Bitcoin nears $74K as data shows tech-stock link and ETF flows may extend 5-month downturn

Bitcoin briefly climbed above $73,000 on Friday and held the $70,000 area as weak US economic data and conflict in Iran pushed investors toward scarce assets. Despite four straight days of net spot Bitcoin ETF inflows and a 14% rally from Feb. 24 to March 4, BTC remains tightly correlated with tech stocks and vulnerable to macro headwinds like elevated oil prices. Analysts suggest the five‑month decline from the $126,000 peak in October 2025 may still be in play, and recent price action has yet to confirm a decisive breakout.