Bitcoin price today

 Bitcoin price today: muted at $96.8k; lacks direction amid tariff jitters

• The cryptocurrency, which has struggled to break out of its recent consolidation phase, continued moving in tight ranges as market participants awaited fresh catalysts to drive the next move.  
• The token had gained nearly 1% on Wednesday after renewed diplomatic engagements between the U.S. and Russia.
• Reports of resumed talks aimed at resolving the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict had slightly bolstered market optimism, potentially easing global inflation concerns. But, Bitcoin could not sustain a rally, reflected in its tepid moves.
•  Crypto markets see consolidation amid US tariffs, Fed rate worries
• The muted price action comes as broader financial markets grapple with mixed signals on the global economic landscape.
• Recent developments, including the potential for increased U.S. tariffs on auto, semiconductor, and pharma imports, have added to the risk-off sentiment, weighing on risk assets like Bitcoin. 
• Investors are also closely monitoring the Federal Reserve's next steps, with recent meeting minutes reiterating the view that the central bank was in no rush to cut rates in 2025.
• The minutes revealed that Fed officials believe Trump's proposed tariffs could disrupt global supplychains, leading to increased costs and elevated inflation. 

• Such a scenario could further pressure Bitcoin, which has historically underperformed in high-interest-rate environments due to its sensitivity to liquidity conditions. 
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• Reflecting the cautious tone, trading volumes in the crypto market have remained subdued. The lack of participation has left Bitcoin trapped in a narrow range, with technical analysts noting that a breakout in either direction could provide the momentum needed to reignite market activity.
•   Analysts said that Bitcoin appears to be in a holding pattern, with investors awaiting clearer signals before committing to significant positions.