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Risk-Off Sentiment

Definition

Risk-off sentiment describes a market condition where investors collectively reduce their exposure to higher-risk assets. This psychological state leads market participants to sell assets perceived as volatile or speculative, moving capital into safer havens like government bonds, gold, or stablecoins. It typically arises during periods of economic uncertainty, geopolitical instability, or significant market downturns. The shift reflects a preference for capital preservation over potential growth, often causing broad market declines in riskier sectors.