Weekly Update: 1st of August
What happened between 25th of July and the 1st of August?
- Crypto market surpasses $4 trillion for the first time, fueled by institutional capital, macro tailwinds, and U.S. regulatory clarity. Read more
- U.S. Federal Reserve holds rates at 4.25–4.5%, with 40% of the market currently expecting a rate cut during the next FOMC meeting. Read more
- SEC approves in-kind redemptions for Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs, increasing structural efficiency and institutional appeal. Read more
- JPMorgan partners with Coinbase to bring crypto access to consumers and loyalty programs, despite it being hesitant in previous years. Read more
- Christie’s launches crypto-enabled real estate deals, enhancing institutional credibility and usability of digital assets. Read more
Digital assets market cap surpasses $4 trillion threshold
The total crypto market cap surpassed $4 trillion last week, driven by strong institutional inflows, favorable macroeconomic conditions, and regulatory clarity in the U.S. Bitcoin traded above $120,000, while Ethereum doubled in value over the past quarter. Analysts emphasize a shift from speculative behavior to fundamental adoption, supported by ETF approvals and infrastructure maturity. The market’s evolution reflects growing confidence in crypto as a legitimate asset class for long-term allocation by institutions and family offices.
Federal Reserve keeps rates at 4.25–4.5%
The Federal Reserve maintained interest rates at 4.25–4.5% amid moderated inflation and economic uncertainty. Currently, 40% of market analysts expect a rate cut at the next FOMC-meeting. Bitcoin and Ethereum remained stable near $118,000 and $3,800, respectively. Investors view the Fed’s stance as cautious, with potential cuts still on the table in 2025. We have seen liquidity rise in the market, also due to policies of other central banks; however, further rate cuts of the U.S. would have significant impact on the market.
SEC approves in-kind ETF redemptions
The U.S. SEC approved in-kind creation and redemption for Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs, enabling direct asset exchanges instead of cash settlements. This aligns crypto ETFs with traditional commodity fund structures, enhancing liquidity, transparency, and cost efficiency. Institutional investors benefit from optimized trading frameworks and hedging strategies. The approval is viewed as a significant milestone in the institutionalization and maturation of crypto investment vehicles.
JPMorgan and Coinbase launch digital assets partnership
JPMorgan Chase and Coinbase announced a partnership to integrate crypto into consumer banking. Starting this fall, Chase customers can buy crypto via credit card through Coinbase. From 2026, reward points can be converted to USDC. This move highlights the deepening integration of digital assets in traditional finance, especially given that JPMorgan has been very hesitant over the last few years.
Christie’s launches crypto-based real estate sales
Christie’s, famous for its luxury auctions and art, will now allow high-end real estate transactions using crypto. Buyers can purchase exclusive properties with digital currencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum. The initiative meets growing demand for privacy and efficiency among affluent investors and signals crypto’s practical viability in legacy sectors. Christie’s entry could accelerate adoption of digital assets in wealth and property management.
In other digital assets news
- Trump's working group has published a 160-page report on the supervision required for the crypto market.
- Michael Saylor's Strategy has purchased another 21,021 Bitcoins at a purchase price of approximately $2.46 billion.
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