The first full week of 2026 saw volatile but informative movements across the cryptocurrency and precious metals markets, shaping investor sentiment and capital rotation. Key developments included shifting ETF flows for Bitcoin and Ethereum, strong performance from XRP-linked funds, major institutional filings, and geopolitical influences on gold prices.
Bitcoin remained anchored above the $90,000 level for most of the week, trading between roughly $88,000 and $94,000 amid profit-taking and consolidation after earlier bullish momentum. By January 10, BTC’s drawdown was notably milder than previous cycles, which some analysts interpret as market maturation and stronger support levels at current prices.
Ethereum held above $3,100, with steady price support while major staking activity and institutional engagement continued to grow, including significant distributions from staking-featured ETFS.
ETF Capital Flows: Bitcoin, Ether and Altcoin Funds
The week was defined by dynamic ETF flows. Early in the week, spot Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs briefly experienced substantial inflows, linked to the “January effect” and renewed institutional interest. However, this positive start reversed with spot Bitcoin ETFs recording sharp net outflows of about $681 million over the trading days, while Ether ETFs also posted net outflows.
In contrast, XRP-based ETFs showed resilience and strength, attracting fresh capital and record weekly trading volumes since their launch, setting them apart from BTC and ETH products. XRP ETF inflows helped fuel a relative outperformance for XRP prices during the same period.
A notable institutional headline was Morgan Stanley’s filing for Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Solana ETFs, marking a significant traditional finance push into digital assets. Such moves signal broader acceptance and diversification of product types and services in crypto markets.
Altcoins and Market Sentiment
Beyond BTC and ETH, Solana and other altcoins showed meaningful gains, while market metrics like total crypto market cap hovered around $3.1 trillion with neutral Fear & Greed sentiment. XRP’s on-chain whale transfers also spiked, reinforcing momentum narratives.
Gold prices edged higher over the same week, trading above approximately $4,500 per ounce amid geopolitical tensions and broader risk-off flows into safe-haven assets. International bullion markets recorded rising gold and silver prices supported by geopolitical uncertainty and weaker macro data, reflecting traditional hedge demand parallel to crypto volatility.
Overall, the week underscored capital rotation between risk assets and safe havens.
Disclaimer
This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or legal advice. Cryptocurrency trading involves risk and may result in financial loss.