5 US Economic Indicators That Could Impact Crypto Markets This Week
As we enter the fourth week of April 2025, several key economic indicators from the United States are scheduled for release.
Each of these indicators has the potential to influence the movements of the crypto market, including Bitcoin and various altcoins.
For digital asset investors, understanding this data can help formulate strategies to navigate market volatility.
Here are five U.S. economic indicators that could impact the crypto market this week, as reported by Beincrypto.
1. Leading Economic Index (LEI): Assessing the Future Direction of the U.S. Economy
The LEI from The Conference Board for March will be released today, Monday, April 21.
In February 2025, the LEI declined by 0.3% compared to the previous month, following a 0.1% increase in December 2024.
This downward trend reflects ongoing pressure on the economy, especially due to weaker manufacturing orders and soft consumer expectations.
However, the six-month rate of decline is starting to slow down—a sign that conditions this year may not be as severe as in 2024.
Market forecast for March:
-
Median prediction: down 0.5%
-
Consensus: down 0.6%
Although still negative, these figures suggest slight improvement. The projected U.S. economic growth for 2025 remains at 2.0%, providing some hope that the pressure on crypto assets might ease.
2. Services & Manufacturing PMI: Measuring the Health of the Real Economy
Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) data for the services and manufacturing sectors will also be released this week.
If the services sector shows strong expansion, the U.S. dollar could strengthen, reducing interest in Bitcoin as an alternative investment.
Conversely, weak manufacturing data could heighten risk sentiment and increase interest in digital assets.
3. Initial Jobless Claims: Reflecting the Labor Market Conditions
The weekly report on initial jobless claims will provide an overview of the current labor market.
A low number of claims usually indicates a healthy job market—this could prompt the central bank to maintain tight monetary policy, which risks reducing liquidity in the crypto market.
On the other hand, a spike in claims may signal an economic slowdown and open the door for looser monetary policies, which typically support higher crypto prices.
4. Consumer Sentiment: Reflecting Public Confidence in the Economy
The consumer sentiment index illustrates how households perceive current and future economic conditions.
Falling sentiment may indicate concerns about economic stability, potentially boosting demand for Bitcoin as a hedge.
5. Inflation (PCE Index): The Fed’s Interest Rate Barometer
The fifth and equally important indicator this week is the PCE (Personal Consumption Expenditures) Index, which often serves as the Fed’s key reference in setting interest rate policy.
If inflation remains high, the Fed may continue with tight policy, which typically puts pressure on the crypto market.
Conversely, if the PCE shows declining inflation, hopes for rate cuts will rise—usually seen as a positive signal for Bitcoin and altcoins, as it can drive capital into riskier assets.
Conclusion: U.S. Economic Indicators Still Determine Crypto Direction
Economic indicators such as LEI, PMI, jobless claims, and consumer sentiment play a major role in shaping the short-term direction of the crypto market.
Investors are advised to keep monitoring these data releases and carefully consider their implications before making investment decisions.
