Ethereum News Today: Could a DeFi Rival Steal Cardano's Spotlight in the Bull Run?

Cardano (ADA) has drawn significant attention for its potential to reach new all-time highs in the fourth quarter of 2025, with market analysts highlighting several catalysts that could drive its performance. At present, ADA trades near $0.835, approximately 18% below its five-month high of $1.02. Despite the recent downward pressure, prominent analyst Dan Gambardello has argued that a rally toward $15 is not out of reach, though he acknowledges that this target is ambitious and not his primary forecast for the current cycle. Gambardello bases his analysis on Cardano’s strong year-over-year performance, governance milestones, and potential regulatory developments such as an exchange-traded fund (ETF) approval, which is expected to attract institutional investment [1].

Cardano has shown resilience against Bitcoin and Ethereum, outperforming both in year-over-year growth. ADA has gained more than 150% year-to-date, compared to 93% for Bitcoin and 79% for Ethereum. In terms of recovery from bear-market lows, Cardano has surged 276%, significantly outpacing Ethereum’s 163% in the same period [1]. Gambardello notes that Cardano’s recent ratification of a new constitutional committee, with no founding entities in control, reinforces its community-driven nature and distinguishes it from other major blockchains that remain influenced by early stakeholders or venture capital groups.

Institutional interest is another key factor that Gambardello highlights. According to data from Polymarket, the probability of ADA securing ETF approval in 2025 is currently near 87%. Gambardello believes that, if achieved, such approval would generate substantial inflows from large investors, mirroring the success seen with Ethereum’s ETFs [1]. If ADA were to reach $15, its market cap would be approximately $547 billion, closely aligning with Ethereum’s current valuation. Gambardello points out that this scenario, while ambitious, is not unrealistic given Ethereum’s potential to surpass a trillion-dollar market cap in the next cycle.

While ADA’s potential to reach new highs is a focal point, a DeFi altcoin—Mutuum Finance (MUTM)—is also generating bullish forecasts. Currently in presale phase 6, MUTM has already raised $15.22 million and attracted 15,880 holders. The token, which began at $0.01, has risen to $0.035, representing a 250% increase. Analysts suggest that MUTM could break the $0.50 mark in 2025 if it continues its current growth trajectory. This price target is supported by historical comparisons with Dogecoin, which surged from $0.0025 to $0.74 in under 18 months [3]. Unlike Dogecoin, however, MUTM is backed by a two-way lending model, overcollateralized stablecoin system, and a Layer 2 infrastructure designed for scalability and cost efficiency [4].

The project has also undergone a CertiK audit, earning a 95.00 security score with no vulnerabilities reported in the past 90 days. To further bolster security, Mutuum Finance has launched a $50,000 bug bounty program. Additionally, a $100,000 giveaway has been introduced to grow its community, with 10 winners set to receive $10,000 worth of MUTM each [3]. These efforts have contributed to MUTM’s growing appeal among investors seeking the next major DeFi innovation.

Looking ahead, some forecasts suggest that MUTM could reach $10 in 2026, $25 in 2028, and even $50 by 2030, assuming continued adoption of its lending platforms and stablecoin model [4]. These projections are based on the project’s expanding utility, limited token supply, and increasing institutional interest. As the DeFi space continues to evolve, projects like Mutuum Finance are positioning themselves as strong contenders for substantial returns, especially for early investors who recognize the potential of decentralized lending and stablecoin innovation.

Source:

[1] Market Expert Explains Why Cardano Could Reach $15 (https://thecryptobasic.com/2025/09/03/market-expert-explains-why-cardano-could-reach-15/)

[2] Cardano (ADA) Price Predictions for the Week Ahead (https://cryptopotato.com/cardano-ada-price-predictions-for-the-week-ahead/)

[3] Price Prediction If Mutuum Finance Breaks $0.50 In 2025 (https://www.mitrade.com/insights/news/live-news/article-3-1086200-20250902)

[4] Mutuum Finance Crypto Price Forecast: How Much $350 ... (https://www.mitrade.com/insights/news/live-news/article-3-1086005-20250901)

[5] Best Crypto to Buy Now: Why Mutuum Finance (MUTM) is ... (https://www.cryptopolitan.com/best-crypto-to-buy-now-why-mutuum-finance-mutm-is-gaining-attention-over-solana-despite-sol-regaining-200/)