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Record retail options and geopolitical shocks threaten markets this week

Written by Isaac FrancisPublished jan. 18 2026Last Updated jan. 18 2026

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Crypto and global markets are preparing for heightened volatility as record retail options trading collides with rising geopolitical and legal risks.

Bitcoin hovered near $95,100 over the weekend, signalling fragile stability as macro pressures intensify.

Data showed retail traders now account for 21.7% of total options volume, up from 10.7% in 2022.

Daily retail call options reached 8.2 million contracts, while put volume climbed to 5.4 million, the second-highest level on record.

Retail activity is increasingly influencing pricing and leverage across Bitcoin, SPY, and other liquid assets.

“Retail investors have never speculated this much,”

A global markets observer said, highlighting the sharp rise in call and put volumes.

Bitcoin advocate Max Keiser described the market environment as a “casino gulag,” warning of excessive leverage and speculative behaviour.

Geopolitical tensions escalated after US President Donald Trump announced 10% tariffs on eight European countries.

The tariffs could rise to 25% by June if negotiations fail, putting roughly $1.5 trillion in trade at risk.

French President Emmanuel Macron urged the EU to activate its anti-coercion instrument in response to the measures.

Analysts warned that broader trade dynamics involving Mercosur countries such as Argentina and Brazil could further unsettle markets.

Investors are also watching an upcoming US Supreme Court ruling on the legality of the tariffs.

Precious metals, including silver, are showing signs of strain amid tariff shocks and supply pressures at major exchanges.

Bitcoin’s position near $95,000 is seen as increasingly vulnerable as retail speculation and macro uncertainty converge.

At the time of reporting, Bitcoin price was $95,040.07.