Fidelity Predicts Stablecoins Will Broaden the Gap Between Bitcoin and Ethereum

Fidelity has released a report forecasting that the growing use of stablecoins on Ethereum will further differentiate it from Bitcoin. According to the financial services giant, this separation will highlight the distinct utilities of the two leading cryptocurrencies, both in terms of technology and investment strategy.

Stablecoins Boost Ethereum’s Utility

Fidelity’s report emphasizes how the rise of stablecoins on Ethereum has created a unique position for the platform. The increasing usage of stablecoins, primarily hosted on Ethereum, is pushing the network ahead of other layer-1 blockchain platforms. This development shows Ethereum’s growing role in the transfer of digital assets. Fidelity notes, “The rise of stablecoins on Ethereum has already made a case for Ethereum offering greater utility in this sector.”

Ethereum, often used for asset transfer, contrasts with Bitcoin, which is more frequently held as a long-term store of value. In 2023 alone, Ethereum handled significant volumes, with about $3.5 trillion transferred via Ethereum layer-1 stablecoins, while Bitcoin saw $3.4 trillion in transfers.

While Ethereum gains ground as a versatile blockchain, Bitcoin continues to hold its ground as a hedge against inflation. Fidelity supports the view that Bitcoin’s primary appeal lies in its potential to store value over the long term. This distinction between the two assets, according to Fidelity, makes them complementary in a diversified portfolio. The report explains, “Bitcoin and Ether can complement each other in a portfolio by providing distinct types of utility and serving different markets.”

Both assets are evolving in their own ways, with Ethereum benefiting from network effects and growing usage in the decentralized finance sector. Meanwhile, Bitcoin remains attractive to investors seeking protection from currency inflation.

As of now, Ethereum is trading at $2,371, while Bitcoin is valued at $58,334.