Unexpected October Fed Hike Could Hit Bitcoin Harder Than December

An unexpected Federal Reserve rate increase in October could trigger a sharper reaction in Bitcoin (BTC) than a December hike, which markets consider more likely. Bitcoin held relatively steady this week amid volatility in risk assets, supported by recovering spot demand, improved U.S. equity sentiment and short covering as traders closed bearish positions. U.S. housing indicators weakened in September. Housing starts fell 5.2%, while the pending home sales index dropped 7.3% from the previous month to a record low. The consumer price index and producer price index remained elevated. As of Oct.