Today, the crypto market suddenly dropped by 3.4% within just a few hours, wiping billions from the total market value. At the same time, Bitcoin price fell to a two-week low and is now trading around $66,510.
Other major cryptocurrencies like ETH, XRP, Solana, and AVAX also followed the drop, each falling around 5%. As a result, market sentiment has shifted to extreme fear, with the index at 23.
So, what is really causing the crypto market to crash today?
One of the biggest reasons behind the decline is the rising U.S. Treasury yields. The 10-year yield is nearing 4.5%, its highest level since July. Higher yields make risk assets like crypto less attractive as investors shift toward safer returns.
At the same time, the U.S. Dollar Index (DXY) rose 0.57% this week to 100.148. A stronger dollar usually puts pressure on Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies. Adding to uncertainty, the MOVE index, which tracks bond market volatility, jumped 18% in just 24 hours.
Analysts also point to geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, creating a risk-off environment, pushing traders away from volatile assets like crypto.
Another key factor is a large batch of Bitcoin and Ethereum options expiring this Friday. The total value of expiring contracts stands around $15.58 billion, with Bitcoin accounting for roughly $14 billion. The key level traders are watching is near $75,000, often called the “max pain” point.
Ethereum also has about $2.2 billion worth of options expiring, with a key level around $2,300. Large expiries like this often increase volatility as traders adjust positions before settlement.
Long liquidations also accelerated the drop. In the past 24 hours, 122,488 traders were liquidated, totaling $451.59 million. The largest single liquidation occurred on Hyperliquid, involving a BTC-USD position worth $3.96 million.
At the same time, institutional demand has also weakened. Bitcoin ETFs have recorded continued outflows this week, led by BlackRock, followed by Fidelity and Bitwise. This suggests large investors are reducing exposure during the current uncertainty.
As of now, Bitcoin trades near $66,500, down about 4%, while Ethereum hovers around $1,990, also showing notable losses as market pressure continues.
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