Bitcoin remains in a narrow range amid rising war risks and postponed rate cut expectations

ChainCatcher news, cryptocurrency trading platform QCP Capital stated that bitcoin is currently oscillating narrowly around $66,000. Over the weekend, heightened tensions in the Middle East briefly pushed the price down to a low of $60,000, but it soon returned to the recent trading range.

Analysts pointed out that the initial drop triggered about $300 millions in long liquidations, but compared to the disorderly sell-offs earlier this year and in 2025, this round of deleveraging was relatively mild. Macro factors are also important; the prolonged expectation of tightening by the Federal Reserve keeps the opportunity cost of non-yielding assets high. Stephen Coltman, Head of Macro at 21Shares, said that wars have historically had inflationary effects, driving up commodity prices and widening fiscal deficits. Even if risk assets are initially volatile, it may complicate the outlook for rate cuts.

Amid escalating military conflict in the Middle East and uncertainty over Federal Reserve policy, the cryptocurrency Fear and Greed Index showed a reading of 15 on Monday, indicating an "extreme fear" level.