U.S.-Iran Deal Lifts Equities, Sends Oil Lower, Crypto Stays Wary

A U.S.-Iran peace deal reached over the weekend provided a broad boost to global equities while sending oil prices sharply lower, but cryptocurrency markets remained cautious, with Bitcoin barely moving.

Oil fell more than 4% on news that the Strait of Hormuz would reopen, while copper jumped and MSCI's broadest index of Asia-Pacific shares rallied 3%. Japan's Nikkei 225 hit a record high. The deal eased geopolitical tensions that had weighed on risk assets for months. However, crypto markets posted only muted gains after the announcement. The CoinDesk 20 Index (CD20) was little changed since midnight UTC, though up 2.4% over 24 hours. Bitcoin held below $66,000, adding 3.4% over the weekend but barely moving since midnight. Ether's performance mirrored its larger peer. The biggest gains came in smaller altcoins.

For crypto traders, the muted reaction suggests that the market is still digesting the broader implications of the deal. While lower oil prices could reduce inflationary pressures and potentially slow the pace of rate hikes — a positive for risk assets — the crypto market's wariness may reflect lingering uncertainty about the sustainability of the rally in equities. On NowPrice, live crypto prices and charts show how the market is reacting in real time, with Bitcoin and Ether consolidating near key levels. The lack of a strong breakout indicates that traders are waiting for clearer catalysts, such as ETF flow data or macroeconomic signals.

Looking ahead, traders will watch for further details on the implementation of the deal and its impact on global trade flows. Key data releases this week include U.S. inflation figures and Fed commentary, which could sway risk sentiment. If equities continue to rally on the back of lower oil and easing geopolitical risks, crypto may eventually follow, but for now, the market remains in a wait-and-see mode. Bitcoin's ability to hold above $65,000 will be a key level to monitor.