The crypto market enters the final week of April 2026 in a relatively stable condition, but full of potential turbulence. Market capitalization has increased by about 1.48% in the last 24 hours to the level of $2.56 trillion, driven by strong institutional inflows.
Bitcoin (BTC) remains above $77,000, Ethereum (ETH) trades around $2,300, while XRP stays stable above $1.40. Behind this seemingly calm movement, there are several major events that could change the market direction in the near future.
Here are five events that are the focus of market participants.
1. Fed Candidate Hearing Signals Policy Direction
Kevin Warsh, a candidate for a Federal Reserve official position, underwent a hearing on April 21, 2026. He is reported to have crypto investments of more than $100 million, including in blockchain sectors and digital asset funds.
This involvement draws attention because it is rare for Fed candidates. Market participants see this hearing as an indicator of future policy direction toward the crypto industry.
2. Bitcoin Options Expiry Sparks Potential Volatility
On April 24, 2026, the market faces Bitcoin options expiry worth billions of dollars. The “max pain” level is estimated to be around $71,000, while open interest is heavily concentrated in call contracts around $75,000.
This situation opens opportunities for significant price movements. If the price stays above a certain level, pressure on short positions could trigger a short squeeze.
Conversely, a price decline could trigger liquidations that accelerate selling pressure in the market.
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3. CLARITY Act Discussion Enters Decision Phase
The Senate Banking Committee is under pressure to begin discussions on the CLARITY Act bill before the week of April 27. This bill concerns the crypto regulatory framework, especially related to stablecoins.
Several banking industry parties oppose restrictions on stablecoin yield offerings. This debate has even received responses from White House crypto advisors.
The decision to proceed or delay the bill’s discussion will influence investor confidence in regulatory certainty in the crypto market.
4. FOMC Could Determine Global Liquidity Direction
The Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) meeting on April 28–29 is the main focus. The market expects interest rates to remain in the range of 3.50% to 3.75%.
However, the main attention is on the Fed Chair’s statement. Small changes in policy tone could affect bond yields, stock markets, and risk assets like crypto.
Tighter policy signals could put downward pressure on Bitcoin and altcoins. Conversely, if the policy stance is more accommodative, upward potential remains open.
5. US–Iran Negotiations Increase Market Uncertainty
Negotiations between the United States (AS) and Iran are continuing with regional mediators involved. This development could influence commodity prices and global capital flows.
Geopolitical uncertainty usually prompts investors to reduce exposure to risk assets. Under certain conditions, this can indirectly impact the crypto market.
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