The European Central Bank plans to launch the digital euro by mid-2029, with a pilot program scheduled for 2027.

Analyst: Iran War May Prompt ECB to Lean Toward Rate Hikes, Market Expects 36 Basis Points Rate Increase by Year-End

Ebury analyst Matthew Ryan stated that Middle East conflict could make the European Central Bank more inclined to raise rates rather than cut them, as inflation spikes following the Russia-Ukraine war have made the central bank more vigilant about potential risks. He expects Lagarde will emphasize the importance of controlling inflation at Thursday's meeting.

QCP: BTC Oscillates Near $74,000; Multi-Country Central Bank Rate Decisions Key This Week

QCP Capital analysis indicates that BTC price is maintaining around $74,000, with a lack of upward momentum. Although the overall crypto market remains under pressure, the declines are relatively controlled. Central bank policy meetings throughout the year will influence the market, as high oil prices have lowered expectations for rate cuts, and the interest rate environment has weakened support for crypto assets. Until policy and geopolitical situations become clearer, a volatile pattern may continue.

SEC and CFTC Clarify Crypto Rules, Mining Not Securities

SEC and CFTC introduced a framework classifying tokens into securities, commodities, and digital tools. Regulators said mining, staking, and airdrops do not qualify as securities under federal law. The guidance marks a shift toward clearer rules, with formal proposals expected in coming

Federal Reserve announces interest rate decision at 2 AM tonight, followed by Powell's press conference.

Gate News reports that on March 18, the Federal Reserve will announce its interest rate decision and economic outlook tonight (Thursday at 2 a.m. Beijing time), followed by a press conference by Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell. The market expects the Fed to keep interest rates unchanged for the second consecutive time. Currently, the Fed faces a complex situation, including oil prices surpassing $100, conflicts between inflation and employment dual mandates, and increasing political pressure. Powell's remarks at the press conference will be closely watched by the market.

Citigroup Slashes Bitcoin and Ethereum 12-Month Price Targets, Citing Stalled U.S. Crypto Legislation Weighing on Upside Catalysts

Citigroup has lowered its 12-month price targets for Bitcoin and Ethereum, signaling a shift toward caution on the cryptocurrency market's medium-term outlook, primarily due to slow progress in U.S. crypto asset legislation. Bitcoin's target was reduced from $143,000 to $112,000, while Ethereum's fell to $3,175. Despite upside potential remaining in the future, the lack of new policy catalysts suggests prices may oscillate within a range in the near term. Citigroup's assessment of Ethereum is more cautious, as it believes the asset is more significantly impacted by on-chain activity.

Federal Reserve March 2026 Interest Rate Decision Set to Be Revealed Soon, Powell's Stance Will Influence Bitcoin and Market Trends

The Federal Reserve will maintain interest rates at 3.5%-3.75% on March 18. Market attention will be on Powell's comments regarding inflation and future policy. Rising core PCE and oil price pressures limit the room for rate cuts, with only a 30% chance of easing this year. Political factors influencing Powell's tenure have led to noticeable market reactions, and risk assets as well as cryptocurrency prices are expected to be affected.