News View Non-AMP

Crypto Is Not in a Bear Market, Claims Tom Lee as Ethereum Activity Jumps 115%

Published by
Zafar Naik and Qadir AK

Fundstrat Head of Research Tom Lee said on-chain activity is growing fast, even as crypto prices stay flat. In a conversation at the Ondo Summit in New York, Lee shared data that challenges the idea that crypto is in a bear market.

According to Lee, Ethereum active addresses have jumped roughly 115% since June, even though ETH is trading at the same price level. Daily transactions are up 77%, total value locked in real-world assets has grown around 50%, and $23 billion has flowed in over the past 30 days.

“This is the opposite of what I would consider to be a crypto winter,” Lee said.

Why Crypto Is Not Reacting to Bullish Macro Signals

Central bank easing, a weaker dollar, and global uncertainty should be working in crypto’s favor. But retail traders are placing their macro bets elsewhere.

Lee noted that the two most talked-about tickers on Wall Street Bets right now are silver and gold. Without price momentum, crypto’s typical rally cycle has not kicked in.

The feedback loop that drives prices higher needs upward movement to start, and that has been missing.

Quantum Risk Is Already Moving Big Money

Lee also addressed quantum computing, a risk that is shaping institutional decisions. He pointed out that a Galaxy Digital client recently reduced a $9 billion position partly over quantum concerns.

He said Ethereum is better equipped to handle this because its 6-month upgrade cycle allows it to build quantum resistance over time. Bitcoin’s governance structure makes it harder to adapt quickly.

Lee added that once Bitcoin lays out a clear plan for quantum resistance, much of the institutional hesitation should ease.

The Bigger Picture

Lee described the current market as a transition phase. Crypto is moving away from its early era of leverage and FOMO toward a future built on stablecoins, AI agents, and institutional infrastructure.

“If that view is not correct, then there’s still a lot of upside in crypto,” he said.

FAQs

Is crypto really in a bear market right now?

On-chain data shows rising Ethereum addresses, transactions, and capital inflows, suggesting growth under the surface despite flat prices.

Why isn’t crypto rising despite bullish macro signals?

Retail traders are focusing on gold and silver, and without price momentum, crypto’s typical feedback loop hasn’t started.

What could drive the next crypto rally?

Clear quantum safeguards, renewed price momentum, and growth in stablecoins and AI-linked use cases could attract institutional capital.

Trust with CoinPedia:

CoinPedia has been delivering accurate and timely cryptocurrency and blockchain updates since 2017. All content is created by our expert panel of analysts and journalists, following strict Editorial Guidelines based on E-E-A-T (Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, Trustworthiness). Every article is fact-checked against reputable sources to ensure accuracy, transparency, and reliability. Our review policy guarantees unbiased evaluations when recommending exchanges, platforms, or tools. We strive to provide timely updates about everything crypto & blockchain, right from startups to industry majors.

Investment Disclaimer:

All opinions and insights shared represent the author's own views on current market conditions. Please do your own research before making investment decisions. Neither the writer nor the publication assumes responsibility for your financial choices.

Sponsored and Advertisements:

Sponsored content and affiliate links may appear on our site. Advertisements are marked clearly, and our editorial content remains entirely independent from our ad partners.

Zafar Naik and Qadir AK

Zafar is a seasoned crypto and blockchain news writer with four years of experience. Known for accuracy, in-depth analysis, and a clear, engaging style, Zafar actively participates in blockchain communities. Beyond writing, Zafar enjoys trading and exploring the latest trends in the crypto market.

Recent Posts

XRP Traders Deep in Losses as MVRV Hits Lowest Level Since 2020

XRP traders who were active over the past 30 days are down an average of…

May 27, 2026

Ethereum Price Outlook June 2026: Hidden Bullish Divergence Signals ETH Recovery

Ethereum price outlook June 2026 is beginning to dominate trader discussions as May approaches its…

May 27, 2026

Best Crypto to Buy Before the Bull Run: $GRUNTLE at $0.000625 as BTC Options Target $79K Breakout

On May 21, 2026, the BTC May 29 $82,000 call became the most actively traded…

May 27, 2026

TD Cowen Analyst Warns CLARITY Act May Not Pass This Year

Investment bank TD Cowen analyst Jaret Seiberg says the chances of the U.S. passing its…

May 27, 2026

Pi Network’s News: June 2 Deadline Set for the Next Big Upgrade

The Pi Network Core Team has set June 2, 2026, as the deadline for all…

May 27, 2026

XRP’s $20 Dream Is Back, But Bulls Still Need to Reclaim Key Levels

XRP price is once again drawing bold long-term predictions after Korean analyst Ninedex revived the…

May 27, 2026