Cryptocurrency Values Rising Despite State Resistance

The crypto space began September on a positive note. Despite tremendous volatility over the previous few months, cryptocurrency and blockchain technology appeared poised to break into the mainstream. Bitcoin had survived the chain-split, after which it saw a surge in value, touching $5,000 for the first time. Altcoins were also moving ahead, with the majors reaching record highs as well. These advances came to a halt two weeks ago after a series of negative moves that included China shuttering exchanges and banning ICOs. Crypto prices declined, and it appeared that the tremendous gains of the past few months could quickly evaporate. However, the decline appears to have been only temporary, as prices are rebounding among most major cryptos.

Bitcoin reached a monthly low of $2,970 on September 16. At this point not only had China come forward with its stance against cryptocurrency, but South Korea had also made moves against it, specifically targeting ICOs. To make matters worse, leading financial figures began to criticize Bitcoin, and analysts began to predict a price collapse.

Major altcoin values also sank mid-month. Ethereum, the most popular platform for ICOs, fell to below $200 after having reached a near all-time high of $385 on September 1st. Neo, which is a smart-contract platform similar to Ethereum and has been gaining traction expecially in China, was hit particularly hard. It dropped below $15, having reached $45 only three weeks earlier. In total, by September 16 each of the top ten altcoins had lost a minimum of thirty percent of their peak market cap.

To the critics, it appeared that the crypto bubble had begun to burst. Investors, on the other hand, clearly saw a buying opportunity. Bitcoin has rebounded, breaking $4,300 as of today. It is still down substantially for the month, but given the volatility of the crypto world, this increase is a very positive indicator. Ethereum, Neo, and other major altcoins have also reached support levels, and are moving up, albeit slightly.