The reduction in inflation in the US in March 2023 raises optimism about the easing of the Federal Reserve's monetary policy, potentially benefiting cryptocurrency prices.
US Inflation Data
Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics showed that the Consumer Price Index (CPI) fell from 0.2% in February to -0.1% in March. Year-on-year inflation decreased from 2.8% to 2.4%, bringing it closer to the Fed's target of 2.0%.
The closely watched core CPI, which excludes volatile food and energy prices, also dropped from 0.2% to 0.1% month-over-month, pushing the annual core figure down to 2.8%. This marked the first time in years that core CPI fell below 3%.
Cryptocurrency Market Reaction
The inflation data led to a rally in prices for Bitcoin and altcoins. Bitcoin rose to $82,000, while Ethereum increased to $1,600, and XRP reached $2. The decline in inflation is expected to increase the likelihood of the Federal Reserve resuming interest rate cuts, which could serve as a positive factor for the cryptocurrency market.
Future Prospects for the Market
Falling inflation and slowing economic growth could push the Fed toward cutting interest rates, which would act as a bullish catalyst for Bitcoin and other altcoins. The previous bull run in the cryptocurrency market, which started in early 2023, was also connected to expectations of the Fed easing monetary policy.
The recent drop in inflation in the US could be a pivotal moment for the markets, as unfavorable conditions for cryptocurrencies come to an end. Expectations of changes in monetary policy will impact prices for Bitcoin and other digital assets, continuing to attract investor interest.