Cryptocurrency market from January to September 2026

Abstract

In H1 2026, cryptocurrency market continued its downward trend. A brief growth in January did not alter the overall picture: the market fell significantly in February and again in June, dropping by as much as 37% at one point. Nevertheless, by September 21, the market had nearly returned to its levels from the beginning of the year. Bitcoin has approached its January price level, which cannot be said about the most major altcoins. Throughout the year, positive momentum was seen in Hyperliquid’s governance token (HYPE) and privacy-focused cryptocurrencies, particularly Zcash. Prices were influenced by inflation expectations and decisions made by the US FRS. Key regulatory developments included conclusion of the MiCA transition period in the European Union, introduction of a new law in Russia, and halting the CLARITY Act in the United States.