On December 18, 2024, in a move that shook the cryptocurrency market, Bitcoin fell below USD $100,000, losing over USD $6,000 within hours.
This decline occurred after the United States Federal Reserve (FED) made comments suggesting a future of tighter monetary policies, creating uncertainty among investors.
The drop represented a loss of over 5% of Bitcoin’s value and contributed to a $1.6 billion reduction in the global cryptocurrency market capitalization.
The sharp decline followed the FED’s announcement of an additional 0.25% rate cut, bringing interest rates to 4.5%. While markets initially welcomed this move, projections of less flexible policies in 2025 raised doubts among investors. Expectations of higher medium-term interest rates weakened the appeal of risk assets like Bitcoin, which had just reached a new all-time high of over USD $108,000 the day before.
Adding to the situation were remarks from FED Chair Jerome Powell, who ruled out the possibility of considering Bitcoin as a viable asset for national treasury reserves. These comments amplified bearish sentiment toward the cryptocurrency, triggering a wave of mass sell-offs that deepened the fall. Powell’s stance highlights the FED’s traditional view of cryptocurrencies as volatile and speculative.
The decline’s impact wasn’t limited to Bitcoin; the broader cryptocurrency market was dragged down by the poor performance. Major altcoins such as Ethereum and Binance Coin also recorded significant losses, while analysts warn of a potentially prolonged period of volatility. This phenomenon has also raised doubts about the sector’s short-term recovery capabilities, especially given the macroeconomic backdrop.
Investors are now focusing on the FED’s upcoming decisions and their impact on financial markets. Although Bitcoin has demonstrated remarkable recovery capability in the past, experts suggest that current conditions could hinder a swift rebound. Opinions remain divided: some see this downturn as a buying opportunity, while others warn of further potential declines.
In conclusion, Bitcoin’s recent plunge reflects the significant influence of FED monetary policies on cryptocurrency markets. Amid prevailing uncertainty, investors should exercise caution and carefully evaluate their strategies. This episode underscores Bitcoin’s vulnerability to external factors, emphasizing the need for a balanced approach to digital asset management.
