Bitcoin Holds Firm as AI Tokens and HYPE Drive Altcoin Market Momentum

Bitcoin and ether remained stuck in a narrow range heading into the weekend, while traders shifted attention toward fast moving altcoins, especially artificial intelligence linked tokens and HYPE.

Bitcoin Price Stays Between $76K and $78K

Bitcoin continued trading between $76,100 and $78,000 for a fourth straight day, showing limited price movement. Ether also traded in a tight range, reflecting a calmer market after recent volatility.

Despite the slow movement in major cryptocurrencies, smaller tokens attracted fresh buying. AI-focused cryptocurrencies led Friday’s gains, with NEAR rising 28.5% and FET climbing 11.4% in the past 24 hours.

Altcoin Rotation Picks Up Pace

At the same time, privacy focused tokens including ZEC and XMR lost momentum after strong gains earlier this week. The pullback suggests traders are rotating funds from one crypto sector to another in search of short-term opportunities.

HYPE also reached a new record high after gaining nearly 60% since Tuesday. The rally was supported by heavy short liquidations and growing institutional demand following the launch of spot ETFs in the United States.

Crypto Derivatives Signal Calm Market Conditions

The derivatives market pointed to steady conditions. Total crypto futures volume rose 1% to $160 billion, while open interest stayed near $128 billion. Bitcoin and ether implied volatility continued falling as traders focused on downside protection through put options.