Regulatory uncertainty pushes BTC lower despite softer U.S. inflation data, dragging crypto markets into fear territory.
Bitcoin slid toward $63,300 on Friday after the SEC postponed its decision on a tokenized-securities exemption, overshadowing cooler U.S. inflation figures. BTC traded at $63,030, down 1.22%, while Ethereum fell 1.03% to $1,875.
The delay marks the second regulatory setback for crypto assets this month, following a prior deferral in early May. Market sentiment soured further, with the Fear & Greed Index dropping to 29, signaling heightened investor caution.
Altcoins mirrored the decline, though small-cap tokens like Artificial Inu and AVA AI posted outsized gains. Total crypto market capitalization held at $2.25 trillion, with BTC dominance at 56.2%.