Altcoin Dominance Rises Amid Bitcoin Decline

MetaversePlanet September 16, 2024Last Updated: September 16, 2024

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According to the latest Bitfinex Alpha Report, Bitcoin began September with a sharp 10.7% decline, dropping below a key support level. This suggests that Bitcoin’s short-term price trajectory is closely tied to the performance of U.S. equity markets. In contrast, altcoin markets have shown resilience, as declining Bitcoin dominance has driven investors toward new altcoin opportunities.

The Bitfinex Alpha Report highlights that Bitcoin’s price fell below the critical $56,711 level, triggering a series of sell-offs and reducing leveraged positions. This correction indicates that the market may be approaching a local bottom. The poor performance of U.S. stock markets, particularly the S&P 500, plays a significant role in shaping Bitcoin’s short-term outlook. Additionally, notable outflows from spot ETFs suggest that traditional financial investors are moving toward risk reduction in cryptocurrency markets.

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Altcoin Markets Show Resilience Amid Bitcoin Decline

Altcoin Dominance Rises Amid Bitcoin Decline

While Bitcoin’s dominance has decreased by 1.3%, other crypto assets have seen a 4.4% increase in value. This shift points to investors seeking opportunities in altcoins, signaling a potential regime change in the market. However, open interest in altcoins has declined, and the ETH/BTC ratio continues to underperform. With easing macroeconomic pressures, the last quarter of the year could usher in a period of altcoin dominance.

Economic Pressures and Sectoral Contractions

The U.S. unemployment rate decreased slightly from 4.3% in July to 4.2%, but job growth remains below expectations. The manufacturing sector has experienced its fifth consecutive month of contraction, with its index remaining below the 50.0 threshold. These factors are contributing to expectations of lower interest rates, as companies seek to protect profit margins by reducing production amid the economic slowdown.

Innovations and Regulatory Developments in the Crypto Space

In terms of innovations, Japan’s three largest banks—MUFG, SMBC, and Mizuho—are launching a pilot project called Project Pax, designed to facilitate international payments using stablecoins via blockchain. This initiative aims to integrate SWIFT’s API framework to enhance compliance and efficiency.

On the regulatory front, the U.S. Federal Reserve has intervened to halt the operations of United Texas Bank due to deficiencies in anti-money laundering practices. The bank has been ordered to improve its customer due diligence procedures to better manage risks associated with crypto clients.