Bitcoin‘s price traded near $63,700 on Thursday amidst a temporary calm in financial markets following the latest US inflation report, which aligned with market expectations. While this eased immediate concerns about aggressive monetary policies, the cryptocurrency failed to capitalize on the situation, experiencing no sustained rally.
Will the Inflation Data Influence Fed Decisions?
The latest US Consumer Price Index figures revealed a 0.1% month-on-month and 3.4% year-on-year increase. Core inflation, excluding volatile food and energy costs, rose 0.2% monthly but declined to a 2.5% annual rate. These findings have reduced the likelihood of a Federal Reserve interest rate hike in September, with futures markets adjusting the probability down to 38% from a prior 46%.
Despite initial positivity in financial markets, with gold rising by 1.3%, Ethereum by over 1%, Bitcoin by about 0.5%, and S&P 500 futures by 0.2%, the gains did not hold. The fleeting advancements in cryptocurrencies quickly dwindled as trading continued.
What are the Future Economic Events to Watch?
Investors now turn their attention to upcoming developments, with the Federal Reserve’s Jackson Hole meeting and future employment and inflation reports looming. These events could offer clues on economic trends and potential shifts in monetary policy, vital for risk-sensitive assets like Bitcoin.
Technically, Bitcoin’s 4-hour chart shows bearish signals. Momentum indicators, such as a 42 reading for the Relative Strength Index (RSI) and a negative MACD, suggest continuing market weakness. Bitcoin risks falling below key support levels if the selling pressure persists.
- Bitcoin’s next support potentially lies at $63,000, with further declines possibly reaching $62,185 or even $61,228.
- Resistance levels to watch include $64,430 and $65,423, should buying momentum strengthen.
- Emphasis on the Federal Reserve’s direction and employment data will be crucial in determining Bitcoin’s short-term path.
Bitcoin’s struggle to maintain gains despite soft inflation figures underscores the market’s dependence on clearer signals from economic policymakers. The uncertain landscape and technical downside pressures continue to weigh on this major digital currency.
