**Crypto Market Kicks Off 2024 with a Slump: What’s Behind the Decline?**

The cryptocurrency market has started the new year on a bearish note, with major cryptocurrencies experiencing significant losses. As investors navigate the volatile market, understanding the key factors driving the downturn is crucial.

**Bitcoin’s Resistance Struggles Continue**

Bitcoin’s brief price surge to $96,000 was met with a swift rejection, resulting in a $3,000 drop to $93,000. This bearish start to the year follows a tumultuous end to 2023, which saw the primary cryptocurrency plummet from its all-time high of $108,300 to $92,000 in a matter of days. Bitcoin’s struggles to break through the $96,000 resistance level have raised concerns among investors, sparking fears of a prolonged downturn.

**Altcoins Feel the Pinch as Market Capitalization Declines**

The altcoin market has also been affected, with Ethereum losing nearly 2% of its value, dropping below $3,400. Other notable losers include Solana (SOL), down to $190, and Cardano (ADA), slipping to $0.85. Chainlink (LINK) has experienced an even more significant decline, losing almost 5% of its value and falling under $20. However, a few altcoins, such as XRP, VIRTUAL, OM, and XMR, have managed to chart minor gains.

**Market Capitalization Takes a Hit: What’s Next?**

The total crypto market capitalization has shed around $30 billion, dropping to $3.4 trillion. Bitcoin’s market capitalization has also slumped, falling below $1.850 trillion, while its dominance over altcoins remains strong at 54.3%. The decline in market capitalization has raised concerns about the overall health of the cryptocurrency market, leaving investors wondering what’s next.

**Navigating the Volatile Crypto Market: A Word of Caution**

As the market continues to experience volatility, it’s essential for investors to exercise caution and conduct thorough research before making any investment decisions. With the crypto market’s notorious unpredictability, staying informed and adapting to changing market conditions is crucial. By staying up-to-date with the latest market trends and analysis, investors can make informed decisions and navigate the volatile crypto market.

**Key Takeaways:**

* Bitcoin struggles to break through the $96,000 resistance level * Altcoins experience significant losses, with Ethereum, Solana, and Cardano taking a hit * Total crypto market capitalization sheds around $30 billion * Investor caution advised due to market volatility

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