The U.S. economy delivered a surprise in March, adding 228,000 jobs, far exceeding expectations of 135,000. However, financial markets remain on edge after Trump’s tariff announcements and China’s swift retaliation. While stocks plunged, Bitcoin (BTC) showed early signs of resilience, raising questions about its role as a safe-haven asset.
Markets Rattle as Jobs Surge, Rate Cuts Eyed
The U.S. unemployment rate inched up to 4.2%, slightly above the 4.1% forecast. Despite this, the robust job growth reinforces expectations that the Federal Reserve may delay aggressive rate cuts. Markets had previously priced in four cuts for 2025, bringing interest rates down to 3.25%–3.50%.
While the Fed is expected to hold rates steady in May, traders are now betting on a 60% chance of a June cut. The uncertainty has fueled volatility, particularly in risk assets like stocks and crypto.
Bitcoin vs. Nasdaq: A Decoupling Begins?
The Nasdaq crashed 6% on Thursday, while the S&P 500 slid nearly 5%, following Trump’s tariff announcements. As China retaliated, futures pointed to further losses.
Bitcoin, however, held firm around $82,600, resisting the Nasdaq’s freefall. While BTC has moved in sync with tech stocks in recent months, its ability to maintain key support at $80,000 suggests a potential shift. If this trend continues, Bitcoin could finally break away from traditional equity market movements.
Safe Havens: Gold Shines, Bonds Rally, Bitcoin?
In times of uncertainty, investors traditionally flock to safe havens. Gold remains near its record high of $3,200 per ounce, while U.S. Treasury yields have dropped sharply, reflecting strong demand.
Bitcoin’s performance remains mixed—despite its stability, it has not yet seen the kind of strong inflows typical of gold and bonds. However, if economic instability persists, BTC could cement its position as an alternative hedge.
What’s Next for Bitcoin?
The next big test comes with March inflation data, set for release next week. Both core and headline CPI are expected to hover around 3%, which could influence the Fed’s next moves.
For now, Bitcoin’s ability to weather stock market turmoil is encouraging for bulls. If it sustains this resilience, it may finally shed its reputation as just another speculative tech asset—and prove itself as digital gold in times of crisis.
