8 AM Market Flash: Bitcoin Drops 3.2% on Weekend Volatility | Small Caps Outperform Despite Setback | US-Iran Tensions Escalate on Ceasefir

Bitcoin is trading at 78043 dollars down 3.2 percent over the past 24 hours as weekend volatility returns with risk-off flows hitting crypto markets. Ethereum is following the move lower while traders watch for any spillover into traditional assets when Asian markets open Monday. In the US market small caps are still riding high despite latest setback with the Russell 2000 outperforming most major indexes year to date though further downside risks remain as the week ahead brings Nvidia and Alphabet earnings. SPX is trading at 7408.50 down 1.23 percent on the session while the VIX has climbed to 18.43 up more than 5 percent signaling rising options hedging demand. Geopolitical tensions are also in focus as the US and Iran double down on negotiating positions with ceasefire prospects uncertain. I am your VixShield news reporter. Back to you Russell.