Returns as of 03/18/2022
Returns as of 03/18/2022
Founded in 1993 by brothers Tom and David Gardner, The Motley Fool helps millions of people attain financial freedom through our website, podcasts, books, newspaper column, radio show, and premium investing services.
You’re reading a free article with opinions that may differ from The Motley Fool’s Premium Investing Services. Become a Motley Fool member today to get instant access to our top analyst recommendations, in-depth research, investing resources, and more. Learn More
Today’s been another solid day in the world of cryptocurrencies. The overall crypto market has ticked nearly 2% higher over the past 24 hours, as of 12:30 p.m. ET. This move has been led by Bitcoin ( BTC -0.84% ), Ethereum ( ETH -0.66% ), and Dogecoin ( DOGE -1.22% ), which have appreciated 1.5%, 4.3%, and 2%, respectively, over this same time frame.
Broadly speaking, it appears investors are looking fondly upon the commentary presented by the Federal Reserve following its decision to hike rates for the first time since 2018 yesterday. It appears much of the bearish sentiment that preceded this announcement has transformed into the idea that perhaps these hikes are now priced into the market. From a macro perspective, this is a good thing.
Image source: Getty Images.
For Bitcoin specifically, a weakening U.S. dollar and growing risk-on appetite in other asset classes such as equities continue to be key drivers of interest in the world’s top digital currency. Ethereum investors are looking positively upon news that the Kiln testnet has been launched. This is perhaps the final pivotal update needed before the Etheruem network can be fully transitioned to a proof-of-stake validation mechanism. And Dogecoin, like usual, appears to be tracking its mega-cap cryptocurrency peers today.
Overall, the crypto market appears to be in what I would call a consolidation phase right now. Investors seem to be holding steady with their positions, as crypto holders attempt to determine how to navigate this higher interest rate environment. Various macro factors are likely to impact the price of Bitcoin perhaps more than its peers, given Bitcoin’s perception as a gauge of investor demand in the alternative crypto asset class.
Ethereum’s testnet launch is certainly another big deal investors are watching right now. How this testnet performs will be a key factor that will determine how quickly Ethereum will be able to merge this testnet with its mainnet, to become a proof-of-stake token once and for all. This shift toward a proof-of-stake validation mechanism isn’t only better for the environment, but many experts believe will lead to lower costs and faster speeds for end users.
The price fluctuations we’ve seen of late in the crypto world appear to be mainly a function of investor sentiment and macro market dynamics. This year, there have been plenty of macro catalysts and headwinds that have driven significant volatility in this sector.
That said, it’s important to consider the token-specific catalysts that are at play with a number of these tokens. For Ethereum in particular, the next few months are likely to be pivotal for this cryptocurrency.
*Average returns of all recommendations since inception. Cost basis and return based on previous market day close.
Market-beating stocks from our award-winning service.
Calculated by average return of all stock recommendations since inception of the Stock Advisor service in February of 2002. Returns as of 03/18/2022.
Discounted offers are only available to new members. Stock Advisor list price is $199 per year.
Calculated by Time-Weighted Return since 2002. Volatility profiles based on trailing-three-year calculations of the standard deviation of service investment returns as of January 1, 2021.
Invest better with the Motley Fool. Get stock recommendations, portfolio guidance, and more from the Motley Fool’s premium services.
Making the world smarter, happier, and richer.
Market data powered by Xignite.