlier in the week, dragged down by macroeconomic tremors, including the U.S. government’s 104% tariff hike on Chinese imports — a move that rattled global markets. Ethereum, often the more reactive sibling, slipped in kind.
Positive Predictions: Sunlight Beyond the Clouds
Despite near-term pullbacks, prominent analysts and institutions are doubling down on bullish forecasts for the remainder of 2025.
“We’re still on track for Bitcoin to reach $150,000 to $225,000 this cycle,” noted H.C. Wainwright in a recent note, citing ETF inflows, post-halving momentum, and regulatory tailwinds.
Market strategist Michael van de Poppe echoed the sentiment, stating:
“Ethereum looks oversold and undervalued at these levels. The upside from here is massive if the macro backdrop improves in Q3.”
These aren’t just hopeful hunches. On-chain indicators such as MVRV ratios and whale accumulation data suggest large holders are quietly stacking. The Relative Strength Index (RSI) for Ethereum signals a bottoming pattern — often a precursor to a sharp reversal.
Ripple’s High Bet: Institutional Confidence is Rising
Another signal that the industry isn’t going anywhere is Ripple’s recent acquisition of prime brokerage firm Hidden Road for $1.25 billion. This isn’t a vanity buy — it’s a calculated play into the world of institutional DeFi, positioning Ripple to serve hedge funds and large asset managers with compliant crypto exposure.
Such moves usually happen in quiet markets — just before the next uptrend.
Tether’s U.S. Ambitions: Crypto’s Real-World Expansion
In an equally significant development, Tether is exploring a blockchain-based payment network in the United States. This aligns with expected U.S. legislation on stablecoins and hints at an evolving use case: everyday crypto payments beyond speculation.
“What PayPal did for online payments, Tether could do for blockchain-based commerce,”
said a payments executive familiar with the project.
It’s these foundational shifts — not just token price — that build the next bull market from the ground up.
How Long Will This Market Last?
It’s the million-dollar question: how long will this lull persist?
Historical patterns suggest post-halving cycles need 6–12 months before significant upside manifests. That puts the next potential breakout window between August and December 2025 — assuming no new macro shocks.
A rate cut from the Federal Reserve, easing geopolitical tensions, or a surge in ETF inflows could all serve as catalysts. Until then, expect continued chop, occasional relief rallies, and plenty of fear — all typical of accumulation phases.
What Should Crypto Enthusiasts Do Now?
Veterans of past cycles will recognize this period as one of opportunity, not defeat.
This is the season to:
DCA into conviction assets
Diversify with purpose
Research narratives like DePIN, RWA, and AI-integrated chains
Learn DeFi, boost security, and stake idle assets
Market makers, institutions, and whales are all playing the long game — and so should everyone else aiming to be on the right side of history.
Conclusion: The Calm Before the Crypto Comeback
Cryptocurrency has always been a game of patience and pattern recognition. While today’s headlines may scream fear, the foundations for the next bull run are already being poured. From bullish predictions to strategic acquisitions and the quiet confidence of institutions, this market is far from dead—it’s simply catching its breath.
“Crypto isn’t going anywhere,” said a Goldman Sachs portfolio manager. “If anything, it’s just getting started — again.”
FAQs
What caused the latest crypto market downturn?
The market reacted sharply to the U.S. imposing a 104% tariff on Chinese goods, sparking fears of a trade war and causing global asset volatility — crypto included.
Is Bitcoin still expected to hit new all-time highs in 2025?
Yes. Analysts from H.C. Wainwright and other research firms still forecast Bitcoin reaching between $150,000 and $225,000 by late 2025.
When will Ethereum recover?
Ethereum’s RSI and on-chain activity suggest a bottom may be forming. A recovery toward $1,690–$2,000 could be in sight by Q3 2025, depending on macroeconomic easing.
What’s Ripple’s acquisition all about?
Ripple bought Hidden Road, a prime brokerage firm, for $1.25 billion to bolster its institutional DeFi infrastructure — signaling confidence in the long-term crypto thesis.
Glossary
Bitcoin Halving: A programmed event that halves BTC miner rewards every four years, historically triggering major bull runs.
RSI (Relative Strength Index): A technical indicator measuring price momentum — values under 30 often signal oversold conditions.
MVRV Ratio: Market Value to Realized Value ratio, used to assess whether crypto is undervalued or overvalued.
DePIN: Decentralized Physical Infrastructure Networks — a trend connecting real-world services (like Wi-Fi or delivery) to blockchain incentives.
DCA (Dollar-Cost Averaging): Investing a fixed amount at regular intervals, regardless of price, to reduce risk.
References
Trump tariffs and Bitcoin market impact
H.C. Wainwright’s Bitcoin price prediction of $225K
Ripple’s $1.25B acquisition of Hidden Road
Ethereum RSI and on-chain signal analysis
Tether’s U.S. blockchain payment network plans
The price predictions and financial analysis presented on this website are for informational purposes only and do not constitute financial, investment, or trading advice. While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, the volatile nature of cryptocurrency markets means that prices can fluctuate significantly and unpredictably.
You should conduct your own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. The Bit Journal does not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information provided in the price predictions, and we will not be held liable for any losses incurred as a result of relying on this information.
Investing in cryptocurrencies carries risks, including the risk of significant losses. Always invest responsibly and within your means.
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