#ETHCrossed2500 Ethereum (ETH), the second-largest cryptocurrency by market capitalization, experienced a notable dip below the $2,500 threshold early Friday, trading at $2,491.16 USDT as of 07:06 AM UTC, according to real-time data from Binance. While the asset remains in positive territory over the past 24 hours with a 5.17% gain, this uptick reflects a significant slowdown compared to earlier surges, signaling potential volatility and shifting investor sentiment in the crypto market.

**Price Movement and Context**

ETH’s drop below $2,500 comes after a week of mixed performance across major cryptocurrencies. Earlier in the week, Ethereum had rallied to a high of $2,650, buoyed by renewed optimism around network upgrades and institutional adoption. However, the momentum began tapering off Thursday evening, with prices gradually retreating as traders appeared to lock in profits. The 5.17% 24-hour increase, though still positive, underscores a “cooling off” phase, as the asset’s gains narrowed sharply from double-digit percentages seen earlier in the week.

Market analysts attribute this pullback to a combination of technical resistance and broader macroeconomic uncertainty. The $2,500 level has historically acted as both a psychological and technical support zone for Ethereum. Breaking below it suggests short-term bearish pressure, despite the broader upward trend observed in recent months.

**Market Drivers and Sentiment**