Crypto markets brace for impact ahead of crucial US inflation reports

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Summary
The crypto market faces a critical week as key US inflation indicators, including PPI and CPI reports, will shape investor sentiment and influence the Federal Reserve's upcoming monetary policy decisions. Bitcoin and Ethereum remain under pressure, while altcoins display increased volatility.


Crypto markets remain subdued ahead of key economic data
After a turbulent week with $300 billion wiped off the digital asset sector, the crypto market enters a period of caution. Bitcoin briefly surged to $96,000 in Asian trading on Monday but quickly retreated below $94,000, signaling persistent uncertainty. Ethereum followed a similar trend, spiking above $3,300 before settling back near $3,200.

Market sentiment remains fragile as investors await pivotal US inflation data, which will offer insights into the Federal Reserve’s monetary policy direction. The Producer Price Index (PPI) on Tuesday and Consumer Price Index (CPI) on Wednesday are set to be decisive factors ahead of the Fed's January 29 meeting.

Key economic data to watch

Producer Price Index (PPI)
Scheduled for Tuesday, the PPI reflects the input costs for producers and serves as a leading indicator of retail price inflation. A higher-than-expected PPI could signal persistent inflationary pressures, which might weigh on risk assets like cryptocurrencies.

Consumer Price Index (CPI)
The CPI, due Wednesday, measures consumer price changes and directly influences market expectations for interest rate adjustments. If inflation data surprises on the upside, the Fed may delay further rate cuts, potentially dampening sentiment in the crypto space.

Retail sales data
Thursday’s retail sales figures will gauge consumer spending trends, offering additional clues on the overall economic health.

Other events
Additional reports, including the Philadelphia Fed Manufacturing Index and housing starts data, will provide further economic context, along with comments from seven scheduled Federal Reserve speakers.


Crypto market trends and outlook

Bitcoin and Ethereum performance
Bitcoin remains range-bound below $94,000, down 5% over the past week. Ethereum mirrors this trend, trading near $3,200 after an 11% weekly decline. Investors remain cautious, seeking clear signals from macroeconomic data.

Altcoins under pressure
The altcoin market continues to face selling pressure, with notable daily losses for Cardano (ADA), Tron (TRX), Sui (SUI), and Stellar (XLM). Sentiment remains negative as broader market trends dictate movements.

What to expect this week
Investors should brace for heightened volatility in the crypto markets as the US economic calendar unfolds. Key inflation data will not only shape the Federal Reserve’s next moves but also set the tone for broader market sentiment. A higher-than-expected CPI could push Bitcoin and Ethereum lower, while softer inflation prints might offer some relief.

As the week progresses, traders should monitor key macroeconomic releases and corporate earnings, with financial sector giants JPMorgan and Goldman Sachs kicking off Q4 earnings season. This convergence of economic and corporate data is likely to amplify market reactions and create trading opportunities across asset classes.