The cryptocurrency market has taken a significant downturn today, with Bitcoin falling below its $71,000 support level to $68,500, and Ethereum dropping to $3,600. The global crypto market cap has decreased by 2.60% to $2.55 trillion, while total market volume surged by 42.17% to $106.43 billion. Meanwhile, many are wondering what’s the key reason behind the sudden market drop.
Reasons Behind the Market Decline
The recent release of the U.S. Employment Situation Summary Report has played a significant role in this downturn. The U.S. Employment Situation Summary Report revealed that 272,000 jobs were added in May, surpassing expectations.
However, the unemployment rate also increased slightly from 3.9% to 4.0%, presenting mixed signals about the economy’s health.
Although the data shows a different trend, Markus Thielen, head of research at 10x Research, believes the employment report isn’t the main reason for the crypto market drop. However, the crypto sold off at the end of Friday without any obvious reason causing the bitcoin price to fall.
Higher Non-Farm Payrolls (NFP)
Apart from this, the increase in Non-Farm Payrolls indicates a robust labor market, which could prompt higher interest rates from the Federal Reserve. Higher interest rates typically lead to a stronger dollar, reducing the appeal of riskier assets like cryptocurrencies.
Stronger Dollar, Weaker Crypto
Adding to the complexity, the U.S. Dollar Index (DXY) has strengthened, meaning the dollar is gaining value against other currencies. A stronger dollar often leads investors to move away from riskier assets like cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, causing their value to drop.
The combination of a strong dollar and potential interest rate hikes has led to a bearish sentiment in the crypto market. Investors are pulling back from riskier assets, resulting in the recent market decline.
What’s Next for Crypto?
Looking ahead, analysts had predicted that a weaker employment report could lead to lower interest rates, potentially boosting Bitcoin to new highs. Markus Thielen mentioned that if the upcoming Consumer Price Index (CPI) report shows inflation at 3.3% or lower, Bitcoin could reach new all-time highs.
As the market reacts to these economic signals, it’s crucial to keep an eye on future central bank announcements and economic reports for further clues on market direction.
Also Read : Lark Davis Predicts Massive Crypto Bull Run on Horizon – Here’s Why