In September 2025, SEC revised its criteria to create cryptocurrency exchange-traded funds (ETFs), cutting the approval period by a maximum of 270 days to only 75. This change in regulation has caused a wave of ETF filings, with companies like Grayscale Investments launching multi-coin ETFs with assets like Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, XRP, and Cardano. The expected success of these ETFs in early October may lead to a rise in institutional investment, which may trigger a price rise in these assets.
By signing the GENIUS Act in July 2025, banks and other financial institutions will be able to issue stable coins which are backed by fiat currency or other quality collaterals. It is anticipated that this legislation will create more demand of U.S. Treasuries by issuers of stablecoins, thus boosting the circulation of crypto and possibly improving the liquidity and stability of cryptocurrencies.
Bitcoin has been able to withstand the market, and it ended September 2025 at a gain of 4.5%, or around $113,100. The strong rallies of the fourth quarter were preceded by positive performances in September in the past. On-chain data is showing an increase in the spot demand, specifically among U.S. investors, and this could indicate that this bullish trend may be extended into Q4.
Neutral Sentiment Amid Polkadot 2.0 and Layer Brett's Presale
The Fear & Greed Index, which is one of the indicators reflecting the investor psychology, has reached 50, indicating a state of equilibrium between fear and exuberance. Such indifference implies a shift in market sentiment, which may be followed by some decisive market action in the next several months.
The Polkadot 2.0 upgrade is due to be released in October and is intended to increase the scalability and interoperability of the network. These technological developments might increase investor confidence and inflow of capital, which may result in price gains in Polkadot (DOT).
Layer Brett, an Ethereum-based Layer 2 solution, has attracted the interest of many because of its high-speed transactions and low gas costs. The presale has been popular with good demand, and the project orientation towards decentralized finance (DeFi) and non-fungible tokens (NFTs) places it as a future growth source in Q4.
Geopolitics, U.S. Shutdown, ESMA Warnings & Market Performance
Bitcoin is gaining currency particularly with the prospect of a possible shutdown of the U.S. government, with the market moving into a favorable season with regard to price movement, Q4. Historical evidence shows that Bitcoin has been increasing in price during previous shutdowns, indicating that cryptocurrencies can be used as an alternative investment in times of uncertainty with fiat currency.
The ESMA has also provided a warning regarding the possible risks that the expanding cryptocurrency sphere may cause to the financial stability of the EU as a whole. Although the crypto market can still be considered comparatively small, the growing interconnection with traditional finance implies that additional observation is required to eliminate systemic risks.
According to the recent statistics Bitcoin (BTC): 114,599.00 (0.34) more than it was before the acquisition. Ethereum (ETH): $4,151.28, down 1.11%. BNB (BNB): $1,011.56, down 1.41%. XRP (XRP): $2.84, down 1.39%. Cardano (ADA): $0.8053, up 0.91%. These price movements can be regarded as an existing reaction of the market to the events and developments described above.
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