We're just past the half way mark of one of the most geopolitically and politically volatile years for decades - yet key digital assets are continuing to set new highs.
On the face of it, it's a classic set-up for a significant pullback, maybe exacerbated by simmering inflation and questionable growth, combined with rising skepticism on earnings, amid lofty valuations.
Still, considering Bitcoin's historical asymmetric risk-adjusted return profile, the crypto market outlook's almost certainly going to be more nuanced.
That makes the CF Benchmarks Q3 2025 outlook report an essential guide for what to watch in the current quarter, and how to play it.
Join Head of Research, Gabe Selby, CFA, and Research Analyst Mark Pilipczuk, as they talk through their report: 'Alpha in the Aftermath: Moving Beyond the 60/40', on the latest episode of CFB Talks Digital Assets!
A few of the highlights:
For informed insights on these points and more, from institutional practitioners across all asset classes, listen in now!
The information contained within is for educational and informational purposes ONLY. It is not intended nor should it be considered an invitation or inducement to buy or sell any of the underlying instruments cited including but not limited to cryptoassets, financial instruments or any instruments that reference any index provided by CF Benchmarks Ltd. This communication is not intended to persuade or incite you to buy or sell security or securities noted within. Any commentary provided is the opinion of the author and should not be considered a personalised recommendation. Please contact your financial adviser or professional before making an investment decision.
Note: Some of the underlying instruments cited within this material may be restricted to certain customer categories in certain jurisdictions.
Markets rallied last week, with 7.6% gains in the CF Broad Cap and Large Cap (Diversified) indices. DeFi (+13.64%) and Digital Culture (+13.51%) led thematic sectors, while Web 3.0 Smart Contract Platforms (+9.79%) also advanced up, reflecting renewed investor interest in high-beta market segments.
CF Benchmarks
Given how fast US Bitcoin ETFs became the most successful ETF debuts ever, before the SEC approved in-kind creation and redemption, some observers have suggested the prohibition had little-to-no bearing on demand.
Ken Odeluga
Last week, markets broadly declined: Large and Broad Cap indices fell 5.50% and 5.72%. High-beta themes tumbled— the CF Digital Culture Composite dropped 13.58% and the CF DeFi Composite slid 12.51%. Solana (–14.50%) and Avalanche (–19.55%) lagged, while Bitcoin was most resilient (–3.71%).
CF Benchmarks