Why Is Crypto Easing Today?
Bitcoin, Ethereum and Altcoins Slip Amid Profit-Taking and Macro Cues
After a week of strong gains, major cryptocurrencies are easing as traders lock in profits and digest new macroeconomic signals. Over the past 24 hours, Bitcoin, Ethereum, and key altcoins dropped between 0.3% and 4%, reflecting a pause in momentum while sentiment remains cautiously optimistic.
Market Overview – Price Snapshot
Bitcoin (BTC): $103,544 ▼0.32%
Ethereum (ETH): $2,492.89 ▼1.2%
Solana (SOL): $168.22 ▼2.74%
Cardano (ADA): $0.7614 ▼2.80%
Key Drivers Behind the Pullback
1. Profit-Taking & Low Liquidity
Recent rallies driven by ETF inflows and rising risk appetite have prompted profit-taking, especially in smaller-cap tokens. “The market is pausing due to profit-taking and thin liquidity,” said CoinPanel CEO Aran Hawker.
2. Macroeconomic Shifts
A softer-than-expected U.S. inflation reading on May 14 boosted hopes for Federal Reserve rate cuts later this year. Additionally, a major US-Saudi trade deal has lifted global risk sentiment, offering broader market support.
3. Institutional Inflows Stay Strong
Bitcoin ETF inflows hit $150 million on May 13, signaling continued institutional interest. On-chain data also shows Bitcoin’s active addresses rose 5%, highlighting growing user participation.
Technical Picture
Bitcoin remains strong above its $100,000 support. A break above $105,000 may trigger a rally toward $120,000, while a fall below $98,000 could lead to deeper corrections.
What’s Next?
Markets now eye Coinbase’s S&P 500 inclusion on May 19, expected to bring passive fund inflows to the crypto space. Investors should track Fed commentary, ETF activity, and liquidity for the next move.
