Gate Research Institute: DEX Trading Volume Rebounds, SuperLink Ecosystem Accelerates Development | Gate Institutional Crypto Market Weekly Report (February 23 – March 1, 2026)

Summary

• Market Focus Analysis: Amid weekend liquidity being relatively thin, BTC experienced a rapid decline followed by a low-level consolidation phase; ETH's overall trend was weaker than BTC, and the market remains in a weak equilibrium structure after deleveraging. Meanwhile, geopolitical risks drove significant increases in crude oil and precious metals prices, with funds temporarily shifting toward defensive assets.
• Liquidity Analysis: The continued strength in precious metals prices has boosted trading demand. The order book depth for XAUT shows multiple proactive buy orders during the price rise, while sell orders concentrate at higher levels, increasing short-term selling pressure. Additionally, mainstream CEX platforms are increasing the number of metal products in the TradFi asset sector, reflecting rising demand for safe-haven assets.
• On-Chain Data Insights: DEX trading volume shows event-driven pulse surges, but overall scale remains below historical cycle highs. Stablecoin supply remains high and sideways, indicating funds are mostly in a wait-and-see mode or awaiting allocation. Liquid Staking TVL has slightly declined, and Aave's cross-chain lending volume continues to decrease, suggesting the market is in a mild and active deleveraging phase.
• Derivatives Tracking: BTC open interest continues to decline significantly from the 2025 high, indicating a clear reduction in overall market leverage. Funding rates remain negative but have not worsened further. Options market trading volume and implied volatility are rising in tandem, showing that funds are still paying premiums for future volatility.
• Next Week Outlook: The market will focus on macro indicators such as the ISM Manufacturing and Non-Manufacturing PMI, ADP employment data, and Non-Farm Payrolls, which will influence interest rate expectations and liquidity assessments. Additionally, token unlocks for ENA, HYPE, and RED, as well as events like Espresso upgrade and Chiliz buyback and burn, may cause localized market volatility.
  

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