Gold is nearing a technical bear market, down nearly 20% from its January all-time high, despite geopolitical tensions. Higher interest rate expectations and inflation pressures from rising oil prices are reducing its appeal. On an M2-adjusted basis, gold is near historical peak levels, while bitcoin remains in a consolidation phase, historically preceding new cycle highs. 
Traders watch support near $1.40 for XRP, which fell 2.6% to $1.41 after breaking below $1.44 support. Selling volume tripled the daily average, reinforcing the broader downtrend since mid-2025.
