This weekly update focuses on some of the largest cryptocurrencies by market share: Bitcoin and Ether. Both are recognized as high-risk investments, yet 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, saw its first transaction in early 2009. Since then, it has evolved into a mainstream financial asset. While often viewed as volatile, it can also be considered resilient. For those new to the space, learn more about some Bitcoin basics.
This week, Bitcoin’s closing price fell over 10% from its all-time high last week but has since recovered some losses. Currently, BTC is up approximately 20% year-to-date and sits about 9% below its record close from October 2025.
Ether
Ether, launched in July 2015, operates on the Ethereum blockchain platform and holds the second-largest market share, despite being the newest of the three cryptocurrencies discussed here.
This week, Ether’s closing price briefly dipped below $4,000 for the first time in three weeks. Currently, ETH is up about 23% year-to-date and is approximately 15% 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 reached the top, but currently, Bitcoin is 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.
