The cryptocurrency market ended the week on a firmer footing, with Bitcoin leading gains and Ethereum holding steady, as improving risk sentiment and easing geopolitical tensions supported prices.
Bitcoin began the week on a cautious note, trading around the mid-US$74,000 range, reflecting broader market uncertainty. Momentum gradually improved through the week, with the world’s largest cryptocurrency climbing toward US$76,000-US$77,000 by April 17, marking its highest levels in over a month.
Ethereum, on the other hand, mirrored the trend but with more subdued gains, hovering above US$2,300 for most of the week. By April 17, the second-largest cryptocurrency remained relatively stable near US$2,300-US$2,330, indicating resilience despite market volatility.
Sentiment strengthened toward the end of the week, with both Bitcoin and Ethereum advancing alongside broader risk assets. Bitcoin rose as much as 2%-4% on April 17, supported by easing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and renewed investor inflows into digital assets.
The rebound pushed Bitcoin to test the upper end of its recent trading range, suggesting a potential breakout after weeks of consolidation.
Despite the late rally, trading remained relatively range-bound earlier in the week. Bitcoin fluctuated between roughly US$74,000 and US$77,000, while Ethereum traded within a narrower band of US$2,250 to US$2,350, reflecting cautious positioning among investors.
Analysts noted that underlying technical indicators for both assets remain constructive, even as short-term volatility persists.
Market direction was largely influenced by macro developments, particularly geopolitical headlines and shifting expectations around global liquidity. Improved risk appetite and optimism over easing tensions helped drive the late-week recovery.
At the same time, the crypto market continued to track movements in equities, highlighting its sensitivity to broader financial conditions.
Looking ahead, Bitcoin appears poised to challenge resistance near the US$78,000 level, while Ethereum is expected to consolidate above US$2,300. Near-term direction will likely depend on sustained inflows and macro stability, with volatility expected to remain elevated.