Bitcoin (BTC) 
$76,042 is racing towards new all-time highs, reaching $107,195 at the time of writing. This week holds significant importance for the cryptocurrency markets. Additionally, the transition period for Trump is approaching, which may increase volatility in cryptocurrencies in the coming hours.
Key Developments in Cryptocurrency This Week
Each week, we examine important developments that await those involved in cryptocurrencies. This week, the final Fed meeting of the year will take place, where the interest rate decision will be announced. Following recent inflation data, investors feel more at ease, leading to rising prices. The surprising inflation increase in October has been alleviated by the November data.
What important developments can we expect throughout the week?
December 17, Tuesday
- 16:30 US Retail Sales (Expectation: 0.5% Previous: 0.4%)
- 17:15 US Industrial Production (Expectation: 0.3% Previous: -0.3%)
- RLUSD Begins Trading on Global Exchanges
- NEAR Announcement
December 18, Wednesday
- 22:00 Fed Interest Rate Decision (Expectation: 25bp Cut)
- 22:00 Fed Economic Projections Summary
- 22:30 Fed Chair Powell to Speak
- Hong Kong Stablecoin Law to be Presented to Congress
Warnings for Market Participants
Alongside 13 different developments, some surprises may also occur. One of these is the appointment of the CFTC Chair. Trump’s announcements regarding cryptocurrencies will be significant. Statements from the Fed Chair may indicate a potential pause in interest rate cuts.
Moreover, it is possible for Powell to assess the economic impacts of new customs rules towards China that will be reinstated by Trump. While the decline in inflation continues, the Fed is expected to gradually continue rate cuts. If there is a pause in rate cuts while we see rising inflation data, we could enter a troubling period that undermines optimism in the macro outlook.
RLUSD has a big day ahead, and volatility may increase, especially with XRP Coin. Altcoin investors could see more volatility as long as BTC remains above $106,000.
