Ether and Bitcoin prices fell significantly due to rising government shutdown risks and cautious market sentiment. Other major cryptocurrencies also declined, influenced by potential federal job cuts and inflation worries.
Bitcoin has historically shown significant price movements during U.S. government shutdowns, often seen as a potential safe haven amidst political uncertainty. Past shutdowns in 2013 and 2018-2019 resulted in notable price increases and volatility, highlighting Bitcoin's independent yet market-influenced nature.