Current Cryptocurrency News for Thursday, 20th November 2025. Bitcoin Maintains Its Position Above $90,000, Ethereum and Top-10 Altcoins Show Mixed Dynamics. Analysis of Key Trends and Investor Sentiment.
As of the morning of 20th November 2025, the global cryptocurrency market is striving to find equilibrium following recent volatility and correction. Bitcoin, which previously fell to a seven-month low below $90,000, is currently stabilising around ~$90,000–$92,000, signalling attempts at stabilization. The total market capitalization of cryptocurrencies is approximately $3 trillion, and investor sentiment remains cautious. Participants are shifting their focus towards external factors, with key macroeconomic data releases and potential regulatory decisions on the horizon that could influence future market direction.
Bitcoin: Searching for Support After Correction
The flagship cryptocurrency Bitcoin (BTC) has experienced a rapid rise and an equally sharp decline this autumn. In early October, BTC reached an all-time high (~$126,000), after which a correction ensued following profit-taking and liquidation of over-leveraged marginal positions. By mid-November, the price had dropped to ~$90,000 (the lowest since April), erasing annual gains. In recent days, the decline has stalled: Bitcoin is consolidating in the $90,000–$95,000 range, attempting to stay above $90,000. Some analysts consider the current drop a healthy correction and a precursor to a new rally, while others warn of the risk of further decline amid an unfavourable macroeconomic climate. If BTC maintains this critical level, it could pave the way for a renewed upward trend by the end of the year.
Ethereum and Altcoins: Mixed Dynamics
The second-largest cryptocurrency by market capitalization, Ethereum (ETH), has also felt market pressure. After a summer surge to ~$3,900, ETH declined to below $3,100 this autumn, but has since partially recovered and currently hovers around ~$3,000. Interest in Ethereum is bolstered by the development of its ecosystem of decentralised applications (DeFi, NFT) and anticipation of an upcoming network upgrade that could enhance performance and reduce fees. Beyond ETH, the dynamics of other top altcoins remain mixed. XRP soared above $3 this autumn on news of Ripple’s victory over the SEC and the launch of an ETF, but then retraced to ~$2.20 while maintaining its position as a leader due to institutional interest. The Solana platform (SOL) attracted significant investment, driving its price up to ~$150 before correction; Solana remains in the top 10 due to its high network speed and growth in project numbers. Other coins in the top ten have also retraced from recent highs. Specific niche tokens exhibited short-lived price spikes followed by sharp corrections, highlighting the importance of careful risk management.
Institutional Interest and Traditional Capital
Major financial players are sending mixed signals. After a summer influx of capital, some investors have begun to take profits this autumn, leading to outflows from certain crypto funds. Nonetheless, institutional interest persists: new products are emerging—recently, the first spot ETF on XRP was launched in the U.S., and Ethereum funds are anticipated. The traditional financial sector is increasingly engaging with the crypto industry. Several banks are launching crypto services, and crypto companies are receiving substantial investments from Wall Street. For instance, SoFi Bank has opened up cryptocurrency trading for customers, and Kraken has raised ~$800 million in funding, elevating the company’s valuation to $20 billion. These steps strengthen the connection between traditional finance and the cryptocurrency market, enhancing trust in digital assets.
Regulatory Environment: A Move Towards Order
Regulatory authorities around the world continue to establish rules governing cryptocurrency operations, making the industry more transparent and comprehensible for investors. Here are some trends:
- U.S.A: Regulators are softening their approach to the crypto industry. A bill on digital assets is progressing in Congress, and the SEC has removed cryptocurrencies from its 2026 focus plan, which may indicate a relaxation of pressure. There’s also discussion regarding allowing cryptocurrencies to be included in 401(k) pension plans, signalling a gradual 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 member states. Dozens of companies have already obtained licenses under the new requirements, which enhance exchange transparency and investor protection. Stablecoins, exchanges, and DeFi platforms are now operating under a more defined legal framework.
- Asia: Hong Kong has legalised retail trading of major cryptocurrencies via licensed exchanges, aiming to become a crypto hub. Singapore and the UAE continue to implement crypto-friendly regimes to attract 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 environment remains a key factor for cryptocurrencies. Recent statements from the U.S. Federal Reserve have taken a "hawkish" tone: inflation is not decreasing quickly enough, and high interest rates will persist longer than expected. This cools risk appetite and puts pressure on Bitcoin and altcoins. Investors are cautiously awaiting new economic data from the U.S. (including the employment report on 20th November) for hints on future Fed actions. Overall, the correlation between the crypto market and stock markets has strengthened: any macroeconomic shocks or, conversely, easing policies immediately reflect on digital asset prices. Any signals of policy easing or improved geopolitics could restore demand for cryptocurrencies, while further tightening will maintain a cautious stance.
Top 10 Most Popular Cryptocurrencies
As of the morning of 20th November 2025, the following assets are among the top ten cryptocurrencies by market capitalization:
- Bitcoin (BTC) — the largest cryptocurrency (~60% of the market) with a price around $90,000; the primary market benchmark and "digital gold" for investors.
- Ethereum (ETH) — the second-largest by market cap (~12% of the market), around $3,000. A core platform for DeFi and NFTs, it is regularly upgraded for enhanced 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 for 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. It strengthened after Ripple’s victory over the SEC and launch of the ETF; the price remains above $2.
- Solana (SOL) — a high-speed blockchain with low fees. Attracted significant investments, raising the price of SOL to ~$140; remains in the top ten 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 ten, despite its price falling below $1 following correction.
- Dogecoin (DOGE) — the most well-known meme cryptocurrency. Supported by its community, DOGE remains among the market leaders, although characterised 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 DeFi as a reliable digital dollar.
Prospects and Expectations
As we approach the end of 2025, the cryptocurrency market is balancing between caution and hopes for resumed growth. Analysts believe that for a new rally to occur, several conditions need to align: a softer macroeconomic backdrop (slowing inflation and signals for rate reductions), continued inflows of institutional investments, and strengthened confidence through clear regulation. If these factors materialise, the end of the year and the beginning of 2026 could witness a resurgence in trading activity and new peaks. Otherwise, the market will likely remain volatile and continue to move sideways.
Currently, investor sentiment remains cautiously watchful; however, there is no sign of panic selling. The presence of interest from major players and the absence of widespread panic suggest that the current correction is temporary. Cryptocurrencies have repeatedly demonstrated their ability to swiftly recover after downturns. Market participants are closely monitoring external triggers: robust economic reports, regulatory easing, or technological breakthroughs could restore bullish momentum. Thus, the end of November is characterised by a climate of cautious optimism, with the market awaiting signals from external sources that will determine its direction in the coming months.