Here’s Why Crypto Market Turns Bullish as 2026 Kicks Off

The crypto market began 2026 with bullish momentum after weeks of cautious trading in late 2025. Market capitalization climbed above $3.01 trillion, driven by stronger investor sentiment, slowing ETF outflows, and renewed interest from institutional players.

Bitcoin also increased 1.6% and traded close to $89,002, whereas Ethereum increased 1% and traded close to $3,010. Major altcoins such as XRP, Dogecoin, and Cardano also soared. The markets are drawing traders back with the improving macro signals and the rising technical strength of the leading tokens.

Why Is the Crypto Market Surging Today?

The cryptocurrency market is experiencing good momentum before a big options expiry event. The traders are keenly observing these contracts of Bitcoin, Ethereum, XRP, and Solana that are worth 2.2 billion and are expiring.

 This may cause volatility and a change in direction. In the meantime, future U.S. crypto policies are causing a sense of optimism. 

The CLARITY Act would come under debate this January and would help to resolve the SEC-CFTC feud. In addition, the GENIUS Act will bring about a federal stablecoin standard.

 The SEC proposed innovation exemption may also reduce compliance on new crypto projects, and this will be a positive signal to 2026.

Sentiment indicators show investors are regaining confidence. The Crypto Fear & Greed Index increased to 34 against 31, and it is the highest in the index since mid-December. The change indicates less fear and growing readiness to assume risk.

Bitcoin ETF outflows dropped significantly to $1.09 billion in December, compared to $3.48 billion in November. The decline reflects easing selling pressure and signals a more stable institutional environment.

The overall crypto market increase of 1.45% in the last 24 hours was enabled by technical purchasing, geo-political crypto adoption news, and the general risk on market.

DOGE, ADA Lead Altcoin Surge as Whales Return

Dogecoin price performed the best, rising 8% in 24 hours. The price punctured major resistance at $0.121 having developed a double-bottom formation. 

There was good demand as whales gained more than 220 million DOGE in the session. Cardano gained 6% as altcoin traders moved towards more risky investments.

BREAKING: 🔥 🐕 Whales purchased over 220 million $DOGE (Dogecoin) in the last 24hrs. pic.twitter.com/WHY6tIyPG5

— CEO (@Investments_CEO) January 2, 2026

In the small-cap tokens, PENGU AI surged 817% due to the sense of speculation that is there in the early part of the year 2026.

Bitcoin, Ethereum, and XRP Test Key Resistance Zones

Bitcoin is currently facing major resistance at $90,000. An upside of this sort might push the rally to $95,000. Ether is trying to push through $3,020, and its next target is $3,500.

Failure to overcome resistance can see Ethereum reverse to $2,700. XRP is eyeing a move above $2.00. The breakout might lead to the token reaching $2.20, and the rejection to $1.80.

These levels will likely define near-term crypto market momentum.

Fed Liquidity, ETF Flows, and U.S. Jobs Data in Focus

The Federal Reserve has pumped in $31 billion in the banking system, which has increased liquidity in financial markets. This injection has helped in risk-taking by investors, even in crypto.

Bitcoin dominance was slightly dropped to 58.96, indicating early altcoin rotation. The Altcoin Season Index has stayed at 22, but a change above $3.1 trillion in market cap may be the catalyst to the bigger risk-on rotation.

Major near-term triggers are the U.S. jobs report of January 5, and further tracking of Bitcoin ETF flow trends. These activities will assist in determining the performance of crypto market in the first quarter of 2026.