Definition ∞ Macro variables are quantifiable economic indicators that reflect the overall health and performance of an economy, such as inflation, gross domestic product, unemployment rates, and consumer price index. These aggregate measures provide insight into large-scale economic trends and cycles. They are used by economists, policymakers, and investors to assess economic conditions and forecast future market behavior. These variables significantly influence financial markets.
Context ∞ In cryptocurrency news, macro variables are frequently cited to explain broader market movements and investor sentiment towards digital assets. For example, high inflation readings might prompt discussions about Bitcoin as an inflation hedge, while a strong jobs report could indicate economic stability that influences risk asset appetite. Understanding these variables helps individuals connect global economic trends to the performance and perception of digital currencies.