Holding Steady at $83,000 as Federal Reserve Meeting Begins

TLDR

Bitcoin is trading around $83,000 as markets await the Federal Reserve’s rate decision
The Fed is expected to maintain current rates at 4.25%-4.50% amid inflation concerns
Spot Bitcoin ETFs recently broke a month-long streak of outflows with $275 million in net inflows
Bitcoin whale transactions over $100k have increased from 6,332 to 9,552 in four days
Minnesota has joined 22 other states proposing laws to establish Bitcoin reserves

Bitcoin is holding steady around the $83,000 mark as the Federal Reserve begins its two-day policy meeting. The world’s largest cryptocurrency has shown little movement in recent days, with traders waiting for signals from the central bank.

The Fed is widely expected to keep interest rates unchanged in the 4.25%-4.50% range. Market participants are closely watching for any comments on inflation and economic growth.

Bitcoin traded at $83,006.50 in early trading hours. This follows a 1.5% drop in the previous session, where it briefly fell below $82,000.

The cryptocurrency has been moving sideways this month. Recent tariff announcements from President Donald Trump have shaken markets broadly.

Unlike in past Fed meetings, Bitcoin traders have kept their positions relatively stable. This suggests less concern about the Fed’s decision or confidence in a neutral outcome.

The CME Group’s FedWatch tool shows a 99% probability that rates will remain unchanged. This signals strong market consensus ahead of the announcement.

Spot Bitcoin ETFs broke their month-long streak of outflows on March 17. They registered $275 million in net inflows, showing renewed institutional interest.

BlackRock’s IBIT reported a net cash inflow of about $218 million on Tuesday. The fund currently holds assets worth approximately $46.79 billion.

On-chain data shows whale investors have stepped up their Bitcoin buying. Transactions greater than $100,000 have increased from 6,332 to around 9,552 in just four days.

This renewed interest from large investors may reflect anticipated economic stabilization. Market observers note that U.S.-led tariff wars have largely been priced in during recent weeks.

States and Institutions Embrace Bitcoin

Minnesota has joined a growing list of U.S. states considering Bitcoin investments. State Senator Jeremy Miller has presented the Minnesota Bitcoin Act, which would allow state investment in Bitcoin.

The bill would also let public workers include cryptocurrency in retirement plans. Citizens would have the option to pay state taxes using Bitcoin.

Currently, 23 U.S. states have proposed laws to establish Bitcoin reserves. These proposals include 39 separate measures related to governmental cryptocurrency investments.

Japanese Bitcoin treasury business Metaplanet has purchased another 150 Bitcoin valued at approximately $12.6 million. This acquisition brings their total holdings to 3,200 BTC, worth about $261.8 million.

The company is now the 11th-largest corporate holder of Bitcoin and the biggest in Asia. By 2026, Metaplanet aims to hold 21,000 BTC.

Some analysts predict a potential price correction despite current stability. Crypto expert Xanrox has identified what he calls a “bear market indicator,” suggesting Bitcoin might drop to $40,000 by 2026.

CryptoQuant’s CEO Ki Young Ju shares a similar outlook. He suggests the current bull cycle may be ending with 6-12 months of volatile price action ahead.

The Fed’s announcement is scheduled for Wednesday, March 19, at 2:30 pm ET. Market participants expect the news to trigger price movements regardless of the decision.