Cryptocurrencies Face Pressure Amid Macroeconomic Concerns

Key Points:

  • Cryptocurrency market pressured, $550 million liquidated amid macroeconomic issues.
  • Bitcoin dipped briefly below $87,000.
  • Market volatility remains amid US government shutdown risks.

On January 26, crypto markets faced pressure, triggering over $550 million in leveraged long position liquidations, with Bitcoin and Ethereum experiencing significant declines amid macroeconomic uncertainties.

The market’s response highlights prevailing investor concerns over geopolitical tensions and economic instability, with potential impacts on cryptocurrency volatility and defensive trading strategies in the near term.

Bitcoin Below $87,000 Amid Global Economic Tensions

Bitcoin saw a brief dip below $87,000 amid mounting concerns over macroeconomic elements. Contributing factors included proposed 100% tariffs on Canadian imports and the potential US government shutdown. The uncertainty about US-Japan foreign exchange strategies also influenced market dynamics.

With these macroeconomic concerns, the cryptocurrency derivatives market has opted for defensive strategies. Notable shifts in put option positioning and increased implied volatility reflect a cautious outlook. Safe-haven assets, including gold and silver, continued their upward trajectory amidst this market unease.

The crypto community has responded with heightened anxiety, especially regarding the implications of a partial US government shutdown. As Alex Johnson, Research Advisor at Blockchain Research Institute, remarked, “The looming threat of a US government shutdown is playing a significant role in the uncertainty currently plaguing the markets, impacting cryptocurrency valuations.” As the Federal Reserve’s upcoming decisions approach, investors remain alert to any shifts in anticipated guidance that could further impact the crypto market.

Historical Market Trends Reflect Political Influence on Bitcoin

Did you know? Amid past government shutdowns, Bitcoin’s price experienced similar pressures, exemplified by its decline during the 2018–2019 shutdown, showing how political uncertainties can directly influence cryptocurrency markets.

Bitcoin’s recent price at $87,724.88 reflects a volatile trading landscape, with a 24-hour trading volume of $47.24 billion and a market cap of $1.75 trillion. Despite the 59.11% market dominance, Bitcoin has experienced a 0.49% decrease over the past day, according to CoinMarketCap.


bitcoin-daily-chart-5875
Bitcoin(BTC), daily chart, screenshot on CoinMarketCap at 09:08 UTC on January 26, 2026. Source: CoinMarketCap

The Coincu research team anticipates that volatile market conditions will persist, with potential financial ramifications tied to ongoing macroeconomic developments. Regulatory pivots or further technological advancements could alter investor behaviors amidst the prevailing economic landscape.

Source: https://coincu.com/markets/crypto-pressure-economic-turbulence/