Cryptocurrency markets braced for volatility as traders awaited a slate of pivotal U.S. economic data. Bitcoin hovered near $77,800 amid muted trading activity, while the Crypto Fear & Greed Index lingered near 'fear' territory—a sign of persistent caution despite recent gains.

The week's macroeconomic agenda carries particular weight for digital assets: April's Consumer Confidence reading kicks off the sequence, followed by the Federal Reserve's rate decision and Jerome Powell's press conference. These events will shape expectations for monetary policy, a critical driver of crypto liquidity conditions.

Later in the week, Initial Jobless Claims and PCE inflation data—the Fed's preferred price gauge—could cement or disrupt the current risk appetite. Manufacturing PMI closes the cycle with fresh insights on economic momentum.