Research Study

Q3 2024 Signals Report

A quarterly breakdown of key market metrics that could be affecting price and investor sentiment

by Fidelity Digital Assets

Executive Summary

Bitcoin and ether have historically demonstrated strong levels of correlation, and the first half of 2024 was no exception. Following an eventful six monthsincluding Bitcoin’s fourth halving, the launch of digital asset exchange-traded products, and Ethereum’s Deneb-Cancun upgradethe assets closed the second quarter up 49% (BTC) and 51% (ETH). However, this tight correlation came to an end during the third quarter.

While bitcoin ended the quarter up an additional 6%—amounting to 55% year-to-date returns—ether fell roughly 34%. What potentially led to this divergence, and what may the remainder of 2024 hold for both assets? 

We explore the potential answers in the latest edition of our quarterly Signals Report, assessing the drivers likely impacting both assets and the indicators that may help predict future market movements. Key takeaways highlighted in the report include: 

  • Bitcoin stands 11% below its all-time high set on March 13, 2024, whereas ether sits 45% below its all-time high from November 8, 2021.
  • Bitcoin appears to be entering an “Acceleration” phase due to an increase in volatility throughout July, which has historically led to new all-time highs and blow-off tops.
  • Following Ethereum’s Deneb-Cancun upgrade, transactions on Layer 2 platforms continue to be more cost-effective—a positive indicator for adoption and the network’s long-term future.


Access the full report now for a closer look into bitcoin and ether’s recent performance—and discover the team’s opinion for both assets as the market enters the final months of 2024.

The information herein was prepared by Fidelity Digital Asset Services, LLC (“FDAS LLC”) and Fidelity Digital Assets, Ltd (“FDA LTD”). It is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute a recommendation, investment advice of any kind, or an offer to buy or sell any asset. Perform your own research and consult a qualified advisor to see if digital assets are an appropriate investment option. 

Digital assets are speculative and highly volatile, can become illiquid at any time, and are for investors with a high-risk tolerance. Investors in digital assets could lose the entire value of their investment.

Custody and trading of digital assets are provided by Fidelity Digital Asset Services, LLC, which is chartered as a limited purpose trust company by the New York State Department of Financial Services to engage in virtual currency business (NMLS ID 1773897). FDA LTD relies on FDAS LLC for these services. FDA LTD is registered with the Financial Conduct Authority under the U.K.’s Money Laundering Regulations. The Financial Ombudsman Service and the Financial Services Compensation Scheme do not apply to the cryptoasset activities carried on by FDA LTD.

To the extent this communication constitutes a financial promotion in the U.K., it is issued only to, or directed only at, persons who are: (i) investment professionals within the meaning of Article 19 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Financial Promotion) Order 2005 (the "FPO"); (ii) high net worth companies and certain other entities falling within Article 49 of the FPO; and (iii) any other persons to whom it may lawfully be communicated.

This information is not intended for distribution to, or use by, anyone in any jurisdiction where such distribution would be contrary to local law or regulation. Persons accessing this information are required to inform themselves about and observe such restrictions.

FDAS LLC and FDA LTD do not provide tax, legal, investment, or accounting advice. This material is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on, for tax, legal, or accounting advice. Tax laws and regulations are complex and subject to change. You should consult your own tax, legal, and accounting advisors before engaging in any transaction.

Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Investment results cannot be predicted or projected.

Views expressed are as of the date indicated, based on the information available at that time, and may change based on market or other conditions. Unless otherwise noted, the opinions provided are those of the speaker or author and not necessarily those of Fidelity Digital Assets or its affiliates. Fidelity Digital Assets does not assume any duty to update any of the information.

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