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Crypto
Source: Newsmaker.id
The cryptocurrency market trended downward during Tuesday evening’s trading session (October 20, 2026), as investors grew increasingly cautious regarding the global economic climate.
Bitcoin (BTC)—the largest cryptocurrency by market capitalization—hovered between US$81,000 and US$82,000 after facing persistent pressure throughout the day. In morning trading, Bitcoin fell 1.23% to approximately US$81,369, while Ethereum (ETH) weakened by 1.4% to US$2,387. This decline reflects waning appetite for risk assets amid uncertainty surrounding the future direction of United States monetary policy.
The pressure on the crypto market also extended to several major altcoins, including Solana (SOL) and XRP, both of which saw declines today. This negative momentum comes as global financial markets grapple with heightened geopolitical risks in the Middle East and a sharp spike in crude oil prices. With Brent crude trading above US$110 per barrel, concerns regarding global inflation have resurfaced—particularly if disruptions to energy supplies persist. Consequently, investors are becoming more selective when allocating capital to high-risk instruments, including digital assets.
From a fundamental perspective, investor attention is focused on the upcoming Federal Reserve meeting scheduled for October 27–28, 2026. High energy costs could intensify inflationary pressures in the U.S., potentially prompting the central bank to maintain a restrictive monetary policy for longer. The prospect of sustained high interest rates poses a challenge for the crypto market, as it may constrain liquidity and enhance the appeal of interest-bearing investment vehicles. Although the U.S. Dollar Index has shown signs of weakness, it has not been sufficient to trigger a broad-based recovery for Bitcoin or Ethereum. Looking ahead, market participants are expected to closely monitor Bitcoin’s movement around the psychological level of US$80,000, as well as Ethereum’s ability to sustain momentum near the US$2,400 mark. Should selling pressure intensify and global sentiment deteriorate, both assets could face further volatility. Conversely, an easing of geopolitical tensions, a decline in oil prices, and signals of a more dovish policy stance from the Federal Reserve could pave the way for a recovery in crypto assets. Nevertheless, investors should remain cautious of rapid shifts in sentiment, given that the crypto market operates 24 hours a day and is highly sensitive to global economic developments.
Newsmaker Conclusion
The cryptocurrency market continues to exhibit a bearish bias in the short term, driven primarily by inflationary pressures and uncertainty regarding the Federal Reserve’s interest rate trajectory.
Bitcoin needs to hold the US$80,000 psychological level to keep recovery prospects alive. If selling pressure persists, the risk of further weakness could increase. On the other hand, should global sentiment improve, Bitcoin could potentially retest the US$83,000–US$85,000 range. These levels should be viewed as areas to watch, rather than definitive price targets.
Key market focus for tonight: the Federal Reserve’s interest rate outlook, global oil prices, and investor sentiment toward risk assets.
Source: Newsmaker.id