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BitMEX CEO warns that Ethereum Merge could cause high volatility
The Ethereum Merge is one the most anticipated events within the crypto space for this year. Crypto firms are always on the lookout to spot any issues that might arise as the new upgraded Ethereum network becomes operational.
Alexander Hoptner (CEO of BitMEX crypto exchange) spoke to Cointelegraph about how the trading platform is preparing the Merge. He also discussed institutional adoption potential after the transition from proof of stake (PoS) and his thoughts on Bitcoin ( BTC and Ether ( ETH).
Hoptner explained that, aside from making sure all boxes are checked on company preparations for big events ahead of them, it is important to be attentive to what could happen and ensure that the services they provide are functioning properly. He explained:
“You must be just, let’s call it, awake and watch what happens. There is a possibility of high volatility. You need to ensure that your services are available. […] We do not expect major disruptions other than volatility.”
BitMEX’s executive said that a fork would be successful if it was supported by a strong community. Hoptner pointed out that forks are at risk if there isn’t enough support from miners.
The issue of institutional adoption following the Merge was another topic discussed during the interview. The BitMEX CEO feels that PoS Ethereum is better for organizations than major players who are increasing their services to institutional players. This is because it addresses the main environmental narrative with which institutions are most concerned. He stated:
“I am certain that this will push for institutional adoption as well as mass market adoption, because […]nerally, the current generation pays close to the efficiency, environmental development.”
He also pointed out that large financial institutions are already experimenting with crypto, primarily BTC and ETH. Hoptner stated that many institutions already offer 1% to 22% crypto in their portfolios and that he expects this trend to continue.
Related: ETH Merge – CoinGecko founder shares his strategy for forked tokens
Contrary to popular belief that the market is at the moment, BitMEX CEO shared his team’s belief that the current market conditions are not bearish. Instead, he believes that there is a small correction in traditional finance. He stated that:
“Beforehand it was extremely overheated on the market. We were too fond of money, and this is now a minor correction. However, we are extremely bullish about Bitcoin and ETH, particularly for proof-of stake.
Hoptner is positive that the Ethereum Merge is a positive step in the industry and reiterated his team’s belief in the value of ETH. He also stated that Ethereum has a strong community and ETH could eventually surpass BTC. He stated that he believes it could surpass Bitcoin in relative growth.
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Bitcoin price drops 6%, trader says.
As the culmination of a week-long sideways action, Bitcoin ( BTC), fell quickly on Aug. 19, disappointing bulls.
BTC/USD 1-hour candle charts (Bitstamp). Source: TradingView
New lows are “just a matter”
Data from Cointelegraph Markets Pro, TradingView showed that BTC/USD dropped 6.2% in an hourly candle.
Reacting, traders believed that a rebound would allow consolidation higher than the current spot price levels (which were below $22,000 at the time this article was written).
“Well, I hope that it was liquidity seeking, otherwise, it’s over,” a sad Crypto Chase said to followers.
Crypto account Il Capo, a fellow account, had long predicted a return at lower levels. He was now content with new lows being “just an issue of time.”
He warned that consolidating below $22,500 would be “very bearish” in his most recent update.
$BTC
Second option is available. A test of 23500 resistance is a great selling opportunity.
A consolidation below 22500 (clean break + using the level of resistance) would be extremely bearish = 21k and lower
It is only a matter time before we see new lows. https://t.co/MzxrDCZuiZ pic.twitter.com/I5PatYduNW
— il Capo Of Crypto (@CryptoCapo_)
August 19, 2022
Venturefounder , an analyst, stated that any price below $23,000 would make Bitcoin a reasonable price to purchase in the long-term. He also said that it was unlikely that Bitcoin has exited its bear markets so far.
He argued that the relative strength index (RSI), which is still at all-time lows, showed how much BTC/USD was being oversold.
However, there were signs of buying emerging below key Bear Market support levels such as the 200 week moving average or key whale entry level.
BTC/USD 1-week candle chart (Bitstamp) with 200-week moving average. Source: TradingView
CryptoQuant data shows that exchange outflows in the first hours of August 19 reached 21,500 BTC.
Bitcoin exchange outflows chart. Source: CryptoQuant
Ether retraces August gains
Altcoins felt the impact of Bitcoin’s three-week lows.
Similar: Options data indicates that Bitcoin’s short-term uptrend could be at risk if it falls below $23K
The largest altcoin market cap was Ether ( ETH), which traded at $1,750.
ETH/USD 1-day candle chart (Binance). Source: TradingView
Other major tokens also lost more than 11%. Dogecoin ( DOGE) was the worst performer of the top ten, dropping 13.6%.
“Bear bias now, unless $1790 reclaimed/flipped for support,” Crypto Chase added to ETH in a separate tweet.
These views and opinions are the author’s and do not necessarily reflect those of Cointelegraph.com. You should do your research before making any investment or trading decision.
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