Bitcoin experienced a significant sell-off, dropping nearly 2.5% within the last 24 hours after Shigeru Ishiba was elected as Japan's new prime minister.
His appointment raised fears of a potential interest rate increase from the Bank of Japan (BOJ).
Following a recent 10% increase in Bitcoin’s value after the U.S. Federal Reserve cut interest rates by 50 basis points, Ishiba’s views on monetary policy normalization have unsettled investors.
As a result, the yen strengthened significantly, while the Japanese Nikkei index fell by 5%. Bitcoin’s price declined from approximately $65,000 to $63,300 before stabilizing around $64,000.
Ishiba’s perspective aligns with the BOJ’s intention to gradually move away from its low interest rate policy. This shift has reignited concerns in the market, particularly due to memories of a July rate hike that led to significant volatility, causing Bitcoin to plummet from $70,000 to $50,000.
Despite previous assurances from the BOJ that there would be no rate increases in 2024, Ishiba’s election has sparked renewed worries about potential tightening measures, contributing to a broader market downturn.
Bitcoin giant Strategy has added another 4,980 BTC to its reserves in a purchase worth approximately $531.9 million, according to Executive Chairman Michael Saylor.
According to renowned market veteran Peter Brandt, trading isn’t the path to prosperity for the vast majority of people.
Charles Edwards, founder and CEO of Capriole Investments, has offered a fresh perspective on Bitcoin’s stalled price movement near the $100,000 mark, despite growing institutional enthusiasm.
Metaplanet has expanded its Bitcoin treasury with a new acquisition of 1,005 BTC valued at approximately $108.1 million, further cementing its status as one of the largest corporate holders of the digital asset.