Cryptocurrency trading has been roaring in recent weeks, with Bitcoin setting multiple new all-time highs. Ether, the second-largest cryptocurrency by market capitalization on Wednesday, was hovering around $1.9K following the news about its upcoming network-wide upgrade "Shapella". Investors and validators have kept their eyes on the change, with market analysts expecting ETH prices to remain relatively stable or, in the worst case, experience price drops.

The crypto market's buoyancy has been fastened by the inflation-fighting efforts of governments and central banks around the world. The Consumer Price Index (CPI) numbers for March showed inflation falling marginally below expectations, with year-over-year CPI rising by 5%. The hopeful news caused Bitcoin prices to reach the highest mark of $30,548.

While the larger investors in the crypto-ising world remain mainly optimistic, Edward Moya, senior market analyst at foreign exchange Oanda, has characterized Bitcoin's momentum to subside in light of the CPI release, prompting holders to take their profits and "consolidate".

Ethereum's Shapella upgrade, which is scheduled to go live on Wednesday evening, is expected to add more flexibility and convenience to existing stakes, while opening its doors to potential new entrants. Jim Myers, founder and chief technology officer at blockchain analytics platform Flipside Crypto, commented on the development by stating that it could bring 'plenty of short-term concern', although the long-term outlook is favorable.

Overall, the crypto market trends looks optimistic with Bitcoin and Ether gaining over 6% and 4% in the past seven days, respectively. The CoinDesk Market Index (CMI) reported a 2.2% increase over the course of the same time period. Equity markets have also posted decent returns, with the S&P 500, Nasdaq and Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA) reporting nominal gains of 0.3%, 0.0% and 0.5%, respectively.



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