After weeks of choppy trading, the crypto market is showing signs of renewed strength. Ethereum has bounced back above the key $4,100 mark, breathing confidence into traders who had been watching for a deeper pullback. At the same time, altcoins are carving out narratives that could define the next growth phase: Hedera is drawing institutional attention with fresh ETF momentum, NEAR is doubling down on the AI narrative with strategic integrations, and Zexpire is stepping in as a first-mover in gamified 0DTE options trading. Together, these developments highlight how both blue-chip assets and emerging players are shaping market leadership in 2025.
Ethereum Regains Strength Above Key Levels
Source: coinmarketcap
Ethereum (ETH) has rebounded strongly after testing its 100-day EMA at $3,863, invalidating bearish scenarios that had targeted the $3,800 zone. The recovery pushed ETH past $4,100, supported by an RSI reading of 54, which signals renewed bullish momentum.
The move sets the stage for the next major resistance at $4,232, the 23.6% Fibonacci retracement level. A decisive close above this threshold could unlock an upside path toward $4,488, where Ethereum would enter a clearer bullish continuation.
In the short term, the rebound highlights traders’ willingness to defend the medium-term trend and absorb selling pressure. If ETH maintains momentum, it could reclaim dominance in the broader market recovery narrative.
Hedera: ETF Milestone Unlocks TradFi Interest
A key regulatory shift has brought Hedera under the spotlight. On September 29, the U.S. SEC withdrew delay notices for the Canary HBAR ETF, aligning with new crypto ETF guidelines that officially took effect on October 1.
The regulatory clearance reduces uncertainty for institutional players, potentially opening the door for significant capital inflows. Hedera has also secured inclusion in Grayscale’s CoinDesk Crypto 5 ETF, further cementing its position as a recognized asset among traditional finance (TradFi) investors.
The dual effect of ETF legitimacy and Grayscale exposure positions HBAR to capture new demand, especially as ETFs have become a preferred entry point for funds seeking crypto exposure without direct custody risks.
