Crypto markets were mostly calm on Friday despite a bond-market wobble, with Bitcoin consolidating near $84,000 and some altcoins posting strong gains. ETF flows, stablecoin regulation, exchange security, and a few infrastructure developments also made the day’s headlines.
Bitcoin holds range while volatility stays subdued
Bitcoin was trading near $84,000 to $85,000 as broader market stress stayed muted in crypto and equities. One report said bond volatility has climbed to its highest level since March, while Bitcoin’s implied volatility and the Wall Street VIX remain near yearly lows. Another noted roughly $14 billion in Bitcoin options are set to expire on Deribit. [source-4, source-11]
Altcoins outperform as Bitcoin consolidates
Altcoins rallied across the board while Bitcoin held steady. Quant rose 39% over 24 hours, and 93 of the CoinDesk 100 constituents were higher. The altcoin season index also reached its highest level in more than three months. [source-7]
Sources: CoinDesk
Bitcoin ETF flows stay positive
U.S. spot Bitcoin ETFs took in $191 million on Thursday, extending a six-day streak that has brought in $2.8 billion. Separate reporting said Bitcoin ETF net flows have turned positive for 2026, moving from a $5.8 billion deficit in July to about $787 million to $800 million in net inflows. [source-10, source-9]
Sources: Cointelegraph, CoinDesk
U.S. regulators advance stablecoin rules
The Federal Reserve moved forward with proposals to implement the GENIUS Act, including capital, reserve, and redemption requirements for stablecoin issuers. The proposals also address stablecoin yield programs and create an application process for banks that want to issue stablecoins. [source-16, source-17, source-19]
Sources: CoinDesk, Cointelegraph, Decrypt
CoinMarketCap acquires CoinGlass
CoinMarketCap said it is buying CoinGlass to expand its derivatives data offering. CoinGlass will keep its brand and team, and its website, app, free tools, API, and pricing will remain unchanged. [source-1]
Sources: Cointelegraph