Cryptocurrency prices posted modest gains even as stronger than expected US labor data reshaped expectations across global markets. While traditional risk assets reacted cautiously to the employment figures, digital assets showed mild resilience, supported by stable dollar movement and steady trading activity.
Fresh data from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics showed that nonfarm payrolls increased by 130000 in January, significantly higher than the 70000 projected by economists and well above the prior month’s revised gain of 48000. The unemployment rate declined to 4.3 percent, slightly better than forecasts that anticipated no change. Despite the upbeat data, the US dollar index remained largely flat near 96.8, extending its broader yearly decline and limiting immediate pressure on crypto valuations.
The total cryptocurrency market capitalization rose about 1.3 percent over the past 24 hours to approximately 2.32 trillion dollars. Trading volumes increased more than 10 percent during the same period, reaching roughly 109 billion dollars, indicating active repositioning by market participants.
Bitcoin advanced 1.5 percent to trade near 68300 dollars. However, the asset remains roughly 46 percent below its October 2025 peak above 126000 dollars. On a weekly basis, Bitcoin is still down slightly and continues to show notable year to date losses. Intraday trading fluctuated between the mid 65000 range and highs near 68650, reflecting ongoing volatility as investors digest macroeconomic developments.
US listed spot Bitcoin exchange traded funds recorded net outflows of approximately 276 million dollars during the latest session, reversing inflows seen earlier in the week. One of the largest withdrawals came from Fidelity’s Bitcoin fund, highlighting that institutional demand remains cautious even as prices attempt to stabilize. ETF flows have become a key indicator of directional conviction in the current cycle.
Ethereum traded near 1995 dollars after a modest overnight decline. The asset remains substantially below its previous all time high reached in 2025. Ethereum spot ETFs also experienced net outflows exceeding 100 million dollars, suggesting that investors are reducing exposure amid uncertain market conditions.
Among other major cryptocurrencies, XRP and BNB registered moderate gains, while Solana posted a marginal increase. Dogecoin outperformed many large cap tokens with a stronger percentage rise, though it remains far below historical highs. Bitcoin Cash showed limited movement and continues to trade well beneath its prior cycle peak.
Overall, the crypto market appears to be balancing macroeconomic optimism against institutional caution. Strong labor data typically reinforces expectations of sustained monetary tightening, which can weigh on speculative assets. However, the absence of a sharp dollar rally has provided short term breathing room for digital currencies. Market participants are likely to monitor upcoming inflation reports, central bank commentary, and ETF flow trends for clearer direction in the sessions ahead.
