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| By Jurica Dujmovic |
This Thanksgiving, I’d like to wish a happy long weekend to all our readers in the U.S.
For those of us who are overseas, we’ll enjoy what will no doubt be a quieter day in the crypto markets.
With my “free” time today, I find myself reflecting on where the crypto world stands here as 2025 draws to a close.
You will no doubt agree that the cryptoverse stands at a crossroads.
One that’s shaped by volatility.
Yet, also one fueled by unwavering commitment.
Whether you've watched Bitcoin (BTC, “A-”) crash and rally alongside me …
Traded altcoins in the dead of night …
Or joined a crypto community, hoping to spark change …
You understand the unique blend of risk and optimism that defines this space.
Where We Stand After a Turbulent Autumn
After months of ups and downs, I'm seeing crypto traders approach Thanksgiving with cautious hope.
Bitcoin has bounced back from a seven-month low to hover near $87,000. And market sentiment is shifting as investors await key Federal Reserve reports.
Meanwhile, altcoins and DeFi projects continue to capture my attention with promising developments and fresh breakthroughs.
I've learned that during U.S. holidays, liquidity tends to thin, prompting more conservative moves. That said, it also makes the markets more volatile.
Like many of you, I'm watching closely for signs that recent corrections might be easing.
Smart Moves for the Holiday Season
With institutions away from their trading portals and liquidity thin, additional volatility isn’t off the table this weekend.
And based on what I'm seeing in the market, here's some practical insight worth considering:
1. Don't overtrade during thin holiday markets.
I've watched too many traders get wrecked during Thanksgiving week when liquidity dries up and spreads widen.
If you're going to be away from your screens enjoying family time, set your stop losses and step back. The market will still be here when you return.
2. Take profit if you're sitting on gains.
With Bitcoin near $87,000 after a strong rally, there's nothing wrong with booking some wins before year-end.
The euphoria of waiting for the next top can be intoxicating. But tax-loss harvesting season is also approaching, and December can bring surprises.
Having cash on hand gives you options.
3. Watch the Ethereum (ETH, “B+”) Fusaka upgrade on Dec. 3 carefully.
Major protocol upgrades can create volatility in both directions. If you're holding ETH or ETH-based Layer-2 tokens, understand what's changing and what the risks are.
History shows these events don't always go smoothly, even when they're bullish long-term.
4. Be skeptical of holiday "opportunities."
Scammers know people are distracted and feeling generous this time of year. If something seems too good to be true — a new token promising massive returns, a "limited time" staking opportunity, an urgent DM about a mint — it almost certainly is.
Slow down and verify before you click anything.
Note: That includes things you get from “Weiss Ratings” … if they’re not from our official email.
We’ve had confirmation of several scam attempts by bad actors claiming to be your trusted experts on social media.
But your crypto team will only ever reach out through our official email. So if you see something on Facebook, X.com, Telegram or any other site, chances are it’s not us.
My colleague Beth Canova broke down a few other ways to keep yourself safe from scams this season.
5. Use this quiet period to educate yourself.
Rather than revenge trading through the holidays, spend time understanding the projects you're actually invested in.
Read the documentation, follow the developers, understand the tokenomics.
Most people are too busy trading to learn, which means you can gain an edge by doing the opposite.
Why This Matters This Thanksgiving
As I sit down for Thanksgiving dinner this year, I'm struck by how far we've come.
The volatility can be exhausting … the regulatory uncertainty frustrating … the technical challenges overwhelming.
But when I look at what we're building — a more open, transparent, and accessible financial system — I can't help but feel grateful to be part of this journey.
So this Thanksgiving, whether you're a crypto veteran or a curious newcomer, I invite you to reflect on the communities we've built and the potential that still lies ahead.
There's much to be thankful for in this digital frontier we're pioneering together.
Happy Thanksgiving from the crypto trenches.
Here's to resilience, innovation and the communities that make it all worthwhile!
Best,
Jurica Dujmovic
