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Jerome Powell Speech Today: Bitcoin and Altcoins Brace for Fed Interest Rate Cuts

Published by
Sohrab Khawas and Nidhi Kolhapur

Crypto markets are set for a volatile week as several major U.S. economic events take place, increasing uncertainty among investors. How crypto prices move in the coming days may indicate whether the market is heading for a deeper correction or preparing for a bullish move.

The key events start on January 28 with a speech by Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell. This will be followed by the release of U.S. initial jobless claims data on January 29.

The week concludes on January 30 with U.S. Producer Price Index (PPI) inflation data and rumors of a U.S. government shutdown. Both developments could strongly impact the cryptocurrency market.

Jerome Powell Speech and Impact on the Crypto Market

Historically, U.S. government shutdowns have negatively impacted the crypto market. During the previous shutdown, Bitcoin dropped sharply, raising fears that similar selling pressure could return if uncertainty increases.

At the same time, markets expect the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) to keep interest rates unchanged. While this outcome is mostly priced in, investor reaction will depend on Jerome Powell’s comments. A hawkish tone could lead to widespread sell-offs, while hints of future rate cuts may support a bullish move in crypto markets.

Bitcoin Price Forecast Ahead of FOMC Meeting Today

Bitcoin has been moving inside a parallel price channel since November, but recently slipped below a key support level, raising fresh concerns about a possible shift in trend. This move could either be a false breakdown meant to shake out overleveraged long positions or the beginning of a more sustained bearish phase.

For now, as long as Bitcoin trades below the $92,000 mark, it is viewed as being in a higher-risk zone. Technical charts suggest prices could fall toward the $85,000–$86,000 area, with stronger weekly support sitting lower, around $75,000–$77,000. If BTC Price fails to move back above the channel’s resistance, the market could see a deeper correction over the next two to three weeks.

Ethereum and Altcoins Under Pressure

Ethereum price is also under pressure, struggling to hold its channel support. On the weekly chart, ETH remains capped below the key $3,000 resistance level. If this barrier continues to hold, there is a growing risk of a move down toward $2,700, with additional support expected between $2,300 and $2,700. 

A clear break below $2,700 could speed up losses toward the $2,261 zone.

The broader altcoin market looks even more fragile. The Total3 market capitalization index, which tracks crypto assets excluding Bitcoin and Ethereum, has already slipped below its channel support. If the $788 billion level does not hold, the next major support appears near $686 billion, signaling the possibility of heavier selling pressure across smaller-cap tokens.

FAQs

What impact does Jerome Powell’s speech have on crypto prices?

Powell’s tone can drive crypto volatility; hawkish hints may trigger sell-offs, while dovish comments could boost bullish momentum.

At what time does Powell’s speech start and where to watch it?

Powell speaks on January 28 at 10:00 a.m. ET; you can watch live via the Federal Reserve’s official website or major financial news channels.

Do stock market trends affect cryptocurrencies?

Crypto often mirrors equities; strong stock drops can trigger crypto sell-offs, while bullish markets may lift digital assets.

Should traders watch traditional markets when trading crypto?

Absolutely, trends in stocks, gold, and silver provide clues on risk appetite and potential crypto price swings.

Sohrab Khawas and Nidhi Kolhapur

Sohrab is a passionate cryptocurrency news writer with over five years of experience covering the industry. He keeps a keen interest in blockchain technology and its potential to revolutionize finance. Whether he's trading or writing, Sohrab always keeps his finger on the pulse of the crypto world, using his expertise to deliver informative and engaging articles that educate and inspire. When he's not analyzing the markets, Sohrab indulges in his hobbies of graphic design, minimal design or listening to his favorite hip-hop tunes.

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