Better-than-expected U.S. jobs growth and a lower unemployment rate briefly lifted bitcoin prices, reflecting macroeconomic drivers in crypto market movements.
The U.S. economy added 130,000 jobs in January 2026, surpassing forecasts of 70,000, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The unemployment rate fell to 4.3% from December’s 4.4%. Before the release, bitcoin traded near $67,000; it rose to $67,500 immediately afterward, though still down 2% over 24 hours. U.S. stock index futures gained modestly, and the 10-year Treasury yield climbed five basis points to 4.20%. The stronger labor market data reduced market expectations for a Federal Reserve rate cut in March from 21% to 19%. Analysts noted that yen carry trade unwinds, rising margin requirements, and precious metals volatility have pressured crypto markets. Despite recent outflows, bitcoin ETFs still hold about $100 billion, while regulatory shifts are encouraging institutional use of public blockchains and stablecoin settlement.