Supply and Demand

Definition ∞ Supply and demand are fundamental economic principles that determine the price and quantity of goods or services in a market. Supply represents the amount available, while demand indicates the desire and ability of consumers to purchase. The interaction between these forces establishes market equilibrium. Shifts in either supply or demand directly influence market prices and trading volumes.
Context ∞ In the cryptocurrency market, supply and demand dynamics are primary drivers of digital asset prices. Limited supply mechanisms, such as Bitcoin’s halving events or fixed token caps, interact with varying levels of investor demand, influenced by news, adoption rates, and macroeconomic factors. Understanding these forces is essential for analyzing market movements and price predictions. News reports frequently discuss how changes in token issuance, institutional interest, or regulatory actions affect the balance of supply and demand for specific cryptocurrencies.