Crypto Market Plunges: Traders Lose $500M as Bitcoin, XRP, and PEPE Tumble Amid Fed Fears

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Market Overview: Sharp Decline in Crypto Sector

The cryptocurrency market experienced a significant downturn, shrinking by 6% within 24 hours. The total market capitalization dropped to $3.2 trillion**, with traders facing over **$500 million in liquidations. This negative reaction was triggered by stronger-than-expected US jobs data, fueling fears of a more hawkish Federal Reserve policy.

Bitcoin Market Updates: BTC Drops to $97K

Bitcoin's bullish momentum in early 2025 came to an abrupt halt as prices plunged 6% from $102,750** before stabilizing near **$97,000. Despite the downturn, Bitcoin ETFs recorded $987 million in inflows on January 6, partly influenced by the resignation of US Fed Vice President Michael Barr.

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Altcoin Market Crash: XRP, ADA, and AVAX Lose Gains

The altcoin market faced severe losses, with over $220 billion exiting the global crypto market in 24 hours. Key altcoins impacted include:

CryptocurrencyPrice DeclineKey Support Level
Avalanche (AVAX)11%$33
Chainlink (LINK)10.4%$20
Ripple (XRP)7%$0.55

Notable Trends:

Chart of the Day: $500M Liquidations Amid Market Crash

The cryptocurrency market's sharp decline led to $500 million in liquidations, with BTC and ETH accounting for the majority. Key highlights:

The downturn was fueled by Fed Chair Jerome Powell's comments, suggesting fewer rate cuts in Q1 2025. Stronger JOLTs job data reinforced hawkish expectations, further dampening investor confidence.

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Latest Crypto News Updates

1. Coinbase Wins Rare Legal Appeal Against SEC

Judge Katherine Polk Failla granted Coinbase an interlocutory appeal, allowing it to challenge SEC claims in the Second Circuit Court. The SEC alleges Coinbase operates as an unregistered exchange and offers unregistered securities via staking.

2. CFTC Chair Rostin Behnam Resigns

Behnam, known for aggressive crypto enforcement, resigned effective January 20. His tenure included a $4.3B settlement with Binance for unlicensed derivatives trading.

3. Canada’s PM Front-Runner Backs Crypto

Pierre Poilievre, Conservative Party leader, advocates for crypto-friendly policies, opposing CBDCs and supporting tax treatment of crypto as commodities.

FAQ Section

❓ Why did the crypto market crash?

The market reacted to strong US jobs data, suggesting a hawkish Fed policy, leading to mass liquidations and bearish sentiment.

❓ Which cryptocurrencies were hit hardest?

BTC, ETH, XRP, AVAX, and memecoins (DOGE, SHIB, PEPE) saw significant declines, with some losing 10% or more.

❓ Will the market recover soon?

While short-term volatility persists, long-term recovery depends on Fed policy shifts and broader economic trends.

❓ What should traders do now?

Avoid over-leveraging, monitor Fed announcements, and consider diversifying portfolios to mitigate risk.


Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Always conduct your own research before making investment decisions.


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