Ethereum Lags Behind Bitcoin In Q1 Performance Amid Market Downturn – Details

Ethereum continues to disappoint investors as its decline deepens, sparking growing fears of further selling pressure across the market. The second-largest cryptocurrency by market cap has failed to hold key support levels, and analysts are increasingly warning of a potential drop below multi-year lows near $1,750. With no clear consensus on where the next reliable support might lie, sentiment remains shaky and uncertain.

The broader crypto landscape has faced heavy volatility, but Ethereum’s underperformance stands out. According to IntoTheBlock, ETH significantly lagged behind Bitcoin in the past quarter. This disparity has raised concerns about Ethereum’s short-term strength and resilience, especially as it continues to struggle below the $1,900 level.

As macroeconomic instability, regulatory uncertainty, and risk-off sentiment continue to pressure financial markets, Ethereum’s path forward looks increasingly fragile. Without a strong rebound or renewed demand, the current trend suggests a prolonged period of weakness. Until bulls regain control and key resistance levels are reclaimed, the outlook for ETH remains cautious, with investors watching closely for any signs of a potential bottom — or further breakdown.

Ethereum Holds Ground As Tariff Shock, Underperformance Fuel Market Anxiety

Ethereum is trading at critical levels following weeks of mounting selling pressure and fading bullish momentum. The broader crypto market has been hit hard by escalating macroeconomic uncertainty, largely driven by US President Donald Trump’s recent policy shifts and sweeping tariffs. These moves have rattled investor confidence, sending shockwaves through both traditional and digital markets.

Among major assets, Ethereum has been one of the most affected. Bulls lost control in late February when ETH broke below the $2,500 level, triggering a steady downtrend that has continued to weigh on price action. Attempts to regain support have consistently failed, and ETH now trades near multi-month lows with no clear bottom in sight.

According to data from IntoTheBlock, Ethereum underperformed significantly this past quarter — losing nearly 50% of its value- while Bitcoin dropped just 15% in the same period. This widening performance gap has become a point of concern for investors who once expected ETH to lead a 2025 rally fueled by Ethereum-based developments and broader adoption.

Now, all eyes are on the coming weeks. If bulls can reclaim key levels and reignite momentum, Ethereum may still have a shot at recovery. But if a bearish sentiment continues to dominate, a deeper correction — potentially below the $1,750 mark — could be next. The pressure is on, and Ethereum’s next move could set the tone for the rest of the altcoin market.

Price Action Details: Key Levels To Watch

Ethereum is currently trading below the $1,800 mark, showing continued weakness as bulls struggle to regain momentum. The price remains firmly below the 4-hour 200 MA and EMA, both of which are clustered around the $2,000 level — a critical technical zone that previously acted as strong support. Now turned resistance, this area must be reclaimed for any hope of a sustained recovery.

To shift the trend, bulls need to push ETH above $2,000 and ideally reclaim the $2,200 level, which would mark a break from the recent downtrend and signal the start of a potential recovery phase. Without that move, however, price action continues to favor sellers.

The $1,800 level is now the last line of defense. Failing to hold and reclaim it quickly could open the door to a much steeper decline. If bears continue to pressure price below this zone, Ethereum may revisit levels not seen since early 2023 — with $1,750 and even $1,550 as potential downside targets.

Momentum remains against ETH, and unless bulls step in decisively, the trend looks set to continue lower. The next few days will be critical in determining whether Ethereum stabilizes or breaks further down.

Featured image from Dall-E, chart from TradingView