Why Bitcoin and Altcoins Are Surging Today (Jan. 13)

As of January 13, Bitcoin and altcoins are experiencing a significant rally. Investors are responding positively to favorable U.S. consumer inflation data and advancements related to the CLARITY Act.

Key Takeaways

Bitcoin has risen for three consecutive days, hitting an intraday high of $93,500.
Notable altcoins, including Dash and Monero, have also seen substantial gains.
Positive U.S. inflation data has bolstered market confidence.
The CLARITY Act aims to simplify cryptocurrency regulations in the U.S., further boosting investor sentiment.
The Crypto Fear and Greed Index indicates a potential shift towards greed, a favorable sign for the market.

Why Bitcoin and Altcoins Are Surging Today (Jan. 13) - 2

Why Bitcoin and Altcoins Are Surging Today (Jan. 13) - 1

Rally Driven by U.S. Inflation Data

A key factor behind the rise in Bitcoin and altcoins is the newly released U.S. inflation report from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

The report revealed that the Headline Consumer Price Index (CPI) stayed at 2.7% in December. Additionally, the core CPI, which excludes fluctuating food and energy prices, fell from 2.7% to 2.6%.

“Monthly U.S. CPI inflation came in as expected at 0.3% for both core and headline measures. Annual headline inflation is at 2.7% (as anticipated), and core is at 2.6% (slightly lower than expected). This data release will not significantly alter rate expectations.”
— Mohamed A. El-Erian (@elerianm) January 13, 2026

These figures suggest that President Trump's tariffs have not notably influenced inflation. Moreover, there are indications that inflation might further decrease due to falling gasoline prices and mortgage rates.

Mortgage rates have fallen to 6.2% and are expected to continue declining as Fannie Mae begins purchasing mortgage securities as per Trump’s directive, which allocates $200 billion for this purpose.

If the U.S. Supreme Court decides that Trump's tariffs are illegal on January 14, inflation might decrease slightly. A combination of lower inflation and a softening labor market implies that the Federal Reserve might consider further interest rate cuts this year, as indicated by their dot plot predictions.

Support from the CLARITY Act

The surge in the crypto market coincides with positive sentiment regarding the Market Structure Bill, often referred to as the CLARITY Act.

This legislation aims to clarify the roles of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) in regulating cryptocurrencies. The CFTC, perceived as a more favorable regulator, will oversee most cryptocurrencies, while the SEC will handle digital asset issuers and those sold under investment contracts.

Looking ahead, the bill will proceed through the markup process in the committee on Thursday, followed by a full Senate vote scheduled for a later date.

As market optimism grows, Bitcoin and altcoins are benefiting from an increase in futures open interest, which has surpassed $138 billion. Additionally, the Crypto Fear and Greed Index has climbed to 45, signaling a shift towards greed, which could be a positive sign for the cryptocurrency market.