Bitcoin traded little changed near the $67,000 level during Asian trading hours on Thursday as investors assessed stronger-than-expected US employment data, which dampened expectations of a near-term interest rate cut by the Federal Reserve.
The world's largest cryptocurrency rose 0.4% to $67,102.8, remaining below the key $70,000 level, with quiet market activity amid declining liquidity.
Bitcoin had recently rebounded from a sharp drop to around $60,000 earlier this month, but has since struggled to regain upward momentum.
US jobs data reduces bets on Fed monetary policy easing; awaiting the consumer price index.
Data released on Wednesday showed that U.S. non-farm payrolls rose more than expected in January, indicating continued resilience in the labor market.
The unemployment rate remained near its lowest level in several months, while wage growth remained strong, reinforcing expectations that the Federal Reserve will keep borrowing costs steady for longer.
Following the jobs report, traders reduced their bets on near-term interest rate cuts, with market pricing suggesting a lower probability of easing until June. Expectations of higher interest rates for an extended period typically negatively impact risk-sensitive assets such as cryptocurrencies.
Investors are now awaiting the weekly jobless claims data due later on Thursday for further clues about labor market conditions. Attention will also turn to the US Consumer Price Index report due on Friday, which could provide clearer direction on inflation trends and expectations for Federal Reserve policy.
Bitcoin's inability to break through the $70,000 level reflects a cautious appetite for risk and continued volatility following its recent decline, leaving prices confined within a defined range.
Blockfels halts withdrawals amid cryptocurrency slump - reports
Multiple media reports on Wednesday stated that cryptocurrency liquidity provider BlockFills has halted customer withdrawals amid a sharp decline in digital asset prices.
The Financial Times and other media outlets reported that this move, which began last week, reflects efforts to protect customers and the company during turbulent market conditions and restore the platform's liquidity.
According to reports, customers can still trade spot and derivative positions under certain conditions.
The Financial Times report stated that BlockFills serves more than 2,000 institutional clients and handled more than $60 billion in trading volume in 2025.
This comment reflects similar actions taken by cryptocurrency companies during previous downturns.
Cryptocurrency prices today: Altcoins rise in limited trading range
Most alternative currencies traded slightly higher on Thursday within a limited range.
Ethereum, the world's second-largest cryptocurrency, rose 1.1% to $1,972.92.
XRP, the world's third-largest cryptocurrency, rose 1.6% to $1.38.
Solana traded unchanged, while Cardano and Polygon each rose 2.5%.
Among the meme currencies, Dogecoin rose by 2.2%.
