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Crypto is entering a volatile stretch as investors await the Federal Reserve’s rate decision at 2:00 p.m. ET. Fed Chair Jerome Powell takes the mic 30 minutes later.
Table of Contents
Rates staying put is the base case, and markets are fully expecting it.
- Crypto markets are in a wait-and-see mode ahead of the FOMC and Powell’s comments.
- No rate hike is widely expected, but Powell’s tone could trigger volatility.
- Bitcoin is trading near $90,182, stuck below $92,000 resistance, with downside risk toward $85,000.
- Ethereum holds above $3,000; a move above $3,300 could target $3,500, while a drop below $3,000 may reach $2,700.
- $BTC and $ETH price prediction depends on macro signals and market reaction to the Fed.
Macro uncertainty keeps traders on edge
With a 97%+ chance of no rate hike, this outcome is already priced in. What really matters is how Powell talks about inflation, the economy, and future policy. Even small shifts in his message have sparked big market moves in the past.
Crypto markets are in a wait-and-see mode. Past government shutdowns have spiked volatility, and Bitcoin has felt the pain, while fiscal concerns keep traders nervous. Many are bracing for the FOMC to add fuel to the uncertainty. Rate-cut expectations have cooled, making Powell the center of attention.
A hawkish stance on inflation or economic strength could spook the markets, but if there’s a suggestion that cuts could return later this year, crypto might bounce back with a bullish reaction.
Bitcoin price prediction: Range-bound but vulnerable
Bitcoin price is showing caution. Bitcoin ($BTC) is near $90,200, trading in a narrow range as traders await the Fed. The soft momentum is a sign of caution, not a strong bullish push.
On the charts, Bitcoin is still stuck below $92,000 resistance. A rejection could drag it toward $85,000, especially if Powell cools hopes for easing. The short-term Bitcoin price prediction is cautious, and volatility could jump after the FOMC.
Ethereum price prediction: Signs of relative strength
Ethereum price is holding firm. Ethereum ($ETH) stays above $3,000, with buyers defending key support while the market pauses. Like Bitcoin, $ETH is consolidating, but its technical picture looks better.
If the FOMC sparks favorable volatility, $ETH could jump above $3,300 and aim for $3,500. Fall below $3,000, though, and it might slide toward $2,700. The near-term Ethereum price prediction will hinge on how traders interpret the Fed’s guidance
Outlook after the FOMC
In short, the Bitcoin and Ethereum price predictions still hinge on macroeconomic signals. Interest rates are expected to hold steady, but Powell’s tone will likely determine how much risk investors are willing to take. With uncertainty set to clear after the FOMC meeting, traders should be prepared for sharp moves in crypto prices.