Fed’s Beige Book Indicates Economic Stagnation, Market Jitters Ensue

The Federal Reserve’s Beige Book, published on November 27, 2025, reveals stable U.S. economic activity but highlights declining consumer spending and employment with differing policy opinions on interest rates.

The report influences cryptocurrency markets, triggering a sharp Bitcoin fall amidst economic uncertainty, lacking official responses from key Federal Reserve members and significant crypto figures.

Beige Book Sparks Market Turbulence, Bitcoin Plunges 18%

The Federal Reserve’s Beige Book release captured economic conditions as broadly unchanged, with nuances in consumer expenditure and pricing dynamics. While employment has dipped slightly, price increases remained moderate. Federal Reserve policymakers are divided, influencing potential policy changes at the December meeting. This indecisiveness raises market uncertainty, especially regarding interest rate adjustments.

Market volatility increased, influencing risk assets like Bitcoin, facing an 18% weekly decline. The cryptocurrency market reflects these tensions as traditional equity markets react similarly. Shortened trading weeks and reduced liquidity have further amplified this volatility. Despite these movements, no definitive statements from prominent financial leaders offer clarity, leaving investors in suspense.

“The labor market is showing gradual cooling of supply and demand,” said Philip Jefferson, Vice Chair of the Federal Reserve. source

Historical Context, Price Data, and Expert Insights

Did you know? In January 2025, a positive Beige Book sparked increased risk appetites leading to a swift upward trend in both equity and cryptocurrency markets, contrasting present cautious economic assessments.

Bitcoin (BTC), currently valued at $90,514.24 with a market cap of $1.81 trillion and a 58.32% market dominance, faced a 0.82% price drop over seven days, illustrating recent volatility. According to CoinMarketCap, Bitcoin experienced a significant 20.69% decrease over the past month, showcasing prolonged market pressure.

Analysis by Coincu suggests potential regulatory outcomes could further shake markets. Depending on Federal Reserve’s decisions on interest rates, the cryptocurrency landscape might see shifts in asset allocations. Historic trends indicate volatility often follows neutral or uncertain economic updates, possibly influencing future market moves.