The European Central Bank (ECB) has reduced its deposit rate to 2.75%, marking its fifth cut since June in an effort to stimulate a sluggish eurozone economy.
While inflation remains slightly above the 2% target, the ECB maintains that the disinflation process is on track and hinted at the possibility of further easing.
Despite some signs of recovery, slow wage adjustments and lingering price pressures continue to weigh on the economy. However, wage growth is moderating, and corporate profit margins are helping absorb inflationary effects.
The ECB’s decision comes amid concerns over global trade policies, particularly potential tariffs from U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration. While sweeping tariffs haven’t materialized yet, ongoing trade tensions could complicate economic stability.
Meanwhile, the U.S. Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) opted to keep interest rates unchanged at 4.25%-4.5% in its first policy meeting of 2025, aligning with market expectations.
During a press conference, ECB President Christine Lagarde dismissed the idea of Bitcoin being included in central bank reserves, citing concerns over money laundering and illicit financial activities. She reaffirmed that no ECB member bank would consider Bitcoin as a reserve asset.
Bitcoin mining has undergone a notable shift over the past decade, moving away from hydrocarbon fuels and adopting more sustainable energy practices.
In a recent live address, U.S. President Donald Trump declared that a new base tariff of 10% would be applied universally to all countries.
Metaplanet, a Tokyo-based investment firm, has continued its aggressive push into Bitcoin by acquiring an additional 160 BTC for approximately $13.3 million.
Bitcoin’s downward trend could persist longer than expected, according to some analysts who see similarities with the 2022 bear market.