Institutional Bets Ahead of FOMC Rate Decision: Crypto Funds Record $1.2 Billion Weekly Inflow

In late April 2026, despite uncertainty ahead of the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) interest rate decision, institutional investors' appetite for digital assets reached its peak. Crypto investment products recorded $1.2 billion in net inflows over the past week, proving the market's strong resilience.

This inflow is the result of a positive trend continuing for four consecutive weeks, bringing the total assets under management (AUM) to $155 billion. This is the highest level since February 1, 2026, and is interpreted as an indicator that institutional investor confidence is solidifying once again.

Bitcoin drove the market's upward momentum, attracting $932.5 million, which accounts for more than 75% of the total inflows. During this period, the price of Bitcoin recovered to approximately $74,005 and showed strength by nearing $79,000 intraday, raising investor expectations.

The improvement in institutional investor demand is becoming a key driver for the overall market strength, as Bitcoin overcomes price corrections from earlier in the year to form a new support level.

Ethereum also continued its trend of strong performance, recording $192 million in inflows, its strongest weekly performance since January. Notably, XRP ended its longest streak of consecutive outflows in 2026 and turned to net inflows, achieving the feat of not having a single net outflow since April 9.

Macroeconomic Environment and Acceleration of Corporate Adoption

These massive inflows hold strategic significance as they occurred ahead of the FOMC meeting scheduled for April 28-29, 2026. Market analysts suggest that investors are using crypto as an important hedge in their portfolios to prepare for volatility following the Fed's interest rate decision.

• Publicly traded company Strive Inc. clearly demonstrated its commitment to corporate adoption by investing $60 million to purchase an additional 789 Bitcoins.
• Morgan Stanley accelerated the entry of major Wall Street banks into the market by launching its own Bitcoin Trust ETF (MSBT).
• The Canadian market recorded $15 million in net inflows, showing that broad investment demand in the North American region continues.

On the regulatory front, Senator Thom Tillis has emerged as a new obstacle to crypto legislation. Senator Tillis stated that he would not support the bill unless it includes ethical regulations to prevent conflicts of interest, suggesting potential difficulties in the future legislative process.

Discussions on technical risks are also becoming more active. Coinbase acknowledged that quantum computing could pose a real threat to encryption technology, but soothed market anxieties by taking a cautious stance, stating that it is not at a level to immediately threaten the market given the current pace of technological development.

Market experts believe that this week's FOMC outcome will be a critical turning point in determining the future direction of the $1.2 billion in institutional funds. The prevailing view is that if the Fed's message meets market expectations, the current inflow trend is likely to accelerate further.

In conclusion, the crypto market in late April 2026 is entering a new phase of growth based on strong institutional inflows despite regulatory uncertainties and technical challenges. Investors are continuing to respond both cautiously and aggressively, paying close attention to macroeconomic indicators and policy changes.