Ethereum (ETH) $3,338 has fallen to its lowest level against Bitcoin (BTC) $106,306 since March 2021, continuing the trend of losses for the second-largest cryptocurrency. On Sunday, one ETH dropped to 0.03 BTC, representing nearly a 50% decrease compared to a year ago. This decline is attributed to the surge in Bitcoin’s value ahead of the U.S. presidential election.
Ethereum’s Value Loss Against BTC
The drop in Ethereum’s value reflects the ongoing preference for Bitcoin as it reaches new heights. As Bitcoin continues to flourish, Ethereum’s market position appears increasingly vulnerable.
Bitcoin’s Record Highs
On Monday, Bitcoin soared past $109,000, offering a massive 160% return to investors over the past year. Meanwhile, Ethereum managed only a 40% gain and remains approximately 30% below its peak in 2021.
Ethereum is favored by investors for being the first blockchain to offer smart contracts and decentralized finance (DeFi) applications. However, its value may weaken if investors shift their focus to Bitcoin or other blockchain alternatives.
“Ethereum has significantly declined, especially with Solana $254‘s memecoin movement gaining traction,”
said Min Jung, an investment analyst at Presto Research.
“World Liberty Financial’s accumulation of ETH indicates strong institutional appeal for Ethereum. It stands poised to be the next focal point after Bitcoin, being the only cryptocurrency with an ETF aside from Bitcoin,”
added Jung.
Bitcoin is reaching new peaks not only against its largest competitor in digital assets but also in comparison to traditional asset investments. Currently, the cost of Bitcoin against gold is approximately equivalent to 40 ounces of gold, with Bitcoin’s market valuation at 11.4% of gold’s value.
The performances of Bitcoin and Ethereum continue to evolve based on market preferences and the dynamics within the cryptocurrency ecosystem. Investors are closely monitoring how Ethereum will position itself against the rising value of Bitcoin, despite its institutional interest.