Crypto markets became more institutional and regulated in 2025, yet a broad altcoin season failed to materialise.
Bitcoin reached fresh cycle highs earlier in the year before momentum faded across the wider market.
Bitcoin was down around seven percent year to date following an early October sell-off.
Total altcoin market capitalisation dropped more than forty-six percent from its 2025 peak.
Despite weakness, a small group of tokens delivered strong relative performance.
XRP, Zcash and Algorand emerged as standout performers during a selective year.
XRP benefited from easing regulatory pressure and renewed institutional confidence.
The token surged more than thirty-five percent in July, reaching a yearly high of $3.60.
XRP recorded an eightfold gain from its August 2024 low, according to market data.
Regulatory clarity followed reports that the SEC dispute with Ripple was nearing resolution.
XRP fit the profile regulators and institutions can sign off on.
Alex Davis said.
The Ripple lawsuit formally ended in August after both parties agreed to drop appeals.
The launch of a spot XRP exchange-traded fund further boosted investor confidence.