Cryptocurrency Overview - Bitcoin is the world's first cryptocurrency and decentralized digital currency, with its first transaction occurring in early 2009, evolving into a mainstream financial asset [1] - Ether, launched in July 2015, operates on the Ethereum blockchain and holds the second largest market share among cryptocurrencies [3] - XRP, owned by Ripple, was launched in 2012 and was one of the larger cryptocurrencies until newer coins entered the market [4] Bitcoin Market Performance - Bitcoin's closing price has fallen to its lowest level of the year, dropping below $90,000, and is approximately 29% below its record close from October 2025 [2] - Year-to-date, Bitcoin is up around 1% [2] Ether Market Performance - Ether's closing price has decreased over 10% this week, falling below $3,000 for the first time this year, and is approximately 39% below its record close from August 2025 [3] - Year-to-date, Ether is down around 1% [3]

Group 1: Cryptocurrency Overview - The article discusses major cryptocurrencies, specifically Bitcoin, Ether, and XRP, highlighting their foundational differences and market positions [1][6]. - Bitcoin is recognized as the first cryptocurrency and has evolved into a mainstream financial asset since its inception in 2009 [2][3]. - Ether, launched in 2015, operates on the Ethereum blockchain and holds the second-largest market share among cryptocurrencies [4]. Group 2: Price Performance - Bitcoin's closing price has increased, reaching its highest level in four weeks, with a year-to-date increase of approximately 23% and is about 6% below its record close from August 2025 [3]. - Ether's closing price rose over 5% in the past week, now close to $4,600, with a year-to-date increase of around 37% and is approximately 5% below its record close from August 2025 [4]. Group 3: Market Dynamics - An index has been created to compare Bitcoin, Ether, and XRP, using a logarithmic scale to illustrate relative percentage changes and long-term growth since November 9, 2017, with Bitcoin currently leading [6]. - XRP, launched in 2012 by Ripple, was once among the larger cryptocurrencies but has seen its position affected by the emergence of new coins [5]. Group 4: ETF Developments - On January 10, 2024, the SEC approved several spot Bitcoin ETFs from various issuers, including Grayscale Bitcoin Trust ETF and Fidelity Wise Origin Bitcoin Fund [7]. - On July 23, 2024, multiple spot Ether ETFs were launched, including Grayscale Ethereum Trust and Franklin Ethereum ETF, providing new investment opportunities in the Ether market [8].