Week Ahead in Crypto: Key Events to Watch (Aug 25 – 31, 2025)

1. U.S. Macro Data: Inflation & Growth in Focus Core PCE (Fri, Aug 29) – The Federal Reserve’s preferred inflation gauge. A hotter-than-expected print could reignite rate-hike fears, while softer data may boost risk appetite. Crypto markets often track the dollar and Treasury yields closely—PCE surprises tend to ripple into BTC and ETH. U.S. GDP (Thu, Aug 28) – The second Q2 estimate will provide clarity on growth momentum. Strong growth can push yields higher, weighing on risk assets, while weakness may revive liquidity hopes. Other data: Durable goods (Tue), Consumer Confidence (Tue). Together, they help frame the macro backdrop that dictates risk flows. Why it matters for crypto: Macro liquidity remains a core driver. Lower inflation and weaker growth expectations typically support a “risk-on” move, giving crypto room to rally. Strong data, in contrast, can fuel fears of tighter policy, putting pressure on digital assets. 2. China PMIs: Weekend Surprise Risk China Manufacturing & Services PMIs (Sun, Aug 31, Asia open) These arrive just before Monday trading and can jolt markets if they miss significantly. Weak data often sparks concerns about global growth, weighing on commodities, equities, and indirectly crypto. Why it matters for crypto: Asian liquidity often sets the tone early in the week. A disappointing PMI can trigger risk-off flows, while strong readings may boost confidence and provide support for BTC/ETH. 3. Nvidia Earnings: AI-Liquidity Sentiment Check Wed, Aug 27 – Nvidia reports Q2 earnings. In recent years, Nvidia has become a symbol of AI-fueled growth and liquidity in equities. Its performance frequently spills into tech stocks and broader risk sentiment. Why it matters for crypto: Strong Nvidia earnings can reinforce the “AI + tech growth” narrative that often lifts crypto alongside equities. Conversely, a miss could drain enthusiasm across risk assets. 4. Token Unlocks: Lighter but Still Notable August token unlocks are running ~50% lighter vs July , but investors should note: Echelon Prime (PRIME) begins founder unlocks on Sun, Aug 31 , continuing monthly. Earlier in the month, large unlocks (SUI, APT, ARB, AVAX) have already absorbed market attention. Why it matters for crypto: While this week’s unlocks are smaller, any concentrated selling pressure in thin markets can amplify volatility in those specific tokens. 5. Regulatory Updates: SEC Delays, No Near-Term Decisions The SEC recently delayed multiple ETF rulings (including Solana, XRP, and Trump Media’s Bitcoin+Ethereum ETF) until October 2025. This removes a binary regulatory catalyst from this week’s agenda. Why it matters for crypto: The absence of near-term ETF approvals means the market will lean more heavily on macro drivers and positioning. 6. Market Backdrop: Post-Flash Drop Positioning This week begins after a weekend flash crash in crypto markets , triggered by a mix of macro jitters and large whale supply. Traders will be watching whether dip-buyers step in or if deleveraging continues into the heavy macro calendar. Bottom Line Key Macro Drivers: U.S. PCE (Fri), GDP (Thu), China PMIs (Sun). Equity Spillovers: Nvidia earnings (Wed). Crypto-Specific Flows: Token unlocks (lighter, but PRIME begins). Regulation: SEC decisions pushed out to October. With macro still the dominant force, crypto traders should be prepared for volatility spikes around data releases and earnings. BTC.D and ETH/BTC spreads remain critical pairs to watch for capital rotation signals.