Headline: Crypto Slide Deepens as Macro Signals Shift and Policy Risks Rise
Introduction: Risk appetite softened across markets as cryptocurrencies extended losses and fresh economic signals reshaped rate expectations. Bitcoin briefly slipped below the $85,000 mark before rebounding, while Ethereum fell under $2,800, stoking talk of a potential bottom amid elevated volatility. Simultaneously, mixed data on housing and jobs, alongside shifting central bank and currency dynamics, kept investors on alert.
After a brisk sell-off, the crypto market is navigating a fragile backdrop. Bitcoin touched a seven-month low and Ethereum a four-month trough, with analysts noting that roughly $1 trillion in market value has been erased in the fourth quarter. While some traders are watching for a rebound, near-term risks remain high as liquidity thins and technical levels are tested. Volatility in Bitcoin and Ether is reinforcing caution across digital assets, even as intraday bounces suggest active dip-buying.
In the real economy, U.S. housing sales rose 1.2% in October, marking the strongest market in three years. Despite lower inventory, improving affordability is drawing buyers back. Labor data were mixed: payrolls increased by 119,000 as the unemployment rate climbed to 4.4%, a combination that nudged market odds toward potential rate cuts while keeping valuation concerns front and center for equities.
Global policy and FX developments added to the cross-currents. Saudi Arabia signaled up to $1 trillion in prospective U.S. investments, with an emphasis on energy and defense and a watch on LNG and critical minerals. In currency markets, some analysts argue the offshore yuan isn’t artificially cheap, highlighting stronger performance versus regional peers since 2018 and People’s Bank of China fixings that lean toward gradual appreciation. In Japan, Bank of Japan Governor Ueda indicated that if growth and inflation projections materialize, the likelihood of a rate hike increases—an evolving backdrop that could ripple through bond and FX markets.
Key Points: – Bitcoin briefly fell below $85,000 and Ethereum under $2,800, hitting seven- and four-month lows, respectively. – Crypto market value has shed roughly $1 trillion in Q4, with volatility and downside risks still elevated. – U.S. housing sales rose 1.2% in October; tighter inventory contrasts with improving affordability and stronger buyer activity. – Jobs increased by 119,000 while unemployment rose to 4.4%, lifting market odds of future rate cuts amid valuation worries. – Saudi Arabia outlined up to $1 trillion in potential U.S. investments focused on energy and defense, with LNG and critical minerals in focus. – Analysts say the offshore yuan is not artificially undervalued; BoJ signals a higher chance of rate hikes if forecasts hold.
