Current Cryptocurrency News for Thursday, November 20, 2025. Bitcoin Holds Above $90,000, Ethereum and Top-10 Altcoins Show Mixed Dynamics. Analysis of Key Trends and Investor Expectations.
As of the morning of November 20, 2025, the global cryptocurrency market is attempting to rebalance after recent volatility and correction. Bitcoin, which had previously dipped to a seven-month low below $90,000, is now holding steady around ~$90,000–$92,000, signaling attempts at stabilization. The total cryptocurrency market capitalization stands at approximately $3 trillion, and investor sentiment remains cautious. Market participants are shifting their attention to external factors, with key macroeconomic data releases and potential regulatory decisions on the horizon that could influence the future direction of the market.
Bitcoin: Searching for Support After Correction
The flagship cryptocurrency Bitcoin (BTC) has experienced rapid growth followed by an equally sharp decline this autumn. In early October, BTC reached an all-time high (~$126,000), after which a correction began due to profit-taking and the liquidation of over-leveraged positions. By mid-November, the price had fallen to ~$90,000 (its lowest since April), erasing the annual gain. In recent days, the decline has halted: Bitcoin is consolidating in the $90,000–$95,000 range, attempting to maintain a position above $90,000. Some analysts view the current decline as a healthy correction and a prerequisite for a new rally, while others warn of the risk of further declines in an unfavorable macroeconomic environment. If BTC can hold this crucial level, it may open the path for a renewed upward trend by year-end.
Ethereum and Altcoins: Mixed Dynamics
The second-largest cryptocurrency by market capitalization, Ethereum (ETH), has also felt market pressure. Following a summer peak of ~$3,900, ETH's price has retreated below $3,100 this autumn but has since partially recovered to around ~$3,000. Interest in Ethereum is buoyed by the development of decentralized application (DeFi, NFT) ecosystems and expectations of an upcoming network upgrade that could enhance performance and reduce fees. Beyond ETH, the dynamics of other top altcoins remain inconsistent. XRP surged above $3 this autumn on news of Ripple's legal victory over the SEC and the launch of an ETF, but has since pulled back to ~$2.20, remaining a leader due to institutional interest. The Solana (SOL) platform attracted significant investments, increasing SOL's price to ~$150 before correction; Solana remains in the top 10 due to its high network speed and the growing number of projects. Other coins in the top tier have also retreated from recent highs. Certain niche tokens have shown brief price spikes followed by sharp pullbacks, underscoring the importance of cautious risk management.
Institutional Interest and Traditional Capital
Major financial players are sending mixed signals. Following a summer influx of capital, some investors began to lock in profits this autumn, leading to outflows from several crypto funds. Nevertheless, institutional interest remains: new products are emerging – in the US, the first spot ETF for XRP was recently launched, and funds for Ethereum are anticipated. The traditional financial sector is increasingly engaging with the crypto industry. Several banks are launching crypto services, while crypto companies are securing significant investments from Wall Street. For instance, SoFi bank has opened cryptocurrency trading to its clients, and Kraken exchange has raised ~$800 million in investments, increasing the company’s valuation to $20 billion. These moves strengthen the ties between traditional finance and the crypto market, enhancing trust in digital assets.
Regulatory Environment: Aiming for Order
Regulatory bodies around the world continue to establish rules governing cryptocurrency operations, making the industry more transparent and understandable for investors. Here are some trends:
- USA: Regulators are softening their approach to the crypto industry. A bill concerning digital assets is advancing in Congress, and the SEC has removed cryptocurrencies from its focus for 2026 priorities, which may indicate a easing of pressure. Additionally, discussions are underway to allow cryptocurrencies to be included in 401(k) retirement plans, signaling progressive integration of crypto assets into the traditional financial system.
- Europe: The EU is implementing the Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) regulation, establishing uniform rules for crypto firms across all member states. Dozens of companies have already received licenses under the new requirements, enhancing exchange transparency and investor protection. Stablecoins, exchanges, and DeFi platforms now operate within a more defined legal framework.
- Asia: Hong Kong has legalized retail trading of major cryptocurrencies through licensed exchanges, aiming to become a crypto hub. Singapore and the UAE continue to implement friendly regimes for blockchain businesses, attracting projects and capital. Meanwhile, mainland China maintains its ban on crypto trading, focusing on its own digital yuan.
Macroeconomic Factors and Market Impact
The macroeconomic situation remains a key factor for cryptocurrencies. Recent remarks from US Fed officials have been "hawkish": inflation is not declining quickly enough, and high interest rates are expected to persist longer than anticipated. This cools risk appetite and puts pressure on Bitcoin and altcoins. Investors are cautiously awaiting the release of new US economic data (including the employment report on November 20) in search of hints regarding the Fed's future actions. Overall, the correlation between the crypto market and stock markets has intensified: any macroeconomic shocks or, conversely, easing of policies are immediately reflected in the prices of digital assets. Signals of easing policies or improved geopolitical conditions could restore demand for cryptocurrencies, while further tightening will maintain a cautious stance.
Top 10 Most Popular Cryptocurrencies
As of the morning of November 20, 2025, the following assets comprise the ten largest cryptocurrencies by market capitalization:
- Bitcoin (BTC) – the largest cryptocurrency (~60% of the market) with a price of around $90,000; the market's primary benchmark and "digital gold" for investors.
- Ethereum (ETH) – the second-largest by market capitalization (~12% of the market), around $3,000. The foundational platform for DeFi and NFTs, regularly updated to enhance efficiency.
- Tether (USDT) – the leading stablecoin pegged to the US dollar 1:1. Widely used on exchanges for trading, providing market liquidity.
- Binance Coin (BNB) – the token of the largest exchange, Binance (BNB Chain network). Used for fees and DeFi services within the Binance ecosystem, it remains in the top five due to its broad applicability.
- XRP – a token for instant cross-border payments. Strengthened after Ripple's victory over the SEC and the ETF launch; price remains above $2.
- Solana (SOL) – a high-speed blockchain with low fees. Attracted large investments that raised SOL to ~$140; remains in the top 10 thanks to a growing ecosystem.
- Cardano (ADA) – a smart contract platform with a scientific approach to development. An active community keeps ADA in the top 10, though the price has fallen below $1 after the correction.
- Dogecoin (DOGE) – the most well-known meme cryptocurrency. Thanks to community support, DOGE remains among the market leaders, although it is characterized by high volatility.
- Tron (TRX) – a platform with low fees, popular for hosting stablecoins and dApps. Demand in Asia helps TRX maintain its place in the top ten.
- USD Coin (USDC) – the second-largest stablecoin from Circle, fully backed by the dollar. Widely used by institutions and in DeFi as a reliable digital dollar.
Outlook and Expectations
As we approach the end of 2025, the cryptocurrency market is balancing between caution and hope for a renewal of growth. Analysts believe that for a new rally to occur, several conditions must align: a more lenient macroeconomic backdrop (slowing inflation and signals for rate cuts), a continued influx of institutional investments, and a strengthening of trust through clear regulation. If these factors manifest, the end of the year and the beginning of 2026 could be marked by renewed trading activity and the setting of new highs. Otherwise, the market is likely to remain volatile and move sideways.
Currently, investor sentiment remains cautiously waiting, but there are no signs of panic selling. The presence of interest from major players and the absence of mass panic suggest that the current correction is temporary. Cryptocurrencies have repeatedly demonstrated their ability to recover quickly after downturns. Market participants are closely monitoring external triggers: strong economic reports, regulatory easing, or technological breakthroughs could restore bullish momentum. Thus, the end of November is passing in an atmosphere of cautious optimism: the market awaits external signals to determine its direction in the coming months.
