The crypto market is cooling off after a strong start to 2026. Here’s what investors need to know about today’s pullback, standout tokens, and sector performers.
📉 Market Overview: Crypto Dips Despite Strong Start to 2026
The global cryptocurrency market cap dropped by 1.6% to $3.24 trillion today, with 65 of the top 100 coins trading in the red over the past 24 hours. According to CryptoNews, total crypto trading volume remains healthy at $150 billion, but profit-taking and macro uncertainty are pressuring prices.
📈 AI and DePIN Sectors Outperform
While most segments are in the red, AI and DePIN (Decentralized Physical Infrastructure Networks) are standing out. Data from SoSoValue via CryptoNews LIVE report shows:
- AI tokens up 0.23%, supported by newer entrants and increased GPU demand
- DePIN sector edged up 0.04%, led by Render (RNDR) and Golem (GLM)
These sectors continue to attract capital flows amid growing real-world blockchain integrations.
🚀 SHIB and CHEX Buck the Trend
🐶 Shiba Inu (SHIB)
Despite the broader market dip, Shiba Inu (SHIB) has surged 30% in the first week of 2026 and 48% from its December 31 lows. According to BeInCrypto, this could be an early signal of a potential Q1 breakout. However, on-chain data reflects caution, as this might still be a relief rally in a downtrend.
🔗 Chintai (CHEX)
CHEX token has exploded 52% in the last 24 hours and 120% over the past week, per BeInCrypto. The rally is driven by:
- Strong fundamentals and compliance-ready tokenization platform
- On-chain demand and breakout above resistance zones
- Growing institutional interest in real-world assets (RWAs)
CHEX may continue upward if technical momentum holds and adoption accelerates.
🦈 Ethereum Faces Whale Pressure
Ethereum (ETH) has broken out from a two-month descending wedge, signaling bullish strength. However, massive whale activity—selling over $970 million worth of ETH—could dampen near-term moves, as noted in BeInCrypto.
Key resistance levels around $2,800–$3,000 may determine the next ETH move.
📊 What This Means for Investors
With the market cooling off:
- Take profits in overextended altcoins
- Watch sector rotation: AI and DePIN continue to gain relevance
- Monitor on-chain signals and whale activity for BTC and ETH
Risk management remains essential as the market corrects from early-year highs.
📌 Stay Ahead of the Curve
Don’t miss out on daily crypto insights. Subscribe to our newsletter for exclusive market breakdowns, technical setups, and altcoin spotlight alerts.
💬 Join the Crypto Conversation
What’s your take on today’s market pullback? Are SHIB and CHEX set for more gains, or is this a short-lived bounce? Join the discussion in our Telegram community and share your strategies.
🔚 Final Thoughts
Despite today’s dip, specific projects and sectors are showing resilience. Whether it’s AI, DePIN, or upcoming tokenization platforms like Chintai, smart capital rotation could be the theme of early 2026.
As always, do your own research (DYOR) and stay informed.
0 Comments