Crypto Markets Brace for Volatility as Key Economic Data Arrives

• Forex Factory’s calendar suggests a volatile week for the crypto market.
• Macroeconomic indicators affect the crypto market in different ways.
• US PPI and Core PPI data this Wednesday could trigger volatility in crypto markets.

Bitcoin broke above $73,000 in the early hours of Monday as most users expect an active week for the cryptocurrency market. Participants in the crypto market are focusing on the potential effects of several economic data releases, particularly from the US and other major economies, that may trigger significant volatility across the broader crypto market and determine the next direction.

The economic data release schedule for the third week of March in the US, Europe, and Asia is packed. According to Forex Factory’s calendar, here are some of the most sensitive market data points that typically inject volatility into the cryptocurrency market, including their release schedules.

Monday (Canadian CPI)

The Canadian CPI is the most crucial macroeconomic release for Monday, March 16, based on historical performances and users’ expectations. It measures the change in price of goods and services purchased by consumers in the past month. Traders care about this data because it reflects overall inflation and helps the central bank to decide on interest rates.

Tuesday (February Pending Home Sales data)

The February Pending Home Sales data scheduled for release on Tuesday typically has a limited effect on crypto prices. It is a leading indicator for the US economy and, when correlated with other market factors, could trigger significant volatility. A surprise increase in pending sales would reflect resilience in the US economy, which traders would consider positive for the market.

Wednesday (US PPI and FOMC)

The US PPI is one of several indicators that could trigger significant volatility in the crypto market this week. It measures the change in prices that producers receive for finished goods and services. Alongside the headline figure, traders also monitor Core PPI, which excludes volatile food and energy components to provide a clearer view of underlying inflation trends. These indicators help traders gauge inflation pressures because when producers charge more for goods and services, higher costs are often passed on to consumers. 

Market participants also analyze the data in the context of signals from the Federal Reserve, particularly statements from the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC), which uses inflation indicators when assessing future interest-rate policy.

Thursday (US Unemployment Claims)

This coming Thursday could be the busiest day in the crypto market in a while because of several sensitive economic releases worldwide. Top global economies, including Australia, Japan, China, Europe, and the US, have notable macroeconomic indicators to publicize. One of the most highly expected indicators is the US Unemployment Claims, which measures the number of individuals who filed for unemployment insurance for the first time in the past week.

Traders consider this indicator a crucial signal of overall economic health because consumer spending is highly correlated with labor-market conditions. It is also a major consideration for US monetary policymakers and could influence the nation’s next economic direction.

Friday (PCE Inflation)

The PCE inflation figures to be released on Friday could wrap up a busy week for the crypto market and clear the path for the next short-term direction. That, alongside other less sensitive news, will form the backdrop for what could become a resurgent season for cryptocurrencies or another window of volatility.

Typically, traders stay alert during such periods to observe how the market reacts, aiming to capitalize on price movements to target profitable trading opportunities.

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