Bitcoin, ether slide 7% as market 'fear' increases, liquidations mount

Crypto markets extended losses amid heavy derivatives liquidations and macro headwinds, with traders bracing for further downside if bitcoin breaks key support. What to know : The crypto Fear and Greed index fell to 11, its lowest level this year, as BTC and ETH dropped more than 7% and altcoins followed. More than $800 million in leveraged positions were liquidated in 24 hours, open interest fell to $103 billion, and options markets show peak fear with puts trading at steep premiums to calls. Elevated oil volatility tied to U.S.-Iran tensions and broader risk-off sentiment are weighing on higher-beta assets, while analysts warn a break below $70,000 could trigger another wave of selling.