Crypto Market Crash Today: Liquidations Surge Past $1B Amid Macro Pressure?

The crypto market has witnessed a significant downturn today, with the total market capitalization dropping by 2.93% to $3.21 trillion. In contrast, trading volumes have surged by 39.75%, reaching $144.4 billion, suggesting a wave of panic selling or forced exits. Amidst this volatility, crypto ETF outflows recorded a sizable $267.1 million withdrawal. Surprisingly, the Fear & Greed Index remains relatively stable at 46, indicating neutral sentiment despite sharp market reactions. 

Why Did the Crypto Market Crash Today?

The following catalysts triggered a domino effect of selling across major tokens.

1. Political & Social Sentiment: A public dispute between Donald Trump and Elon Musk around policy bills further rattled market confidence, sparking debate and confusion across social media.
   
2. Mass Liquidation Events: High-leverage positions across multiple assets faced forced closures, exacerbating the downward momentum.
   
3. Macroeconomic Headwinds: Investors are anxious ahead of the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ release of non-farm payroll data and the unemployment rate later today. These figures could heavily influence Fed policy, prompting cautious sentiment.

Crypto Liquidations Hit $1 Billion

In the past 24 hours, the crypto market bore over $1 billion in liquidations, a majority of which were $900 million+ worth of long positions. Short liquidations made up just around $100 million, clearly reflecting the bull trap that caught over-leveraged buyers off guard. Bitcoin alone saw $341.76 million in liquidations, followed closely by Ethereum at $285.99 million.

Top exchanges like Bybit with $352M, and Binance with $248M led the tally in liquidated positions, with more than 89% of these being long trades. This steep wipeout not only intensified the sell-off but also hints at growing nervousness among traders, especially those relying on leveraged gains.

What to Expect Next?

Despite today’s fall, the neutral score in the Fear & Greed Index suggests the market isn’t in a full-blown panic yet. Looking at the chart, the total crypto market cap has slipped from above $3.3 trillion to $3.17 trillion, signaling a break below key support. The 9-day SMA at $3.23T now acts as a resistance. If the market fails to reclaim this level soon, further downside toward $3T is likely. 

If you are keen on Bitcoin’s future, our Bitcoin (BTC) Price Prediction 2025, 2026-2030 is a must-read!

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