Bitcoin traded largely flat on Wednesday, pausing after Tuesday’s sharp gains as traders digested news of a proposed U.S.-China trade framework and awaited more clarity on both the deal and upcoming U.S. inflation data.
As of 02:08 ET (06:08 GMT), Bitcoin remained unchanged at $109,559.20, hovering just below the record high of $112,000 set last month amid rising optimism around institutional adoption and supportive regulation.
Tuesday’s Rally Fueled by Trade Hopes
Bitcoin surged on Tuesday, buoyed by a broader risk-on mood after the U.S. and China unveiled a preliminary agreement designed to revive the Geneva tariff truce. The framework includes lifting China’s rare earth export restrictions in exchange for the easing of U.S. export curbs on semiconductors.
U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick stated that the deal addresses key issues around rare earths and magnets, calling the framework “meat on the bones” of prior Geneva talks. However, the proposal still awaits formal approval from Presidents Trump and Xi, and key details remain scarce.
Crypto markets remained supported just below record highs but lacked fresh drivers to push higher, as investors awaited further developments.
All Eyes on U.S. CPI for Rate Cues
Investor focus is now shifting to the upcoming U.S. Consumer Price Index (CPI) report, which could be pivotal in shaping monetary policy expectations.
A cooler-than-expected CPI print may strengthen the case for a Federal Reserve rate cut, likely boosting interest in risk assets like Bitcoin. Conversely, a hotter reading could reinforce a higher-for-longer stance on rates, potentially cooling crypto enthusiasm.
Altcoins Continue to Climb on Optimism
Most altcoins rallied on Tuesday, extending gains on growing optimism surrounding global trade stability and continued institutional crypto interest:
- Ethereum (ETH) surged 4.6% to $2,783.94
- XRP rose 0.6% to $2.2923
- Solana (SOL) jumped 4.7%
- Cardano (ADA) gained 3%
- Polygon (MATIC) climbed 4.5%
Among meme coins, Dogecoin (DOGE) increased 3.5%, and $TRUMP token rose 2.2%, aided by continued political and social momentum.
Outlook: Consolidation or Continuation?
Whether Bitcoin can break past the $112K barrier and sustain its rally will likely hinge on the fine print of the U.S.-China trade deal and the direction of U.S. inflation trends.
With macroeconomic and geopolitical dynamics in focus, short-term consolidation remains a possibility—but any dovish Fed signals or positive trade developments could quickly reignite bullish momentum in the crypto markets.