Bitcoin, Ethereum $4.3B Options Expire Ahead Fed Decision

Nearly $4.3 billion in Bitcoin and Ethereum options contracts are set to expire today, a significant event that could trigger volatility in the cryptocurrency markets ahead of the Federal Reserve's anticipated interest rate decision. Bitcoin options, valued at $3.42 billion with a put-to-call ratio of 1.31, indicate cautious trader sentiment with more demand for downside protection, while Ethereum shows a more balanced positioning with a put-to-call ratio near 1. Both assets are trading above their respective maximum pain levels, suggesting prices may gravitate toward these points as contracts expire. Bitcoin recently surged past $114,000, buoyed by positive earnings from Oracle Corporation in the AI sector, and call options hold a $175 million advantage if Bitcoin remains above $113,000, potentially spurring a push toward the $120,000 resistance level. Market watchers note that macroeconomic factors, including US employment data and AI industry concerns, alongside Federal Reserve policies, will heavily influence Bitcoin's short-term trajectory. The confluence of a major options expiry and upcoming Fed decisions creates a critical juncture for Bitcoin and Ethereum price dynamics.