Global Financial Markets Plunge Amid Economic Concerns

PANews posted on X (formerly Twitter). Global financial markets experienced a significant downturn on what is being termed 'Black Friday,' as major assets saw widespread declines and market sentiment hit a low point. Weak employment data from the United States has intensified economic concerns, leading to a drop of over 1% in the three major stock indices, with technology stocks being particularly affected. The Chicago Mercantile Exchange has increased the margin requirements for gold and silver futures, with silver's monthly volatility reaching 100%, causing significant price fluctuations. Asian markets also faced pressure, with Japan's Nikkei 225 and South Korea's KOSPI indices experiencing substantial declines. The yield on Japan's 40-year government bonds surpassed 4%, potentially leading to a tightening of global liquidity. Bitcoin's price has halved from its peak, dropping to a low of $60,000, with over 570,000 investors liquidated for $2.56 billion within 24 hours. The market's fear and greed index fell to 9, the lowest since June 2022. Analysts, drawing on historical bear market trends, predict that Bitcoin could fall approximately 70% from its peak, with a potential bottom in the range of $34,000 to $38,000. Ethereum, Solana, and altcoins have also seen widespread declines, with 97% of altcoins experiencing an average retracement of 78% since January 2025. The market continues to face significant short-term uncertainty, with geopolitical tensions and weak macroeconomic data exerting ongoing pressure. Investors are advised to closely monitor key price support levels and changes in market liquidity.