Bitcoin and ether held steady on Thursday even as altcoins saw heavier selling, with AERO, STRK and FET leading the downside amid persistent “fear” in market sentiment.

The broader crypto market continued to form new support levels, with bitcoin trading near $103,000 and ether edging up less than 1% to roughly $3,500.

Market indicators remain mixed. The average crypto RSI sits in neutral territory, while the Fear & Greed Index shows a reading of 25/100, signaling sustained caution among traders.

Altcoins experienced more pronounced volatility. AERO plunged 18% over the past day after announcing its planned merger with Velodrome, while STRK and FET also recorded double-digit declines.

Among major assets, XRP was a standout, gaining 3.5% following heightened activity in the options market.

Analysts say the market is waiting for a clear catalyst to determine direction — whether confirming a deeper pullback from October’s record highs or establishing a potential bottom near $98,000. Meanwhile, the U.S. dollar remains firm around 99.8 on the DXY; a move above 100 could add pressure to risk assets, including cryptocurrencies.