- The United States escalates strikes against Iran amid stable risk assets:

Reports indicate that the U.S. has sunk more than 20 Iranian ships in international waters of the Indian Ocean, while Israel intensifies its attacks on Tehran, the capital of Iran. Meanwhile, Iran is expanding the scope of the war in the Middle East, launching attacks on key facilities in the Gulf region, including oil facilities and transportation hubs.

Tensions remain high in global markets, with Brent crude prices staying above $80. Continued disruptions to major shipping routes, such as the Strait of Hormuz, could lead to higher oil prices, increasing the likelihood of rising inflation and significantly reducing the chances of interest rate cuts in 2026.

Despite the escalation of the war, cryptocurrencies have not collapsed. Bitcoin's price has risen more than 15% from its lowest point on Saturday at $63,030. Ethereum and Ripple appear to be maintaining most of the gains they made this week.

Despite ongoing extreme fear, the index improved to 22 on Thursday, up from 10 the previous day. The steady increase in this indicator suggests that investors are regaining confidence in digital assets despite the war.

Fear and Greed Index | Source: Alternative
$BTC ‌
$ETH ‌
$XRP ‌