Asia Morning Briefing: BTC, ETH Markets Steady as Traders Await CPI and China-U.S. De-Escalation Signs

Market Overview - Crypto markets are currently in a holding pattern, with Bitcoin trading around $108,164, reflecting a slight increase from Monday but a 2% decline for the week, while Ether is near $3,815 [1] - The upcoming U.S. CPI report is anticipated to influence market sentiment, with QCP Capital noting that a softer 0.2% print could support Bitcoin's upside potential [2][3] Economic Indicators - The CPI report is viewed as the "singular anchor" for policy expectations, with potential implications for risk sentiment and liquidity in the market [3] - A recent liquidation event of $20 billion and collateral mispricing at Binance have largely settled, creating a cleaner environment for macro traders ahead of the CPI release [5] Crypto Market Dynamics - Bitcoin is consolidating above $108,000, with analysts suggesting that a dip below $100,000 could present a buying opportunity before a potential upward movement [6] - Ethereum is trading around $3,800, with a 33% increase in volume as traders position themselves ahead of inflation data; however, a significant transfer by the Ethereum Foundation has led to profit-taking and long liquidations [7] Gold Market Trends - Gold futures have experienced a record-setting sell-off, down 0.3% to $4,097.80 an ounce following a 5.7% drop, as investors take profits; however, strong central bank buying and expectations of rate cuts may provide support for bullion [8]