Gate News reports that on March 17, as the impact of artificial intelligence on software company revenues intensifies, the private credit market is under unprecedented pressure. Morgan Stanley predicts that AI-driven industry changes could cause direct loan default rates to rise to 8%, while Fitch Ratings data shows that the U.S. private credit default rate (PCDR) has increased to 5.8%, the highest since August 2024. Several private credit fund management firms have restricted investor redemptions, and the U.S. Business Development Company Index (MVBDC) recently fell to multi-year lows.
Macro analyst Luke Gromen warns that the U.S. financial system may be forced to increase money supply within three to six months. He points out that unemployment caused by AI, rising private credit pressures, and tightening loan liquidity could compel the government to issue more currency to sustain the economy. Against this backdrop, Bitcoin, as a scarce non-sovereign asset, may become the preferred tool for investors seeking to hedge against currency devaluation risks.
Recent market performance shows that Bitcoin has gradually shifted from a theoretical hedge to practical application. Since the escalation of the Iran conflict on February 28, Bitcoin’s price has increased by approximately 10.87%. During the same period, it outperformed the S&P 500, Nasdaq 100, gold, and silver, highlighting its appeal amid macro uncertainties and geopolitical tensions.
Analysts believe that if the private credit crisis worsens further and traditional assets face liquidity risks, Bitcoin could see a new influx of capital. Additionally, investor interest in non-sovereign digital assets may drive structural market changes, making Bitcoin’s safe-haven properties more evident during macroeconomic turbulence.
Overall, market participants should closely monitor developments in the private credit market, government monetary policy adjustments, and geopolitical risks, as these factors will directly influence short-term price fluctuations and long-term potential of Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies.