US September FOMC Minutes and Rate Cut Influence Bitcoin Markets Amid Shutdown

Bitcoin has surged past the $120,000 mark amid heightened attention on U.S. economic events that could influence its short-term trajectory. Key among these is the release of the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) minutes from September, which followed the Federal Reserve's first rate cut in nine months, lowering the federal funds rate to 4.00–4.25%. Investors are closely watching for clues about future rate cuts, as more easing could boost Bitcoin prices, while a pause might trigger a sell-off. Additionally, speeches by Federal Reserve officials, especially Chair Jerome Powell, are expected to impact market sentiment, with Powell emphasizing the assessment of financial conditions in policy decisions. Despite some economists suggesting the FOMC minutes may not dramatically move markets due to the lack of economic projections, their insights into the Fed's rationale remain crucial for investors. This renewed sensitivity to U.S. economic data marks a shift from earlier in 2025 when such data had less impact on crypto markets.