Markets
Crypto markets: a third week of decline ahead of the Fed decision
The crypto-asset market recorded a third consecutive week of correction between October 19 and 26, as investors reposition themselves cautiously ahead of the next decision by the US Federal Reserve on interest rates. The dynamic illustrates an increased sensitivity of Bitcoin and large-cap prices to monetary policy expectations.
Between October 19 and 25, 2026, Bitcoin fell by about 2.4%, ending the week around 71 700 € (80 154 $) after a high near 75 900 € (84 898 $). This third week of consecutive decline comes amid a wait-and-see stance ahead of the Fed meeting, as markets weigh the probability of a hold or a further adjustment to policy rates. Traders appear to be gradually reducing their risk exposure, with no specific catalyst within the crypto ecosystem over this period.
On the evening of October 26, the retreat continued: Bitcoin was trading around 71 300 € (79 817 $), down about 0.28% on the session, while Ether gave up 0.58% to trade near 2 070 € (2 313,61 $). A basket of large caps including BTC, ETH, SOL, NEAR, XRP and ADA showed negative moves ranging from 0.05% to 1.43% on the day. These moderate declines, in the absence of major news, fit within the broader market correction.
According to estimates as of October 26, 2026, total crypto market capitalization reached about 2,42 billions of euros (2,71 billions of dollars), with Bitcoin dominance at around 59.5%. This concentration underscores the central role of the asset in the market’s overall dynamics: BTC pullback phases continue to mechanically weigh on the whole segment. At the same time, outflows recorded from traditional investment vehicles illustrate a broader repositioning of investors in the face of macroeconomic uncertainty.
US spot Bitcoin ETFs recorded net outflows of several hundred million euros over the week, including a single session marked by about 568 M€ (635,5 M$) of negative flows. In derivatives, more than 723 M€ (810 M$) of positions were liquidated in 24 hours during a volatility spike, mostly long positions. These elements confirm the fragility of leveraged positions on an asset class that is highly reactive to rate expectations. With the Fed decision approaching, caution remains the rule among many market participants.