Group 1: Cryptocurrency Overview - The article discusses major cryptocurrencies by market share, specifically bitcoin, ether, and XRP, highlighting their foundational differences and investment risks [1] - Bitcoin is recognized as the first cryptocurrency, launched in early 2009, and has evolved into a mainstream financial asset despite its volatility [2] - Ether, launched in July 2015 on the Ethereum blockchain, is the second largest cryptocurrency by market share and has shown significant year-to-date growth [4] Group 2: Price Performance - Bitcoin's closing price was approximately $111,000, reflecting an 18% increase year-to-date and being about 10% below its record close from August 2025 [3] - Ether's closing price hovered around $4,300, with a year-to-date increase of approximately 28%, but is about 111% below its record close from August 2025 [4] Group 3: Comparative Analysis - An index has been created to compare bitcoin, ether, and XRP, utilizing a logarithmic scale to illustrate relative percentage changes and long-term growth since November 9, 2017, with bitcoin currently leading [6] 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 [8]