In recent weeks, the global economy has been grappling with heightened volatility across multiple asset classes, including cryptocurrencies.

This turbulence is driven largely by macroeconomic factors — particularly central bank policies — which have created significant uncertainty for investors worldwide.

The Federal Reserve’s steadfast decision to maintain interest rates at 5.25-5.50% despite inflation already falling below 3% has introduced considerable strain on the broader economy.

The banking sector is bearing the brunt of this pressure. That much is evident in the small and regional banking scares we’ve witnessed over the last year. Elevated interest rates have increased the cost of borrowing, compressing margins for banks that are heavily exposed to interest rate risk.

Meanwhile, the Bank of Japan’s (BOJ) recent decision to raise interest rates to 0.25% — the first hike in a prolonged period — has also sent shockwaves through global markets. The BOJ’s subsequent walk-back on a future rate hike signals underscores the fragility of the current economic environment.

Ripple Effects in the Crypto Markets

This macroeconomic volatility has not only rattled traditional markets but also bled into the cryptocurrency space, a sector already known for its inherent volatility.

Bitcoin (BTC), often viewed as a barometer for the broader crypto market, has experienced sharp price swings in response to these macroeconomic developments.

Believe it or not, BTC was trading for just under $70,000 at the end of July. It then proceeded to slip all the way down to under $50,000 following the news out of Japan.

Bitcoin then managed to climb to above $62,000 last Thursday. Talk about a wild week.

The VIX, commonly referred to as the “fear gauge,” surged above 60 last week — a level not seen since the March 2020 COVID-19 crash. This spike in market fear underscores the widespread uncertainty that is influencing investor behavior across all asset classes, including crypto.

Historically, cryptocurrencies have been sensitive to shifts in macroeconomic conditions.

During times of financial stress, as was evident during the COVID-19 pandemic, crypto markets can see dramatic price declines as investors rush to liquidate assets and preserve capital. Keep in mind that crypto is the only 24/7 market where one can liquidate their position for cash with no intermediaries.

However, once the dust settles, these same assets often become the beneficiaries of renewed interest, particularly as central banks and governments inject liquidity into the markets through monetary easing and fiscal stimulus.

In the current scenario, crypto markets are reacting to the broader financial environment in a similar fashion. The aggressive stance of central banks, particularly the Federal Reserve, has curtailed risk appetite across the board, leading to sell-offs in both traditional and digital assets.

However, the volatility in crypto could also present opportunities for savvy investors who understand the cyclical nature of these markets.

As central banks are eventually forced to pivot from their current hawkish policies — likely due to economic pressures or a need to stabilize financial systems — there could be a resurgence in demand for crypto assets, particularly as they are increasingly seen as a hedge against fiat currency devaluation and systemic risk.

Looking Ahead

In the short term, investors should brace for continued volatility as markets digest the ongoing macroeconomic developments.

The crypto market appears to be in the process of finding a bottom. It is very likely that last Monday was the true low to the recent price correction.

In fact, I still believe July 5 was the low of the price correction that started in March. This recent selloff was unforeseen and due to the weakness in Japan.

It’s best to look at these as two separate selloffs. In the days ahead we should have a much better understanding of the state of the market. For now, things are still a bit too uncertain.

The long-term outlook for crypto remains promising, especially as more institutional investors begin to recognize the potential of digital assets in a diversified portfolio.

There could still be a lot of fuel left for a massive crypto bull run, assuming traditional markets can stabilize in the months ahead.

The key will be staying informed, managing risk, and positioning oneself to capitalize on opportunities that arise during these turbulent times.

Editor’s Note: Cryptocurrency has been the best returning asset class of the last decade and is know for its parabolic bull markets. It is also a key to a truly diversified portfolio and one of the best hedges against the potential risks that lie ahead in markets. But you need to act now before institutions gobble it all up.

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This article previously appeared on Investing Daily.