Crypto markets started the first Monday of 2026 on a strong note, with bitcoin and major altcoins extending early gains during U.S. trading. The move marks a reversal from late 2025, when digital assets often pulled back while American stocks were active. Analysts said the rebound reflects renewed risk-on sentiment following the weekend capture of Venezuela’s Nicolás Maduro.
The Coinbase Bitcoin Premium Index, which measures the price difference between bitcoin on Coinbase and the global market average, has climbed sharply after hitting a nine-month low on Jan. 1. At that time, bitcoin traded near $88,000, and the index recorded its most negative reading since early 2025, suggesting U.S. demand had waned. Its recent rise indicates U.S. capital flows are returning.
Bitcoin has gained nearly 1% since the U.S. session opened, trading around $92,700 and approaching $94,000, its highest level since early December. Ether (ETH $3,252) and XRP ($2.28) posted similar gains, while Solana (SOL $139.44) rose modestly. Dogecoin ($0.1505) slipped slightly but remains up roughly 20% over the past week, fueling renewed ETF inflows.
Digital asset treasury companies, heavily beaten down in late 2025, led crypto-related stock gains on Monday. Strive (ASST) added 101.8 BTC in Q4, bringing total holdings to 7,626 BTC worth about $708 million. American Bitcoin (ABTC) rose 13% after acquiring 329 BTC, and Solana-focused DeFi Development (DFDV) gained 16%.
Market watchers said $95,000 remains a key level for bitcoin, with systematic buyers likely to step in if momentum holds through the U.S. session.
