• Bitcoin edges lower as uncertainty over a U.S.-Iran peace deal weighs on markets.
  • Donald Trump remains skeptical of Iran's proposal to halt attacks in the Strait of Hormuz in exchange for ending the war.
  • Sentiment has improved since February lows near $60,000, but momentum is fading near $80,000.

Bitcoin slipped 0.7% to $76,335 on Thursday, as geopolitical tensions between the U.S. and Iran continued to cloud the outlook for risk assets. The cryptocurrency has struggled to break above $80,000 in recent days, stalling after a strong recovery from February lows below $60,000.

The uncertainty stems from ongoing negotiations over a potential peace deal. According to people familiar with the matter, President Donald Trump has expressed skepticism about Iran's offer to cease attacks in the Strait of Hormuz in exchange for an end to hostilities. A senior administration official said the U.S. is “not ready to sign off” on any agreement without concrete verification measures, dampening hopes for a near-term resolution.

“Bitcoin is caught between two forces: optimism that de-escalation could boost risk appetite, and fear that any breakdown in talks could trigger a flight to safety,” said a trader at a major digital asset fund. The price has oscillated in a $70,000–$78,000 range over the past week, reflecting the market's sensitivity to headlines from the region.

The standoff has also weighed on broader markets, with U.S. equities edging lower and oil prices ticking up on supply concerns. Analysts note that Bitcoin's recent resilience—holding above $70,000 despite multiple negative news cycles—suggests underlying demand from institutional investors. However, breaking higher may require a clearer catalyst, such as a formal ceasefire agreement or a shift in U.S. policy.

“The market is pricing in a high probability that tensions persist, which is capping upside,” said a strategist at a crypto-focused hedge fund. “If we get a credible peace framework, we could see a swift rally back above $80,000. But without that, we risk a retest of the $70,000 support.”

Efforts to reach the White House and Iranian mission to the United Nations for comment were unsuccessful. The situation remains fluid, and traders are advised to monitor diplomatic developments closely.

Correction: An earlier version of this article misstated the date of Bitcoin's February lows. It was in February, not March.