News View Non-AMP

Trump 48 Hours Deadline Countdown Puts Markets on Edge as Bitcoin Faces Sell-Off

Published by
Rizwan Ansari and Sohrab Khawas

U.S. President Donald Trump’s 48-hour ultimatum on the Strait of Hormuz is about to expire, keeping global markets on high alert. Following this, gold and silver together lost nearly $2 trillion in value.

The crypto market also took a hit, dropping $412 million in the last 24 hours, with Bitcoin alone seeing $121 million in liquidations.

However, Financial experts have outlined two possible scenarios for what could happen next.

Trump Hormuz Ultimatum Global Markets on Edge

On 22nd March, President Trump posted on Truth Social that the U.S. could strike Iran’s power plants if the Strait of Hormuz is not fully reopened. This has raised geopolitical tensions.

The Strait of Hormuz is a key oil route, handling about 30% of the world’s oil supply. Any disruption could push oil prices higher. Oil is currently near $110 per barrel, down from its peak of $154. The price drop happened after the G7 and IEA announced a release of 400 million barrels from their reserves to ease shortages.

Meanwhile responded strongly to Trump’s threat, Iran warned that any attack would lead to retaliation against energy and oil infrastructure in the region. Officials said this could keep oil prices high for a long time. 

Two Possible Market Scenarios

These tensions are worrying financial markets, including crypto, as rising oil prices can increase inflation. Thus, traders are now preparing for two possible scenarios.

  • Resolution or Partial Reopening

In the first case, a resolution or partial reopening of the Strait could bring short-term relief. That outcome may trigger a temporary bounce in Bitcoin and equities, especially if vessels resume movement and ceasefire discussions emerge.

Perhaps analysts believe that any rally may be limited due to upcoming inflation data.

  • No Deal or Escalation

In the second scenario, if tensions continue or escalate, Bitcoin’s price could hit the $66,000–$67,000 range. A drop below this could trigger deeper losses, especially if oil prices surge and liquidity tightens. 

Risk assets often struggle when geopolitical stress combines with rising inflation expectations.

Market Awaits as Countdown Begins

Since the start of the U.S.-Israel and Iran conflict, the crypto market has struggled and moved mostly sideways. Last week, Bitcoin jumped to $76K due to strong ETF inflows from institutional investors. However, it has now lost those gains and is trading below $68K.

Traders are also closely watching upcoming inflation data. High inflation usually puts pressure on risk assets like crypto, so any short-term rally could fade if the data comes in strong.

Tonight’s market moves are being seen as a preview of what’s coming next. 

FAQs

Why did crypto markets drop after the Hormuz tensions?

Geopolitical risk pushes investors toward safer assets. Rising oil prices also fuel inflation fears, which typically pressure Bitcoin and other risk assets.

How could the Strait of Hormuz situation impact Bitcoin price?

If tensions ease, Bitcoin may rebound short term. If conflict escalates, prices could drop toward $66K as inflation fears and liquidity tighten.

Why do oil prices affect crypto and stock markets?

Higher oil prices increase inflation, leading central banks to tighten policy. This reduces liquidity, which often weakens crypto and equity markets.

Trust with CoinPedia:

CoinPedia has been delivering accurate and timely cryptocurrency and blockchain updates since 2017. All content is created by our expert panel of analysts and journalists, following strict Editorial Guidelines based on E-E-A-T (Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, Trustworthiness). Every article is fact-checked against reputable sources to ensure accuracy, transparency, and reliability. Our review policy guarantees unbiased evaluations when recommending exchanges, platforms, or tools. We strive to provide timely updates about everything crypto & blockchain, right from startups to industry majors.

Investment Disclaimer:

All opinions and insights shared represent the author's own views on current market conditions. Please do your own research before making investment decisions. Neither the writer nor the publication assumes responsibility for your financial choices.

Sponsored and Advertisements:

Sponsored content and affiliate links may appear on our site. Advertisements are marked clearly, and our editorial content remains entirely independent from our ad partners.

Rizwan Ansari and Sohrab Khawas

Rizwan is an experienced Crypto journalist with almost half a decade of experience covering everything related to the growing crypto industry — from price analysis to blockchain disruption. During this period, he’s authored more than 3,000 news articles for Coinpedia News.

Recent Posts

Exclusive: India’s Crypto Future Hinges on Clarity, Not Just Taxes — CoinSwitch Co-founder Speaks

India’s crypto story is moving forward, but not without friction. In an exclusive conversation with…

May 3, 2026

Is B Crypto Price 60% Rally Driven by Hype Sustainable?

The B crypto price just did what most altcoins only dream about thats by ripping…

May 2, 2026

LAB Crypto Price Explodes 210% as Derivatives Frenzy Takes Over

The LAB crypto price didn’t just rally today it detonated. Up over 210% intraday and…

May 2, 2026

Chainlink Price Prediction: On-Chain Metrics Turn Positive – Is LINK Entering Accumulation Phase?

Chainlink (LINK) is flashing early accumulation signals beneath the surface as on-chain metrics begin to…

May 2, 2026

Donald Trump Net Worth Hits $6.5B as Crypto Leads Growth

Forbes data shows President Donald Trump’s net worth has climbed sharply since returning to the…

May 2, 2026

Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs See Strong Inflows on May 1

On May 1, U.S. spot Bitcoin ETFs recorded strong net inflows of $630 million, signaling…

May 2, 2026