March 19, 2026, 1:32 AM EDT. Bitcoin dropped 4.2% to $71,235 despite U.S. spot Bitcoin ETFs drawing $1.16 billion in inflows over seven days. Institutional interest remains strong, signaling a shift toward longer-term investment rather than speculation, said analyst Rachael Lucas. The decline follows Federal Reserve signals of sustained higher interest rates due to persistent inflation and rising oil prices surpassing $110 a barrel amid Middle Eastern tensions. This environment has dampened hopes for near-term rate cuts, pressuring equities and crypto markets alike. Bitcoin's key support level near $70,000 is under watch as upcoming U.S. economic data, including jobless claims and manufacturing surveys, could further impact inflation outlook and price direction.
