The latest decisions by the U.S. Federal Reserve (Fed) pose serious challenges to the development of the cryptocurrency market in 2025. Despite the third interest rate cut of the year, which lowered rates to 4.25–4.5% annually on December 18, the regulator's overall stance remains stricter than experts had anticipated, largely due to its cautious outlook on inflation. According to an analytical review by Catarina Saraiva, only two rate cuts are expected next year, reflecting the Fed's conservative approach to monetary policy.
Adding to these challenges is the projected growth of the Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) inflation index and core PCE inflation. The Financial Times notes that the Fed's tightening policy is driven by heightened attention to inflation risks and a commitment to ensuring the stability of the U.S. economy. Stock markets reacted immediately, with the Dow Jones, S&P 500, and Nasdaq indices dropping by 0.38%, 0.56%, and 0.64%, respectively.
The cryptocurrency market also faced significant pressure, with the total capitalization of digital assets declining by 4.62% to $3.48 trillion. According to Reuters, the combination of moderate rate cuts and the Fed's hawkish rhetoric could lead to prolonged market instability. Analysts at BloomingBit are warning investors to brace for heightened volatility and an extended period of uncertainty, underscoring the Fed's monetary policy as a central influence on market trends.
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