Bitcoin, Ethereum lie flat following negative ETF flows

Group 1 - Investors injected over $1.5 billion into Bitcoin and Ethereum exchange-traded funds (ETFs) at the beginning of 2026, but subsequently withdrew $1.3 billion from Bitcoin funds and $351 million from Ethereum funds [1][2] - Bitcoin was priced at nearly $90,623, reflecting a 1% increase over the past week, while Ethereum remained stable at $3,093, having peaked at $3,293 mid-week [2] - The ETF redemptions followed a positive start to the year, contrasting with the negative flows that characterized the end of 2025, which saw a significant liquidation event of over $19 billion in leveraged positions [2][3] Group 2 - Despite reaching new highs in 2025 due to pro-crypto legislation, both Bitcoin and Ethereum are currently trading below their record levels [3] - The debasement trade, a strategy to hedge against weakening currencies, is expected to remain relevant in 2026, with investors focusing on Bitcoin, gold, and other precious metals as part of a long-term strategy [3][4] - The approval of crypto ETFs by the Securities and Exchange Commission in 2024 has made it easier for U.S. investors to gain exposure to cryptocurrencies through major asset managers like BlackRock, Fidelity, and Grayscale [4]