Ethereum Classic Surges 20% as Trading Volume Skyrockets Amid Bullish Crypto Market Momentum

Ethereum Classic Rallies with Explosive Gains

Ethereum Classic (ETC) experienced a significant rally on July 18, climbing 20% within a 24-hour span and reaching a multi-month high of $24.55. This surge propelled ETC to price levels not seen since early 2025, making it one of the top performers among the 100 largest cryptocurrencies by market capitalization.

 

Soaring Trading Volume and Bullish Sentiment

Massive Increases Across Markets

Fueling Ethereum Classic’s ascent was a notable spike in trading activity. Open interest in ETC jumped 45%, hitting $273 million. Meanwhile, derivatives trading volume soared 300% to more than $1.86 billion, while spot trading volume leaped by 380%, surpassing $1.6 billion.

This explosion in volume points to heightened trader enthusiasm and a strong influx of buyers, as the broader crypto market enjoys tailwinds from gains in Ethereum (ETH), Ripple (XRP), and other leading digital assets.

 

Why Is Ethereum Classic Price Rising?

Bullish Market Drivers

Multiple factors are behind ETC's impressive performance. The price rally comes as Ethereum approaches the $3,700 mark and XRP hovers close to its all-time high, buoying confidence across the altcoin sector.

In addition, the recent passage of the GENIUS Act in the United States, touted by Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong as the start of an American financial revolution, has injected further optimism into the crypto space.

 

Exchange Listings and Network Fundamentals

Ethereum Classic, known as the original Ethereum blockchain, has also benefited from recent listings on major platforms, most notably Bitstamp by Robinhood. The addition of ETC/USD and ETC/EUR trading pairs expanded access and demand for the altcoin, helping its price recover from lows near $18.

With its robust proof-of-work security and advanced smart contract functionality, ETC continues to attract investor interest, especially as similar major coins post gains.

 

What’s Next for Ethereum Classic?

Looking ahead, ETC could aim for the key resistance levels seen in December 2024, particularly as broader market momentum remains positive. Analysts note a significant supply zone near $50, while the all-time high above $167 remains approximately 85% above current values. With volatility and interest on the rise, Ethereum Classic may continue to offer compelling opportunities for crypto traders and long-term investors alike.