This weekly update focuses on some of the largest cryptocurrencies by market share: Bitcoin and Ether. While both are recognized as high-risk investments, they possess foundational differences that investors should know. Additionally, we include XRP, which was among the largest cryptocurrencies when this series began. According to Wikipedia, a cryptocurrency is defined as “a digital asset designed to work as a medium of exchange that uses cryptography to secure its transactions, control the creation of additional units, and verify the transfer of assets.”
For a deeper understanding of crypto market cycles, read more here.
Bitcoin
Bitcoin, the world’s first cryptocurrency and decentralized digital currency, made its debut in early 2009. Since then, it has evolved into a mainstream financial asset. Although often seen as volatile, as illustrated in our first chart, Bitcoin can also be considered resilient. For new investors, learning about some Bitcoin basics is essential.
This week, Bitcoin’s closing price dipped below $110,000 for the first time in nearly a month. However, BTC has shown signs of recovery over the past few days, wrapping up Q3 with a year-to-date gain of approximately 21%. Currently, BTC is about 8% below its record close from August 2025.
Ether
Ether operates on the Ethereum blockchain platform and was launched in July 2015. Despite being the newest of the three cryptocurrencies discussed, it holds the second-largest market share.
This week, Ether’s closing price fell below $4,000 for the first time since early August, but it has since regained some losses. ETH concluded the third quarter with a remarkable 67% surge, bringing its overall year-to-date gain to approximately 24%. Currently, ETH is about 14% below its record close from August 2025.
XRP
XRP, owned by Ripple, was launched in 2012 and was once among the larger cryptocurrencies until newer coins entered the market.
Bitcoin vs. Ether vs. XRP
An index has been developed to chart these three cryptocurrencies together, taking into account their significantly different pricing histories. A logarithmic scale is utilized on the y-axis of this chart to better illustrate the relative percentage changes and long-term growth of these cryptocurrencies, rather than their absolute price fluctuations. The chart reveals which cryptocurrency’s price has changed the most since November 9, 2017. At various points, all three have held the top position, with Bitcoin currently leading.
On January 10th, 2024, the SEC approved spot Bitcoin ETFs from various issuers, including Grayscale Bitcoin Trust ETF (GBTC), iShares Bitcoin Trust (IBIT), Fidelity Wise Origin Bitcoin Fund (FBTC), ARK 21Shares Bitcoin ETF (ARKB), Bitwise Bitcoin ETF (BITB), and Coinshares Valkyrie Bitcoin Fund (BRRR). Here are some quick takeaways from the spot Bitcoin ETF launch.
On July 23rd, 2024, several spot Ether ETFs launched from various issuers, including Grayscale Ethereum Trust (ETHE), Franklin Ethereum ETF (EZET), Bitwise Ethereum ETF (ETHW), iShares Ethereum Trust (ETHA), and Fidelity Ethereum ETF (FETH). Here’s what investors need to know.
