The cryptocurrency market experienced a notable decline on December 24, 2025, with the global market cap decreasing by 1.14% to $2.94 trillion. This downturn was marked by falling prices of major cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum, coinciding with a significant rally in gold prices, which surpassed $4,500 per ounce. The shift in capital from digital assets to gold reflects investor caution amid economic uncertainties. Market sentiment was further impacted by concerns over the Federal Reserve's upcoming January 2026 meeting and the nomination of a new Fed chair by Trump, contributing to heightened anxiety as indicated by the fear and greed index. Despite the overall market downturn, whale activity remained robust, highlighted by a single whale purchasing 40,975 ETH within a five-hour window.