The European central bank just signaled it won't lock into any predetermined rate path—instead, they're taking things step by step. What does this mean? Every meeting, they'll reassess based on actual economic data rather than sticking to a script.

For crypto traders, this matters. When central banks stay flexible like this, it typically means slower, more measured rate changes. Less shocking policy swings equals less violent market shocks. The ECB's data-dependent stance suggests they're watching inflation trends closely before each decision, which could influence how fiat liquidity flows into risk assets like Bitcoin and altcoins.

Basically, expect less drama and more predictability in the near term—though of course, surprise economic data could still flip the script.