Crypto Market News: Bitcoin Price Holds While Ethereum, XRP Crash 5%

The total crypto market cap fell to $2.71 trillion, down 3.0% over the past 24 hours. Bitcoin is holding relatively steady at $77,285.98, also down 3.0%, but altcoins are bearing the brunt of today’s selloff. Ethereum dropped to $2,438.53, XRP fell to $1.36, and Solana slipped to exactly $100.00, all posting losses in the 3-5% range. Zcash, HYPE and DOGE posted losses more than 7% each.

Hot Inflation Data Triggers the Selloff

The catalyst came from Washington. US Producer Price Index data came in at 5.4%, above the 5.3% forecast and the highest reading in two months. The hotter-than-expected inflation print rattled markets broadly, not just crypto, gold and silver lost a combined $490 billion in market value within an hour of the data release.

A Global Rate Story Adding Pressure

The PPI shock wasn’t the only central bank news moving markets today. The European Central Bank raised interest rates by 25 basis points to 2.65%, its highest level in 18 months, adding to a broader tightening narrative weighing on risk assets worldwide.

Oil Prices Erase the Peace Dividend

Oil surged above $99 a barrel for the first time in 15 weeks, according to Bull Theory, completely wiping out the price declines that followed the recent US-Iran peace agreement. President Trump added to the pressure, saying the US isn’t seeking a new deal with Iran and that oil prices won’t meaningfully fall until “right after” the midterm elections, even as he predicted prices would eventually tumble. Brent crude extended its gains above $101 a barrel following those comments.