- The U.S. Federal Reserve retains benchmark interest rate, forecasting higher rates in the next year.
- Bitcoin’s value drops following the announcement, signaling a potential shift in the cryptocurrency market.
Federal Reserve’s Hawkish Undertones Impact Bitcoin
Federal Reserve Chair, Jerome Powell, shed light on the current stance of the U.S. Federal Reserve, causing ripple effects across the financial landscape. In a move that was largely anticipated, the Federal Reserve confirmed its decision to maintain the benchmark interest rate between 5.25% and 5.50%. Notably, the projection for next year’s interest rates experienced an uptick, settling at around 5.1%, showcasing a noticeable increase from June’s 4.3% estimation.
Understanding the Fed’s Economic Optimism
Incorporated within the Fed’s statement was the projection of a 2.1% real GDP increase for the current year, displaying an optimistic shift from the June forecast of a 1% surge. The statement elucidated on the potential adjustments in policy dynamics, emphasizing the aim to revert inflation to the 2% mark, while also factoring in the intricate relations between monetary policy, economic activity, and inflation.
As the announcement permeated the markets, Bitcoin (BTC) remained relatively stable at around $27,200. However, subsequent comments by Fed Chair Jerome Powell, which hinted at more aggressive rate hikes given a robust economic performance, nudged Bitcoin’s value down to $26,900.
During his press address, Powell highlighted the consensus among the majority of Fed members, indicating the likelihood of an additional rate hike in the coming Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) sessions. He also acknowledged the positive trajectory in recent inflation trends.
Analysts Weigh in on Bitcoin’s Path Forward
Following the announcement, the broader market’s response was observed keenly by analysts and stakeholders. Michael Silberberg of AltTab Capital expressed surprise at the emphasis on fewer rate cuts than previously projected. Meanwhile, Noelle Acheson, a renowned crypto and macro analyst, zeroed in on the 2024 rate projections, suggesting the implications of removing two rate cuts from future considerations.
Despite the initial reactions, the prevailing sentiment remains cautiously optimistic. Acheson alluded to the potential buying support at Bitcoin‘s current levels, despite the external pressures from higher rates and stock market fluctuations. Furthermore, research firm Asgard Markets anticipated some profit-booking post the Fed’s announcement.
Zach Pandl of Grayscale Research reflected on the Federal Reserve’s expectation of a ‘soft landing,’ noting that past instances in the mid-1990s were favorable for technology-centric assets. Drawing a parallel, he postulated a positive scenario for cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ether (ETH) in the event of another ‘soft landing’.
