Key Events This Week in Crypto!

What to Expect from CPI Data?

May 12, 2025

This week could be a turning point for financial markets — both traditional and crypto — as several major economic events are set to unfold. These include the release of the Consumer Price Index (CPI), the Producer Price Index (PPI), and a highly anticipated speech from Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell.

A recent post by The Kobeissi Letter on May 11, 2025, highlighted that these events could trigger heightened market volatility across asset classes. For crypto traders, staying aware of such macroeconomic signals is crucial, as they tend to influence institutional inflows, investor sentiment, and how crypto assets like Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH) move in relation to equities.

Currently Bitcoin Price trading at $103,992.34 as per Coinpedia Market data.

CPI and PPI Releases: What to Expect

The CPI report, scheduled for May 14, 2025, at 8:30 AM ET, is one of the most closely watched inflation indicators. Analysts expect a slight drop in the annual inflation rate — from 3.5% to 3.4% — according to consensus estimates reported by top financial outlets.

The very next day, May 15 at 8:30 AM ET, the PPI data will be released, offering a look into wholesale inflation. Both reports will provide vital clues about the direction of consumer prices and economic momentum.

Powell’s Speech: Eyes on Thursday

Perhaps the most market-moving moment of the week will come on Thursday, May 16, 2025, at 10:00 AM ET, when Fed Chair Jerome Powell delivers his remarks. With inflation and retail sales data in hand, Powell's speech is expected to provide insight into the timing of any future interest rate cuts.

Traders will be analyzing every word carefully. Any subtle change in tone or outlook could shift expectations about monetary policy and trigger reactions across stock markets, bond yields, and cryptocurrencies.

Other Factors at Play: Global Trade Talks

In addition to the economic data and Powell’s remarks, U.S. trade discussions with China — along with a limited trade deal involving the U.K. — are drawing attention. These developments could impact tariff policies and supply chain costs, which are key concerns for both global businesses and market investors.

Why Crypto Traders Should Pay Attention

All of this ties back to the U.S. Dollar Index (DXY), which typically moves in the opposite direction of risk assets like Bitcoin. If the CPI comes in lower than expected and Powell hints at a dovish turn, it could weaken the dollar and boost crypto prices.

However, any hawkish tone or upside inflation surprise could spark sell-offs in both equities and crypto markets.

This week is packed with events that could reshape market sentiment and influence major asset classes. From inflation readings to Fed signals and global trade talks, investors should be ready for increased volatility — and crypto traders, in particular, should keep a close eye on how these developments impact Bitcoin, Ethereum, and beyond.