Definition ∞ Fed interest rates refer to the target range for the federal funds rate set by the Federal Reserve, which influences borrowing costs across the US economy. These rates impact liquidity, investment decisions, and the perceived risk of various asset classes, including digital assets. Higher rates generally reduce speculative investment appeal by increasing the cost of capital and offering safer returns in traditional finance. Lower rates can stimulate economic activity and encourage risk-taking.
Context ∞ Changes in Fed interest rates are a primary macroeconomic factor closely observed by participants in the digital asset markets. A key discussion centers on the inverse relationship often observed between rising interest rates and the valuation of growth assets, including cryptocurrencies. Future developments will involve continued analysis of how monetary policy adjustments influence capital flows into and out of digital asset markets, shaping investor behavior. News reports frequently cover Fed announcements and their anticipated effects on the broader financial landscape, including crypto.