Bitcoin and Ethereum Plunge Over 22% in Q4 as Santa Rally Fails to Materialize

The fourth quarter of the year concluded with significant losses for the leading cryptocurrencies. Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH) both recorded declines exceeding 22%, dashing investor hopes for a traditional year-end "Santa Claus rally." Market analysts point to a combination of factors, including macroeconomic uncertainty, regulatory pressures, and profit-taking after the strong gains earlier in the year. This downturn marks a stark reversal from the bullish momentum witnessed in previous quarters, placing the market in a cautious, bearish phase as it enters the new year. The performance of these major digital assets often sets the tone for the broader crypto market, suggesting a period of increased volatility and potential consolidation ahead.