Macro Stress

Definition ∞ Macro stress refers to severe adverse conditions affecting the overall economy, such as a recession, financial crisis, or significant geopolitical disruption. These events can exert considerable pressure on financial markets, businesses, and consumer behavior. In the digital asset context, macro stress can lead to reduced investment, increased selling pressure, and a flight to perceived safe-haven assets.
Context ∞ The discussion around macro stress in digital asset markets frequently examines how cryptocurrencies perform during periods of traditional market downturns. A key debate involves whether Bitcoin and other digital assets function as uncorrelated assets or if they exhibit increasing correlation with conventional financial instruments during systemic shocks. Observers watch for how central bank policies, inflation rates, and global economic data influence investor sentiment and capital flows within the crypto ecosystem.