Bitcoin Surges 1.8% to $83,511.6 on Softer U.S. Inflation Data

Bitcoin's price surged to $83,000 on Thursday, marking a notable recovery from recent lows. This upward movement was driven by softer-than-expected U.S. inflation data, which provided a slight boost to market sentiment. However, the gains were limited due to persistent concerns over escalating trade tensions and fears of an impending recession.

The cryptocurrency market has been under significant pressure due to these economic uncertainties. Bitcoin, the world's largest cryptocurrency, had previously slumped below $80,000 earlier this month amid rampant risk aversion. Despite this, dip-buying and hopes for more favorable regulation helped Bitcoin mark a mild recovery, rising 1.8% to $83,511.6 by 01:27 ET (05:27 GMT).

The rebound in Bitcoin's price was hindered by persistent concerns over a potential U.S. recession and fears of a rapidly escalating trade war. The implementation of 25% tariffs on steel and aluminum by the U.S. President, along with plans for even higher trade duties against Europe, has disrupted global trade and underpinned U.S. inflation. This has pressured the economy and raised fears of a recession this year. The uncertainty surrounding these tariffs, including the flip-flopping on some tariff plans, has kept markets on edge.

Risk-heavy assets such as cryptocurrencies, which are largely speculative in nature, tend to underperform in times of increased volatility and risk aversion. This has seen Bitcoin vastly underperform U.S. stock markets so far in 2025, with the world’s biggest crypto having lost about 10% year-to-date, compared to a 4.6% loss in the S&P 500 index.

The broader cryptocurrency market tracked Bitcoin’s mild gains, but still remained close to recent lows amid little relief for markets. World no.2 crypto Ether fell 0.6% to $1,866.80, lagging its peers after it slumped to an over three-year low earlier in March. Solana, Cardano, and XRP rose marginally, as did Polygon. Among meme tokens, Dogecoin rose 3.3%, while $TRUMP added 4.2%.

Focus is now on producer price index data, due later on Thursday, for more cues on U.S. inflation. The reading comes less than a week before a Federal Reserve meeting, where the central bank is widely expected to keep interest rates steady amid rampant economic uncertainty. The future direction of Bitcoin's price will depend on a variety of factors, including economic data, geopolitical developments, and investor sentiment. Investors are closely monitoring key support levels and market indicators, as they navigate the volatile landscape.