ENA Price Action Suggests Recovery as It Meets Resistance at Upper Channel

The United States conducted large-scale military strikes on Venezuela on January 3, 2026, which sparked sharp condemnation from world leaders. The operation, as claimed by Donald Trump on Truth Social, resulted in the capture and removal of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife. This action has drawn widespread international criticism for violating norms of peaceful conflict resolution and international law according to reports.

Colombian President Gustavo Petro and Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel both condemned the operation, emphasizing the importance of peace, dialogue, and adherence to international norms. Russian and Iranian officials also labeled the action as an act of armed aggression and a violation of Venezuela’s sovereignty.

The U.S. operation has created a new geopolitical flashpoint in Latin America and raised concerns over broader regional tensions. The European Union and other nations have urged restraint, with particular attention placed on ensuring the safety of citizens in Venezuela.

What Impact Did the Venezuela Strike Have on Crypto Markets?

The U.S. military action in Venezuela triggered immediate uncertainty in global markets, particularly in the cryptocurrency sector. Bitcoin prices dropped below $90,000 following the news, while overall market sentiment shifted toward caution as investors rotated into higher-risk assets like memecoins. The total market cap of cryptocurrencies remained steady at around $3.145 trillion, with Bitcoin and Ethereum showing mixed short-term performance according to market data.

Analysts noted the potential for further market volatility, as conflicts historically drive investor behavior toward either risk-off or speculative strategies. The strike also reignited discussions about geopolitical risks facing digital assets and how such events could influence the broader adoption of cryptocurrencies as a store of value.

What Does This Mean for Ethena (ENA) and Bitwise’s New ETFs?

Bitwise recently filed for 11 new crypto ETFs, including one tracking Ethena (ENA), as part of its broader strategy to expand into the space. The move aligns with the growing institutional interest in digital assets and the increasing demand for diversified crypto exposure. These ETFs will allow investors to gain both direct and indirect exposure to tokens like ENA, with up to 60% of assets held directly in the underlying token according to company filings.

The recent volatility in global markets, including the U.S. strike in Venezuela, has highlighted the need for diversified and regulated investment vehicles in the crypto sector. Bitwise’s applications come amid a broader trend of institutional players seeking to capitalize on the maturing crypto market and regulatory clarity.

What Are the Broader Trends in the Crypto Market?

2025 saw a surge in crypto M&A activity and public listings, with over $8.6 billion in M&A deals and $14.6 billion raised through IPOs globally. This trend has continued into 2026, with industry insiders predicting further deal momentum as companies seek to scale and access public markets.

The reopening of the IPO window has benefited firms with clear revenue models and strong product-market fit, while speculative projects remain sidelined. Institutional adoption is also expected to accelerate, especially as regulatory frameworks become more defined and digital assets are increasingly integrated into traditional investment portfolios according to market analysis.

What Geopolitical Risks Should Investors Watch For?

The U.S. operation in Venezuela underscores the ongoing geopolitical tensions between the U.S. and its Latin American neighbors, as well as the broader rivalry with China and Russia. The move has also raised concerns about the weakening of international norms against military intervention, with implications for future conflicts in the region and beyond.

Investors are advised to monitor how these developments affect global trade, energy markets, and the availability of liquidity in crypto and traditional assets. The U.S. strike could set a precedent for further military interventions, which may influence investor sentiment and policy responses from other major economies according to global analysts.