Bitcoin, Ethereum and XRP Prices Slip Amid Global Risk‑Off

Cryptocurrency prices fell on Friday as a broad risk‑off move hit financial markets. Bitcoin slipped below $63,000, trading around $62,600, while Ethereum dropped to about $1,856 and XRP hovered near $1.06. The total crypto market capitalization fell 2.4% to roughly $2.16 trillion and liquidations topped $335 million.

The sell‑off was driven by macroeconomic factors: the U.S. Federal Reserve and Japan’s Bank of Japan left interest rates unchanged, reinforcing expectations of prolonged higher rates. Reports that U.S. authorities might intervene to support the Japanese yen sparked concerns about the unwinding of the yen‑carry trade, prompting investors to cut risk assets, including cryptocurrencies. The market also reacted to a reported $40 million Bitcoin theft involving Coldcard wallets.

Earlier in the week, earnings from crypto‑related firms Mara Holdings and Circle were anticipated, with analysts expecting losses that could further pressure sentiment. The Crypto Fear & Greed Index remained at a low 27, indicating continued market anxiety.