Sharp Recovery in the Crypto Market: Bitcoin and Ethereum Rise After February Drop

After significant declines in early February, the cryptocurrency market is showing clear signs of recovery. According to Odaily and current quotes as of February 22, 2026, Bitcoin has surpassed the $67,590 mark (down 1.06% daily), while Ethereum has risen to $1,950 (down 1.65% over the past 24 hours). These movements reflect a gradual return of investors to the market after panic triggered by macroeconomic pressures.

From October’s bottom to February’s rebound: how BTC and ETH are recovering

The current price rally occurs against the backdrop of recovery from the lowest levels recorded in October 2024. Bitcoin, demonstrating technical resilience, is shifting into accumulation mode after a period of intense selling. Ethereum is following a similar trajectory, recovering from levels around $1,750 to current figures. Such a recovery often indicates a shift from panic selling to more rational pricing.

Macroeconomic context and options market: where investor fears are hiding

Despite the apparent recovery, the macroeconomic environment remains complex and uncertain. Weakness in the tech stock sector continues to exert negative pressure on risk assets, including cryptocurrencies. The period of synchronized declines in precious metals and digital assets accelerates the process of de-dollarization of global portfolios.

In the options market, clear signs of fear of extreme scenarios persist — some traders are buying protective put options with a strike price of only $20,000, indicating ongoing hedging against catastrophic risks. This suggests that panic has not fully subsided despite the short-term price rebound.

Investment prospects: from short-term recovery to long-term scenarios

Analysts view the recent decline as a phase of forced cleansing of excessive leverage and risk reassessment in the market. The short-term technical rebound may continue in the coming weeks, but its sustainability depends on several critical factors.

Medium-term prospects are determined by three key variables: stabilization of macro liquidity in global markets, recovery in the tech sector’s performance, and the direction of institutional capital flows. If the stock market recovers and liquidity remains sufficient, the crypto market could consolidate at higher levels. However, ongoing geopolitical uncertainties and risk appetite fluctuations remain major challenges for long-term recovery.