Bitcoin and Ethereum close an exceptional quarter
Bitcoin ended the third quarter with a 43.5% gain, its second-best Q3 on record, while Ethereum rose 71% for its strongest third quarter ever. The rally was supported by stronger ETF demand, higher spot volumes, and relatively limited profit-taking. Bitcoin absorbed the September 25 options expiry and is watching $96,700 as a resistance level that could open the way toward six figures.
Bitcoin's third-quarter advance took it from roughly $58,500 to near $84,000, a 43.5% rise. That ranks as its second-strongest Q3, trailing only 2017's 80.4% surge. Ethereum climbed 71%, setting a new third-quarter high and surpassing the 66.5% mark from 2025.
The gains coincided with firmer ETF interest, higher spot trading activity, and restrained profit-taking. After absorbing the September 25 options expiry without severe liquidation, Bitcoin now faces a notable on-chain resistance near $96,700. Historically, Q4 has tended to outperform Q3 for crypto.
The quarter's strong crypto returns may draw more retail and institutional attention, potentially influencing portfolio allocation and risk appetite. Households exposed to digital assets could see wealth effects, while those outside the market may face greater complexity in judging speculative opportunities. Wider ETF access might normalize crypto in mainstream finance, but volatility and leverage could still amplify losses for less-experienced participants. Regulators and advisers may face pressure to clarify protections.