Fed raises rates by 25 basis points, Bitcoin rises to $76,500
The Federal Reserve raised the federal funds rate by 25 basis points to a 3.75%–4% target range in a unanimous 12–0 FOMC vote, ending its longest pause since 2008. The decision followed strong labor data, a hawkish tone from Chair Kevin Warsh, and firm inflation readings. Bitcoin rose about $1,500 to $76,500 after the hike, contrary to typical risk-asset behavior, suggesting the move was largely priced in.
BREAKING: The Federal Reserve officially hikes interest rates by 25 basis points, marking its first rate hike since July 2023.
This ends the longest Fed interest rate pause since 2008.
— The Kobeissi Letter (@KobeissiLetter) September 16, 2026
Context: Pricing and Market Response
Bitcoin’s rise followed a sharp drop the previous day after the Senate stalled the CLARITY Act, a setback for US crypto regulation. The rebound indicates selling pressure was absorbed before the Fed decision. BTC stalled near $76,500, and attention shifts to Warsh’s next speech for guidance on future hikes.
Bears have gotten all the bad news they could ask for.
Today was the first rate hike in over 3 years, and yesterday the Clarity Act stalled again.
And the $BTC weekly candle is down just 1%.
It's getting harder and harder to hold this beachball underwater. pic.twitter.com/eJMp5xZGJa
— Super฿ro (@SuperBitcoinBro) September 16, 2026
Technical Picture
BTCUSDT Chart 1D TradingView
- Trend: BTC bottomed near $58,000 in July and reclaimed the 200-day moving average in late August. The 200-day MA near $70,400 is turning higher, indicating a potential trend shift.
- Support: $73,800 is the first key level. Holding above it preserves the recovery.
- Resistance: $82,300 capped rallies in May and September. A break would open a path toward $98,300.
Outlook Scenarios
- Near term: likely test of $73,800 as volatility rises around Warsh’s remarks. Recovery remains intact if support holds.
- October: contest of $82,300. A successful break is more likely if inflation cools and the Fed signals a pause.
- Year-end: range of $85,000–$90,000 is feasible if $82,300 breaks, with $98,300 as next target. Failure at resistance increases odds of a $70,000–$80,000 range.
Conclusion: Bitcoin absorbed a rate hike and regulatory disappointment without sustained downside. Direction depends on forthcoming Fed communication, especially signals about the path of rates.
