Bitcoin futures open interest climbed 4.2% to 645,410 BTC, indicating renewed market positioning as prices rebounded. However, Bitcoin faces a significant resistance zone between $86,500 and $87,500, where concentrated sell orders coincide with major leveraged liquidation levels. Meanwhile, Strategy may encounter additional selling pressure if MSCI removes the company from its indexes under new rules scheduled to take effect on November 11.
Bitcoin (BTC) showed signs of a rebound on Wednesday as derivatives market positioning improved. However, resistance between $86,500 and $87,500 could restrict further upside, with substantial sell orders and leveraged liquidation clusters potentially creating obstacles for bullish momentum.
Bitcoin Derivatives Signal Renewed Market Activity
According to a Wednesday report from crypto exchange Bitfinex, Bitcoin maintained support near the lower boundary of its recent trading range despite repeated downward pressure. Buying activity during price dips helped sustain BTC within the $81,724–$83,470 range.
Futures open interest across major exchanges increased by 4.2% to 645,410 BTC on October 20, recovering from the October 12 low. This rise suggests that traders have begun rebuilding positions as Bitcoin prices recover. Meanwhile, funding rates returned to annualized levels of 7%–9% during peak trading sessions, indicating a moderate preference for leveraged long positions.
Options market data suggests that Bitcoin could remain within a relatively narrow trading range in the near term. Bitfinex reported that Friday’s options expiry carries $1.23 billion in notional open interest, with the maximum pain price near $82,000.
The monthly expiry on October 30 is considerably larger, with $11.2 billion in notional open interest. Its implied one-standard-deviation trading range extends from $78,300 to $87,100, highlighting the potential boundaries of near-term price movements.
$87K Resistance Becomes a Critical Liquidity Zone
Despite improving derivatives positioning, on-chain analytics firm Glassnode identified substantial sell orders between $86,500 and $87,500, alongside liquidation clusters around $85,000 and $87,000.
Glassnode noted that a move toward $87,000 could accelerate if rising prices force short sellers to close their positions. However, the resulting upward momentum could encounter significant selling pressure as Bitcoin approaches the same level, where sell orders are concentrated.
The firm also observed that realized profits had slowed to approximately half the pace recorded during the week of September’s market peak, suggesting that profit-taking pressure had eased. Selling activity among investors who acquired Bitcoin one to two years ago also fell to less than one-third of its daily level in early October.
According to Glassnode, a daily close above $86,700 would restore the average position of investors who purchased Bitcoin six to twelve months ago to profitability while clearing the nearest overhead supply zone. Such a breakout could improve the market’s short-term outlook.
Meanwhile, US spot Bitcoin exchange-traded funds (ETFs) recorded renewed inflows of $526 million on Monday, their largest single-day intake since September 22. These inflows helped return weekly ETF flows to positive territory, although overall trading volume remained subdued.
Glassnode emphasized that sustained inflows accompanied by rising trading volume would provide stronger evidence that Bitcoin demand is expanding beyond a single day’s activity.
MSCI Decision Creates Uncertainty for Strategy
The report also highlighted a potential risk for Strategy ahead of MSCI’s November 11 announcement of its final list of companies affected by new index rules targeting non-operating businesses.
Strategy was included in MSCI’s preliminary assessment, raising the possibility that the company could be removed from certain indexes. Such a decision could trigger selling pressure on its shares as index-tracking funds adjust their holdings.
This is not the first time Strategy has faced potential exclusion from MSCI indexes. In October 2025, MSCI proposed removing companies whose digital asset holdings represented at least 50% of their total assets, placing Strategy at risk because of its substantial Bitcoin holdings. However, the index provider stepped back from immediate exclusion in January.
The upcoming decision therefore remains an important consideration for Strategy investors, as any change to its index eligibility could affect institutional investment flows and share-price performance.
Bitcoin recovers above $84,000, suggesting a resilient technical outlook despite continued ETF-related outflows.
Ethereum strengthens its neutral-to-bullish outlook by reclaiming the key $2,500 support level, even as investment capital continues to flow out.
XRP approaches a potential breakout from a key supply zone, with the 50-day and 100-day EMAs defining the critical resistance range.
Cryptocurrency markets are staging a broad recovery on Tuesday, with Bitcoin (BTC) leading the rebound by climbing above $84,000 ahead of Wednesday’s US Consumer Price Index (CPI) release. Ethereum (ETH) and Ripple (XRP) are also showing signs of stabilization, supported by improving market sentiment. ETH has regained the $2,500 level, while XRP is approaching the critical $1.40 resistance zone.
Institutional Demand Remains Weak Ahead of US CPI
Investors are becoming more cautious ahead of the upcoming US inflation report, prompting a reassessment of risk exposure across financial markets. The Crypto Fear & Greed Index declined to 57 on Tuesday from 69 a day earlier, remaining in the Greed zone but reflecting a cooling appetite for digital assets.
Bitcoin spot ETFs recorded $65 million in net outflows on Monday, reversing the $21 million in inflows reported last Friday. US-listed Bitcoin ETFs also experienced approximately $681 million in cumulative outflows last week, highlighting the impact of macroeconomic uncertainty on institutional demand.
The CPI report will be closely watched as the Federal Reserve evaluates inflation trends and determines its monetary policy direction. A softer-than-expected reading could support expectations of stable interest rates within the 3.50%–4.00% range in October. However, market participants are increasingly anticipating at least one additional rate hike before the end of the year, according to the CME FedWatch tool.
WeFi.co Co-founder and Group CEO Maksym Sakharov noted that weaker inflation could improve expectations for more accommodative financial conditions. He emphasized that market reactions will depend not only on the headline inflation figure but also on how the data influences expectations for borrowing costs and capital availability.
Ethereum investment products are also experiencing sustained selling pressure. Spot ETH ETFs recorded $85 million in outflows on Monday, extending their negative streak to ten consecutive days. Total outflows last week reached $542 million through Friday, potentially limiting Ethereum’s recovery toward resistance levels at $2,600 and $2,800.
Meanwhile, XRP investment products have seen subdued activity for two consecutive days. Their latest reported inflows amounted to $8 million last Thursday, suggesting investors are reassessing their exposure amid macroeconomic uncertainty. Nevertheless, cumulative inflows remain positive at $1.8 billion, while net assets under management stand at approximately $1.55 billion.
Sakharov added that continued uncertainty surrounding monetary policy could make macroeconomic expectations a more significant driver of short-term cryptocurrency prices than sector-specific developments.
Bitcoin Price Forecast: BTC Reclaims $84,000
Bitcoin has rebounded above $84,000 after retreating to approximately $81,700 on Monday, as buyers attempt to regain control of the short-term trend. The technical outlook remains constructive, with BTC trading above its 50-day Exponential Moving Average (EMA) at $80,276 and the SuperTrend indicator at $79,664.
The Relative Strength Index (RSI) stands near 54, indicating mildly positive momentum without entering overbought territory. However, the Moving Average Convergence Divergence (MACD) remains below zero, suggesting that bullish momentum has yet to strengthen decisively.
On the downside, the $84,000 area represents an important near-term reference level, followed by support at the 50-day EMA of $80,276. Additional support sits around $79,664, where the SuperTrend indicator reinforces the broader demand zone.
If selling pressure intensifies, Bitcoin could retreat toward the 100-day EMA at $76,520, followed by the 200-day EMA at $75,631. Maintaining daily closes above these longer-term averages would help preserve the broader bullish structure.
Ethereum Price Forecast: ETH Regains the $2,500 Support
Ethereum is trading near $2,532 after recovering from weekly lows around $2,400. The token has moved back above its 50-day, 100-day and 200-day EMAs, suggesting that underlying demand is supporting a cautiously bullish near-term outlook.
Nevertheless, technical indicators point to limited momentum. The Parabolic SAR sits at $2,729, marking a potential resistance level, while the MACD remains negative and the RSI is around 46, indicating that buying pressure is still relatively weak.
Initial support is located near $2,532, followed by the 50-day EMA at $2,503. If ETH comes under renewed selling pressure, the 100-day EMA at $2,353 and the 200-day EMA near $2,306 could provide additional downside support.
A daily close above $2,729 would strengthen the recovery outlook and potentially open the way toward higher resistance levels. Conversely, failure to break above this barrier could leave ETH consolidating above its moving averages, with a possible pullback toward $2,400.
XRP Price Forecast: Bulls Challenge the $1.40 Resistance Zone
XRP is edging toward $1.40 as buyers attempt to reverse the recent bearish trend. Despite the recovery, the short-term outlook remains cautious because the token continues to trade below its 50-day EMA at $1.40 and its 200-day EMA at $1.38, while remaining above the 100-day EMA at $1.34.
Momentum indicators continue to reflect selling pressure. The MACD remains below zero, while the RSI stands near 43, below the neutral midpoint of 50. These signals suggest that the latest price rebound has not yet established a decisive bullish reversal.
The 200-day EMA at $1.38 represents the first resistance level, followed by the 50-day EMA at $1.40. A stronger recovery could encounter additional resistance near $1.55, where the Parabolic SAR indicator is positioned.
On the downside, the 100-day EMA at $1.34 remains a crucial support level. A daily close below this threshold could trigger a deeper correction. However, holding above $1.34 would allow XRP to consolidate while buyers attempt to overcome the resistance cluster around $1.38–$1.40.
Overall, Bitcoin is showing the strongest signs of recovery, while Ethereum is attempting to establish support above $2,500. XRP faces a more challenging technical setup, with the $1.38–$1.40 region remaining a key obstacle to a sustained bullish reversal. The upcoming US CPI report could influence investor risk appetite and determine whether the current rebound develops into a broader recovery across the cryptocurrency market.
Ripple hovers around $1.40 on Thursday, testing the 200-day EMA support after a 5% decline the previous day.
Cardano edges lower following a 4% decline the previous day, mounting bearish pressure on the 200-day EMA around $0.2423.
Solana extends losses after a 3% decline the previous day, raising the risk of further downside.
Major altcoins, including Ripple (XRP), Cardano (ADA), and Solana (SOL), remain under selling pressure, extending their losses throughout the week. Institutional demand for XRP and SOL is showing signs of weakening, while ADA is also struggling to regain upward momentum. Technical indicators suggest a bearish near-term outlook for all three cryptocurrencies, with further declines possible if key support levels fail to hold.
Institutional Demand for Altcoin ETFs Weakens
Solana is experiencing declining institutional demand as investors continue to withdraw funds from SOL-focused exchange-traded funds (ETFs). According to SoSoValue data, these funds recorded $4.80 million in net outflows on Wednesday, bringing cumulative outflows for the week to $17.73 million.
Meanwhile, XRP-focused ETFs reported no net outflows on Wednesday, following $3.14 million in inflows the previous day. However, institutional interest has cooled considerably compared with the $75.59 million in inflows recorded during the final week of September, indicating a slowdown in demand for XRP exposure.
Ripple Faces a Critical Support Test
XRP was trading near $1.4100 on Wednesday, stabilizing after a 5% decline in the previous session. The token is testing a crucial support zone formed by the 50-day and 200-day exponential moving averages (EMAs), located at $1.4000 and $1.4018, respectively.
A decisive break below this support area could expose XRP to further losses toward the September 16 low of $1.2468, representing a potential decline of approximately 10% from current levels. If selling pressure intensifies, the July 21 high near $1.1646 could emerge as another potential downside target.
Technical indicators are increasingly bearish. The Moving Average Convergence Divergence (MACD) has crossed below its signal line, while the Relative Strength Index (RSI) has fallen to 44, below the neutral 50 threshold. Together, these signals suggest that downward momentum is strengthening.
On the upside, a successful rebound from the 200-day EMA could support a recovery toward the August 22 high of $1.6999.
Cardano Faces Resistance as Bearish Risks Increase
ADA was trading around $0.2521, extending its decline for a third consecutive session. The token continues to face resistance from a descending trendline near $0.2745, which has limited its recovery attempts.
Despite the recent weakness, Cardano’s broader technical structure remains relatively resilient, with the price still above the 50-day EMA at $0.2282 and the 200-day EMA at $0.2424. However, a confirmed break below the 50-day EMA could expose ADA to further losses toward $0.2084, corresponding to the 50% Fibonacci retracement level of its move from $0.1385 to $0.3136.
Momentum indicators point to fading bullish strength. The RSI has declined to 56, while the MACD has slipped slightly below its signal line, suggesting that buying pressure is weakening.
On the upside, immediate resistance stands at the 78.6% Fibonacci retracement level near $0.2632. A sustained move above this barrier could open the way toward the recent swing high of $0.3136.
Solana Faces Downside Risk Below $100
SOL was trading near $115 on Thursday, showing signs of a short-term correction despite its broader recovery structure. The 50-day EMA at $107.42 and the 200-day EMA around $96.65 remain important support levels for the cryptocurrency.
Momentum is turning increasingly bearish, with the MACD crossing below its signal line and the RSI declining to 51. These developments indicate that buying pressure is weakening and that SOL could face additional selling pressure in the near term.
The first key support lies at the 50-day EMA near $107.42. A break below this level could expose Solana to the psychologically important $100 threshold, followed by stronger structural support around the 200-day EMA at $96.65. Holding above the $107.42–$96.65 support zone would help preserve the broader recovery outlook and potentially encourage renewed dip-buying.
On the upside, immediate resistance is located at $122.94, corresponding to the September 25 high. A sustained breakout above this level could shift attention toward the January 13 high at $148.74, although further buying momentum would be needed to reach that target.
Overall, XRP, ADA, and SOL are showing signs of weakening momentum as institutional demand softens and technical indicators turn increasingly bearish. While key support levels could still trigger a recovery, decisive breaks below these thresholds would increase the risk of further losses across the altcoin market.
Bitcoin drops below $83,000 as the broader crypto market sell-off deepens amid increasing ETF outflows.
Ethereum remains under pressure as persistent capital withdrawals and deteriorating technical indicators weigh on its price outlook.
XRP tests the support zone formed by its 50-day and 200-day EMAs as bearish momentum spreads across the cryptocurrency market.
Bitcoin (BTC) extended its decline below $83,000 on Thursday as selling pressure intensified across the cryptocurrency market. Major altcoins followed the downward move, with Ethereum (ETH) falling below $2,600 and XRP testing support around $1.40 as investor demand weakened.
Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs Face Renewed Outflows
Bitcoin spot exchange-traded funds (ETFs) recorded $487 million in outflows on Wednesday, highlighting a renewed pullback in institutional demand. Despite the withdrawals, market sentiment remained in positive territory, with the Crypto Fear & Greed Index falling to 64 on Thursday from 71 a day earlier, remaining within the Greed zone.
If investor appetite holds up, the market could enter a consolidation phase before attempting another recovery. However, persistent ETF outflows and unfavorable macroeconomic conditions could continue to limit upside momentum.
Ethereum spot ETFs also extended their losing streak to seven consecutive sessions, recording $161 million in outflows on Wednesday. Cumulative flows turned to approximately $413 million in net inflows for the week through Thursday, suggesting that US-listed products could be heading toward a second consecutive week of net outflows. Continued withdrawals would add pressure to ETH and increase the risk of a deeper correction.
Meanwhile, XRP spot ETFs showed subdued activity, with little movement on Wednesday following $3 million in outflows on Tuesday. Weakening demand for XRP-related investment products suggests that the token could remain vulnerable to further downside in the near term.
According to XYO co-founder Markus Levin, strong ETF demand alone may not be enough to sustain Bitcoin’s rally when the US dollar and Treasury yields are moving against the market. He noted that falling yields combined with renewed ETF inflows could help BTC regain momentum toward $90,000 and potentially $100,000.
Bitcoin continued to decline for a fourth consecutive day, slipping below the $83,000 level as bullish momentum weakened. Nevertheless, the broader technical structure remains constructive, with BTC trading above its 50-day, 100-day and 200-day Exponential Moving Averages (EMAs).
The SuperTrend indicator, positioned near $79,664, provides another potential support level. Momentum indicators, however, present a mixed picture. The Moving Average Convergence Divergence (MACD) remains in negative territory, while the Relative Strength Index (RSI) hovers around 51, suggesting that momentum has softened without confirming a decisive reversal of the broader trend.
On the downside, the $83,000 area represents an immediate reference point. Below it, the 50-day EMA near $79,702 and the SuperTrend level around $79,664 form an important support zone. A sustained break beneath this cluster could expose the 100-day EMA at $75,855, followed by the 200-day EMA near $75,189.
These lower levels could attract renewed buying interest if the broader bullish structure remains intact. However, continued selling pressure could increase the likelihood of a deeper correction.
Ethereum Technical Outlook: ETH Tests Key Support
Ethereum traded near $2,560 as buyers attempted to stabilize prices following losses throughout the week. Despite the recent weakness, ETH remains above its 50-day, 100-day and 200-day EMAs, indicating that its broader bullish structure has not yet been invalidated.
The 50-day EMA near $2,505 represents the first major support level, followed by the SuperTrend indicator around $2,478. A decisive move below this zone would expose the 100-day EMA at $2,339 and the 200-day EMA near $2,295.
Momentum indicators suggest that the recovery is losing strength. The RSI has fallen to approximately 44, while the MACD remains deeply negative, signaling persistent bearish pressure in the short term.
With clearly defined overhead resistance levels limited on the daily chart, ETH’s next move may depend heavily on broader market sentiment, ETF flows and whether buyers can defend the current support zone. A sustained recovery would help stabilize the outlook, whereas a breakdown below support could accelerate selling.
XRP Technical Outlook: $1.40 Support Comes Into Focus
XRP traded around $1.41 as selling pressure spread across the altcoin market. Despite the pullback, the token remained above its short-, medium- and long-term EMAs, preserving a cautiously constructive broader technical structure.
Momentum indicators, however, point to weakening bullish conviction. The MACD line remains below its signal line, with both hovering around the zero level and the histogram slightly negative. Meanwhile, the RSI near 45 suggests that momentum has cooled and the market may be entering a consolidation phase.
The immediate support level stands near $1.40, where the 50-day EMA is positioned. Below this area, the 200-day EMA around $1.38 represents the next potential defense, followed by the 100-day EMA near $1.34. The SuperTrend baseline around $1.30 provides a deeper support reference.
On the upside, XRP faces resistance from a descending trendline originating near $1.70. A decisive daily close above this barrier could strengthen the recovery outlook and encourage additional buying interest. Conversely, failure to overcome resistance, combined with a break below the $1.40 support zone, could expose XRP to a deeper corrective move.
Market Outlook
Bitcoin, Ethereum and XRP are facing renewed selling pressure as ETF outflows weaken demand across the cryptocurrency market. Although all three assets retain elements of a constructive longer-term technical structure, their short-term momentum has deteriorated.
Bitcoin’s ability to defend the $79,700 support cluster, Ethereum’s response around $2,500 and XRP’s performance near $1.40 will be important in determining whether the current decline develops into a deeper correction or gives way to renewed consolidation. ETF flows, the US dollar and Treasury yields are likely to remain key drivers of market direction.
The daily BTC/USD chart shows a notable improvement in Bitcoin’s price structure after successfully establishing a strong base between $57,500 and $60,000. This foundation was followed by a strong bullish advance, allowing Bitcoin to overcome multiple resistance levels and rise toward $86,000. The move signals a transition from consolidation to a more bullish phase, supported by a pattern of higher highs and higher lows. Bitcoin is now testing an important resistance area near $87,500, which could play a decisive role in determining whether the current uptrend can continue. Maintaining support within the $82,500–$84,000 region remains crucial for preserving the constructive technical setup, particularly while BTC/USD holds above previously breached resistance levels.
From a technical standpoint, Fibonacci retracement levels identify $80,000 as the first major support, corresponding to the 0.236 retracement. Below this, the $76,500 area around the 0.382 retracement provides a stronger support level, while $72,500 near the 0.5 retracement represents another important downside zone. Recent trading activity indicates that Bitcoin has entered a consolidation period beneath key resistance, which could represent a phase of momentum building before the next significant directional move. A decisive breakout above $87,500, confirmed by a daily close above this level, would improve the outlook for a broader advance toward $95,000 and potentially $97,500. In contrast, a decline below $80,000 could trigger a deeper pullback toward the next support areas, although this would not necessarily invalidate the medium-term bullish trend.
Overall, Bitcoin is approaching a crucial technical area that may determine the direction of its next major move. A temporary move above $87,500 would not, by itself, provide sufficient confirmation of a renewed bullish trend. Sustained price action above this resistance, combined with the development of a solid base above the breakout level, would offer stronger confirmation. Meanwhile, continued consolidation above $82,500 and the maintenance of higher lows would keep the broader bullish outlook intact and leave room for further gains. However, a decisive break below $80,000 would raise the risk of a deeper correction toward $76,500, with $72,500 becoming a potential target if selling pressure accelerates. Therefore, Bitcoin’s ability to overcome the $87,500 resistance will be a key factor in determining its next major move, while the support levels below will remain critical for evaluating the strength and sustainability of the broader bullish structure.
The cryptocurrency market remains relatively quiet, with prices showing limited movement compared with the previous session. At around $2.87 trillion, total crypto market capitalization is cautiously recovering from last week’s low near $2.83 trillion. However, as long as the market stays below the $2.90 trillion threshold, the short-term technical trend remains bearish.
A stronger US dollar and uncertainty across equity markets continue to weigh on investor sentiment. Nevertheless, cryptocurrencies have frequently acted as an early indicator of changes in risk appetite. As a result, the recent stabilization in crypto could potentially be followed by improving sentiment in traditional markets over the next few sessions.
Bitcoin found support around $82.5K during Monday evening and early Tuesday trading. At the time of writing, BTC had recovered to approximately $84K, returning to the consolidation range seen over the past week. The current short-term setup suggests that Bitcoin may have established support after pulling back toward previous highs and allowing the earlier rally to cool. If bullish sentiment remains intact, BTC could attempt to break above $87K and reach fresh multi-month highs.
If the broader crypto market serves as an early gauge of global risk appetite, Ethereum can be viewed as a useful indicator of sentiment within the cryptocurrency sector. Ethereum has now posted seven consecutive weeks of gains, avoiding a deeper correction. On Tuesday morning, ETH moved above $2.7K after reaching around $2.8K last week.
The second-largest cryptocurrency continues to maintain a strong bullish structure and is making another attempt to move toward the $2.8K–$3.3K area. This region previously served as a consolidation zone from November through January and could become an important area for Ethereum in the sessions ahead.
News Background
Tom Lee, Chairman of Bitmine, said that asset tokenisation and the development of AI agents could emerge as two major growth drivers for the next cryptocurrency cycle. He argued that AI is increasingly influencing the digital economy, creating demand for dedicated payment systems and infrastructure capable of supporting AI-driven transactions.
Strategy has reported another Bitcoin purchase, marking its second consecutive week of acquisitions. The company bought an additional 1,666 BTC at an average price of approximately $85.7K per Bitcoin. Its total Bitcoin holdings have now reached 847,666 BTC, with an average acquisition price of around $75.4K per coin.
Bitmine also added 17,362 ETH to its holdings last week, bringing its Ethereum reserves to approximately 6.001 million ETH, equivalent to 4.92% of the cryptocurrency’s total supply. To reach its stated goal of accumulating 5% of the total ETH supply, the company would need to purchase another 100,000 ETH.
US spot Solana ETFs recorded approximately $188 million in inflows last week, representing their strongest weekly inflow since the funds launched in October 2025. Cumulative inflows into these products have now exceeded $1.6 billion.
Bitcoin slips below $82,800 on Monday after posting a gain of more than 4% the previous week.
US-listed spot Bitcoin ETFs attracted $2.39 billion in inflows last week, marking their strongest weekly inflow since October 2025.
Higher US Treasury yields and expectations of additional Fed tightening may cap Bitcoin’s near-term gains.
Bitcoin (BTC) is trading below $82,800 on Monday after rising more than 4% last week, although the rally has begun to lose momentum near recent highs. Strong institutional demand, fueled by continued inflows into spot Bitcoin Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs), remains a key source of support. However, elevated US Treasury yields and expectations of additional Federal Reserve (Fed) tightening could limit Bitcoin’s near-term gains.
Strong Institutional Demand Supports Bitcoin
Institutional interest provided significant support for Bitcoin last week. According to SoSoValue data, US-listed spot Bitcoin ETFs posted $2.39 billion in net inflows, marking their strongest weekly inflow since October 2025. Continued or accelerating ETF inflows could provide further support for BTC and help extend its recent advance.
Higher Treasury Yields Weigh on BTC
Simon-Peter Massabni, Head of Business Development at XS.com, told FXStreet that Bitcoin’s pullback from its recent high indicates that bullish momentum is weakening as US Treasury yields remain elevated. Investors are also becoming more cautious ahead of several important US economic reports.
According to Massabni, Bitcoin continues to trade largely as a risk-sensitive asset, making it highly dependent on liquidity conditions. Falling Treasury yields and gains in technology stocks can encourage capital to move back into cryptocurrencies. In contrast, yields above 5% and stronger expectations for additional Fed rate hikes can raise the opportunity cost of holding Bitcoin, potentially encouraging investors to take profits after a sharp rally.
Massabni expects ETF inflows to remain supportive of Bitcoin, although weaker demand could restrict additional gains. BTC’s performance this week could depend heavily on the US JOLTS report, Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) data and Nonfarm Payrolls, scheduled for Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday, respectively.
He noted that softer economic data combined with stronger ETF inflows could allow Bitcoin to retest the $87,000–$90,000 area, while persistent inflation and weaker ETF demand could increase downside pressure toward $80,000.
Bitcoin is trading around $82,779 on Monday, showing a modest pullback after gaining more than 4% last week. Despite the decline, BTC maintains a constructive near-term technical structure, remaining above its 50-day, 100-day and 200-day Exponential Moving Averages (EMAs), which are positioned around $73,900–$77,300.
The Relative Strength Index (RSI) is near 58, indicating positive but not overbought momentum. Meanwhile, the Moving Average Convergence Divergence (MACD) has eased into slightly positive territory, suggesting that upward momentum is moderating rather than clearly reversing.
On the upside, Bitcoin faces initial resistance around $85,000. A sustained break above this level could open the way toward recent highs.
On the downside, the $77,292 area, marked by the 50-day EMA, represents the first major support zone. Additional support comes from the 100-day and 200-day EMAs near $73,915 and $74,245. If the correction deepens, Bitcoin could find stronger support around the previously established levels of $66,500 and $62,300, which form important lower boundaries of the broader uptrend.
Bitcoin traded at $83,942.62 at 10 a.m. ET on Thursday, down $1,743.44 from the same time a day earlier, with the bond market emerging as the main catalyst behind the decline. The cryptocurrency opened at $84,370.41, 2.1% below Wednesday’s opening level, before falling to $83,462.29 by 7:33 a.m. ET as U.S. traders entered the market. Over the previous 24 hours, BTC-USD had fallen 2.74%, while spot trading volume reached $45.05 billion, 19.47% higher than the previous day. The decline was therefore accompanied by a notable increase in trading activity.
The pressure originated outside the cryptocurrency market. The 10-year Treasury yield climbed to 5.15% on Thursday, its highest level since July 2007, while the 30-year yield reached 5.446%, a level not seen since June 2004. On Wednesday alone, the 10-year yield jumped 15 basis points from 4.96% to 5.11% following stronger-than-expected September business data. With government bonds now offering yields above 5%, Bitcoin, which generates no coupon or cash flow, faces a significantly higher opportunity cost.
That shift helps explain why Bitcoin’s latest rally lost momentum. BTC surged from around $75,000 in mid-September to above $87,000 on September 21 and 22, marking its first move into that territory since January. The rally then reversed sharply on Wednesday, sending Bitcoin from $87,200 to as low as $83,500, while Thursday’s decline kept the cryptocurrency below $84,000 for much of the U.S. morning session.
Despite the pullback, Bitcoin’s broader performance remains positive. The cryptocurrency has gained 9.52% over the past seven days, 4.59% over 30 days, 29.99% over 60 days and 39.09% over 90 days. Its market capitalization stands at approximately $1.68 trillion, with 20.09 million BTC in circulation. The broader trend that lifted Bitcoin from its summer lows remains intact, but the cost of holding the asset has increased significantly.
The key technical question now centers on the $84,000-$85,000 area. If that zone holds, the September rally could regain momentum toward $96,700. A sustained break lower could instead expose Bitcoin to a move toward $77,000. Spot Bitcoin ETFs have absorbed $2.65 billion over five sessions, providing an important source of demand that could offset the impact of rising yields. If ETF inflows remain strong while Treasury yields stabilize, the current decline could develop into a higher low. However, continued yield increases combined with weaker ETF demand could trigger further deleveraging.
Other market factors, including Strategy’s 846,000-BTC treasury and Friday’s $16 billion options expiry, add to the broader battle between higher discount rates and institutional demand.
Real Yields, Rather Than Inflation, Drove the Selloff
The composition of Wednesday’s Treasury selloff is particularly important for Bitcoin. According to the Treasury’s daily real-yield curve, the 10-year real yield rose from 2.63% to 2.76% in a single session. That accounted for 13 of the 15 basis points added to the nominal 10-year yield. Meanwhile, 10-year inflation compensation, measured by the difference between nominal and real yields, increased only 2 basis points, from 2.33% to 2.35%.
This distinction is significant. If investors had been primarily concerned about accelerating inflation, inflation expectations would likely have risen more sharply, potentially supporting Bitcoin’s role as an alternative store of value. Instead, real Treasury yields increased substantially while inflation expectations barely moved. Investors were therefore demanding greater inflation-adjusted compensation for holding government debt, creating a tougher hurdle for assets that do not generate income.
The catalyst appeared to be stronger economic growth rather than higher prices. The S&P Global composite PMI for September rose to 58.4 from 56.0, while the services reading reached 58.7 and manufacturing climbed to 57.0. The figures represented the strongest overall expansion in the survey since July 2021. A stronger economy gives the Federal Reserve less incentive to ease policy and prompted investors to reassess the expected path of interest rates.
Bitcoin responded almost immediately. As the 10-year Treasury yield moved above 5.05% shortly after the PMI release, BTC lost its hold above $86,000. By the end of Wednesday, when the Treasury yield had reached 5.11%, Bitcoin had fallen to around $83,500. The continued rise to 5.15% on Thursday kept the cryptocurrency under pressure.
The relationship between real yields and Bitcoin has therefore become an important market indicator. A decline in the 10-year real yield below 2.65% could ease some of the pressure and bring the $87,000 area back into focus. Conversely, a move toward 2.85%-2.90% would point to a more prolonged period of restrictive monetary conditions and could put the $84,000 support level at risk.
A stronger U.S. dollar is adding to the pressure. The U.S. Dollar Index reached 100.80 on Wednesday, its highest level in two months, while EUR/USD fell below 1.1390 on Thursday. A stronger dollar can tighten global financial conditions, while Bitcoin has historically shown an inverse relationship with the greenback during rate-driven market moves. Gold also declined 0.56% to $4,293 an ounce, suggesting that the selling pressure is affecting a broader group of non-yielding assets rather than being limited to cryptocurrencies.
For Bitcoin traders, movements in Treasury real yields over the coming week could therefore prove more important than many on-chain indicators.
Bitcoin’s September Rally: From $75,000 to $87,400 and Back
Understanding Bitcoin’s recent rally provides context for the current pullback. September began with a three-week streak of ETF inflows totaling $3.8 billion, which ended on September 5 and represented the strongest such run of 2026. The strongest single-day inflow during that period reached $730.9 million on September 3.
Momentum subsequently weakened. The following week saw $462.7 million in net ETF outflows, including $450.3 million in redemptions on September 15.
Bitcoin’s price followed the shift in flows, falling to around $75,000 on September 15 and 16. The decline came after the Federal Reserve raised rates and Washington delivered a setback for crypto market-structure legislation. The Fed increased its target range to 3.75%-4.00% on September 16, its first rate hike since 2023, while the rejection of the CLARITY Act removed a regulatory development that investors had been anticipating.
The recovery was subsequently rapid and heavily influenced by leverage. Bitcoin reclaimed $80,000 before breaking through a trading range that had constrained prices since August. On September 21, BTC climbed from a Sunday close near $81,159 through $85,000, its first move above that level since late January, before extending into the $86,000-$87,000 range. Intraday highs on September 21 and 22 reached approximately $87,300-$87,400 on major exchanges.
The $80,000-$82,000 area was important not only technically but also because significant short positions had accumulated there during months of range-bound trading between $76,000 and $82,000. Once Bitcoin moved above $82,000, successive short-liquidation clusters around $82,000, $84,000 and $85,000 triggered additional buying pressure. The resulting short squeeze accelerated the move higher.
Spot demand also contributed, making the rally more than simply a derivatives-driven move. Monday’s $998.95 million in spot ETF inflows marked the largest one-day total in 11 months, while Strategy also financed a new Bitcoin purchase. Total cryptocurrency market capitalization subsequently returned above $3 trillion on several market trackers.
The decline from $87,400 to $83,462 represents a roughly 32% retracement of the advance from $75,000. That remains within the range of a typical consolidation following a rapid squeeze. A 50% retracement would place Bitcoin near $81,200, while the 61.8% Fibonacci retracement sits around $79,700, close to Strategy’s latest average purchase price of $79,670.
Those levels could become increasingly important if the correction deepens. For now, Bitcoin remains in the upper portion of the trading range established during September.
Leverage Is Being Cleared From Both Directions
Bitcoin’s derivatives market has experienced sharp liquidations on both the upside and downside, helping reshape positioning for the next move.
The first wave occurred during the September 21 breakout. Short covering helped push Bitcoin from approximately $80,300 to $85,134, while $262.3 million in short positions were liquidated within a single 60-minute period. Total crypto liquidations that day exceeded $756 million, including around $650 million in short positions, affecting more than 136,000 traders.
The reversal came on Wednesday. When Bitcoin dropped below $84,000 following the PMI release, long positions absorbed much of the damage, with approximately $280 million in long liquidations recorded during the session. Traders who entered leveraged positions around $86,000-$87,000 were caught by the sharp rise in Treasury yields and forced to exit near the lows.
The two-way liquidation cycle has two important effects. First, it reduces excessive leverage. After roughly $650 million in shorts were liquidated during the rally and another $280 million in longs were cleared during the decline, fewer heavily leveraged positions remain concentrated around individual price levels.
Second, the moves demonstrate how sensitive leveraged traders have become to macroeconomic data. When the 10-year Treasury yield moves 15 basis points in one day, leveraged perpetual-futures positions can face liquidation following relatively modest moves in Bitcoin. In this environment, the derivatives market is increasingly reacting to movements in the bond market.
The distinction between ETF investors and futures traders is also important. Someone who bought IBIT near Bitcoin’s $87,000 peak faces a paper loss but does not face a margin call or automatic liquidation. A leveraged futures trader entering at the same price may already have been forced out. This difference means ETF demand can provide more persistent support during corrections, while leveraged futures positions can accelerate downside moves.
The main risk is renewed leverage. If traders rebuild large long positions during a rebound toward $86,000 while Treasury yields continue rising, another round of liquidations could follow. A more stable setup would involve spot-driven gains accompanied by relatively subdued funding rates. Spot trading volume over the past 24 hours has already increased substantially from its August low, indicating greater activity in the underlying market.
Spot Bitcoin ETFs Attract $2.65 Billion Over Five Sessions
The U.S. spot Bitcoin ETF market remains one of the most important sources of demand. The funds recorded five consecutive sessions of net inflows: $159.5 million on September 17, $433 million on September 18, $998.95 million on September 21, $714.7 million on September 22 and $346.9 million on September 23. Combined, the five sessions generated approximately $2.65 billion in inflows.
The September 23 figure is particularly notable because it came during a major Treasury selloff. Investors added $346.9 million to spot Bitcoin ETFs even as Bitcoin declined from around $87,200 to $83,500. While the inflow was significantly lower than the previous day’s $714.7 million, demand remained positive despite the increase in real yields.
The breadth of the buying is also notable. On Monday, IBIT attracted $381.4 million, ARK 21Shares Bitcoin ETF (ARKB) received $289.1 million and Fidelity’s FBTC added $238.8 million. Together, the three funds accounted for approximately $909 million of inflows. Other products, including Grayscale, Bitwise and Morgan Stanley funds, also recorded positive flows.
Tuesday showed a similar pattern. IBIT received $350.3 million, FBTC attracted $257.4 million and Morgan Stanley’s MSBT recorded $99 million in inflows. The participation of products distributed through traditional wealth-management channels suggests that some of the demand is coming through established investment platforms rather than solely from short-term cryptocurrency traders.
The broader ETF flow picture has also improved. Investors have directed approximately $4.6 billion into U.S. spot Bitcoin ETFs since August 19, reversing earlier outflows. As a result, the category has returned to approximately $320 million in net inflows for 2026.
The key question is whether the positive flow streak continues. A sustained slowdown or a return to net outflows could remove an important source of demand, particularly if Treasury yields continue to rise. Conversely, continued inflows would indicate that institutional buyers remain willing to allocate to Bitcoin despite higher real yields.
IBIT and the Changing ETF Flow Landscape
BlackRock’s iShares Bitcoin Trust remains a major vehicle for institutional Bitcoin exposure, but September’s flow data shows that demand is becoming more distributed across different funds.
IBIT led the two largest sessions of the latest inflow streak, attracting $381.4 million on Monday and $350.3 million on Tuesday. However, it did not account for the majority of total category inflows on those days.
Earlier in the month, IBIT had held a much larger lead. On September 18, for example, Fidelity’s FBTC attracted $306 million, nearly three times IBIT’s inflow, as Bitcoin moved toward $81,000. The shift indicates that investors are using multiple ETF products rather than directing all new allocations through a single fund.
IBIT’s regulatory filings also illustrate how much its flows have changed during 2026. According to its SEC 10-Q filing for the six months ended June 30, the trust reported a $22.18 billion decrease in net assets from operations, reflecting Bitcoin’s price decline during the first half of the year. Over the same period, the trust purchased $2.68 billion of Bitcoin and sold $8.42 billion, resulting in net sales of approximately $5.74 billion as redemptions exceeded creations. During the first half of 2025, by comparison, it purchased $19.13 billion and sold $4.16 billion.
That contrast provides context for September’s renewed inflows. The latest buying represents a change from the redemption-heavy environment seen during the first half of the year.
For IBIT investors, Bitcoin’s $84,000-$85,000 area remains an important near-term reference point because the fund is designed to track the underlying spot Bitcoin price. Daily ETF flow figures can also be revised, so individual sessions should be interpreted within the broader trend rather than in isolation.
Overall, the latest flow data suggests that Bitcoin’s institutional demand base is spread across several products and distribution channels. Whether that demand can continue absorbing selling pressure will depend heavily on the interaction between ETF flows and the direction of Treasury real yields.
Bitcoin declined on Wednesday as investors moved away from risk-sensitive assets amid a sharp rise in U.S. Treasury yields, growing expectations of another Federal Reserve interest-rate increase, and higher oil prices following setbacks in U.S.-Iran diplomatic discussions.
The cryptocurrency had surged nearly 7% on Monday, climbing above $87,300 and reaching its highest level since late January. While some of those gains have since been erased, market sentiment toward the digital asset remains supported by optimism around the evolving regulatory landscape, despite the failure of the Clarity Act to advance through Congress.
By 18:12 ET (22:12 GMT), Bitcoin was trading 1.7% lower at $84,652.
Rising Yields and Oil Pressure Risk Assets
Treasury yields jumped on Wednesday after stronger-than-expected U.S. economic data increased expectations that the Federal Reserve could raise interest rates again in October.
The latest S&P Global survey showed U.S. business activity expanding for a fourth consecutive month in September, reaching its strongest pace since July 2021. Growth was driven by both manufacturing and services, while input costs accelerated, pushing inflation to its highest level since October 2022. Rising fuel and transportation expenses were key contributors.
As a result, traders increased their expectations for another Fed rate hike. According to CME FedWatch data, the probability of a quarter-point increase at the October FOMC meeting rose to roughly 68%, up from around 55% a day earlier. Higher interest rates typically reduce the appeal of speculative assets such as cryptocurrencies.
The benchmark U.S. 10-year Treasury yield climbed 16.8 basis points to 5.116%, its highest level since July 2007.
Risk sentiment was also weakened by a rebound in oil prices. Brent crude rose 4.3% to settle at $103.50 per barrel after optimism surrounding potential diplomatic progress between Washington and Tehran faded.
Although President Donald Trump had earlier described talks between U.S. and Iranian officials as “very good,” subsequent comments from U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio suggested the discussions represented ongoing dialogue rather than a significant breakthrough. Meanwhile, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian reiterated that Iran would not yield to external pressure, despite remaining open to diplomacy.
Investors were also monitoring Chinese President Xi Jinping’s visit to Washington, his first state visit to the United States in more than a decade.
Bitcoin ETF Inflows Remain Strong
Despite the pullback in crypto prices, institutional demand for Bitcoin continued to improve. Spot Bitcoin ETFs attracted approximately $1.71 billion in inflows so far this week, marking their strongest weekly performance since late August, according to SoSoValue data.
Investor confidence was further supported by additional Bitcoin purchases disclosed by Strategy, one of the largest corporate holders of the cryptocurrency.
Although the Clarity Act failed to pass Congress earlier this month, the setback was partially offset by a U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission exemption allowing tokenized stocks to be offered on blockchain networks. The move was viewed positively by the crypto industry because it could accelerate the integration of blockchain technology with traditional financial markets.
Adding to that momentum, the New York Stock Exchange and Blockchain.com announced plans to explore blockchain-based tokens linked to U.S.-listed stocks and ETFs, highlighting growing interest in asset tokenization.
Altcoins Follow Bitcoin Lower
Most major cryptocurrencies traded lower alongside Bitcoin on Wednesday.
Ether fell 2.2% to $2,692, while XRP dropped 4%.
Even so, many altcoins have outperformed Bitcoin in recent sessions, benefiting from expectations that tokenized-stock initiatives could attract more activity to blockchain ecosystems beyond Bitcoin.
BNB declined 2.4%, Solana slipped 2.5%, and Cardano lost 5.3%.
Among meme tokens, Dogecoin tumbled 7.3%, while $TRUMP plunged 11.1%.
Bitcoin surged past the $85,000 mark on Monday after advancing 5.64% last week and finishing above its 50-week Simple Moving Average (SMA) near $78,200.
US spot Bitcoin exchange-traded funds (ETFs) attracted modest net inflows of $6.21 million last week, reflecting continued investor interest despite the CLARITY Act setback and the Federal Reserve’s hawkish stance.
According to one analyst, the latest rally has been fueled by short-covering activity, trader repositioning, and increased leverage, which could leave Bitcoin exposed to a correction if the breakout loses momentum.
Fundamental Analysis
Bitcoin (BTC) continued its upward momentum on Monday, climbing above the $85,000 level after gaining nearly 6% last week and breaking through an important resistance area. Institutional interest also remained relatively stable, with spot Bitcoin ETFs recording modest inflows despite regulatory uncertainty surrounding the CLARITY Act and a more hawkish stance from the Federal Reserve.
Institutional Demand Holds Up
According to SoSoValue data, US spot Bitcoin ETFs attracted approximately $6.2 million in net inflows last week, reversing the previous week’s outflow of $462.7 million. The return of positive flows suggests that institutional investors remain engaged even as regulatory and macroeconomic conditions become less supportive.
Should ETF inflows strengthen further in the coming days, Bitcoin could maintain its bullish trajectory and push toward higher price levels.
Analysts Urge Caution
Despite the recent rally, Bitunix analyst Dean Chen believes it is too early to confirm the start of a new bull market. He identified the $82,300–$82,800 region as a crucial resistance zone. A successful breakout followed by sustained support above this area would provide stronger evidence of a broader recovery.
However, Chen noted that trading volume has not increased significantly alongside prices, raising concerns about the strength of the advance. ETF flows have also remained inconsistent, while institutional demand has yet to establish a clear long-term inflow trend.
Market data shows Bitcoin Open Interest rose 3.6% over the past 24 hours, while short liquidations reached roughly $49 million. These figures suggest that the rally has been partly fueled by short covering and increasing leverage. If Bitcoin fails to maintain its breakout, elevated leverage could intensify downside risks.
Rally Defies Macro Headwinds
Chen emphasized that Bitcoin’s strength is particularly notable because it has occurred despite a challenging macroeconomic backdrop. The US Dollar Index gained more than 1% last week and moved back above 100, while Treasury yields remained elevated across the curve.
Meanwhile, the Federal Reserve raised interest rates by 25 basis points to a range of 3.75%–4.00% and signaled that another rate increase this year remains possible. Under normal circumstances, higher rates and stronger bond yields tend to pressure risk assets such as cryptocurrencies.
As a result, Chen believes Bitcoin’s advance reflects capital rotation within the crypto market, short-covering activity, and renewed leverage rather than a broad improvement in liquidity conditions. Stablecoin market capitalization also remains below its peak reached earlier this year, suggesting overall crypto liquidity has yet to fully recover.
For a stronger bullish confirmation, the analyst is monitoring whether Bitcoin can hold above the $82,700–$82,800 area while ETF inflows and Open Interest continue to grow steadily.
Technical Outlook
Bitcoin closed above its 50-week Simple Moving Average (SMA) near $78,200 last week, a development that strengthens the medium-term technical outlook. If this support remains intact, the next upside targets are the 50% Fibonacci retracement level near $87,600 and the 100-week SMA around $89,600.
Momentum indicators remain constructive. The weekly Relative Strength Index (RSI) is near 61, indicating positive momentum without entering overbought territory. The MACD also remains in bullish territory, supporting the possibility of additional gains.
However, if Bitcoin loses momentum and falls back below the 50-week SMA, the market could retrace toward the key psychological support level at $70,000.
Daily Chart Perspective
On the daily timeframe, Bitcoin continues to trade comfortably above its 50-day, 100-day, and 200-day Exponential Moving Averages, which are clustered between roughly $72,300 and $74,900. This reinforces the current bullish structure.
The daily RSI is approaching overbought conditions near 70, while the MACD remains positive, indicating strong but potentially stretched upward momentum.
Immediate resistance is located around $85,000. A decisive break above this barrier could pave the way for further gains. On the downside, the first major support sits near the 50-day EMA around $74,900, followed by the 200-day EMA near $73,500 and the 100-day EMA around $72,300. If a deeper correction develops, additional support levels can be found near $66,500 and $62,300.
The NASDAQ 100 attracted buyers on pullbacks throughout the week, reinforcing the view that the index remains in a broad trading range.
With major central bank events—including policy decisions from the Federal Reserve, Bank of Japan, and Bank of England—now behind the market, investors appear more confident. Overall, bullish sentiment remains intact, although the 30,000 level continues to act as a significant resistance zone.
EUR/USD
The euro weakened against the US dollar during the week after the Federal Reserve raised interest rates and signaled the possibility of additional tightening ahead.
The move caught some traders off guard, as many had expected the Fed to conclude its rate-hiking cycle. Meanwhile, ongoing concerns surrounding Europe’s energy supply continue to weigh on sentiment toward the single currency.
Gold
Gold experienced notable volatility as global central banks remained active in shaping monetary policy expectations. The precious metal found support around its 50-week EMA, attracting bargain hunters.
While the broader trend appears largely sideways, underlying bullish pressure remains visible. The $4,500 level stands out as a key upside target and potential resistance area. Traders will continue to monitor global interest-rate developments, particularly in the United States, as rising yields could limit gold’s upside potential.
GBP/JPY
GBP/JPY advanced during the week despite a rate increase from the Bank of Japan and a policy hold from the Bank of England.
Market participants interpreted comments from Japanese policymakers as a sign that future tightening may be gradual, prompting renewed weakness in the yen. The rally appears to be driven more by yen depreciation than by significant strength in the British pound, which has shown mixed performance against other major currencies.
USD/CAD
The US dollar strengthened against the Canadian dollar as markets responded to a more hawkish-than-expected tone from Kevin Warsh.
In addition, ongoing tariff-related tensions between the United States and Canada contributed to market uncertainty. Interest-rate differentials continue to favor the US dollar, suggesting the pair may maintain its upward bias.
USD/JPY
The US dollar gained ground against the Japanese yen after the Federal Reserve adopted a more hawkish stance than the Bank of Japan, despite both central banks raising rates.
The move has revived carry-trade interest, supporting demand for the dollar. While the 50-week EMA remains an important technical hurdle, a sustained break above it could pave the way for further gains.
Bitcoin
Bitcoin moved higher during the week and finished Friday testing the key resistance zone near $83,000. This level has repeatedly capped advances and continues to represent a significant supply area.
A decisive breakout could trigger stronger bullish momentum, while failure to clear resistance may keep the cryptocurrency confined to the range that has dominated trading over the past month. The market is still searching for direction following its earlier surge.
GBP/USD
The British pound declined against the US dollar as investors focused on the contrasting policy outlooks of the Federal Reserve and the Bank of England.
Despite the weakness, the pair remains trapped within a long-standing trading range, with support near 1.3250 and resistance around 1.3700. Although the interest-rate gap between the two economies remains relatively small, changing monetary-policy expectations could influence future price action.
The crypto market has gained 1.2% over the past 24 hours. The Fed’s key interest rate hike failed to trigger a major market reaction, despite a short-lived increase in volatility. Traders quickly shifted their focus toward buying the dips. Meanwhile, several altcoins continued to post strong gains. The sharp rallies in coins driven by specific narratives could signal a meaningful change in overall market sentiment.
The strongest performers over the past 24 hours were NEAR Protocol, which advanced 18%, Zcash, up 17.5%, and Dash, which climbed 15%. On the weaker side, Filecoin declined 1%, while Hedera slipped 0.1% and Tron edged up 0.1%. Overall, the performance of major altcoins highlights the increasingly bullish tone across the crypto market over the past day.
In contrast, the cryptocurrency sentiment index signals a more cautious mood, falling to 50 from 51 a day earlier. However, the decline is not particularly concerning, as the index has remained above the 50 mark for roughly four weeks after spending nearly a year in the lower half of its range, apart from a few brief periods.
Bitcoin showed only a limited response to the Fed’s interest rate decision, unlike the more volatile reaction seen across traditional financial markets. The leading cryptocurrency appears to have already experienced a significant negative reaction to the failure of the CLARITY Act, temporarily reducing its sensitivity to other market developments and helping it withstand the impact of a stronger US dollar.
News Background
US spot Bitcoin ETFs recorded their largest outflow since June 25, with more than $450 million withdrawn after the CLARITY Act failed to secure enough support in the US Senate.
Following the unsuccessful vote on the CLARITY Act, Bernstein said that regulatory responsibility for the crypto industry will largely remain with the US Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) and the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The firm also expects regulatory efforts covering native tokens, decentralized finance (DeFi) and tokenized shares to accelerate.
According to CoinShares, the combined mining output of publicly traded Bitcoin miners fell below the break-even level during the second quarter. Bitcoin ended the quarter at approximately $58.4K, while the average cost of mining one BTC was around $75.5K. Hashprice, an important measure of mining profitability, also reached a new all-time low in June.
According to Lookonchain, the largest US Bitcoin miner, MARA Holdings, acquired another 1,292 BTC at an average price of $76.3K per coin. Its Bitcoin holdings have now increased to 35,577 BTC, placing the company among the largest publicly listed corporate Bitcoin holders globally.
Meanwhile, developers have entered the final testing stage for Bitcoin Core 32.0. The upcoming release will introduce changes to the fee estimation mechanism, improve block validation speeds when reading data from disk and address a vulnerability related to walletnotify.
Bitcoin is trading around $75,750, down 3.5% over the past 24 hours and at its lowest level since August 21. The decline has been almost uninterrupted from the $79,530 high reached during Asian trading, marking a $3,780 slide that more than erased Monday’s recovery. Ether has fallen 3.9% to $2,407, while Solana is down 3% at $98.50. The selloff comes just hours before the U.S. Senate’s 2:15 p.m. ET cloture vote on the Digital Asset Market Clarity Act and a day before the Federal Reserve is expected to announce its first rate hike since 2023.
At the current price, Bitcoin is only $338 above Strategy’s average purchase price of $75,412 per BTC, based on its holdings of 845,050 BTC. It is also $517 above the 50% Fibonacci retracement level of $75,233, calculated from the $97,924-to-$57,800 decline. Meanwhile, the $75,000 psychological level continues to provide support after containing pullbacks since Bitcoin broke out of its August $63,000-$65,000 base. These three support indicators — a corporate cost basis, a technical retracement and a psychological threshold — are concentrated within a $750 range.
That convergence makes the current session particularly important. Holding $75,000 through the Senate vote and Wednesday’s Fed announcement would preserve the August breakout structure and leave room for a recovery toward $80,000-$82,850. A decisive break below it, however, would push Bitcoin beneath Strategy’s approximate breakeven level and expose the next major support area around $73,053-$73,127, where the 200-day EMA and 38.2% Fibonacci retracement meet.
Bitcoin’s market capitalization is approximately $1.52 trillion, based on 20,084,306 coins in circulation. The cryptocurrency remains 40% below its October 6, 2025 record high of $126,210.50 and is 32% lower than it was a year ago. Despite the recent decline, Bitcoin is still 23% higher over the past 30 days, highlighting how much of the late-summer advance is now being tested.
The broader macro environment is also weighing on risk assets. The 10-year U.S. Treasury yield reached 5.041%, its highest level since 2007, while WTI crude trades near $104.43. The Nasdaq is down 0.9% and the S&P 500 has slipped 0.6%. Higher real yields, a firmer dollar and expectations for tighter monetary policy increase the relative cost of holding a non-yielding asset such as Bitcoin. Gold is also lower at $4,329.80, suggesting that Bitcoin is not currently receiving a meaningful haven bid.
The central question for the next 30 days is whether Bitcoin can remain above the $75,000-$75,412 pivot. The Senate’s CLARITY vote and the Federal Reserve’s policy decision could determine which side of that range the market settles on.
Bitcoin Slides From $79,530 to $75,750
Bitcoin entered Tuesday with a relatively constructive setup. On Monday, while U.S. semiconductor stocks came under heavy pressure and the Philadelphia Semiconductor Index dropped 5.9%, Bitcoin moved in the opposite direction. It gained 2% and climbed above $79,000 as traders positioned ahead of the Senate vote. For a brief period, Bitcoin showed signs of decoupling from technology stocks, attracting additional buyers.
The overnight high reached $79,530 in Asia, just $470 below the $80,000 threshold that has rejected several attempts since early September. Momentum quickly faded. During Tuesday’s Asian session, Bitcoin declined toward $77,800 as uncertainty surrounding the legislation in Washington coincided with a recovery in oil prices. WTI had briefly dropped to $100 overnight before rebounding toward $103, reinforcing expectations for additional Fed tightening.
By the European morning, Bitcoin was around $77,400. Although roughly unchanged over 24 hours, it was already about 3% below the overnight peak and more than 1% lower for the week. XRP was the strongest major cryptocurrency at that point, rising more than 2% to $1.41, while Zcash climbed to $1,149. Ether, BNB, Tron, Hyperliquid and Dogecoin were each slightly lower, while Solana remained close to $101.
At 4:53 a.m. ET, Bitcoin traded at $76,873.68, with 24-hour volume of $15.71 billion. Before the New York open, it was down 1.01% at $76,957.57. Selling accelerated once U.S. markets opened. As the 10-year Treasury yield moved above 5.02% and reached 5.041%, Bitcoin fell through $76,500 and reached $76,542.23 around midday, representing a 2.56% daily decline.
The final move toward $75,750 came as prediction-market expectations for the legislation deteriorated. The probability of the CLARITY Act becoming law this year fell to 11% before the afternoon vote. That removed much of the remaining speculative demand. Ether dropped to $2,407, Solana fell below $100 and Bitcoin’s 24-hour loss widened to 3.5%.
The nature of the decline is important. There was no obvious liquidation cascade or exchange-specific disruption. Instead, Bitcoin experienced a persistent decline as three pressures developed simultaneously: weakening expectations for the legislation, rising Treasury yields and higher oil prices. Such steady selling is generally more consistent with spot-market selling and broader de-risking than forced liquidations, meaning a sustained reversal may require the underlying catalysts to change.
Senate CLARITY Vote: 60 Votes Needed
The Senate vote scheduled for this afternoon is not a final vote on the CLARITY Act. It is a cloture vote on the motion to proceed, which would end a filibuster and allow the Senate to begin debate and amendments. Final passage would take place later. Both stages require 60 votes.
Republicans currently hold 53 Senate seats, meaning at least seven Democrats would need to support cloture if every Republican votes in favour.
The House previously passed the legislation 294-134, including support from 78 Democrats. The Senate Banking Committee advanced the bill 15-9 in May, but negotiations subsequently stalled over ethics provisions, protections for software developers and rules governing stablecoin rewards. Senate Majority Leader John Thune filed for cloture in August after the chamber recessed without reaching an agreement.
Republican senators Cynthia Lummis, Tim Scott and John Boozman released a 635-page revised proposal on Sunday. They said the draft incorporated 126 substantive changes requested by Democratic negotiators. Lummis argued that Democrats had received the changes they requested, while also acknowledging that some members might remain unwilling to support the legislation.
Democrats have disputed that assessment. Senate Democrats delivered a counterproposal late Monday after meeting in Minority Leader Chuck Schumer’s office. Lummis subsequently rejected that proposal. Senator Mark Warner said the ethics provisions remained inadequate, while Republican Senator Susan Collins said she still needed to examine the lengthy bill, including its potential impact on community-bank deposits.
The executive branch has continued to support advancing the legislation. SEC Chair Paul Atkins has said he expects the Senate to move forward, while Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has also urged senators to proceed.
With prediction markets assigning only an 11% probability to enactment this year, traders appear to have largely priced in a failed cloture vote. A failure would therefore confirm the prevailing expectation, while a successful vote could trigger a rapid repricing across Bitcoin and other crypto-related assets.
Key Disputes Holding Up the CLARITY Act
Three major issues remain central to the negotiations: ethics restrictions, stablecoin rewards and liability for decentralized-finance developers.
Ethics is the most prominent dispute. The revised Republican proposal would prohibit certain covered officials from issuing crypto assets and require them to deal with existing digital-asset interests through divestment or qualified blind trusts. Democrats argue that the provisions do not go far enough. One point of contention is whether state attorneys general would retain sufficient authority to pursue enforcement actions. A bipartisan group of state attorneys general, led by New York Attorney General Letitia James, has urged senators to preserve those powers.
Stablecoin rewards represent another major disagreement. The legislation would prohibit crypto companies from offering interest or yield on idle stablecoin balances in a manner economically similar to bank deposits, while permitting certain activity-based rewards linked to payments, transfers and trading. Banking groups are seeking stricter restrictions, arguing that yield-like incentives could pull deposits away from community banks.
The third issue concerns Section 604 and the potential liability of decentralized-finance developers. The provision could determine when developers of open-source software are treated as financial intermediaries.
Each issue affects a different group of lawmakers and industry participants, making the path to the required 60 votes more complicated. The Senate returned from recess on September 14 and is scheduled to leave again in early October for the midterm elections, leaving a relatively limited window for further negotiations.
Crypto companies are also preparing for an outcome in which Congress does not pass the bill. Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong has said that failure would not necessarily prevent regulatory clarity, given that the SEC and CFTC have indicated they are prepared to develop their own rules. SEC Chair Atkins has similarly said the agency will continue its crypto rulemaking regardless of the legislation’s progress.
Bitcoin Price Scenarios Around the Vote
Three broad outcomes could shape Bitcoin’s next move from the current $75,750 level.
If cloture fails to reach 60 votes, Bitcoin could initially fall below $75,000 as event-driven positions are unwound. The key technical question would then be whether the $75,000-$75,412 area can hold on a daily closing basis. A close below $75,000 would expose the $73,053-$73,127 support zone, followed by the $72,000 options max-pain level and the $70,000 strike, where open interest is concentrated.
A narrower failure, with 55-59 votes, could keep negotiations alive and raise the possibility of another attempt before the October recess. Under that outcome, Bitcoin could remain within a broader $75,000-$79,530 range while the market turns its attention toward Wednesday’s Fed decision.
A surprise result of 60 or more votes would represent a significant shift from current expectations. Bitcoin could then retest $79,530 and $80,000, followed by the $80,000-$82,000 supply zone. A sustained move above the $82,850 descending trendline, close to the 61.8% Fibonacci level at $82,597, would put $85,000 into focus, with $90,000 representing a longer-range options-related level.
The broader setup remains highly dependent on two additional factors: the Federal Reserve’s updated projections and spot ETF flows. The Senate vote may determine short-term direction, but monetary policy and capital flows could have a greater influence over the following several weeks.
Fed Rate Decision and 5.041% Treasury Yield Add Pressure
The Federal Reserve began its two-day meeting Tuesday, with markets pricing in a quarter-point rate increase. Fed funds futures were showing an 86.3% probability of a 25-basis-point hike, which would move the target range from 3.50%-3.75% to 3.75%-4.00%. Such a move would mark the first Fed rate increase since 2023.
The latest economic data have reinforced expectations for tighter policy. August CPI increased 0.4% month over month and 3.4% year over year, while underlying inflation remained above the Fed’s 2% objective. August payrolls increased by 162,000, significantly above the roughly 55,000-56,000 consensus forecast.
For Bitcoin, the rate increase itself may be less important than the Fed’s updated projections. The June dot plot indicated a year-end 2026 federal funds rate of 3.8%, implying one additional hike. Markets are now pricing two quarter-point increases by December.
If the median projection rises to two hikes, current market expectations would be reinforced. A projection for three hikes could push real yields higher and place additional pressure on the $75,000 support area. Conversely, a one-hike median could ease pressure on the dollar and longer-term Treasury yields.
Treasury yields are an important transmission channel. The 10-year yield reached 5.041%, exceeding its 2023 peak, while the 30-year yield stood at 5.36% as of September 11. With long-term government bonds offering yields above 5%, investors face a higher opportunity cost when allocating capital to a volatile asset that generates no conventional yield.
The dollar provides another channel. Higher yields and expectations for additional rate increases have supported the U.S. currency, which can create additional headwinds for Bitcoin when priced in dollars. Gold’s decline to $4,329.80 also suggests that higher real yields are currently outweighing demand for traditional non-yielding defensive assets.
The Bank of Japan’s decision on Thursday adds another major event to the week. Seven-day Bitcoin options covering the Senate vote, Fed meeting and BOJ decision show slightly greater demand for puts than calls, indicating that traders are paying somewhat more for downside protection. Fed Chair Kevin Warsh’s 2:30 p.m. ET press conference Wednesday therefore represents another key catalyst for Bitcoin over the coming month.
Oil Above $104 Adds to the Inflation Problem
Oil prices are an important link between geopolitical developments, inflation expectations and monetary policy. WTI reached $104.43 at midday, up 3%, while Brent earlier climbed to $107.90.
The latest increase followed an attack affecting Saudi Arabia’s East-West pipeline, which provides an alternative route that bypasses the Strait of Hormuz. Saudi officials have warned that disruptions could affect as much as 4% of global oil supply. A new Houthi strike on Saudi Arabia and postponed Gulf-state talks with Iran have added to the geopolitical risk premium.
The speed of the oil rally is particularly important for financial markets. Brent was around $94.39 in late August, crossed $101 on September 9 and reached $105 the following day. At $107.90, the benchmark had gained $13.51 in less than four weeks, or roughly 14%.
For Bitcoin, the transmission mechanism runs through inflation and interest rates. Higher oil prices can increase inflation expectations, potentially encouraging tighter Fed policy. Higher rates can then lift real yields and support the dollar, reducing demand for risk-sensitive assets such as Bitcoin.
Bitcoin’s rejection near $79,530 occurred around the same time WTI rebounded from $100 toward $103, highlighting the close relationship between the two markets this week.
The geopolitical situation also carries implications for crypto regulation. A U.S. Defense Department inspector general report estimated the cost of the Iran war at $33.4 billion, including the reported loss of four F-15 fighter jets and up to 30 MQ-9 Reaper drones. The U.S. Justice Department is also seeking $61 million linked to what it describes as proceeds from Iranian black-market oil sales laundered through crypto.
Bitcoin’s behaviour during previous geopolitical escalations has generally resembled that of a liquidity-sensitive risk asset rather than a traditional safe haven. During the earlier escalation in February, Bitcoin declined toward $63,000 following U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran.
That pattern could remain relevant. A further rise in WTI toward $110 could increase pressure on Bitcoin through higher inflation and rate expectations, while a decline back below $100 could reduce some of that pressure and create room for another test of $80,000.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi is also scheduled to visit China on Wednesday, adding another geopolitical development to an already crowded calendar alongside the Federal Reserve decision.
Bitcoin climbs above $77,000 as President Trump agrees to new ethics provisions in the crypto bill ahead of the US Senate’s vote on the CLARITY Act.
Ethereum regains the $2,500 level as near-term support, reinforced by a strong cluster of key moving averages.
XRP remains above its 200-day EMA, although gains could remain limited below the important psychological resistance at $1.40.
Bitcoin (BTC) is edging higher and trades around $77,884 on Monday, following the broader recovery across the cryptocurrency market. Ethereum (ETH) and XRP are also maintaining a neutral-to-bullish outlook, with prices holding key support levels around $2,521 and $1.38, respectively.
Trump supports crypto ethics provisions ahead of CLARITY Act vote
US President Donald Trump has agreed to key ethics provisions included in the CLARITY Act ahead of Tuesday’s important Senate vote. The revised language would prevent public officials from issuing or sponsoring digital assets and allow both state attorneys general and the Department of Justice (DOJ) to enforce the restrictions, according to provisions released by Senate Republicans late Sunday.
The agreement was considered important for attracting Democratic support, which is needed for the Senate to move forward with Tuesday’s procedural vote.
Senator Cynthia Lummis, the main sponsor of the crypto legislation, argued that opposing the CLARITY Act would also mean rejecting stricter rules governing politicians’ involvement in crypto investments.
However, it remains uncertain whether Trump’s acceptance of the provision will be sufficient to secure enough Democratic votes. Reports indicate that Trump agreed to approximately 80% of the demands put forward by Senate Democrats.
The broader crypto market remains volatile as investors prepare for both Tuesday’s Senate vote on the CLARITY Act and the Federal Reserve’s monetary policy decision on Wednesday. These events could continue to drive significant price fluctuations and influence the market’s near-term direction.
Bitcoin is trading near $77,844 and retains a positive short-term bias as the price remains comfortably above its major Exponential Moving Averages (EMAs). The technical structure has strengthened after BTC broke above a descending resistance trendline, with the breakout area located around $65,809.
Momentum indicators present a mixed picture. The Moving Average Convergence Divergence (MACD) remains below zero and beneath its signal line, while the Relative Strength Index (RSI) near 56 points to neutral-to-positive momentum without indicating overbought conditions.
The first major support area is around the psychological $76,000 level. Below this, stronger structural support is found around the 50-day EMA at $73,384 and the 200-day EMA at $73,040. The 100-day EMA at $71,205 provides another layer of medium-term support.
If Bitcoin experiences a deeper correction, attention could turn toward the previously broken descending trendline near $65,810. Buyers may attempt to defend this level to preserve the broader bullish structure, provided daily closes remain above the reclaimed trendline.
Altcoin technical analysis: Ethereum and XRP remain supported
Ethereum is trading around $2,521 and continues to hold well above its key EMAs. The 50-day EMA at $2,265, 100-day EMA at $2,146 and 200-day EMA at $2,197 all remain below the current market price, supporting a bullish near-term technical outlook.
Momentum is again mixed. The RSI is holding near 62, indicating constructive buying pressure, while the MACD has moved below zero, suggesting that bullish momentum is losing some strength rather than undergoing a full reversal.
The 50-day EMA around $2,265 represents the first technical support if ETH pulls back. Further downside could bring the 200-day EMA near $2,197 and the 100-day EMA around $2,146 into focus. These levels could attract buyers during a deeper correction.
With no significant overhead resistance currently identified by the major daily moving averages, Ethereum’s near-term path remains tilted higher as long as the price stays above the $2,265 region.
XRP is also maintaining a constructive technical structure, trading above its 50-day EMA at $1.28, 100-day EMA at $1.25 and 200-day EMA at $1.36. Holding above all three major trend indicators keeps the short-term outlook bullish.
The RSI near 55 indicates moderately positive momentum, while the MACD remains below zero, suggesting that upward momentum is developing but remains relatively limited.
The 200-day EMA at $1.36 is the first important support level on the downside. A deeper decline could expose the 50-day EMA around $1.28, followed by the 100-day EMA near $1.25.
As long as XRP remains above these moving-average levels, the technical setup continues to favor consolidation with a bullish bias. However, a daily close below $1.36 would weaken the current structure and potentially expose the lower EMA support zones.
The cryptocurrency market experienced a volatile week marked by multiple shifts in direction, leaving traders without a clear trend. Market participation briefly improved before weakening again, while gains remained concentrated in only a handful of established cryptocurrencies.
Although NEAR continued to outperform the broader market, its advantage narrowed considerably. Last week’s standout performers have lost momentum, and Bitcoin continues to dominate overall market share. With Saturday’s daily close now confirmed, attention turns to whether the remaining leaders can sustain their strength while most assets struggle, or whether they will eventually join the broader market decline.
Market Breadth Weakens as Bitcoin Dominance Stays Elevated
Total cryptocurrency market capitalization is currently around $2.644 trillion, largely unchanged over the past 24 hours. This remains below Friday’s level of approximately $2.691 trillion and last Sunday’s $2.708 trillion, though it is still slightly above Thursday’s low near $2.622 trillion. On a rolling seven-day basis, the market is down roughly 2.4%.
Market breadth among the top 100 cryptocurrencies fluctuated significantly throughout the week. Last Sunday, 76 assets were advancing while 24 declined. By Thursday, the ratio had deteriorated to 39 gainers versus 61 losers. Friday saw a temporary rebound to 66 positive names, but after Saturday’s close, breadth weakened sharply again to just 27 gainers and 73 decliners.
After excluding stablecoins, wrapped assets, and staking-related duplicates, the active universe shrinks to 39 cryptocurrencies. Among them, only 8 posted gains while 31 recorded losses. The median return for this group stands near -3.47%, while the capitalization-weighted performance is around -2.82%.
Bitcoin dominance remains close to 58.7%. However, Bitcoin itself has fallen roughly 3.38% over the past week, closely matching the median performance of the broader market. This creates an unusual situation where Bitcoin controls a large share of the market but is not providing leadership.
Among major altcoins, Polkadot (DOT) and NEAR Protocol (NEAR) remain the strongest performers, outperforming the market median by approximately 13 and 11 percentage points, respectively. However, both have seen their relative strength decline since Friday.
Stablecoin supply contracted by roughly 0.055% between September 6 and September 13. According to Farside ETF data, spot Bitcoin ETFs recorded net outflows of approximately $462.7 million between September 8 and September 11, while spot Ether ETFs attracted around $196.9 million in inflows.
DOT and NEAR Lead While Bitcoin and UNI Struggle
The current market structure highlights four key themes: resilient but fading strength in DOT and NEAR, Bitcoin underperforming despite its dominant market share, and UNI transitioning from a leader to a laggard.
NEAR Maintains Gains Despite Losing Momentum
NEAR remains positive for the week but has surrendered much of its earlier advance. Its rolling seven-day gain has dropped to roughly 7.41%, compared with more than 38% recorded on Friday. TradingView data shows a week-to-date gain near 7.96%, while Coinbase data indicates a rise of approximately 21.18% between September 4 and September 12.
The token traded between $1.91 and $2.79 before settling near $2.37. Its 20-day and 50-day simple moving averages remain below the current price, suggesting the broader uptrend is still intact. Even so, no clear catalyst has been identified for either the initial rally or the subsequent slowdown.
DOT Emerges as the Strongest Major Altcoin
DOT currently leads major liquid altcoins. It has gained approximately 9.14% over the rolling seven-day period and around 10.9% week-to-date. Coinbase data shows a rise of roughly 14.78% between September 4 and September 12.
DOT traded within a range of $0.84 to $1.28, finishing near $1.02. Both its 20-day and 50-day moving averages remain below the current market price. Relative to the broader market median, DOT holds the largest performance advantage among major cryptocurrencies.
Bitcoin Underperforms While Trading Below Key Resistance
Bitcoin continues to act as the market benchmark due to its size, yet its recent performance has been disappointing. The cryptocurrency has lost around 3.38% over the past week and approximately 3.22% on a week-to-date basis. Coinbase data shows a decline of roughly 4.92% between September 4 and September 12.
The price fluctuated between $76,030 and $81,438 before ending near $77,263. Bitcoin is currently trading below its 20-day simple moving average, which sits near $78,498, although it remains comfortably above its 50-day average near $71,165.
UNI Drops From Leader to Laggard
Uniswap (UNI), which was one of last week’s strongest performers, has moved into underperforming territory. Its rolling seven-day return stands at approximately -13.27%, placing it below the market median.
TradingView shows a week-to-date decline of around 9.39%, while Coinbase data records a modest gain of 0.78% over the September 4–12 period due to earlier strength. UNI traded between $5.81 and $7.48, ending near $6.37.
Although UNI remains above both its 20-day and 50-day moving averages, its recent momentum has weakened considerably, placing it among the weaker performers in the current market environment.
Why Friday’s Recovery Failed to Gain Traction
Friday’s improvement in market breadth initially suggested a possible recovery. The ratio of advancing assets jumped from 39/61 to 66/34, while median returns and capitalization-weighted performance also improved.
However, that rebound quickly faded. Saturday’s reading of 27 gainers versus 73 losers was even weaker than Thursday’s, indicating that Friday’s strength was likely a temporary pause rather than a meaningful turnaround.
While DOT and NEAR continue to hold gains, their leadership is concentrated within a market where the majority of assets remain negative. At the same time, Bitcoin’s position below its 20-day moving average reinforces the cautious tone. Current data does not strongly support either a market collapse or a convincing bullish recovery.
The Bullish Argument: Leadership Could Expand
Despite weak breadth, there is still a constructive interpretation of the data. The resilience of DOT and NEAR may indicate that capital is rotating into selective opportunities rather than abandoning the market entirely.
If buying interest spreads to assets currently trading near breakeven or slightly negative levels, market breadth could improve without requiring leaders such as DOT and NEAR to give back their gains. A recovery in UNI combined with broader participation would strengthen this optimistic scenario.
A meaningful improvement from the current 27/73 breadth reading, especially if NEAR maintains its strength, would challenge the prevailing bearish outlook.
What to Watch Going Forward
The market experienced two major breadth reversals this week, but the latest reading remains negative. DOT and NEAR continue to outperform, Bitcoin remains below its 20-day moving average, and most cryptocurrencies are still posting weekly losses.
The key question for the coming sessions is whether market leadership broadens to include more assets or whether the remaining winners begin to lose momentum. The answer will likely determine the market’s next significant direction.
The NASDAQ 100 experienced volatile trading over the past week but remained largely rangebound despite hotter-than-expected CPI data. The index continues to consolidate between support around 28,500 and resistance near 30,000, reflecting a broadly neutral market outlook.
Bitcoin
Bitcoin moved lower during the week as it continued trading within a narrow consolidation range around the 50-week EMA.
Market participants remain uncertain whether the cryptocurrency can break higher or stay trapped between approximately $65,000 and $84,000. While buyers still hold a slight advantage, momentum has weakened amid concerns about interest rates and the broader adoption of real-world use cases.
Silver
Silver remained volatile throughout the week while holding above both the 50-week EMA and the key $65 level.
Resistance near $70 continues to cap upside attempts, leaving traders cautious. Elevated interest rates remain a challenge for silver, while a stronger U.S. dollar and rising Treasury yields could further limit bullish momentum.
Gold
Gold continued attracting buyers on pullbacks, although prices have largely remained unchanged for several weeks.
The 50-week EMA is providing underlying support, but higher interest rates continue to create headwinds. Traders are likely to remain cautious ahead of the upcoming Federal Reserve policy decision, which could drive increased volatility and continued rangebound trading.
USD/MXN
The U.S. dollar posted modest gains against the Mexican peso during the week, though broader downside pressure remains intact.
The 17.00 level continues to be a significant area of interest, with traders watching the interest-rate differential that favors Mexico. The carry trade remains attractive, particularly when the U.S. economy performs well due to the close economic ties between the two countries.
EUR/USD
EUR/USD traded in a choppy fashion following the European Central Bank’s 25-basis-point rate increase.
With the Federal Reserve also expected to raise rates, the pair appears comfortable near the 1.16 level. As a result, short-term range trading remains the dominant strategy while markets await fresh catalysts.
AUD/USD
The Australian dollar remained volatile as traders assessed support near the 0.7150 area. Investors continue monitoring the Reserve Bank of Australia’s policy stance, particularly as inflation risks remain elevated. Ongoing tensions in the Middle East and their impact on energy prices and global supply chains are also influencing sentiment.
S&P 500
The S&P 500 continued to find buying interest on dips, reinforcing the significance of the 7,600 level as a key support zone.
Former resistance appears to have turned into support, highlighting the role of market memory. Although higher interest rates remain a concern, investors appear comfortable with the prospect of further rate hikes, limiting their impact on broader market sentiment.
The cryptocurrency market remains range-bound as investors wait for clearer signals about the next direction of the trend. At around $2.66T, total crypto market capitalisation continues to hold above both its 50-day and 200-day moving averages, currently at $2.39T and $2.38T, respectively. This configuration points to a bullish “golden cross”, with the market trading above the crossover further supporting the positive outlook.
However, historical patterns suggest that a golden cross does not necessarily trigger an immediate rally. Instead, the market has seen profit-taking for a second consecutive session. This appears to reflect investor caution ahead of upcoming inflation data and the Federal Reserve’s policy decision, alongside increasingly concerning developments in the debt markets of major developed economies, particularly the US.
Bitcoin has moved back towards its recent lows, trading just below $78K after posting three straight daily declines and opening Thursday lower. With the trading week still underway, the 50-week moving average appears to be acting as a key resistance level and has so far limited the recovery. The indicator previously served as support from August 2024 through October 2025, while a break below it was followed by a 21% decline over two weeks and a 43% slide over 12 weeks.
Still, the base-case outlook suggests that Bitcoin could consolidate around this level for an extended period before attempting another move higher. Similar periods of sideways trading were seen in April–May 2019 and May–July 2020 before the broader uptrend resumed.
News Background
ARK Invest plans to hold Bitcoin for decades, viewing the cryptocurrency as a store of value and a potential hedge against inflation, according to CEO Cathie Wood. She noted that Bitcoin has been showing a stronger correlation with gold amid growing concerns about fiat currency depreciation and rising government debt worldwide.
Bitwise reported that Bitcoin’s correlation with gold has climbed to its highest level since records began in 2017, as concerns over a weakening US dollar continue to increase. Some market analysts believe Bitcoin could outperform gold during the next major growth cycle as investors compete for exposure to scarce assets.
Ethereum remains the strongest-performing macro asset this quarter, outperforming the S&P 500. Since July, ETH, BTC and SOL have ranked among the three best-performing major assets. According to Bitmine Chairman Tom Lee, this relative strength could encourage institutional investors to increase their exposure to cryptocurrencies.
Bitcoin moves modestly higher toward the $80,000 level as investors look ahead to the US Treasury’s announcement regarding the size of further long-term debt buybacks.
Ethereum climbs back above $2,500, with bullish momentum remaining intact as key moving averages continue to trend upward.
XRP posts a second consecutive day of gains, supported by a positive RSI signal and strong backing from its 200-day EMA.
Fundamental Analysis
Bitcoin (BTC) continued to trade higher on Wednesday, joining a broader advance across the cryptocurrency market. Ethereum (ETH) has regained the $2,500 level as support, strengthening the case for further upside, while XRP remains on a recovery path near $1.44, supported by major moving averages.
Investor appetite for risk assets remains healthy. The Crypto Fear & Greed Index stood at 66 on Wednesday, slightly lower than Tuesday’s reading of 69 but still firmly within the Greed zone. If this positive sentiment persists, demand for digital assets could remain elevated and provide additional support for the ongoing rally.
Treasury buyback announcement in focus
Markets are closely watching the US Treasury, which is expected to reveal details of its expanded long-term bond buyback program. The move follows an August commitment to at least double the maximum amount of long-dated securities eligible for repurchase.
Based on current issuance levels, the Treasury is projected to sell roughly $924 billion in 10- to 30-year securities annually, including around $480 billion in 10-year notes, $168 billion in 20-year bonds, and $276 billion in 30-year bonds.
When the buyback expansion was first announced last month, financial markets reacted positively. Bitcoin surged beyond $80,000, while Ethereum, XRP, and other altcoins recorded strong gains, helping shift sentiment from bearish to increasingly bullish.
A larger-than-expected buyback announcement could encourage another wave of buying and reinforce the current risk-on environment. However, traders should remain cautious, as recent gains may have already priced in a significant portion of the positive news.
Bitcoin technical outlook
Bitcoin is trading around $79,480, maintaining a bullish tone as it remains comfortably above its key exponential moving averages. The RSI is near 62, indicating continued positive momentum, while the MACD remains below zero, suggesting that upward momentum is still present but has softened following the recent rally.
Immediate support lies near the current trading zone around $79,480. Below that, key support levels are clustered around the 200-day EMA at $72,803, the 50-day EMA at $72,592, and the 100-day EMA at $70,602.
Any pullback toward this support region would likely be viewed as a healthy correction rather than a trend reversal, provided Bitcoin continues to hold above the 200-day EMA.
Ethereum and XRP maintain recovery trends
Ethereum trades near $2,518 and remains firmly above its major moving averages, including the 50-day EMA at $2,216, the 100-day EMA at $2,110, and the 200-day EMA at $2,180. These levels continue to support a constructive near-term outlook.
The RSI around 65 suggests buyers remain in control without reaching overbought territory. Although the MACD remains below zero, the broader trend continues to favor further gains.
For XRP, the token trades close to $1.44 after extending its recent breakout. Price action remains supported by the 50-day and 100-day EMAs at approximately $1.27 and $1.24, while the 200-day EMA near $1.36 has shifted back into a support role.
The RSI remains positive at around 62, while the MACD suggests momentum may be moderating after the latest advance. On the upside, traders are watching resistance levels near $1.50, $1.60, and $1.70. A break above these barriers could strengthen bullish momentum and increase the possibility of XRP moving back toward the $2.00 mark.
Investor appetite for U.S.-listed spot Bitcoin ETFs has strengthened in recent weeks, but the sector remains in negative territory for 2026 overall.
According to SoSoValue data, Bitcoin ETFs attracted $3.52 billion in net inflows during August, followed by another $770.15 million so far in September. The renewed demand has fueled optimism that the market downturn may be fading, yet cumulative flows for the year are still roughly $1 billion below breakeven.
The shortfall largely stems from heavy outflows recorded in May and June, when institutional investors significantly reduced their exposure. June alone saw net withdrawals of $4.51 billion, more than offsetting the gains generated in March and April. As a result, ETF issuers still need additional inflows to erase the year’s losses.
Analysts at Bitfinex noted that the next major test for Bitcoin ETFs will be whether inflows remain resilient following this week’s U.S. Consumer Price Index (CPI) report and Treasury buyback developments. They argued that continued demand despite elevated short-term interest rates would suggest that monetary policy is no longer a major obstacle for Bitcoin’s performance.
Currency markets have already indicated that higher bond yields may not necessarily limit Bitcoin’s upside potential. However, risks remain. Oil prices have jumped around 10% this month, with WTI crude futures climbing above $94 per barrel and reaching their highest level in three months. Further gains in energy prices could reignite inflation concerns and increase risk aversion across global financial markets, potentially creating headwinds for cryptocurrencies and other risk-sensitive assets.
Bitcoin is moving in a narrow range around $79,955 on the 5-hour chart, holding just above key support while technical indicators point to overbought conditions and weakening momentum. A 5-hour close below $78,138 could undermine the bullish structure and increase downside risk, while a decisive rebound may open the way toward levels above $82,178.
Tight Consolidation Calls for Caution
Bitcoin remains positioned slightly above the Ichimoku cloud, which spans roughly $79,236–$79,515. The 20-period SMA at $79,620 is also acting as an important near-term support level.
Although the broader bullish structure remains intact, momentum indicators are becoming less convincing. The MACD has turned negative, while the Money Flow Index has reached 100, pointing to extremely strong buying pressure and potential buyer exhaustion.
In short, Bitcoin continues to climb, but the momentum behind the move may be losing strength.
Bullish Setup Still Valid—But Confirmation Matters
The bullish outlook remains intact as long as Bitcoin avoids a 5-hour close below $78,138.
Setup
Aggressive
Conservative
Entry
$79,620
$82,200
Stop Loss
$78,500
$78,500
Target 1
$82,178
$83,601
Target 2
$83,601
$85,412
Target 3
$85,412
$87,011
Risk/Reward
2.3–5.2
2.0–3.6
Confidence
Medium
Medium
Best Suited For
Fast-moving traders
Breakout traders
Aggressive traders can look to capitalize on support around $79,620, but the setup carries bull-trap risk if Bitcoin fails to break through the $81,271–$82,178 resistance area.
Conservative traders may prefer waiting for a 5-hour close above $82,178, providing stronger confirmation that buyers have regained control.
Potential fake breakout: A brief move above $81,271 followed by a sharp reversal could signal a bull trap. The overbought readings and weak ADX of 12.54 suggest momentum remains limited.
Breakdown risk: A 5-hour close below $78,138 would invalidate much of the bullish structure and could accelerate selling toward the $76,000 area.
Indecision zone: The $79,620–$81,271 range remains relatively unclear. Traders may want to wait for a stronger volatility or momentum signal before opening fresh positions.
The Key Takeaway
A tight consolidation near recent highs combined with weakening momentum can signal an important turning point. When price continues pushing higher while indicators such as MACD and MFI begin to diverge, chasing the move becomes increasingly risky.
The broader trend may still favor the bulls, but confirmation is becoming more important than simply following price higher.
Global bond yields are climbing sharply, Bitcoin has slipped below $77,000, and U.S. equities are showing signs of weakness. In the near term, higher risk-free returns can pull liquidity away from risk assets. Yet at the same time, a sustained bond selloff may reinforce the longer-term case for scarce assets as concerns over currency debasement and fiscal sustainability intensify.
For Bitcoin, the key question remains liquidity — where capital is flowing today and whether policy intervention could eventually redirect it toward risk assets.
Global bond markets are sending another warning signal. Long-term government bond yields across the U.S., Japan and Europe have risen to multi-year or even multi-decade highs, while the U.S. 30-year Treasury yield briefly moved above 5.3%.
Risk assets have reacted negatively. U.S. stocks have come under pressure, high-beta technology shares have weakened, and Bitcoin has fallen back toward $77,000.
At first glance, this seems inconsistent with the debasement trade. Previous analysis argued that investors demanding higher returns on long-term government debt could indicate increasing concerns about fiscal sustainability, potentially strengthening the appeal of scarce assets.
So if the debasement thesis is gaining traction, why are Bitcoin and other risk assets declining?
Higher Yields Create Short-Term Pressure
In the short term, rising government bond yields make risk-taking less attractive.
When long-term Treasury yields approach 5%, investors can earn relatively high returns from government debt without assuming the same level of market risk associated with Bitcoin, AI stocks and other volatile assets.
That raises the opportunity cost of holding risk assets and can redirect liquidity toward government bonds. At the same time, higher interest rates increase financing costs and push up the discount rate applied to future corporate earnings, creating additional headwinds for growth stocks and other high-beta assets.
This helps explain why Bitcoin and U.S. technology stocks have weakened alongside the latest rise in Treasury yields. Although Bitcoin’s long-term investment case is closely tied to monetary scarcity, its short-term price behavior still resembles that of a risk asset and remains highly sensitive to liquidity conditions and the cost of capital.
Additional macroeconomic pressures have also contributed to the decline.
Escalating tensions between the U.S. and Iran have driven oil prices higher, raising concerns that increased energy costs could keep inflation elevated. Meanwhile, recent comments from Fed Chair Kevin Warsh have been viewed as relatively hawkish. Markets have consequently raised the implied probability of a September rate hike above 60%, adding further pressure to Bitcoin and high-beta equities.
The Debasement Thesis Remains Intact
The longer-term consequences of a sustained government bond selloff could tell a very different story.
When investors sell long-duration government bonds, they are effectively demanding greater compensation for holding sovereign debt. Higher yields then increase government refinancing costs and interest expenses, placing additional strain on already substantial fiscal deficits.
As borrowing costs continue to rise, it becomes increasingly difficult for governments to tolerate elevated market yields indefinitely.
The U.S. Treasury has already taken steps in this direction by expanding its long-duration liquidity-support buybacks. However, the current scale remains far too limited to resemble quantitative easing or materially alter the broader balance between Treasury supply and demand.
If yields continue to rise despite these measures, pressure for more aggressive intervention could increase. Possible responses could include larger Treasury buybacks, adjustments to the maturity structure of government debt issuance, or, in a more severe scenario, greater monetary accommodation from the Federal Reserve.
In other words, higher yields can weigh on Bitcoin today while simultaneously strengthening the debasement argument for tomorrow.
Short term: Markets focus on the attractive risk-free returns available from government bonds and the tighter financial conditions created by higher interest rates.
Long term: Persistently elevated borrowing costs could make the existing fiscal trajectory increasingly difficult to maintain, increasing the probability of policies aimed at reducing financing costs.
What Could Happen to Bitcoin Next?
Bitcoin currently sits in the middle of a macroeconomic tug-of-war.
On one side, elevated Treasury yields are attracting liquidity away from risk assets. On the other, increasing fiscal pressure is strengthening the longer-term argument for scarce assets.
Two developments could eventually tilt the balance toward hard assets such as gold and Bitcoin:
1. A Loss of Confidence in Government Debt
If Treasury yields continue climbing because investors demand a substantially higher premium for fiscal risk, government bonds could become less appealing as a traditional safe haven.
Under such circumstances, capital could increasingly move toward scarce assets, including gold and Bitcoin, as investors seek alternatives to sovereign debt and fiat currencies.
2. Stronger Policy Intervention
The Treasury’s expanded buyback program may represent an early indication that policymakers are becoming more sensitive to rising financing costs.
If authorities eventually introduce larger interventions, modify Treasury issuance or move toward greater monetary accommodation, financial conditions could ease. Such a shift could once again place the debasement trade at the center of the market narrative.
For Bitcoin, liquidity remains the critical link between these competing forces.
Recent weaker-than-expected ADP employment data provides a clear example. The softer labor-market reading reduced expectations for a September Fed rate hike, and Bitcoin quickly recovered above $78,000.
This highlights how rapidly Bitcoin’s short-term outlook can change.
Ultimately, the next major move will depend on which force wins the tug-of-war: the appeal of increasingly attractive risk-free yields, or rising fiscal stress combined with stronger policy intervention.
Bitcoin remains above $77,000, although momentum indicators suggest that bullish pressure is beginning to fade.
Bitcoin’s 90-day correlation with Gold has risen to around 50%, reinforcing its appeal as a hedge against currency debasement.
Arbitrum and Pyth Network have posted double-digit gains over the past 24 hours, ranking among the crypto market’s strongest performers.
Bitcoin (BTC) is trading above $77,000 on Thursday, although bullish momentum is showing signs of moderation as its 90-day correlation with Gold approaches 50%. Meanwhile, Arbitrum (ARB) and Pyth Network (PYTH) have posted double-digit gains over the past 24 hours, making them among the market’s strongest-performing cryptocurrencies.
Bitcoin increasingly moves in line with Gold
Bitcoin’s 90-day correlation with the NASDAQ has fallen to around 33%, down from nearly 60%, while its correlation with Gold has climbed to approximately 50%. Rising US government debt, now above $40 trillion, persistent fiscal deficits and elevated bond yields are encouraging investors to seek assets that can provide protection against currency debasement, including Bitcoin and Gold.
The recent decision to double long-maturity Treasury buyback operations from $2 billion to $4 billion could help reduce yields in the near term. However, the continued expansion of government debt remains a longer-term concern. Against this backdrop, Bitcoin’s growing relationship with Gold strengthens the argument for the cryptocurrency as a scarce digital asset with potential long-term value.
Bitcoin bulls pause as momentum cools
Bitcoin is trading near $77,328 at the time of writing on Thursday. The short-term outlook remains constructive, with BTC holding comfortably above its 50-, 100-, and 200-day Exponential Moving Averages (EMAs), positioned between approximately $69,400 and $72,400.
The cryptocurrency is also above the 50% Fibonacci retracement level at $75,233, calculated from the $97,924 to $57,800 decline, maintaining a broadly bullish technical structure.
The Relative Strength Index (RSI) is around 65, indicating solid momentum, although it has eased from overbought territory. Meanwhile, the Moving Average Convergence Divergence (MACD) has moved below its signal line, suggesting that Bitcoin could enter a period of consolidation or take a temporary pause.
On the upside, the first major resistance stands at the 78.6% Fibonacci retracement near $87,476. Beyond that, attention would turn toward the cycle high around $97,924.
On the downside, $75,233 represents the first key support. Below this level, BTC could find stronger demand around the EMA cluster, including the 200-day EMA at $72,365, the 50-day EMA at $70,574 and the 100-day EMA at $69,395. This area continues to support the broader bullish structure.
Arbitrum and Pyth Network maintain strong gains
Arbitrum has gained more than 5% on Thursday after surging approximately 12% the previous day. ARB maintains a bullish short-term setup, with its price trading above the 50-, 100-, and 200-day EMAs at $0.0906, $0.0929 and $0.1164, respectively.
The four-day recovery is now testing the bullish breakout above the 78.6% Fibonacci retracement at $0.1272, measured from $0.1495 to $0.0705. A sustained breakout above this level could open the way toward the $0.1495 swing high.
Momentum indicators remain supportive, with the MACD and signal line trending higher. However, the RSI at 76 indicates overbought conditions, raising the possibility of a short-term slowdown.
The 200-day EMA around $0.1164 provides the first layer of support, followed by the 50% Fibonacci retracement at $0.1026.
Pyth Network has advanced around 3% on Thursday, adding to its 10% gain from the previous session. PYTH has now extended its recovery for four consecutive days and remains well above the 200-day EMA at $0.0499. The 50- and 100-day EMAs at $0.0455 and $0.0446, respectively, further reinforce the bullish technical structure.
The previously broken descending resistance trendline has turned into support near $0.0552, suggesting that buyers have absorbed the earlier selling pressure. On the upside, immediate resistance is located at the May 9 high of $0.0631, followed by the January 6 high at $0.0737.
The RSI near 75 places PYTH in overbought territory, although the MACD has rebounded from its signal line and continues to trend higher, indicating that bullish momentum remains favorable in the near term.
The former trendline breakout near $0.0552 is the first support level to watch, followed by the 200-day EMA at $0.0499. A deeper correction toward these levels would provide an important test of the sustainability of PYTH’s current uptrend.
Bitcoin consolidates above $78,000 as ETF inflows return, helping support the broader bullish outlook.
Ethereum pauses near $2,450 while continued institutional demand provides underlying support.
XRP remains under pressure, with the 200-day EMA around $1.35 serving as a key support level.
Institutional demand remains firm as Bitcoin, Ethereum and XRP consolidate
Cryptocurrency markets are broadly moving sideways on Tuesday after their recent advance lost momentum amid renewed geopolitical tensions in the Middle East over the weekend. Bitcoin (BTC) is holding above the $78,000 level as buyers struggle to push the price higher. Ethereum (ETH) and XRP are also maintaining a neutral-to-bullish stance, trading above important support levels near $2,400 and $1.35, respectively.
Institutional interest continues to support crypto assets
Risk appetite has remained relatively strong in recent weeks, reflecting improving market sentiment. The Crypto Fear & Greed Index stood at 69 on Tuesday, up from 62 a day earlier, signaling a shift toward greater investor optimism.
If this positive sentiment persists, stronger demand for cryptocurrency investment products could help offset downside pressure and increase the possibility of another recovery phase.
Bitcoin spot ETFs attracted approximately $217 million in net inflows on Monday, reversing the $202 million in outflows recorded on Friday. According to SoSoValue, cumulative inflows have reached around $55 billion, while total net assets under management remain near $100 billion.
Ethereum spot ETFs also continued to attract capital, recording approximately $88 million in inflows on Monday. The sustained demand highlights continued institutional interest in gaining exposure to Ethereum.
Meanwhile, XRP spot ETFs recorded their tenth consecutive session of inflows, receiving nearly $6 million on Monday. Total cumulative inflows have climbed to approximately $1.66 billion, while average net assets under management remain around $1.45 billion.
Technical Analysis: Bitcoin remains range-bound
Bitcoin is trading near $78,324 and continues to hold comfortably above its major exponential moving averages (EMAs), preserving a constructive short-term trend despite the recent pause below its highs.
The Relative Strength Index (RSI) is hovering close to 70, approaching overbought territory, while the Moving Average Convergence Divergence (MACD) remains positive. Together, these indicators suggest that bullish momentum is still intact, although its strength has moderated.
On the downside, the 50-day EMA near $70,046 represents the first major support area, followed by the 100-day EMA around $69,086. A deeper correction could bring these levels into focus as potential areas where buyers may attempt to defend the broader uptrend. The 200-day EMA near $72,351 also remains an important medium-term reference during a larger pullback.
Altcoin Technical Analysis: Ethereum and XRP face limited upside momentum
Ethereum continues to show a positive short-term structure, with price holding well above its 50-day, 100-day and 200-day EMAs, which are positioned between approximately $2,045 and $2,170.
The RSI near 68 indicates solid bullish momentum but is approaching overbought territory. Meanwhile, the MACD has flattened around the zero line, suggesting that upside momentum remains positive but is beginning to lose strength.
Immediate support is located around $2,458, while stronger downside protection comes from the 200-day EMA near $2,168, followed by the 50-day EMA at approximately $2,117 and the 100-day EMA around $2,047. This EMA cluster could provide a broader demand zone if Ethereum undergoes a deeper correction.
With no major resistance level immediately overhead on the daily chart, a renewed advance would likely depend on fresh buying pressure. However, the elevated RSI leaves room for consolidation or a pullback toward the EMA cluster before another attempt at higher levels.
XRP continues to trade above its 200-day EMA near $1.35, keeping its broader technical structure constructive despite the recent retreat from higher levels. The 50-day and 100-day EMAs remain significantly below the current price around $1.21, while the RSI near 61 points to moderate bullish momentum without signaling overbought conditions.
However, the MACD has turned slightly negative, indicating that upside momentum is fading rather than confirming a decisive trend reversal.
Initial support is found around $1.37, followed by stronger structural support at the 200-day EMA near $1.35. A more significant decline could bring the $1.21 area into focus, where the 50-day and 100-day EMAs converge.
The $1.37–$1.35 zone is therefore crucial for XRP in the near term. Holding above the 200-day EMA would preserve the broader bullish outlook, while a daily close below this level could signal a more significant deterioration in the underlying trend.
This article is regularly updated throughout market hours.
Bitcoin is trading around $79,037 on the 5-hour chart, with bullish momentum fading while the broader trend remains supported. Buyers and sellers are increasingly battling for control, and a decisive move outside the current range could lead to a sharp breakout or breakdown.
Momentum Stalls as Market Risk Increases
Bitcoin’s latest rally appears to have run into resistance near $81,330, pushing the price back toward $79,037 and creating a pattern of lower highs. Despite this short-term weakness, the broader bullish structure remains intact, with Bitcoin still trading 16.6% above the 200-period SMA at $67,755.70.
However, several indicators are pointing to reduced buying strength. The MACD has produced a bearish crossover, while the RSI has eased to 58.7, suggesting that bullish momentum is losing steam. At the same time, declining trading volume and repeated doji candles indicate growing uncertainty as neither buyers nor sellers have established clear control.
Bitcoin Outlook: Breakout or Breakdown?
Scenario
Bullish Aggressive
Bullish Conservative
Bearish Aggressive
Bearish Conservative
Entry Trigger
Close above $79,500
Rebound near $77,500
Test of $80,500
Close below $76,800
Stop Loss
$76,000
$76,000
$81,500
$81,500
Targets
$80,000 / $81,300 / $83,000
Same
$77,500 / $75,100 / $72,350
Same
Risk/Reward
1.66 / 2.53 / 3.66
Higher RR
3.00 / 5.40 / 8.15
Higher RR
Confidence
Medium
Medium
Low
Low
Best Suited For
Breakout traders
Patient bulls
Range traders
Trend followers
Bullish setup: Buyers would need a convincing move above $79,500, or a strong bounce from the $77,500 region, where SMA(50) and SuperTrend support are concentrated.
Bearish setup: Sellers could look for rejection around $80,500, or a breakdown below $76,800, which would signal a loss of SuperTrend support.
Risk management: Stop-loss levels are positioned around key structural pivots to limit downside exposure.
Price targets: Initial objectives are based on recent range highs and lows, while extended targets align with psychological and Fibonacci levels.
Risk/reward: The potential reward remains attractive across the setups. However, bearish trades carry lower confidence because the broader trend continues to show resilience.
Bitcoin Technical Levels to Monitor
Key support:$77,000–$77,500, a zone tested multiple times and reinforced by SuperTrend and SMA(50).
Major resistance:$80,500–$81,300, covering recent highs and the upper Bollinger Band.
Neutral zone:$78,000–$80,000, where choppy price action and false breakouts are more likely.
The bullish outlook remains intact above $76,979, the current SuperTrend level. A decisive move below this threshold could open the door to a deeper mean-reversion move toward $75,100 and potentially $72,350, based on Fibonacci levels and the top of the Ichimoku cloud.
Bull Trap Risk: A failed breakout above $80,500 could quickly turn into a sharp decline. Traders should look for strong volume confirmation before treating an upside breakout as reliable.
Bearish MACD Signal: The bearish MACD crossover is an important warning sign, as weakening momentum despite higher price levels suggests sellers may be gradually gaining influence.
Falling Volume: A breakout accompanied by weak volume would carry less credibility and increase the risk of a false move.
Key Takeaway: Patience Could Be the Best Strategy
When Bitcoin consolidates within a narrow range following a strong rally, waiting for confirmation can be more effective than trading inside the middle of the range. Entering too early can expose traders to repeated whipsaws as price moves in both directions.
A confirmed breakout or breakdown provides greater clarity and a stronger basis for taking a position. Until then, mean-reversion trades should be approached cautiously, with the key support and resistance zones serving as the main levels to watch.
Silver attempted to extend its rally during the week but struggled to maintain momentum above the $70 mark. Renewed concerns over U.S. interest rates and comments from Federal Reserve Chairman Kevin Warsh shifted sentiment, prompting traders to reassess expectations for future monetary policy.
The $70 level now appears to be a significant resistance zone, and the metal could remain under pressure in the near term while markets digest the Fed’s outlook.
Nasdaq 100
The Nasdaq 100 experienced considerable volatility throughout the week, ultimately remaining trapped within a broad consolidation range. Despite short-term uncertainty and lingering concerns among investors, strong corporate earnings continue to support the longer-term bullish trend.
Traders may look for fresh buying opportunities after the recent pullback, although caution remains elevated.
Gold
Gold pushed toward the $4,700 level but failed to establish a decisive breakout. Hawkish remarks from Fed Chair Kevin Warsh unsettled financial markets and increased focus on the critical $4,500 support area.
This psychologically important level could determine the next major move, with a sustained break lower potentially triggering a deeper correction.
AUD/USD
The Australian dollar initially advanced but quickly surrendered gains, forming a bearish weekly candlestick pattern that reflects growing hesitation among buyers. With the pair approaching the upper boundary of its longer-term trading range and technical indicators signaling overbought conditions, downside risks are increasing. Key support remains near the 0.69 level.
USD/MXN
The U.S. dollar strengthened notably against the Mexican peso, particularly toward the end of the week.
While Mexico still offers a favorable interest-rate advantage, expectations that the Federal Reserve could maintain a restrictive stance for longer have boosted demand for the greenback. The 17.00 area remains an important technical level that traders continue to monitor closely.
GBP/USD
Sterling lost momentum during the week as markets reacted to unexpectedly hawkish signals from the Federal Reserve.
After testing a major resistance zone on the higher time-frame charts, GBP/USD appears vulnerable to remaining within its established range. Unless new catalysts emerge, range-bound trading may continue in the weeks ahead.
EUR/USD
The euro retreated sharply after failing to sustain gains above the 1.17 level, a price area that has repeatedly acted as resistance.
Investors increasingly favor the U.S. dollar as interest-rate expectations continue to support the greenback. If the policy gap between the Federal Reserve and the European Central Bank widens further, additional pressure on EUR/USD could follow.
BTC/USD
Bitcoin reversed course dramatically late in the week, raising questions about the strength of the recent rally.
Although the broader trend remains constructive, the inability to decisively overcome the $80,000 threshold suggests bullish momentum may be fading. Traders will be watching closely to see whether a deeper pullback develops, with the $80,000 level continuing to act as a major obstacle.
Bitcoin is trading around $80,255, up 2.33% over the past 24 hours and more than 1% since midnight UTC. The cryptocurrency has held above the $80,000 level on a sustained basis for the first time since May. With approximately 19.82 million BTC in circulation, its market capitalization has climbed to roughly $1.59 trillion.
The latest advance has been rapid. Bitcoin surged 23% last week, marking its strongest weekly gain in three years, and has risen about 27% over the past month. From its June low near $58,756, the cryptocurrency has gained roughly 38%. Despite the recovery, Bitcoin remains around 36% below its October 2025 record high of $126,021 and approximately 14% lower year to date.
Price action has remained volatile, with Bitcoin briefly exceeding $80,000 before retreating toward $79,475 and later recovering above $80,000. Over the past two sessions, the trading range has extended from approximately $78,600 to $81,100.
The technical picture above the current price is becoming increasingly challenging. The previous swing high is located at $82,850, while the 50-week moving average stands at $81,081. The average cost basis of US spot Bitcoin ETFs is estimated between $80,000 and $82,000, while nearly 8% of Bitcoin’s total supply was acquired within this range.
Below the current price, support appears more clearly defined. The 78.6% Fibonacci retracement of the $82,850–$57,800 decline is positioned near $77,489. Further support comes from the 200-day EMA around $72,799 and the 50-day EMA near $67,760. The $75,000–$76,000 region has already been tested and successfully defended.
Bitcoin has yet to confirm a full breakout. Instead, it is approaching one of the strongest overhead supply zones in its recent trading history, supported by eight consecutive sessions of ETF inflows. The next move through the $80,000–$82,000 area could be decisive for the market’s direction over the coming months.
Treasury Buybacks Trigger Powerful Bitcoin Rally
The catalyst behind Bitcoin’s latest surge came primarily from traditional financial markets rather than the cryptocurrency sector.
On August 19, the US Treasury announced plans to at least double government bond buybacks to a minimum of $4 billion per operation between September 9 and November 4, focusing on longer-dated maturities. The announcement came after long-term bond yields had risen sharply, with yields reaching multi-year highs across the US, Japan, Germany and France.
Bitcoin had been trading within a six-week range, with prices near $64,103 as recently as August 18. The Treasury announcement helped break that range, triggering more than $3 billion in short liquidations on August 19 alone.
The rally subsequently accelerated as bearish positions were forced to cover. Bitcoin had become a popular short trade amid elevated real yields, and the Treasury intervention weakened the underlying argument behind that positioning. Forced buying across spot and perpetual markets then amplified the move.
By August 24, Bitcoin had reclaimed $80,000 for the first time since May. The cryptocurrency subsequently experienced another sharp move above $81,000 before profit-taking pushed it back toward $78,500.
The Treasury’s buyback program continues to provide a supportive backdrop for risk assets, while the US national debt has surpassed $40 trillion. This combination of fiscal concerns, bond-market intervention and shifting yields remains an important macro factor for Bitcoin.
$80,000–$82,000 Represents a Major Supply Zone
One of the most important factors for Bitcoin in the near term is the concentration of previously purchased coins around current prices.
Realized price distribution data indicates that nearly 8% of Bitcoin’s total supply was acquired between $80,000 and $82,000, representing one of the largest concentrations across the cryptocurrency’s historical price distribution.
Approximately 5% of total supply is concentrated around the $80,000 level, while the $82,000 area also represents a significant accumulation zone. The $78,000 level contains another major concentration, accounting for roughly 3.7% of supply.
This means a large volume of Bitcoin is approaching breakeven after spending months below its acquisition price. Holders who endured a substantial drawdown may be more inclined to sell once their positions return to cost, potentially creating additional resistance.
US spot Bitcoin ETF investors face a similar dynamic, with the average acquisition cost also estimated around the $80,000–$82,000 range.
By contrast, the downside structure is more supportive. More than 6% of Bitcoin’s supply is concentrated between $60,000 and $63,000, creating a significant historical demand zone. This area could serve as an important structural floor if the current rally loses momentum.
The 50-Week Moving Average at $81,081 Is a Key Technical Test
The 50-week moving average, currently near $81,081, is one of the most closely watched technical levels for Bitcoin.
Bitcoin has remained below this indicator since November 2025. Historically, major recoveries above the 50-week moving average in 2020 and 2023 were followed by sustained bullish cycles. While the historical sample is limited, the level remains an important reference point for longer-term trend analysis.
Bitcoin recently moved marginally above its 50-week exponential moving average, but a more decisive move above the 50-week simple moving average would provide a stronger bullish signal.
The challenge is that the moving average sits directly inside the $80,000–$82,000 supply zone. A major trend indicator and a significant cost-basis cluster are therefore converging within a narrow price range.
Momentum indicators are also stretched. The 14-day RSI has remained above 80, indicating strongly overbought conditions, while the daily MACD has expanded significantly above its signal line. Composite technical indicators remain tilted toward the bullish side.
However, overbought conditions alone do not necessarily signal an imminent reversal. A pullback toward $77,489 or even the 200-day EMA near $72,799 could represent a normal consolidation rather than a breakdown, particularly if Bitcoin subsequently establishes support above the 50-week moving average.
Bitcoin ETF Inflows Strengthen the Rally
The latest ETF data provides another important source of support.
US spot Bitcoin ETFs have recorded eight consecutive sessions of net inflows, with cumulative inflows reaching approximately $2.8 billion. August inflows have exceeded $3 billion, making it the strongest month for Bitcoin ETFs so far in 2026.
Daily inflows accelerated significantly during the rally, including approximately $297.5 million on August 17, $186.4 million on August 18, $517 million on August 19 and $606 million on August 20.
Total net assets across US spot Bitcoin ETFs have risen to more than $99 billion, compared with roughly $77 billion in mid-August. However, much of this increase reflects Bitcoin’s price appreciation rather than new capital inflows.
Despite August’s strong performance, Bitcoin ETFs remain approximately $2.5 billion net negative for 2026. The recent inflows have recovered a significant portion of the capital that exited the products between May and July.
The demand is not limited to Bitcoin. Ethereum ETFs have also recorded eight consecutive sessions of inflows, while several smaller crypto products linked to XRP, Hyperliquid and Solana have attracted additional capital.
This suggests that the current move is being supported by spot demand rather than relying entirely on leveraged derivatives.
BlackRock’s IBIT Leads ETF Demand
BlackRock’s iShares Bitcoin Trust (IBIT) has accounted for a substantial share of recent ETF inflows.
IBIT attracted approximately $1.3 billion during the previous week and accounted for a significant portion of total US spot Bitcoin ETF demand. Its month-to-date inflows have reached roughly $2.64 billion, the strongest monthly performance since October 2025.
The fund’s share price has also closely tracked Bitcoin’s rally, with IBIT recording a weekly gain of more than 22% and reaching record trading activity during the advance.
Another notable development is the growth of in-kind ETF conversions. IBIT had recorded roughly $5 billion in in-kind conversions by August 26, compared with $3 billion in October 2025.
The minimum transaction size for these conversions was reduced from $25 million to $1 million, making the mechanism accessible to a broader group of professional investors and high-net-worth participants.
In-kind conversions allow investors to move Bitcoin directly into ETF structures without selling the underlying asset in the traditional market. This could reduce the amount of immediately liquid Bitcoin supply and potentially strengthen the structural demand backdrop.
Bitcoin Rally Remains Relatively Unleveraged
One of the more encouraging features of the current rally is that derivatives positioning has not expanded dramatically alongside the price.
Bitcoin futures open interest remains around 700,000 BTC despite the cryptocurrency’s sharp advance. In previous rallies, rapid increases in open interest often indicated that leverage was chasing higher prices, increasing the risk of a subsequent liquidation cascade.
Recent data instead shows that Bitcoin’s price has risen while coin-denominated open interest has declined. Between August 12–18 and August 23, Bitcoin’s average price climbed roughly 22%, while coin-denominated open interest fell around 11%.
This suggests that the latest advance has been driven more by spot buying and the unwinding of bearish positions than by aggressive new leverage.
There has been some renewed derivatives activity over the past 24 hours, with futures volume rising around 6% and open interest increasing approximately 3%. Nevertheless, perpetual funding rates remain relatively moderate, indicating bullish positioning without the extreme leverage typically associated with overheated markets.
Overall, Bitcoin’s current rally appears to be among the less leveraged advances seen in recent years. The key question now is whether sustained spot demand can absorb the heavy supply between $80,000 and $82,000.
A decisive break above $81,081 and subsequently $82,850 would strengthen the bullish case. Conversely, rejection from this resistance zone could trigger a correction toward $77,489 and potentially lower support levels.
Bitcoin traded slightly higher on Wednesday, consolidating after reaching a three-month high as investors turned cautious following fresh U.S. inflation data. The Federal Reserve’s preferred inflation measure remained elevated in July, adding uncertainty to the outlook for interest rates ahead of the central bank’s September policy meeting.
Bitcoin was last up around 0.2% at $78,739.7 by 17:27 ET (21:27 GMT), after surging above the $80,000 level during the previous session.
Risk sentiment also received support from developments surrounding the U.S.-Iran standoff. A Russian media report indicated that Washington and Tehran had reached a ceasefire agreement that could be announced in the coming days. The report pressured oil prices, while positive comments from Pakistan and renewed Iran-Oman discussions concerning the Strait of Hormuz further supported broader market sentiment.
U.S. PCE Inflation Remains Elevated Ahead of September Fed Meeting
Bitcoin’s recent advance has been partly driven by the so-called “debasement trade,” with investors betting that efforts by the U.S. Treasury to stabilize rising bond yields could put downward pressure on the dollar.
That environment has encouraged capital to move into alternative and scarce assets, including Bitcoin, cryptocurrencies and gold.
However, the latest U.S. inflation figures highlighted the challenge facing the Federal Reserve. The headline PCE price index increased 0.2% month over month in July, following a 0.1% decline in June. On an annual basis, PCE inflation held at 3.7%, slightly exceeding economists’ 3.6% expectation.
Core PCE inflation, which excludes volatile food and energy prices, also remained firm. The measure rose 0.2% from the previous month and 3.3% year over year, matching both the previous annual reading and market expectations.
The data suggest that inflation continues to cool only gradually, potentially encouraging Fed policymakers to maintain a cautious stance on interest rates. A renewed acceleration in inflation could undermine the debasement trade, as expectations for higher interest rates would likely strengthen the dollar and reduce the appeal of alternative assets such as Bitcoin and gold.
Bernstein Projects Bitcoin at $150K by 2027 and $300K by 2029
Bernstein remains bullish on Bitcoin’s longer-term prospects, forecasting that the cryptocurrency could reach $150,000 by mid-2027 and approximately $300,000 at the peak of its next market cycle in 2029.
The brokerage expects increasing fiscal pressures, rising government debt and higher borrowing costs to encourage policies that gradually weaken currencies. Such an environment could boost demand for scarce assets, including Bitcoin.
Bernstein’s base-case outlook assumes Bitcoin continues to follow its historical four-year market cycle. The firm projects BTC at approximately $125,000 by the end of 2026, $150,000 by mid-2027 and around $300,000 in 2029.
Among major memecoins, Dogecoin fell approximately 0.5%, whereas $TRUMP gained 1.5%.
Overall, Bitcoin remains above the $78,000 level, but persistent U.S. inflation and uncertainty over the Federal Reserve’s September decision could determine whether the latest rebound develops into a broader sustained rally.
Bitcoin remained above $78,000 on Tuesday after briefly climbing to a three-month high, as concerns over the health of U.S. government finances weakened the dollar and encouraged investors to increase exposure to cryptocurrencies.
The world’s largest cryptocurrency was little changed at $78,740.1 by 18:06 ET (22:06 GMT), after touching $81,220.4 earlier in the session. Bitcoin gained more than 22% last week, marking its strongest weekly performance since March 2023.
Bitcoin Rally Gains Momentum as U.S. Bond Buybacks Raise Debasement Concerns
Bitcoin’s recent rebound has been driven largely by growing concerns about U.S. fiscal conditions and the longer-term outlook for the dollar.
Investor worries intensified after the U.S. Treasury announced plans last week to nearly double the pace of its bond buybacks in an effort to contain rising Treasury yields.
The move raised concerns that increased government intervention in the bond market could undermine the dollar, fueling what has become known as the “debasement trade.”
OCBC analysts noted that the Treasury’s buyback plans have shifted the market narrative away from rising yields and toward concerns about dollar debasement. This has contributed to a weaker U.S. dollar, stronger gold prices and higher inflation expectations, while increasing uncertainty over policy and the Federal Reserve’s independence has added further pressure on the greenback.
As a result, investors have increasingly moved into gold and cryptocurrencies, which are viewed as relatively insulated from turmoil in traditional bond markets.
Bitcoin has been a major beneficiary of this trend, while its weak performance earlier in the year has also attracted bargain hunters looking to capitalize on the sharp rebound.
Bitcoin Rally Triggers $457 Million in Short Liquidations
Bitcoin’s rapid recovery has also triggered a wave of short-position liquidations.
According to Coinglass data, more than $457 million worth of Bitcoin short positions were liquidated over the past 24 hours. The surge follows last week’s rally, when billions of dollars in Bitcoin shorts were wiped out as prices accelerated higher.
Other major cryptocurrencies also experienced significant liquidations, with Ether short positions worth approximately $112.3 million liquidated over the same period.
Crypto Prices Today: Altcoins Lose Momentum After Strong Rally
The broader cryptocurrency market pulled back on Tuesday as altcoins also paused following their recent gains.
Ether, the second-largest cryptocurrency by market capitalization, fell about 1% to $2,449.25, while XRP declined 2%.
Solana edged up 0.1%, whereas BNB and Cardano dropped 0.9% and 4.1%, respectively.
In the memecoin segment, Dogecoin fell 3.1%, while $TRUMP dropped 7.6%.
Overall, the crypto market appears to be taking a breather after a powerful rally, with Bitcoin remaining supported by renewed demand for alternative assets amid growing concerns over U.S. fiscal stability and potential dollar debasement.
Bitcoin remains capped below the $80,000 resistance, with $77,000 acting as key near-term support.
Ethereum pulls back toward the $2,400 demand area despite recording $697 million in weekly ETF inflows.
XRP extends its decline following an overheated rally, with the RSI indicating overbought conditions.
The cryptocurrency market is undergoing a broad pullback on Monday as investors turn toward profit-taking following last week’s strong rally. Bitcoin (BTC) is trading slightly lower, with gains constrained below the $80,000 level and immediate support around $77,000.
Ethereum (ETH), meanwhile, remains above near-term support at $2,400 but has yet to build enough momentum to challenge the next major resistance at $2,600. Ripple (XRP) is hovering near $1.48 as its momentum fades after surging 72% last week, climbing from around $1.00 to a peak near $1.70.
Bitcoin, Ethereum and XRP ETFs attract strong inflows
Bitcoin spot Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) experienced a significant increase in investor demand, recording $1.92 billion in net inflows through Friday last week. This represented the strongest weekly inflow since October and signaled a notable improvement in risk appetite. Total cumulative inflows increased to $53.71 billion, compared with $51.79 billion the previous week.
Ethereum spot ETFs also saw a sharp rebound in demand, attracting approximately $697 million in inflows through Friday. This was a substantial turnaround from the $2.26 million in outflows recorded the week before. Cumulative inflows subsequently rose to $12.15 billion from $11.45 billion.
Institutional interest in XRP also strengthened, with XRP-related ETFs recording $40 million in inflows through Friday, significantly higher than the $2.25 million registered the previous week. SoSoValue data shows cumulative inflows of approximately $1.55 billion, while total assets under management reached $1.33 billion.
If this stronger demand for crypto investment products continues, it could provide additional support for the broader cryptocurrency market and improve its recovery prospects. However, traders should remain cautious, as renewed profit-taking may limit further gains and potentially trigger a deeper market correction.
Technical Analysis: Bitcoin Faces Resistance Near $80,000
Bitcoin is trading around $77,240, remaining comfortably above its major Exponential Moving Averages (EMAs) and preserving a bullish short-term outlook. The 50-day EMA at $66,777, 100-day EMA at $67,410, and 200-day EMA at $71,805 are all positioned below the current price, supporting the underlying uptrend. The SuperTrend indicator also remains below Bitcoin at $70,570, further confirming the positive technical structure.
However, Bitcoin has pulled back after approaching the key $80,000 resistance level. Momentum indicators suggest the market may need to consolidate before attempting another move higher. The Relative Strength Index (RSI) stands at 78, firmly in overbought territory, while the Moving Average Convergence Divergence (MACD) remains above zero with a strong positive histogram. This combination indicates that bullish momentum is still present but increasingly stretched.
Immediate support is located around $77,000, while the 200-day EMA near $71,805 provides a stronger technical floor. A deeper correction could bring the SuperTrend level at $70,570 into focus, followed by the 100-day and 50-day EMAs at $67,410 and $66,777, respectively. Given the elevated RSI and MACD readings, traders may find better risk-reward opportunities by waiting for pullbacks toward these support zones rather than chasing Bitcoin near current highs.
Altcoin Outlook: Ethereum and XRP Maintain Bullish Structures
Ethereum is trading near $2,444 and continues to hold well above its major moving averages, keeping the short-term outlook constructive. The price remains comfortably above the 50-day EMA at approximately $1,985 and the 100-day EMA near $1,973, while the 200-day EMA around $2,141 provides additional confirmation of the broader bullish trend.
Momentum remains strong, with the MACD staying in positive territory and the RSI near 77. However, the overbought RSI suggests that Ethereum’s recent advance may be becoming stretched and could require a period of consolidation.
Immediate support is positioned around $2,400, followed by the 200-day EMA at $2,141. Further downside could bring the $1,985-$1,973 area into focus, where the 50-day and 100-day EMAs create a strong support cluster. On the upside, a sustained move above $2,600 could open the door toward the psychological $3,000 level.
XRP is trading around $1.45 after a powerful rebound, with the price now positioned well above its key moving averages. XRP has moved above the 50-day EMA at $1.14, 100-day EMA at $1.18, and 200-day EMA at $1.35, highlighting a strong bullish impulse.
The RSI near 77 indicates that XRP is also firmly overbought, while the positive MACD confirms that upward momentum remains strong. Nevertheless, the stretched technical conditions increase the possibility of short-term consolidation or a pullback.
The SuperTrend indicator at $1.25 represents the first significant downside support and could attract buyers if XRP retreats. The reclaimed 200-day EMA at $1.35, followed by the 100-day and 50-day EMAs at $1.18 and $1.14, respectively, provides additional support underneath the market. A healthy correction toward $1.25 could allow momentum to reset before XRP attempts another leg higher.
Since our July 1 update, we have maintained a bullish outlook on Bitcoin (BTC), supported by the Elliott Wave Principle (EWP) and Technical Analysis (TA). In our previous analysis, we identified the possibility of a five-wave advance, provided BTC remained above $62,474 — our third key warning level for the bulls.
Four weeks later, Bitcoin successfully held that support, with its lowest daily close reaching $62,727 on August 1. Since then, BTC has entered what appears to be a powerful third-of-a-third wave advance, reinforcing the bullish technical structure.
Bitcoin Elliott Wave Outlook
Our earlier forecast for further upside has so far played out as expected. We continue to monitor a potential five-wave move — labeled gray waves i, ii, iii, iv and v — developing within the larger green Wave 3. Under this scenario, Bitcoin could eventually target the $77,000 area, as long as BTC holds above $65,418, which currently represents our third warning level for the bulls.
An important technical condition is the relationship between the fourth and first waves. In a standard impulsive structure, gray Wave iv cannot overlap gray Wave i. If such an overlap occurs, there is a greater than 60% probability that the current Bitcoin uptrend has already reached its peak.
Long-Term Bitcoin Price Forecast
With Bitcoin continuing to show strong bullish momentum, we also maintain our view that the previously observed four-year cycle has likely been invalidated. That cycle had remained effective for roughly 12 years and previously pointed to a potential market low between late November and late January.
However, Bitcoin’s ongoing impulsive price action supports the possibility that a significant low was established at the July 1 bottom. We therefore continue to track a potential five-wave advance from that level.
If this Elliott Wave structure develops as anticipated, it would provide stronger confirmation that a major Bitcoin market low is already in place. In that scenario, the next significant upside objective could be the Fibonacci-based $164,000–$337,000 target zone for the red Wave v within the larger black Wave 5.
Overall, Bitcoin’s current Elliott Wave structure remains constructive, with $65,418 serving as a key support level and $77,000 emerging as the next major upside target.
Solana (SOL) extended its strong weekly rally on Friday, gaining more than 19% so far this week and trading near the key 200-day Exponential Moving Average (EMA) at $89. A sustained breakout above this resistance could reinforce the bullish outlook and pave the way for further upside.
The latest gains have been supported by improving liquidity conditions following the US Treasury’s decision to expand its debt buyback operations. At the same time, institutional demand for Solana has strengthened, with US-listed spot SOL ETFs attracting $14.58 million in net inflows on Thursday, their strongest single-day inflow since late July.
Improving Liquidity Conditions Support Solana
The US Treasury announced on Wednesday that it would double the size of certain debt buyback operations designed to improve liquidity in the longer-dated Treasury market.
According to Reuters, the Treasury plans to increase liquidity-support buybacks for longer-dated nominal coupon securities from $2 billion to at least $4 billion per operation.
The larger buyback program helped ease concerns over market liquidity and encouraged greater risk appetite across financial markets. It also contributed to a short squeeze in cryptocurrencies, with SOL jumping more than 10% on Wednesday before extending its advance to a Friday high of $90.20.
Institutional Demand for SOL Strengthens
Institutional interest in Solana has also picked up this week. Data from SoSoValue showed that US-listed spot SOL ETFs attracted $14.58 million in net inflows on Thursday, marking the strongest single-day inflow since the end of July.
Thursday also marked the third consecutive session of positive ETF flows this week. If institutional inflows continue to increase, they could provide an additional catalyst for SOL and support further price gains.
Solana Price Forecast: 200-Day EMA Remains Key Resistance
Solana was trading around $89.14 on Friday, maintaining a bullish short-term structure as the price remained comfortably above the 50-day and 100-day EMAs at $76.91 and $78.63, respectively.
However, SOL is currently testing the 200-day EMA at $89.28, which represents an important resistance level. The indicator could limit the upside during the initial breakout attempt.
Momentum indicators remain bullish but increasingly stretched. The Relative Strength Index (RSI) is near 79, placing it in overbought territory, while the Moving Average Convergence Divergence (MACD) remains firmly positive. Together, these signals point to strong upward momentum, although the recent rally may leave SOL vulnerable to short-term consolidation or profit-taking.
On the downside, the first important support zone is around $77.07, supported by the 100-day EMA at $78.63 and the 50-day EMA at $76.91. A deeper correction could bring the broken ascending trendline near $74.38 into focus as the next major demand area.
On the upside, a sustained daily close above the 200-day EMA at $89.28 could strengthen the bullish setup and expose the next resistance near $96.19. This level may attract selling pressure following SOL’s sharp recent advance.
Bitcoin rallied sharply on Wednesday, heading toward its strongest daily performance since early February, as President Donald Trump voiced strong support for the cryptocurrency industry and urged Congress to advance the CLARITY Act. Falling yields on longer-dated U.S. Treasury bonds also improved overall risk sentiment.
Bitcoin climbed 8% to around $69,757 by 17:34 ET (21:34 GMT), reaching its highest level since June 1. The move marked its strongest intraday gain since a more than 12% jump on February 6.
Trump steps up support for the crypto industry
Trump hosted senior financial officials and executives from major cryptocurrency companies on Wednesday, one day before the first meeting of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission’s Innovation Advisory Committee. The committee was established to advise on how technological developments could affect U.S. financial markets.
Trump emphasized his goal of keeping the U.S. at the forefront of digital assets and emerging technologies, including Bitcoin, cryptocurrencies, prediction markets and artificial intelligence. CFTC Chairman Mike Selig and SEC Chairman Paul Atkins attended the meeting, along with executives such as Robinhood CEO Vlad Tenev and Kraken co-CEO Arjun Sethi.
Trump also called on Congress to pass a revised version of the CLARITY Act, saying the legislation could encourage a new wave of innovation across the digital asset sector.
SEC unveils proposed crypto framework
The Trump administration’s crypto-friendly stance followed a new SEC proposal designed to establish clearer rules for certain crypto-related investment contracts.
Dubbed “Regulation Crypto Assets,” the proposal includes two exemptions from securities registration requirements. Eligible issuers could raise as much as $5 million over four years under one exemption, while another would allow offerings of up to $75 million within a 12-month period.
SEC Chairman Paul Atkins said the framework would provide crypto businesses and investors with clearer options for raising capital while operating within federal securities laws. The proposal would also introduce a safe harbor after issuers complete or permanently discontinue the managerial activities promised under an investment contract.
Treasury buybacks lift longer-term bonds
Sentiment across financial markets also improved after the U.S. Treasury announced plans to at least double its purchases of longer-dated government bonds.
Starting September 9, liquidity-support buybacks covering the 10- to 20-year and 20- to 30-year maturity sectors will increase from $2 billion to $4 billion per operation.
The announcement triggered strong buying in longer-duration Treasuries and pushed yields lower. The 30-year Treasury yield fell 8.9 basis points to 5.196%, after reaching 5.337% the previous day, its highest level since June 2007.
Long-term Treasury yields had recently come under pressure following the Federal Reserve’s July meeting, as higher oil prices fueled inflation concerns and heavy borrowing by major technology companies to finance AI infrastructure added to concerns over the supply of government and corporate debt.
Ether and major altcoins rally
The broader cryptocurrency market also advanced sharply alongside Bitcoin.
Ether surged nearly 20% to $2,288.49, while XRP gained about 12% to $1.1229. BNB rose 4.8%, while Cardano and Solana climbed roughly 9.7% and 12.4%, respectively.
Meme coins also recorded strong gains, with Dogecoin rising around 8% and the TRUMP token jumping more than 20%.
Overall, renewed U.S. political support for digital assets, expectations of clearer crypto regulations and falling long-term Treasury yields combined to create a strong risk-on environment for cryptocurrencies.
Bitcoin whales are quietly returning to the market, accumulating more than $2.9 billion worth of BTC over the past 60 days, while smaller investors appear to be reducing their exposure.
Wallets holding more than 10,000 BTC added around 46,420 Bitcoin during the period, marking the strongest whale accumulation since March.
The renewed buying comes as Bitcoin continues to trade well below its all-time high, prompting speculation that large holders may be positioning for a potential recovery.
Bitcoin Whales Buy as Retail Investors Reduce Exposure
The latest data highlights a clear divergence between the behavior of large and small Bitcoin holders.
Wallets with more than 10,000 BTC accumulated approximately 46,420 BTC, while smaller retail investors sold nearly 9,700 BTC over the same 60-day period.
This creates a notable gap in market positioning.
Retail investors appear to be cutting exposure amid uncertainty surrounding Bitcoin, whereas large holders are taking advantage of the weaker market to increase their positions.
Such a divergence could prove significant when assessing Bitcoin’s next major price move.
Why Bitcoin Whale Accumulation Matters
The recent accumulation is particularly notable because it follows a period of significant selling pressure from large Bitcoin holders.
In February, wallets holding more than 1,000 BTC accumulated roughly 53,000 Bitcoin in one week after months of net selling. Despite that increase, large holders had still reduced their holdings by more than 170,000 BTC since mid-December.
The latest data suggests whale sentiment may once again be shifting toward accumulation.
In July, whales purchased more than 270,000 BTC worth approximately $16.7 billion in just two weeks, even as US spot Bitcoin ETFs recorded $4.06 billion in outflows during June.
This behavior explains why whale activity remains a closely watched indicator among Bitcoin investors.
When large holders aggressively accumulate BTC during periods of weak market sentiment, it may indicate that some investors see lower prices as an opportunity to build positions rather than a reason to exit the market.
Bitcoin Price Outlook
Whale accumulation does not necessarily mean Bitcoin is about to begin a new rally. Large holders may accumulate BTC for various reasons, including long-term investment strategies, portfolio rebalancing or expectations of further price declines.
Nevertheless, sustained buying by wallets controlling substantial amounts of Bitcoin can influence broader market dynamics. If whales move BTC away from exchanges or continue increasing their holdings, the amount of Bitcoin immediately available for sale could decrease.
If demand remains firm while available supply tightens, even a moderate increase in buying pressure could have a greater impact on Bitcoin price.
However, whale activity should not be considered in isolation. Bitcoin’s outlook also depends on spot ETF flows, institutional demand, overall risk appetite, interest-rate expectations, market liquidity and broader cryptocurrency sentiment.
A sustained increase in whale holdings is therefore a potentially bullish signal, but it may not be enough to offset selling pressure from other market participants.
If whale accumulation continues alongside stronger institutional and retail demand, the combination could become an important signal for Bitcoin’s next major move, potentially strengthening the case for an upside breakout.
Bitcoin remains under pressure below the 50-day EMA near $64,368 on Wednesday, signaling continued bearish momentum.
The Fear and Greed Index climbs to 41, indicating a shift toward neutral sentiment after the recent risk-off mood.
Venice and Sky lead the gains among major altcoins over the past 24 hours.
Bitcoin (BTC) trades above $64,000 on Wednesday but remains under pressure as bulls look for signs of a sustained recovery. Meanwhile, improving crypto market sentiment and strong performances from Venice Token (VVV) and Sky (SKY) are drawing attention across the altcoin market.
CoinMarketCap’s Fear and Greed Index rises to 41, moving into neutral territory and suggesting that investor sentiment is gradually recovering from the recent risk-off mood.
Bitcoin Price Forecast: BTC Faces Resistance Near $64,400
Bitcoin trades near $64,384, hovering around the 50-day Exponential Moving Average (EMA) at approximately $64,368. The price action points to a mildly bearish near-term bias, although BTC continues to hold above the rising support trendline from $61,307 and the 23.6% Fibonacci retracement at $63,712.
Momentum indicators offer a more balanced picture. The Relative Strength Index (RSI) stands at 52, slightly above the neutral 50 level, while the Moving Average Convergence Divergence (MACD) and signal line remain broadly flat. This suggests that sellers have yet to gain decisive control.
On the upside, the first major hurdle is the 50% Fibonacci retracement near $69,200. Beyond this level, the 200-day EMA around $72,801 represents a key resistance zone. A sustained break above it could strengthen the bullish outlook.
On the downside, the 50-day EMA near $64,369 provides immediate support, followed by the 23.6% Fibonacci retracement at $63,712. A clear break below this area could expose Bitcoin to further losses toward the $57,800 region and undermine the broader recovery structure.
Altcoin Price Forecast: Can VVV and SKY Extend Their Gains?
Venice Token (VVV) remains above $13.00 after advancing around 20% earlier this week. The token maintains a bullish short-term setup while trading above the 50-day EMA at $12.40 and the 200-day EMA at $10.41.
VVV faces immediate resistance around $14.25, corresponding to the 50% Fibonacci retracement of the move from $21.42 to $9.81. A breakout above this level could open the path toward the 78.6% Fibonacci retracement near $18.12.
The RSI around 63 reflects solid bullish momentum without signaling overbought conditions, while the positive MACD slope above its signal line further supports the recovery.
On the downside, the 50-day EMA at $12.40 acts as the first support, followed by the 23.6% Fibonacci retracement at $11.80 and the 200-day EMA at $10.41.
Sky (SKY) trades above $0.0500 after gaining roughly 10% over the past three days. However, the token remains below its 50-day EMA at $0.0567 and 200-day EMA at $0.0616, keeping the broader technical outlook bearish.
Short-term momentum is improving, with the RSI rising to around 54 and moving above its midpoint. The MACD has also crossed above its signal line, indicating that selling pressure may be starting to ease.
SKY faces initial resistance at the 50-day EMA near $0.0567, while the descending resistance trendline around $0.0583 adds another hurdle. A stronger recovery would need to overcome the 200-day EMA at $0.0616.
If SKY turns lower from the 50-day EMA, the August 14 low at $0.05059 could provide the first downside target, followed by the June 27 low at $0.04859.
Bitcoin (BTC) is trading near $62,900 on Friday, having lost more than 3% this week, though recent price action suggests the decline may be easing.
US spot Bitcoin ETFs saw net outflows of $332.08 million through Thursday, reflecting a more cautious stance among institutional investors.
Ongoing tensions in the Strait of Hormuz continue to lift Oil prices and sustain a geopolitical risk premium, boosting demand for the US Dollar and limiting Bitcoin’s upside potential.
Bitcoin (BTC) is trading near $62,900 on Friday, down more than 3% for the week as cautious institutional participation and ongoing geopolitical risks continue to pressure sentiment. Although the cryptocurrency is showing signs of stabilization, elevated Oil prices and escalating tensions in the Strait of Hormuz are limiting risk appetite and keeping the near-term outlook for BTC subdued.
Middle East tensions continue to cap Bitcoin’s upside
Geopolitical uncertainty surrounding the US-Iran conflict remained a key market theme this week, constraining demand for risk-sensitive assets such as Bitcoin. On Thursday, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent warned that Washington is preparing unprecedented economic measures against Iran, signaling that additional announcements could be unveiled in the coming days.
Meanwhile, Iranian officials maintained a defiant stance. Mohammad Reza Naqdi, a senior adviser to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), stated that Tehran’s objective is to make any confrontation so costly that future US administrations would hesitate before considering military action.
The standoff has also intensified around the Strait of Hormuz. President Donald Trump reiterated that the United States maintains complete control over the critical shipping route, while Iran insisted the strait would remain closed until its demands are satisfied. At the same time, Iran-backed Houthi forces in Yemen increased attacks on vessels operating in the Red Sea and Bab el-Mandeb Strait and claimed responsibility for a drone strike targeting a Saudi Aramco refinery, heightening fears of a wider regional conflict.
The combination of these developments has amplified uncertainty surrounding global energy supplies, sustaining a geopolitical risk premium in Oil markets. Higher energy prices and safe-haven demand have supported the US Dollar, weakened broader risk sentiment, and continued to act as a headwind for Bitcoin.
Institutional demand remains subdued
Institutional flows have provided little support for Bitcoin this week. According to SoSoValue data, US spot Bitcoin ETFs recorded cumulative net outflows of roughly $332 million through Thursday, highlighting a cautious approach among large investors. If Friday’s data also shows withdrawals, BTC could end the week with net ETF outflows, reflecting softer institutional demand and a more defensive market stance.
Cooling US inflation offers support, but Oil-driven risks persist
Recent US economic releases pointed to moderating inflationary pressures, potentially giving the Federal Reserve (Fed) greater flexibility to keep interest rates unchanged. While such a backdrop would normally favor risk assets, Bitcoin has struggled to capitalize on the softer macroeconomic data.
The latest figures showed that US headline Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation eased to 3.4% year-over-year in July, down from 3.5% previously and in line with expectations. Core CPI, which excludes food and energy, increased by 0.2% month-over-month and 2.5% annually, matching forecasts. Meanwhile, Producer Price Index (PPI) data released on Thursday came in weaker than expected, with monthly prices unchanged and annual producer inflation slowing to 4.7% from 5.5%.
Together with last week’s softer-than-expected Nonfarm Payrolls report, the data strengthens the case for the Fed to leave rates unchanged at its September meeting. A less aggressive monetary policy outlook generally benefits risk-oriented assets such as Bitcoin by reducing pressure from elevated borrowing costs and bond yields.
Comments from Fed officials, however, continue to send mixed signals. Chicago Fed President Austan Goolsbee suggested that recent inflation pressures are largely tied to temporary factors such as tariffs and energy costs, supporting a patient policy approach. In contrast, Cleveland Fed President Beth Hammack argued that inflation remains too high and that additional tightening may still be necessary to ensure price stability.
Market expectations have shifted accordingly. Fed funds futures now imply a little over a 65% chance of a rate hike before year-end, down sharply from nearly 85% a week ago. Although easing rate-hike expectations could provide a tailwind for Bitcoin, ongoing geopolitical tensions and elevated Oil prices continue to bolster demand for the US Dollar, limiting the cryptocurrency’s upside potential in the near term.
What could shape Bitcoin’s performance in the second half of August?
According to Simon-Peter Massabni, Head of Business Development at XS.com, Bitcoin is currently in a phase of rebuilding momentum rather than entering a fresh bearish trend. The cryptocurrency has been trading within a volatile $63,000–$65,000 range, repeatedly struggling to secure a decisive breakout above the $65,000 mark.
Despite headwinds from rising bond yields and broader market uncertainty, Massabni believes Bitcoin’s ability to hold relatively steady suggests that buyers have not exited the market. Instead, investors appear to be waiting for a stronger catalyst before increasing exposure.
Addressing Bitcoin’s muted response to softer US inflation data, he noted that much of the positive inflation outlook had already been priced in by the market. Since the latest inflation figures largely met expectations, they failed to deliver the surprise needed to spark a new wave of buying. Investors are now focusing less on inflation itself and more on whether the data will lead to a more accommodative Federal Reserve policy and improved liquidity conditions.
Looking ahead, Massabni maintains a cautiously optimistic outlook. His base-case scenario sees Bitcoin ending August near $70,000, with a potential trading range between $68,000 and $72,000. However, he expects the path higher to remain volatile, requiring BTC to reclaim the $67,000 level to reinforce bullish momentum. A sustained move below the $61,000–$62,000 region, meanwhile, could delay or invalidate this constructive outlook.
Bitcoin technical outlook: Stabilization signals are beginning to appear
Bitcoin was trading around $62,900 on Friday after a modest rebound in recent sessions. Since mid-July, BTC has largely moved sideways between the 78.6% Fibonacci retracement level at $65,520 and the 200-week Simple Moving Average (SMA) near $64,000, reflecting a prolonged consolidation phase.
A weekly close above $65,520 could strengthen the recovery outlook and open the door for a move toward the 61.8% Fibonacci retracement level around $78,490. Technical indicators on the weekly chart are showing early signs of improvement. The Relative Strength Index (RSI) has been trending higher, reaching 38, while the bullish MACD crossover formed in mid-July remains intact, suggesting that downside momentum may be fading.
On the other hand, failure to hold above the 200-week SMA could trigger renewed selling pressure, potentially exposing the ascending trendline support near $60,000.
From a daily-chart perspective, Bitcoin remains in a broadly corrective structure. The cryptocurrency continues to trade below key Exponential Moving Averages (EMAs) and has been confined to a $62,300–$66,500 range since mid-July.
Momentum indicators still favor caution. The daily RSI sits at 41, while the MACD histogram remains slightly negative, indicating that sellers retain a modest near-term advantage despite signs of stabilization.
Key support is located at $62,300. A decisive break below this level could accelerate losses toward the July 1 yearly low of $57,800. On the upside, initial resistance is seen at the 50-day EMA near $64,458, followed by the 100-day EMA around $66,589, which aligns closely with horizontal resistance near $66,500. Until BTC regains these levels on a sustained basis, rallies may continue to face selling pressure, keeping the broader recovery attempt in check.
The total crypto market capitalization has remained largely unchanged, hovering around its $2.19 trillion “centre of gravity” for a third consecutive day. It has traded within a narrow $2.18 trillion–$2.20 trillion range, extending the broader sideways trend that has persisted since early June.
Prolonged periods of consolidation often encourage traders to tighten stop-loss levels and increase leverage as they become increasingly confident that the market will remain range-bound. This can sometimes set the stage for a final capitulation move, in which prices are pushed sharply lower before a recovery begins.
At the same time, large trading volumes frequently emerge toward the end of extended consolidation phases as long-term investors gradually build positions around their market expectations. In the current environment, some investors may be positioning ahead of potential cryptocurrency legislation expected later this autumn after Congress returns from recess. While the medium-term outlook remains constructive, the possibility of another sharp correction over the coming weeks should not be dismissed.
Bitcoin has struggled to move decisively away from support, hovering near $64,000 for a third consecutive day. The cryptocurrency was trading slightly below this level on Thursday morning but remained above its 50-day moving average.
Interestingly, the current price area is close to the highs recorded during Bitcoin’s 2021 bull market. A similar pattern emerged three years ago, when Bitcoin’s decline eventually found a floor around $20,000—roughly matching the peak of the previous bull market in late 2017.
This historical pattern strengthens the possibility that the current decline is approaching exhaustion, particularly as bearish momentum weakens and Bitcoin moves closer to its 200-week moving average. While short-term speculators may still be waiting for a more attractive entry point, long-term investors appear to be steadily accumulating around current levels. The relative stability of Bitcoin despite significant volatility across other markets provides further evidence of this underlying demand.
At the end of 2022, Bitcoin briefly traded almost 25% below $20,000 before staging a strong recovery, effectively providing investors with a significant “discount.” A similar scenario could occur this time, although relying on another deep pullback would be risky.
Bitcoin’s extended downtrend may have reached a “point of exhaustion,” according to Fairlead Strategies, as selling pressure has eased. However, fading bearish momentum does not necessarily mean that an immediate reversal is imminent.
Twenty One Capital posted a $413.5 million net loss in Q2, largely reflecting the decline in the value of Bitcoin held on its balance sheet. The company is the second-largest publicly traded corporate holder of Bitcoin, with 43,514 BTC valued at approximately $2.8 billion.
Strategy CEO Phong Le said the company plans to resume Bitcoin purchases by the end of the year. He noted that its buying activity has been roughly 25 times greater than its selling, with Strategy purchasing approximately 175,000 BTC since January while selling around 7,000 BTC. Le described Strategy as the “JPMorgan of the digital economy.”
Bitcoin miners continue to face weak fee revenue. Glassnode reports that transaction fees remain close to 10-year lows, while July was reportedly the least profitable month for miners in almost three years. Fees have represented less than 1% of miners’ total revenue over the past year.
Crypto spot trading activity also weakened in July. According to Wu Blockchain, spot volumes across crypto exchanges dropped 21.7% from June, falling below the $500 billion threshold for the first time in three years. Futures activity, meanwhile, was approximately seven times larger than spot trading.
On August 12, a routing failure at infrastructure provider TeraSwitch temporarily took validators representing 28.8% of Solana’s staked tokens offline. The figure came close to the 33.34% threshold at which the network would have stopped finalising transactions.
Meanwhile, two heavily leveraged Bitcoin short positions worth more than $210 million combined were opened on Hyperliquid using 40x leverage. Their liquidation levels are reportedly around $64,100 and $64,600, respectively.
In a separate development, one of Hong Kong’s early crypto millionaires, who began investing in cryptocurrencies in 2013, was found dead in Paraguay. Chainalysis reported 46 attacks targeting cryptocurrency holders during the first half of the year, resulting in losses exceeding $30 million.
Bitcoin edged lower on Wednesday, slipping 0.2% to $63,487, as easing expectations for a Federal Reserve rate hike failed to offset lingering market concerns. Investor sentiment was weighed down by fading hopes for a U.S.-Iran agreement to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, as well as continued pressure from recent selling activity by Strategy, the largest corporate holder of Bitcoin.
July Inflation Data Meets Expectations
Markets closely monitored the July Consumer Price Index (CPI) report for clues on the Fed’s next policy move. The data followed a weaker-than-expected U.S. jobs report that had already prompted traders to reassess the likelihood of additional rate increases.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, headline CPI rose 0.1% month-over-month in July after falling 0.4% in June, while annual inflation eased to 3.4% from 3.5%. Core CPI, which excludes food and energy prices, increased 0.2% on a monthly basis and slowed to 2.5% year-over-year from 2.6%. All figures matched market forecasts.
Attention now shifts to the Producer Price Index (PPI) report, which could provide further insight into inflation trends. While CPI and PPI remain important indicators, the Federal Reserve primarily focuses on the Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) Price Index when assessing inflation pressures.
Fed Rate Expectations Shift
The inflation data reinforced the view that policymakers may have room to keep interest rates unchanged rather than raise them further. Following the CPI release, CME FedWatch data showed the probability of the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) leaving rates unchanged in September rising to 62%, up from 54% previously.
JPMorgan economists Michael Feroli and Harry Downie estimated that core PCE likely increased 0.22% in July, which would keep the annual reading unchanged at 3.3%. However, they noted that the estimate could be revised after the release of July’s PPI figures.
The analysts added that the latest inflation report was unlikely to significantly strengthen either the hawkish or dovish camp within the Fed, leaving policymakers dependent on upcoming employment and inflation data. JPMorgan continues to expect a rate increase in December, although the possibility of an earlier move remains elevated.
Geopolitical Tensions Keep Markets on Edge
Beyond monetary policy, investors remained focused on developments in the Middle East. Hopes for a deal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz weakened as both the United States and Iran maintained firm positions regarding control of the strategic shipping route.
Former President Donald Trump stated that the United States had “total control” over the strait, while Iranian officials reiterated demands that Washington end hostilities and release frozen assets before any reopening could occur.
The uncertain outlook contributed to renewed volatility in energy markets. Brent crude briefly approached the $90-per-barrel mark as traders assessed supply risks linked to disruptions in the region. Additional concerns emerged after reported attacks on commercial shipping routes near the Bab el-Mandeb Strait and the Gulf of Oman.
Altcoins Mostly Decline
The broader cryptocurrency market largely mirrored Bitcoin’s cautious performance. Ethereum gained 0.2% to trade near $1,881, while XRP fell 1.1%.
Elsewhere, Solana and BNB each slipped around 0.3%, while Cardano dropped 2.1%. Among meme-based cryptocurrencies, Dogecoin lost 1.8% and the TRUMP token declined 3.2%.
Overall, softer inflation data and reduced expectations for near-term Fed tightening provided limited support to digital assets, with geopolitical uncertainty and broader market caution continuing to cap upside momentum.
Ethereum traded around $1,874 on Tuesday, down 2.8% over the past 24 hours after fluctuating between roughly $1,867 and $1,929. The key development was its rejection near $1,929 and the subsequent drop below the $1,900 level, undoing a four-day effort to establish that zone as support. Ethereum’s market capitalization currently stands near $228 billion, with approximately 120.5 million ETH in circulation.
The decline appeared to be driven primarily by broader market caution ahead of Wednesday’s U.S. inflation report rather than any Ethereum-specific weakness. Bitcoin also slipped below $64,000 during the period, while liquidations of leveraged positions added pressure across the crypto market. However, Ethereum continues to stand out because of a growing disconnect between its underlying fundamentals and price performance.
Staking participation reached a record 41.41 million ETH on August 4, representing nearly 34% of the circulating supply. With almost one-third of all ether locked in staking, alongside declining exchange balances and increasing corporate treasury accumulation, supply-side indicators continue to point toward tightening availability.
Despite these scarcity dynamics, Ethereum remains 62.2% below its 2025 all-time high of approximately $4,953 and only about 12.5% above its recent low of $1,666. By comparison, Bitcoin is down roughly 49% from its peak, leaving Ethereum underperforming by around 13 percentage points. This disparity suggests that supply constraints alone have not been sufficient to drive a stronger recovery.
Institutional demand, however, has been improving. Spot Ethereum ETFs attracted $244 million in net inflows last week—the strongest weekly intake since April 2026. On August 7 alone, the products recorded $49.6 million in inflows, marking a fourth straight day of positive demand. Since launch, cumulative net inflows into spot ETH ETFs have reached approximately $11.65 billion, while total net assets have climbed to $10.74 billion, equivalent to about 4.65% of Ethereum’s market value.
From a technical perspective, Ethereum remains at a critical juncture. The immediate pivot level is $1,890.41, with resistance located at $1,911.97, $1,950.63, and $1,972.19. Key support levels sit at $1,851.74, $1,830.18, and $1,791.52. Momentum remains moderately positive, with the daily RSI at 55.47. Meanwhile, the 20-day EMA near $1,868 and the 50-day EMA around $1,850 are separated by less than $18, highlighting the narrow margin supporting current prices.
The next major catalyst arrives with Wednesday’s U.S. CPI report. Economists expect headline inflation to rise 3.4% year-over-year and core inflation to come in at 2.5%. The outcome could determine whether Ethereum breaks above nearby resistance or slips below its tightly packed support structure.
Break Below $1,900 Resets Ethereum’s Near-Term Technical Outlook
Ethereum’s four-day effort to transform the $1,900 level from resistance into support has come to an end, and the nature of the breakdown may be more significant than the level itself.
During Tuesday’s session, ETH climbed to $1,929 before reversing sharply to $1,867, marking a swing of roughly $62, or 3.3%. The session high coincided with a cluster of major technical barriers, including the $1,927 resistance zone and the 100-day exponential moving average near $1,924. With several key reference points concentrated within a narrow range, the rejection reinforced the strength of that resistance area.
More importantly, the subsequent decline sliced through $1,900 with little resistance, suggesting the level had not yet developed meaningful buyer support despite holding for several sessions. Short-lived support zones often lack the depth needed to absorb selling pressure, making them vulnerable when momentum shifts.
At current levels around $1,874, Ethereum remains below the daily pivot point at $1,890.41 while staying above initial support at $1,851.74. This creates a relatively narrow trading corridor of roughly $39, or just over 2% of price, meaning a decisive move could emerge quickly.
Should ETH fall below $1,851.74, attention would shift to support levels at $1,830.18 and $1,791.52. The $1,840 region, which previously helped spark a rebound and coincided with improving ETF inflows, remains an important intermediate area. A sustained break beneath $1,830 could expose the market to a deeper decline toward $1,791, where stronger structural support resides.
On the upside, resistance levels are positioned at $1,911.97, $1,950.63, and $1,972.19. The $1,930 area remains the key hurdle. A successful break and hold above that threshold would likely revive bullish momentum and increase the probability of a move toward the broader $1,950–$2,000 zone, where a more meaningful breakout could develop.
From a broader perspective, Ethereum’s projected weekly trading range spans approximately $1,850 to $1,975, representing a 6.8% spread. With spot prices currently near $1,874, ETH remains in the lower portion of that range—a position it has occupied for much of the past three weeks, reflecting continued caution among market participants despite improving long-term supply dynamics.
Compressed EMA Structure Signals a Potential Volatility Breakout
Ethereum’s moving averages have converged into an unusually tight formation, a condition that often precedes a significant expansion in volatility.
The 20-day exponential moving average currently sits near $1,868, the 50-day EMA around $1,850, and the 100-day EMA near $1,924. The gap between the 20-day and 50-day averages is just $17.60—less than 1% of ETH’s price—while the distance between the 50-day and 100-day averages is approximately $74, or about 4%.
With Ethereum trading around $1,874, the asset remains above both the 20-day and 50-day EMAs but below the 100-day EMA. This configuration typically reflects a short-term recovery occurring within a broader medium-term downtrend. Similar setups have recently appeared in both Bitcoin and gold before notable directional moves emerged.
The narrow separation between the 20-day and 50-day EMAs is particularly important because it provides little technical support beneath current prices. A decline of roughly 1% would push ETH below both averages simultaneously, potentially accelerating selling pressure. When moving averages become tightly clustered, markets often experience sharp directional breaks rather than gradual trend shifts.
Simple moving averages reinforce a similar outlook. The 50-day SMA is projected to remain near current price levels in the coming weeks, while the 200-day SMA continues to trend lower. Rather than requiring a strong rally to reconnect with the long-term trend indicator, Ethereum may simply meet a declining 200-day average over time if prices remain range-bound.
That downward-sloping 200-day SMA remains one of the market’s most important structural features. As it gradually descends, it reduces the distance ETH must travel to challenge long-term resistance, increasing the likelihood of a decisive trend resolution in the months ahead.
Across timeframes, the technical picture remains mixed. Four-hour and daily charts continue to show improving momentum, with shorter-term moving averages rising beneath price. However, the weekly trend remains less constructive, as longer-term averages still sit above the market and point lower. In essence, Ethereum is recovering, but it has not yet fully repaired the broader bearish structure established earlier in the cycle.
Neutral RSI Leaves the Market Waiting for a Catalyst
Ethereum’s daily Relative Strength Index stands at 55.47, placing it comfortably above the neutral 50 level but well below the overbought threshold near 70.
This reading offers little directional guidance and instead reflects a market in consolidation mode ahead of a major macroeconomic event. Momentum indicators often flatten before high-impact data releases as traders reduce directional exposure while awaiting new information.
Compared with the capitulation conditions seen earlier this year, current market dynamics appear far healthier. During the February 2026 selloff, ETH experienced its steepest monthly decline of the cycle, ETF outflows intensified, and RSI readings plunged into deeply oversold territory. Those conditions ultimately helped establish the recovery low near $1,666.
Today’s environment is markedly different. Ethereum is trading near the lower end of its recent range, yet momentum remains neutral rather than oversold. This suggests that selling pressure has eased, but it does not necessarily indicate that buyers have regained control.
That distinction is particularly relevant ahead of the upcoming U.S. CPI release. If inflation exceeds expectations, Ethereum could face renewed downside pressure without the cushion of oversold technical conditions. Conversely, a softer inflation reading could ignite a rally from a neutral momentum base, leaving ample room for RSI to climb before signaling an overheated market.
Recent price action also reflects subdued volatility. Ethereum’s 24-hour range of approximately $62 is relatively modest by historical standards, indicating that traders are largely waiting for a catalyst before committing to a new directional move. Meanwhile, derivatives positioning suggests that recent selling was driven more by the unwinding of existing long positions than by aggressive new short activity.
For now, the daily pivot at $1,890.41 remains the key reference point. A move above that level would reinforce the case for consolidation and recovery toward higher resistance zones. A sustained break below it, however, would strengthen the argument that the market is entering a new phase of distribution and downside risk.
Record Staking Levels Highlight Ethereum’s Growing Supply Scarcity
Ethereum’s on-chain fundamentals continue to present one of the most striking contrasts in the digital asset market. While the price remains more than 60% below its all-time high, network participation and supply lockup metrics have never been stronger.
As of August 4, a record 41.41 million ETH was staked on the network, representing 33.98% of the circulating supply. Notably, this milestone was reached during a prolonged bear-market drawdown, indicating that validators continued to commit capital despite significant price weakness rather than withdrawing from the network.
At the same time, staking yields have moved in the opposite direction. The seven-day staking annual percentage rate has fallen to 2.66%, down from a peak above 5% in mid-2023. Because Ethereum’s staking rewards decline as participation increases, the surge in staked ETH has directly contributed to lower returns.
This creates an increasingly challenging investment equation. With the Federal Reserve’s policy rate sitting between 3.50% and 3.75% and the U.S. 10-year Treasury yield near 4.7%, staked ETH currently offers a lower yield than traditional fixed-income alternatives while exposing investors to cryptocurrency price volatility, validator risks, and liquidity constraints.
Yet participation continues to rise. In March, approximately 37 million ETH—around 31% of supply—was staked. Five months later, another 4.4 million ETH has entered the validator set despite further yield compression. The trend suggests that participants are prioritizing long-term network exposure over short-term income generation.
The resulting supply structure is becoming increasingly restrictive. With roughly one-third of all ETH staked, declining exchange balances, and growing corporate treasury allocations, a substantial portion of circulating supply is effectively removed from active trading. As a result, more than half of Ethereum’s available supply is held in long-term structures that rarely participate in day-to-day market activity.
This tightening supply profile remains one of the strongest long-term bullish arguments for Ethereum. However, recent price action demonstrates that supply scarcity alone is insufficient to drive appreciation without a corresponding increase in demand.
Validator Growth Suggests a Shift Toward Institutional Participation
Beyond the headline staking figures, validator activity offers additional insight into changing market dynamics.
After declining to roughly 880,000 active validators during the first half of 2026, the validator count has recently rebounded to approximately 893,000. The increase of around 13,000 validators is particularly noteworthy because it occurred while staking yields remained near multi-year lows.
This suggests that the new participants entering the network may differ significantly from those who exited. Operators willing to accept yields near 2.66% are likely either more cost-efficient, more focused on long-term asset ownership, or less dependent on staking returns as a primary source of revenue. These characteristics are generally more consistent with institutional participants than with smaller retail operators.
From a market-structure perspective, this shift is significant. Institutional validators are typically less sensitive to short-term yield fluctuations and more likely to hold assets for strategic purposes, such as treasury management, custodial services, or investment product mandates. As a result, the portion of ETH locked in staking becomes increasingly “sticky” and less responsive to market volatility.
One factor supporting this trend is the growing integration of staking into institutional investment products. The introduction of staking-enabled spot Ethereum funds has allowed professional investors to gain ETH exposure while also earning network rewards, making staking more attractive within regulated investment frameworks.
If institutional participation continues to expand, Ethereum’s supply available for trading could tighten even further. However, the trend also introduces new considerations. A validator ecosystem increasingly concentrated among large operators may raise concerns around governance influence, network centralization, and potential bottlenecks during periods of elevated withdrawal activity.
Overall, the combination of record staking participation, rising validator counts, and shrinking liquid supply points to a structurally tightening Ethereum market. The key question remains whether demand can eventually catch up to these increasingly restrictive supply dynamics.
The demand side of the Ethereum market has shown clear signs of improvement, supported by a meaningful recovery in spot ETF flows.
Spot Ethereum ETFs attracted $244 million in net inflows last week, marking their strongest weekly performance since April 2026. Momentum also improved on a daily basis, with the sector recording four consecutive sessions of positive flows. On August 7 alone, net inflows reached $49.6 million, led primarily by BlackRock’s ETF, which accounted for more than three-quarters of the day’s total, while Fidelity’s product also contributed notable demand.
Total net assets held by spot Ethereum ETFs have now risen to approximately $10.74 billion, representing about 4.65% of Ethereum’s total market capitalization. Meanwhile, cumulative assets under management across the broader ETF ecosystem have expanded to roughly $13.7 billion, reflecting growing institutional participation.
July marked an important turning point. The ETF sector generated more than $365 million in net inflows during the month, reversing the outflow trend that dominated much of the first half of 2026. This shift suggests that regulated investors have become increasingly willing to accumulate Ethereum exposure following months of weak sentiment and price declines.
The recent inflows largely coincided with Ethereum’s rebound from the $1,840 area and appeared to support expectations that the market could break decisively above the $1,900 resistance zone. However, Tuesday’s rejection near $1,929 and subsequent drop back below $1,900 indicate that selling pressure at those levels outweighed the ETF-driven demand, at least in the short term.
It is important to distinguish between daily flow data and broader trends. Individual sessions can be volatile and often provide limited insight into institutional conviction. For example, the ETF complex experienced net outflows at the end of July before quickly shifting back into accumulation mode. What matters more is the emergence of sustained multi-day inflow streaks.
By that measure, the latest data is encouraging. Four straight sessions of positive flows combined with a $244 million weekly inflow represent the strongest period of institutional accumulation since April. Notably, these purchases occurred while Ethereum traded between roughly $1,840 and $1,930, suggesting that investors were willing to add exposure despite ongoing uncertainty around the broader market outlook.
Positive Flows Matter, but Scale Remains a Constraint
While ETF demand has improved, its overall scale remains relatively modest compared with the size of the Ethereum market.
A weekly inflow of $244 million represents only about 0.11% of Ethereum’s $228 billion market capitalization. Although this is a meaningful amount of capital, it is not yet large enough to single-handedly drive a sustained trend reversal.
Interestingly, Ethereum’s ETF inflows have recently been proportionally larger than those seen in Bitcoin products relative to market size. This means that each dollar entering Ethereum ETFs can have a greater impact on price dynamics. However, because the total amount of capital involved remains smaller, the support provided by these flows is still limited compared with broader market forces.
Historical precedent also highlights the importance of persistence. Earlier in 2026, Ethereum experienced a much stronger institutional demand wave, including a lengthy inflow streak and a surge in daily purchases driven by enthusiasm surrounding staking-enabled investment products. While that episode initially boosted sentiment, inflows eventually cooled and failed to sustain upward momentum.
The current recovery in ETF demand is therefore a constructive development rather than definitive proof of a lasting trend change. To materially alter Ethereum’s market structure, the recent inflow streak will likely need to continue and broaden into a longer period of sustained institutional accumulation.
For now, ETF data suggests that demand is improving and that professional investors are gradually returning to the market. Whether that demand becomes strong enough to overcome key resistance levels and support a larger recovery remains one of the central questions for Ethereum in the months ahead.
Bitcoin hovered above $65,000 on Monday, remaining slightly above its 50-day Exponential Moving Average (EMA) at $64,702.
The Bank of Japan signaled that further interest rate hikes could be on the table, according to the summary of opinions from its July policy meeting.
Pump.fun and CurveDAO led the crypto market gains over the past 24 hours, emerging as the strongest performers among major digital assets.
Crypto Market Overview: Bitcoin Holds Firm as BoJ Signals Potential Tightening
The broader cryptocurrency market remained stable on Monday, with Bitcoin (BTC) trading around $65,000 and holding above its 50-day Exponential Moving Average (EMA) at $64,702. Despite growing expectations of tighter monetary policy in Japan after the Bank of Japan’s latest policy discussion summary, market sentiment across digital assets stayed constructive. Among the strongest performers over the past 24 hours were Pump.fun (PUMP) and Curve DAO (CRV), both extending recent gains.
Bank of Japan Hints at Additional Rate Hikes
The Bank of Japan released the summary of opinions from its July policy meeting, revealing a more hawkish tone among policymakers. Four of the nine board members supported further rate increases, while three adopted a neutral stance and two remained dovish. The discussion comes as the Japanese Yen continues to trade near multi-decade lows against the US Dollar, increasing pressure on policymakers to normalize monetary policy more aggressively.
Bitcoin Technical Outlook
Bitcoin traded near $65,200 on Monday, maintaining support above its 50-day EMA at $64,702. However, the leading cryptocurrency remains below the 100-day EMA at $66,905 and the 200-day EMA at $72,686, suggesting that the broader trend has yet to fully turn bullish.
Technical indicators show improving momentum. The MACD has generated a bullish crossover above its signal line, while the Relative Strength Index (RSI) sits around 55, indicating moderate buying strength.
If buyers remain in control, the next key resistance levels are the 100-day EMA at $66,905 and the 200-day EMA near $72,686. A sustained breakout above these barriers could strengthen the bullish outlook. On the downside, the 50-day EMA at $64,702 remains the first important support level, with a daily close below it potentially triggering a deeper pullback.
PUMP Extends Breakout Rally
Pump.fun (PUMP) continued its upward trajectory on Monday after gaining roughly 11% on Sunday. The token remains in a bullish structure after breaking out of a falling wedge formation and is currently trading close to a six-month high.
Momentum indicators continue to favor the bulls. The RSI has climbed to 72, entering overbought territory, while the MACD remains firmly positive with expanding bullish histogram bars.
Should the rally continue, the next upside target is the December 2025 peak at $0.003399. Key support lies near $0.00251, corresponding to the reclaimed high from May 9.
CRV Targets Higher Levels
Curve DAO (CRV) advanced for a third consecutive session, approaching the $0.24 mark. The token remains above both its 50-day EMA at $0.2135 and 100-day EMA at $0.2214, supporting the near-term bullish outlook. Nevertheless, the 200-day EMA at $0.2683 continues to act as a major resistance level and keeps the longer-term trend cautious.
CRV is also trading above the 50% Fibonacci retracement level at $0.2232, calculated from the decline between $0.2931 and $0.1700. Immediate resistance is located near the 78.6% Fibonacci retracement at $0.2608, which aligns closely with the 200-day EMA. A breakout above this zone could open the door for a move toward $0.2931.
On the downside, the $0.2232 retracement level is reinforced by the 100-day EMA at $0.2214 and the 50-day EMA at $0.2135, creating a strong support area for the token.
Optimism surrounding a potential US-Iran agreement has weighed on oil prices, helping ease concerns about inflation.
US equities have climbed to fresh record highs, but the still-weak correlation between BTC and the S&P 500 has limited Bitcoin’s upside momentum.
Continued net inflows into spot Bitcoin ETFs are providing additional support for the cryptocurrency.
Technical outlook: Bitcoin maintains a constructive bias while holding above key support levels, with traders watching for a breakout that could trigger the next leg higher.
Bitcoin remains comfortably above the $64,000 mark, supported by growing optimism over potential U.S.-Iran peace talks and renewed inflows into spot Bitcoin ETFs. Despite these tailwinds, BTC has gained only about 0.7% over the past 24 hours, lagging the broader rally in risk assets.
Market sentiment improved as hopes increased that the U.S. and Iran could reach an agreement to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Oil prices have fallen for a third consecutive session and are down roughly 10% this week. U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent indicated that an agreement to restore shipping through the strategic waterway could be reached within days.
The decline in oil prices has helped ease inflation concerns, pushing Treasury yields lower. If the trend persists, investors may further reduce expectations for a more hawkish Federal Reserve stance.
Markets are currently assigning a 59% probability to a Fed rate hike in September, down from 65% a day earlier. The shift in rate expectations has also weighed on the U.S. dollar, creating a more favorable backdrop for Bitcoin and other risk-sensitive assets.
Meanwhile, optimism surrounding a potential Middle East agreement and renewed enthusiasm for AI-related investments have driven U.S. equities to fresh highs, with both the S&P 500 and Dow Jones reaching record levels.
Bitcoin, however, has not mirrored the strength seen in stocks. A relatively weak 30-day correlation between BTC and the S&P 500 helps explain the divergence, suggesting that broader risk-on sentiment alone may not be enough to fuel a major breakout. Instead, Bitcoin may require a crypto-specific catalyst to generate stronger upside momentum.
Institutional Demand Continues to Support Bitcoin
Institutional interest in Bitcoin is showing encouraging signs. Data from SoSoValue revealed that spot Bitcoin ETFs attracted $211.5 million in net inflows on Tuesday, following another strong session that saw $170.1 million in net inflows the day before.
If ETF demand remains robust and Bitcoin begins to strengthen its positive correlation with equity markets, these flows could provide additional support for higher prices. On the other hand, if institutional participation fails to accelerate meaningfully, BTC may continue to underperform despite the broader rally across risk assets.
Looking ahead, market focus is shifting toward upcoming U.S. economic data. Investors will closely monitor the ISM Services PMI release, followed by Friday’s nonfarm payrolls report, both of which could offer important clues about the Federal Reserve’s next move on interest rates and influence Bitcoin’s near-term direction.
Bitcoin has pushed back above the $64,000 level, but the broader technical picture remains slightly bearish. The price continues to trade below the 50-day EMA near $64,600, as well as the 100-day and 200-day EMAs, indicating that the recent advance may still be a corrective rebound within a larger downtrend. Meanwhile, the RSI remains near neutral territory, highlighting a lack of strong bullish or bearish momentum.
On the downside, failure to regain the 50-day EMA could trigger a retest of support around $62,500, which marks both the weekly low and the mid-July trough. A move below this level would bring the psychologically important $60,000 threshold into focus, followed by the 2026 low near $57,700. A break beneath $57,700 would confirm a lower low, increasing the risk of a deeper decline toward $55,000 and potentially $50,000, levels not seen since 2024.
For the bullish outlook to strengthen, Bitcoin must first reclaim the 50-day EMA at $64,600 and then break above the July peak near $67,000. Such a move would establish a higher high and could pave the way for a test of the 200-day EMA, currently located around $72,500.
Bitcoin traded sideways even as equities pushed to fresh record highs, underscoring its lack of correlation with the broader rally across global markets.
Despite stocks climbing to new highs, Bitcoin remained largely range-bound, highlighting its divergence from the strength seen in traditional financial markets.
Bitcoin showed little movement while global equities extended their gains, reflecting a continued disconnect from wider market optimism.
Bitcoin (BTC) traded in a narrow range as equities continued to climb and gold pulled back, indicating a market caught between fading institutional participation and mounting signs that selling pressure may be running out, according to a Glassnode report released Wednesday.
The report noted that Bitcoin’s muted price action contrasted sharply with the broader financial landscape, where major stock indexes pushed to fresh record highs while other asset classes remained active.
“Virtually every major asset has moved—except Bitcoin,” Glassnode observed, highlighting the cryptocurrency’s growing disconnect from the momentum driving global markets.
Bitcoin Shrugs Off Coldcard Wallet Theft
The report analyzed how the market reacted to the compromise of several self-custodied Coldcard hardware wallets. Although the incident sparked a surge in on-chain activity, it had virtually no effect on Bitcoin’s price.
In the three days following the theft, the volume of Bitcoin that had been inactive for at least a year surged to roughly 119,000 BTC—about 200 times the amount stolen—as users transferred funds to new wallets as a precautionary measure.
Despite the heightened activity, only around 10% of those coins were sent to exchanges, while the pace of new wallet creation normalized within days. Meanwhile, the amount of Bitcoin held in wallets less than one month old continued to increase, suggesting investors were relocating assets into new cold-storage addresses rather than preparing to sell.
According to Glassnode, the largest forced movement of long-dormant Bitcoin during the current market cycle generated virtually no selling pressure and failed to trigger any meaningful price reaction.
Bitcoin Shows Bottoming Signals but Demand Remains Weak
The report also highlighted that Bitcoin is beginning to exhibit traits commonly associated with market bottoms, though the current setup differs from previous cycles. Instead of being driven by panic selling, the signals are emerging from an extended period of market stagnation.
Historically, major bottoms have been accompanied by steep declines and sharp spikes in volatility. In contrast, the current cycle has seen profitability gradually erode during months of sideways price action, while volatility has remained exceptionally subdued.
Glassnode noted that its Seller Exhaustion Constant has dropped to the lowest level of the current cycle, entering a zone that has historically coincided with market bottoms. However, the metric remains roughly one-third above the levels recorded during prior bear-market troughs, suggesting that while seller fatigue is increasing, conditions have not yet fully matched those seen at previous cycle lows.
Institutional Demand Still Missing as a Key Catalyst
Glassnode also pointed to persistent weakness in institutional participation, noting that major sources of demand have provided little support for Bitcoin in recent months. According to the report, US spot Bitcoin ETFs and corporate treasury buyers have not generated enough buying pressure to sustain the market’s recovery.
June saw approximately 65,800 BTC in net outflows from spot Bitcoin ETFs—the largest monthly withdrawal on record—while purchases by corporate treasuries failed to fully offset those redemptions.
As Glassnode noted, any eventual market bottom may need to develop without the steady institutional buying that underpinned Bitcoin’s performance over the past two years, at least until that demand returns.
Despite the lack of strong buying interest, options markets remain remarkably subdued. Implied volatility for bullish price moves has fallen to an all-time low, while downside volatility remains near typical levels, suggesting traders are assigning relatively low probabilities to both significant rallies and sharp declines.
Historically, periods of extremely compressed volatility have often preceded major breakouts. However, Glassnode cautioned that the current market environment lacks the robust demand backdrop that supported previous recoveries, making a sustained rebound less certain.
At the time of writing, Bitcoin was trading around $64,900, up roughly 1% over the previous 24 hours.
Crypto Regulation Could Enter a New Era as the CLARITY Act Faces a Crucial Senate Decision
The rules governing the crypto industry could be rewritten within days. The CLARITY Act, a more than 600-page bill designed to define which US regulators oversee different types of digital assets, is approaching a critical Senate deadline on August 7. As investors wait for clarity, Bitcoin continues to trade within a narrow range amid uncertainty. Here’s a straightforward breakdown of what the legislation proposes and what it could mean for crypto holders.
The CLARITY Act represents one of the most ambitious crypto market-structure proposals in US history and is now approaching a decisive stage.
The Senate is expected to remain in session only through August 7, yet no official floor vote had been scheduled as of August 3. This leaves lawmakers with only a limited window to determine the bill’s future. The House passed its version in July 2025 with bipartisan backing, while a consolidated Senate draft was introduced in late July.
However, the path to approval remains challenging. The bill needs 60 votes to overcome a potential filibuster, while Republicans control approximately 53 Senate seats, making support from Democratic lawmakers critical.
Current prediction markets estimate only about a 26% probability that the legislation becomes law in 2026. If the Senate window closes without action, the next meaningful opportunity may not arrive until after the midterm elections, potentially extending regulatory uncertainty for the crypto market for another year or longer.
What the CLARITY Act Actually Changes
At its heart, the CLARITY Act attempts to answer the biggest unresolved question in crypto for the past decade: which regulator is responsible for overseeing which digital assets?
For years, the SEC has argued that most tokens should be treated as unregistered securities, while the CFTC has maintained that many cryptocurrencies function more like commodities but lacked the authority to regulate spot markets. This uncertainty left crypto projects unsure about compliance requirements, exchanges unclear about which assets they could list, and investors uncertain about regulatory protections.
The bill aims to resolve this confusion through several key provisions:
Clear division of authority between the SEC and CFTC
The legislation creates a defined framework for determining regulatory responsibility. If a token’s value relies heavily on the efforts of a central organization or development team, it would be classified as a security under SEC oversight. If a blockchain network becomes sufficiently decentralized, the asset could be designated as a “digital commodity” regulated by the CFTC, which would receive expanded authority over spot crypto markets.
A “maturity” pathway for tokens
The bill introduces a framework allowing tokens to transition from securities into digital commodities as networks become more decentralized. Initially, tokens are treated as securities while founders maintain significant control. Once governance becomes distributed — such as no single entity controlling a disproportionate share of tokens or decision-making power — the asset can potentially “graduate” into a digital commodity.
This creates a clearer compliance roadmap: centralized projects fall under SEC rules, while decentralized networks move toward CFTC oversight.
Crypto exchanges face stricter regulatory standards
Digital commodity trading platforms would be required to register with the CFTC and follow standards similar to traditional financial institutions, including capital requirements, risk management procedures, and market monitoring systems.
In exchange, compliant platforms would gain greater legal certainty and the ability to serve US customers without constant concern over sudden regulatory action.
Greater protection for customer assets
The bill addresses one of the biggest lessons from previous crypto exchange failures: customer funds being misused by platforms.
Under the proposed rules, customer assets must be held by qualified custodians. Platforms would need explicit user approval before using assets for activities such as staking. If an exchange becomes insolvent, properly custodied customer assets would remain the property of users rather than becoming part of the company’s bankruptcy estate.
Token fundraising gets clearer rules — with more transparency
Crypto projects would receive a more straightforward path to raising capital, but they would also face stronger disclosure obligations.
Instead of relying only on marketing materials or investor presentations, projects would need to provide ongoing information about:
Token utility and functionality
Team token ownership
Insider selling activity
Potential software and security risks
Token economics and distribution structure
Protection for self-custody and blockchain developers
The legislation protects individuals’ ability to hold digital assets in personal wallets. It also clarifies that simply developing open-source blockchain software or operating a node does not automatically make someone a regulated financial intermediary.
This removes a major area of uncertainty that has affected developers for years.
DeFi regulation focuses on actual control, not labels
The bill evaluates decentralized finance projects based on one key question: who controls the system?
Protocols powered by immutable, open-source code with no centralized control would receive greater legal protection. However, projects claiming to be decentralized while retaining administrative control — such as the ability to freeze funds or modify rules — could still be treated as centralized financial platforms and face full compliance requirements.
Stronger anti-money-laundering and consumer protections
The legislation also expands safeguards against illicit finance. The updated version includes more than 16 provisions covering areas such as:
Anti-money-laundering requirements
Know-your-customer (KYC) procedures
Transaction monitoring
Restrictions on stablecoin platforms paying fixed deposit-like returns
However, legitimate yield mechanisms linked to real economic activity, such as staking rewards, would remain permitted.
What the CLARITY Act Could Mean for the Crypto Market
Bitcoin appears to be one of the clearest beneficiaries of the proposed framework. Since it operates without a central controlling entity, it naturally fits the definition of a digital commodity. In addition, stronger asset-segregation requirements could lower counterparty risks for investors who hold crypto through centralized platforms.
Large blockchain networks with widespread adoption and decentralized governance, including Ethereum and Solana, are also positioned favorably. Their potential classification as digital commodities could remove regulatory uncertainty and make them more attractive to institutional investors that have previously stayed on the sidelines.
However, newer blockchain projects with concentrated ownership structures may face a longer path. Until they achieve greater decentralization, they would likely remain under SEC oversight, increasing compliance costs and creating additional challenges for exchange listings.
Altcoins face a market-wide selection process
Smaller cryptocurrency projects could experience a significant divide. Projects that embrace transparency and meet disclosure requirements may gain a clearer route into US markets, while tokens with limited transparency, centralized control, or concentrated ownership could struggle to secure listings on major exchanges.
The result is likely to be a more selective market rather than a broad benefit for all cryptocurrencies.
Stablecoins move closer to regulated financial products
Stablecoins would increasingly resemble regulated payment infrastructure under the proposed rules. Key requirements could include:
Full reserve backing
Regular financial attestations
Clear redemption rights for users
Restrictions on passive yield programs may force platforms to redesign stablecoin offerings. However, returns generated through genuine economic activities — such as staking or liquidity provision — would likely remain allowed.
Exchanges and brokers face higher compliance demands
Crypto trading platforms would experience some of the biggest operational changes. They would need to meet requirements related to:
Regulatory registration
Customer asset segregation
Market surveillance systems
Risk management procedures
While implementation could increase costs, exchanges would gain something the industry has long sought: a clearer legal framework and the ability to operate with greater certainty.
Potential Winners Under the CLARITY Act
The market is already reacting to the possibility of regulatory change. Bitcoin has been trading within a narrow range around $62,000–$64,000 as investors await the Senate’s decision. A clear outcome — either approval or failure — could become a catalyst for the next major market direction.
However, the broader significance extends beyond a single legislative vote. Current crypto regulations rely heavily on agency interpretations and enforcement approaches, which can change under different administrations. A federal law would provide a more permanent foundation.
The key developments to monitor are a potential Senate vote schedule or a cloture motion before August 7. Regardless of the immediate outcome, the regulatory framework outlined in the CLARITY Act could become the blueprint that shapes how the crypto market evolves going forward.
Bitcoin retreats below the $64,000 mark despite renewed inflows into spot Bitcoin ETFs. Ethereum’s recovery remains limited below the 100-day EMA, with the decline extending beneath the $1,900 level. Meanwhile, XRP continues to trade sideways within the $1.05–$1.10 range, supported by more than $7 million in ETF inflows recorded so far this week.
The cryptocurrency market broadly moved lower on Friday as investors continued to weigh rising macroeconomic uncertainty and escalating geopolitical risks in the Middle East. Bitcoin (BTC) slipped below the $64,000 level after reaching a weekly high of $65,745, while major altcoins Ethereum (ETH) and Ripple (XRP) remained under pressure below $1,900 and $1.10, respectively.
Investor sentiment weakened further throughout the week, with the Crypto Fear & Greed Index falling to 25, placing the market firmly in “Fear” territory compared with 28 the previous day. The decline reflects cautious positioning as traders assess inflation risks, monetary policy uncertainty, and broader global tensions.
Despite the negative sentiment, institutional demand for crypto investment products remained resilient. The Federal Reserve kept interest rates unchanged at 3.50%–3.75% on Wednesday, although three officials pushed for a 25-basis-point increase, reigniting concerns over inflation and triggering volatility across financial markets.
According to analysts at Crypto Finance, these developments caused a sharp repricing in interest-rate expectations and equities before stronger corporate earnings helped stabilize investor confidence.
Meanwhile, spot crypto ETF inflows continued to improve. Bitcoin ETF inflows rose to $233 million on Thursday, up significantly from $32 million the previous day. Data from SoSoValue shows cumulative Bitcoin ETF inflows approaching $52 billion, highlighting continued long-term institutional confidence in the asset.
Ethereum ETFs saw more mixed activity, recording around $13 million in inflows on Thursday after experiencing $19 million in outflows on Wednesday. XRP ETFs also attracted stronger demand, with inflows climbing to nearly $6 million on Thursday and total weekly inflows exceeding $7 million, suggesting growing institutional interest despite broader market weakness.
Bitcoin Technical Outlook
Bitcoin is trading around $63,969, maintaining a bearish short-term structure as it remains below the 50-day, 100-day, and 200-day exponential moving averages (EMAs). The 50-day EMA near $64,904 represents the closest resistance level, while the 100-day EMA at $67,460 and the 200-day EMA around $72,977 remain key barriers for a potential recovery.
Momentum indicators continue to signal caution. The Relative Strength Index (RSI) remains slightly below the neutral zone, while the MACD histogram stays negative, indicating persistent downside pressure.
On the downside, Bitcoin lacks strong technical support on the current timeframe, leaving the market vulnerable to further declines toward previous lows and psychological levels around $62,000 and $60,000.
Analysts at Crypto Finance noted that while bears have struggled to gain strong momentum, the lack of a fresh bullish catalyst remains a significant challenge for Bitcoin’s recovery.
Ethereum Technical Outlook
Ethereum is trading near $1,890 after retreating from its weekly high of $1,981. The cryptocurrency remains capped below the 100-day EMA at approximately $1,932 and significantly below the 200-day EMA near $2,173, keeping the broader outlook bearish.
Although ETH is holding above the 50-day EMA around $1,850, sellers continue to defend the descending resistance trendline. The RSI near 54 indicates limited bullish momentum, while the MACD turning negative suggests further upside attempts may face resistance.
A breakout above the descending trendline could open the way toward $1,932 and eventually $2,173. However, a daily close below the 50-day EMA could increase downside risks toward $1,800 and $1,600.
XRP Technical Outlook
XRP is trading around $1.07, maintaining a bearish short-term outlook as it remains below its key moving averages. The price is trading beneath the 50-day EMA at $1.13, the 100-day EMA at $1.21, and the 200-day EMA at $1.41.
Momentum indicators remain weak, with the RSI near 44 and the MACD slightly negative, suggesting that any recovery attempts may encounter renewed selling pressure.
Immediate resistance is located near the 78.6% Fibonacci retracement level around $1.12, followed by the 50-day EMA at $1.13. A stronger recovery would require XRP to overcome resistance levels around $1.21, $1.28, and $1.34.
On the downside, the key support level remains near $1.01, corresponding to the 100% Fibonacci retracement area, where buyers may attempt to defend the previous swing low.
Overall, the crypto market remains under pressure as macro uncertainty and geopolitical risks weigh on sentiment. While ETF inflows indicate continued institutional interest, Bitcoin, Ethereum, and XRP must overcome key technical resistance levels to regain bullish momentum.
Bitcoin Gains 9% in July as Crypto Shows Resilience Amid AI-Driven Market Selloff
The Federal Reserve left interest rates unchanged this week, but the bigger story for investors was the continued weakness in AI-related equities. While major technology stocks and semiconductor names extended their declines, Bitcoin quietly advanced around 9% during July, raising questions about whether cryptocurrencies could lead the next market recovery.
Key Takeaways
Bitcoin has remained resilient, holding near $64,000 through the Fed meeting and posting a 9% gain for the month.
AI-focused equities are undergoing a significant deleveraging phase, with the Magnificent Seven ETF (MAGS) recording its steepest one-day decline since April 2025.
South Korea’s KOSPI index plunged roughly 16% over two sessions, triggering consecutive circuit breakers for the first time in the exchange’s history.
Investors are becoming increasingly skeptical of massive AI-related spending without clear evidence of profitable returns.
Regulatory progress in the U.S. crypto market, including support for the CLARITY Act, is providing an additional tailwind for digital assets.
Fed Decision Highlights Pressure on AI Stocks
Although the Federal Open Market Committee opted to keep rates unchanged, markets reacted negatively to the broader policy outlook. Expectations for another rate increase strengthened, with CME FedWatch indicating a 65.1% probability of a hike at the September meeting.
The hawkish backdrop weighed heavily on AI-related stocks. Nvidia lost more than 10% during the week, while investors increasingly questioned whether the enormous capital expenditures being made across the AI ecosystem would translate into sustainable earnings growth.
Earnings Reveal a Shift in Investor Priorities
The recent earnings season highlighted a clear distinction between companies demonstrating tangible AI-driven revenue growth and those merely increasing investment.
The Magnificent Seven ETF fell 4.7% following earnings reports from Alphabet and Tesla, marking its worst session since April 2025. Year-to-date, the ETF remains in negative territory despite strong gains across the broader S&P 500.
Among the major technology companies:
Alphabet reported second-quarter capital expenditures of $44.9 billion and raised its full-year spending outlook to $195–205 billion. Investors responded negatively as heavy investment pushed free cash flow into negative territory, sending shares down 7%.
Tesla missed earnings expectations and generated negative free cash flow of $1.1 billion. The stock declined roughly 20% during the week as investors grew less willing to pay for long-term AI and robotics ambitions without near-term profitability.
Meta delivered strong revenue growth but reported lower net income and shrinking free cash flow. Shares fell after management increased spending guidance despite declining profitability.
Microsoft stood out as the exception. Revenue exceeded expectations, Azure growth accelerated to 43%, and investors rewarded the company for demonstrating measurable AI monetization. Shares rose sharply after earnings.
The message from the market was straightforward: spending alone is no longer enough. Investors now want proof that AI investments can generate meaningful returns.
South Korea Signals Cracks in AI Valuations
The correction has not been limited to U.S. markets.
South Korea’s KOSPI index suffered its worst two-day decline on record, falling approximately 16% and triggering back-to-back trading halts. The selloff was driven largely by semiconductor weakness.
SK Hynix, despite reporting record operating profit and nearly sixfold earnings growth, still disappointed investors by narrowly missing analyst forecasts. The stock plunged almost 19% intraday.
The reaction underscored growing concerns that AI-related valuations may have become detached from realistic earnings expectations. Even exceptional profit growth is no longer guaranteeing positive market reactions.
Why Crypto May Recover Faster
In contrast to equities, Bitcoin has shown relative stability throughout the recent market turbulence.
While AI stocks continue to unwind, Bitcoin remains about 9% higher for July and has largely held key support levels. One explanation is that cryptocurrencies experienced their correction earlier. Bitcoin had already fallen more than 20% in June and remains roughly one-third below its recent highs.
Leverage dynamics also differ significantly.
AI-related equities benefited from a year of aggressive positioning through leveraged ETFs, margin borrowing, and expanding valuations. As sentiment turns, those positions are being unwound rapidly, amplifying downside volatility.
Crypto markets, by comparison, routinely flush excess leverage through liquidations. Significant ETF outflows and price declines during May and June already removed much of the speculative excess from the market. As a result, positioning appears cleaner and less vulnerable to forced selling.
Regulatory Momentum Supports the Crypto Narrative
Fundamentals are also improving.
On July 28, SEC Chair Paul Atkins expressed support for congressional efforts to advance the CLARITY Act and indicated the agency’s willingness to provide technical assistance. If enacted, the legislation would establish a clearer regulatory framework for digital assets in the United States.
This combination of reduced leverage, improving regulation, and an earlier correction strengthens the argument that crypto may be better positioned than AI equities for the next phase of recovery.
Looking Ahead
Several economic releases could shape market sentiment in the coming week:
August 3: U.S. ISM Manufacturing PMI
August 5: U.S. ISM Services PMI
August 7: U.S. Nonfarm Payrolls Report
Ongoing developments in the Middle East and their impact on energy markets
The labor market remains a critical variable. A second consecutive weak payroll report could reduce expectations for further rate hikes, while stronger employment data would reinforce the Fed’s hawkish stance.
Oil prices remain the most significant macro risk. Elevated energy costs continue to threaten inflation progress, and a combination of rising oil prices and stronger-than-expected employment data would likely create a challenging environment for risk assets across both equities and crypto markets.
Bitcoin’s recent decline appears to have been driven primarily by excessive leverage being flushed out of the market rather than any deterioration in the cryptocurrency’s underlying fundamentals.
Despite the sharp price drop, key on-chain metrics and broader market indicators suggest that Bitcoin’s long-term outlook remains largely intact. Network activity, investor participation, and overall demand have not shown signs of significant weakness. Instead, the selloff was largely triggered by an unwinding of heavily leveraged positions.
As Bitcoin fell below critical support levels, a wave of forced liquidations swept through the derivatives market. Leveraged long positions were automatically closed, creating additional selling pressure and accelerating the decline. This type of cascading liquidation is common in highly leveraged markets and often amplifies price movements beyond what fundamentals alone would justify.
Data from the derivatives market indicates that leveraged traders absorbed the bulk of the losses. This suggests that the correction was more technical in nature than a reaction to negative developments affecting Bitcoin’s intrinsic value or long-term adoption prospects.
Historically, large liquidation events have served as a market reset, removing excessive speculation and reducing leverage to healthier levels. Once this process is complete, prices tend to stabilize and become more closely aligned with actual supply-and-demand dynamics.
As a result, the recent downturn may be better viewed as a leverage-driven correction rather than a sign of weakening fundamentals. While short-term volatility remains elevated, the broader foundation supporting Bitcoin appears largely unchanged.
Bitcoin continues to trade above its 50-day EMA at $65,089 on Monday, extending its rally with a fourth straight week of gains.
Ethereum has secured a close above the 100-day EMA at $1,934, reinforcing a bullish technical outlook.
XRP remains steady around $1.10, with momentum indicators suggesting a modest bullish bias.
Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), and Ripple (XRP) kicked off the week on solid footing after posting weekly gains of more than 1%, 4%, and 1%, respectively. BTC secured its fourth consecutive weekly advance by reclaiming a key technical level, ETH reinforced its bullish outlook with a close above its 100-day EMA, while XRP remained stable near $1.10 despite continuing to trade below major long-term moving averages.
Bitcoin outlook: Bulls regain momentum above the 50-day EMA
Bitcoin is trading around $65,199 on Monday, maintaining a cautiously bullish tone after reclaiming its 50-day EMA at $65,089. While this suggests the recent volatility may be easing, BTC still faces notable resistance from the 100-day EMA at $67,787 and the 200-day EMA near $73,848.
Technical indicators paint a mixed but constructive picture. The RSI hovers around 54, reflecting moderate buying interest rather than overheated momentum, while the MACD remains positive despite gradually losing strength, implying that further gains could encounter resistance.
If buyers remain in control, Bitcoin’s first upside target lies at the 100-day EMA near $67,787, followed by the 200-day EMA around $73,848. A sustained breakout could open the path toward the major horizontal resistance at $84,410.
On the downside, immediate support is located at the 50-day EMA around $65,088, followed by a stronger horizontal support zone at $64,004. A decisive break below this region would weaken the current recovery and increase the risk of a deeper corrective move.
Ethereum outlook: Break above the 100-day EMA strengthens bullish case
Ethereum trades near $1,945 after climbing more than 4% last week, improving its short-term technical outlook. ETH now holds above both its 50-day EMA near $1,841 and 100-day EMA around $1,934, signaling that buyers have regained control of the medium-term trend.
Momentum indicators continue to support the positive outlook. The RSI stands near 62, indicating healthy bullish momentum without reaching overbought conditions, while the MACD remains in positive territory, reinforcing the likelihood of additional upside as long as price stays above its reclaimed moving averages.
The first upside hurdle is the psychological $2,000 level, followed by the 200-day EMA near $2,158, which represents a more significant resistance zone.
On the downside, initial support sits at the 100-day EMA around $1,934, with stronger support at the 50-day EMA near $1,841. A break below these levels would shift attention toward the broader support area near $1,385.
XRP outlook: Stabilizes near $1.10 but remains below key moving averages
XRP trades around $1.10 on Monday, showing signs of stabilization after last week’s gains. However, the token continues to trade below its 50-day, 100-day, and 200-day EMAs, which remain clustered between $1.14 and $1.43, keeping the broader technical outlook cautious.
Although the overall trend remains corrective, momentum indicators hint at improving conditions. The RSI sits close to the neutral 50 level at 49, while the MACD remains slightly positive, suggesting buyers are attempting to build momentum despite persistent overhead resistance.
The first resistance level is the 50-day EMA near $1.13, followed by the 100-day EMA at $1.22 and the horizontal barrier at $1.30. Beyond these, the 200-day EMA around $1.43 and the previous swing high near $1.90 represent stronger resistance levels.
On the downside, $1.00 remains the key psychological and technical support. A break below this level would likely invite renewed selling pressure and extend XRP’s broader corrective phase.
Silver advanced over the week but continued to struggle to break decisively above the key $60 level. This major psychological resistance remains a focal point for traders, with selling pressure re-emerging as prices approach the area.
Meanwhile, the $55 region continues to provide solid support, helping to limit downside moves. Despite the recent gains, silver remains challenged by the higher interest-rate environment, which continues to weigh on the precious metals market.
Gold
Gold followed a similar pattern, climbing toward the $4,200 area before retreating from a level that has repeatedly acted as a significant resistance zone. The pullback highlights the market’s ongoing struggle to establish sustained momentum above this threshold.
On the downside, the $4,000 mark remains a key psychological support level, with additional buying interest emerging around $3,900. Overall, gold continues to trade in a volatile and uneven manner, with price action heavily influenced by developments in the Middle East. Geopolitical headlines are likely to remain a major driver of market sentiment, affecting not only gold but also interest-rate expectations, which continue to play a crucial role in shaping global financial markets.
USD/CAD
The U.S. dollar strengthened against the Canadian dollar over the week, even as oil prices surged. This divergence is not particularly surprising, as elevated market uncertainty has boosted demand for the U.S. dollar, while rising U.S. interest rates continue to support the currency. The positive interest-rate differential remains an important factor attracting buyers to the pair.
Although USD/CAD experienced a pullback in recent weeks after an extended bullish run, the correction appears to have helped ease overbought conditions. With the market showing signs of stabilizing, the pair may be positioned to resume its broader uptrend, with the 1.4150 area emerging as a key upside target.
EUR/USD
The euro weakened against the U.S. dollar during the week, with the 1.1400 level continuing to serve as a crucial support zone. This area has attracted significant market attention, having acted as a key consolidation level over the past year.
Looking ahead, the outlook for the pair remains heavily influenced by monetary policy expectations. Elevated U.S. interest rates continue to provide strong support for the dollar, reinforcing its appeal relative to other major currencies. As a result, interest-rate dynamics are likely to remain a primary driver of EUR/USD price action in the near term.
USD/JPY
The U.S. dollar remained firmly supported against the Japanese yen, as the yen continues to struggle amid the wide interest-rate gap between Japan and the United States. The pair’s broader trend remains bullish, with underlying fundamentals continuing to favor the U.S. dollar.
While a short-term correction cannot be ruled out after the recent advance, any pullback is likely to be viewed as a buying opportunity by market participants. The substantial interest-rate differential between the two economies continues to attract demand for the pair, reinforcing the longer-term upward outlook for USD/JPY.
GBP/USD
The British pound declined over the week, but the broader market structure remains largely unchanged. GBP/USD continues to trade within a well-established consolidation range between 1.3150 and 1.3700, suggesting that the recent weakness is part of ongoing sideways price action rather than the start of a new trend.
As the pair remains range-bound, it is likely to continue attracting traders who favor consolidation and mean-reversion strategies. Compared with other major currencies, the pound has shown relative resilience against the U.S. dollar, supported in part by the Bank of England’s comparatively hawkish policy stance, which has helped limit downside pressure on sterling.
Bitcoin (BTC/USD)
Bitcoin continues to experience choppy and unpredictable price action, with market sentiment largely driven by shifts in overall risk appetite. As investors weigh macroeconomic conditions and broader financial market trends, volatility is likely to remain elevated.
Despite the recent fluctuations, the $60,000 level appears to be establishing itself as a significant support zone. From a technical perspective, the latest weekly candlestick resembles a shooting star, following two consecutive hammer formations. This combination suggests a market lacking clear directional conviction, increasing the likelihood of continued sideways trading as participants wait for a stronger catalyst to determine the next major move.
Nasdaq 100
The Nasdaq 100 attempted to move higher during the week but quickly surrendered its gains as investor caution remained elevated. Ongoing geopolitical uncertainty and concerns about the economic outlook continue to weigh on sentiment, limiting the index’s ability to sustain upward momentum.
From a technical standpoint, the index appears vulnerable to a deeper correction if selling pressure persists. However, a decisive break above the high of the latest weekly candlestick would signal renewed bullish strength and could improve the near-term outlook. For now, persistent tensions in the Middle East and expectations of higher interest rates remain key headwinds, making it difficult for growth-oriented assets such as the Nasdaq 100 to stage a strong and sustained rally.
The cryptocurrency market capitalisation remained largely unchanged over the last 24 hours, holding near $2.24 trillion. Despite a stronger US dollar and a cautious tone across equity markets, digital assets continue to trade close to recent highs, suggesting a period of consolidation. Market sentiment softened slightly, with the Fear & Greed Index slipping from 33 to 31, though it remains firmly within the “fear” zone. Among major altcoins, Hedera (+6%), Uniswap (+4.4%), and Aptos (+3.6%) led the gains, while Filecoin (-4.9%), Stellar (-2.6%), and Bitcoin Cash (-2.4%) posted the largest declines.
Bitcoin fell to around $65.4K, marking a second consecutive daily decline after testing its June highs. The retreat has reinforced concerns that sellers still dominate the broader trend, limiting the rebound’s ability to evolve into a sustained recovery. Technically, the 61.8% Fibonacci retracement of the May–June decline continues to act as a key resistance level.
Ethereum also lost upward momentum near $1,950, failing on its initial attempt to reclaim a former support area that has now become resistance. The lack of significant support levels between current prices and the $1,750–1,800 region leaves the asset vulnerable to further weakness. A decisive move below $1,700 would increase the risk of a broader bearish trend reasserting itself.
News Background
Bitcoin has entered what some analysts describe as an extreme undervaluation zone, with the MVRV ratio reportedly falling below 5%, according to market analyst Crypto Tice. Historically, readings at similar levels have often coincided with major cyclical lows, suggesting that Bitcoin could be approaching a long-term bottom.
Analyst CryptoPatel believes Bitcoin could climb to $116,000 by year-end, arguing that the market has already established its bear-market low and is now entering the early stages of a trend reversal, similar to the recovery that followed the 2022 downturn.
Data from Artemis shows that the combined assets held by digital asset treasury (DAT) companies have dropped from approximately $120 billion to $75 billion since October, a decline of more than one-third. The contraction reflects the broader impact of Bitcoin’s price weakness on corporate crypto holdings.
Meanwhile, Satsuma Technology, the United Kingdom’s second-largest corporate Bitcoin holder, plans to liquidate its entire reserve of 668 BTC. The company accumulated the position beginning in August 2025 at an average purchase price of $113,200 per Bitcoin. Following a collapse of more than 99% in its share price from peak levels, Satsuma is also preparing for delisting from the London Stock Exchange.
According to on-chain analytics firm CryptoQuant, Bitcoin reserves held by miners outside exchanges have declined by 72% since late 2021, falling to roughly 139,700 BTC. The steady reduction over the past four years suggests miners have continued to draw down their holdings amid changing market conditions.
In the broader digital asset ecosystem, Solana has started preparing network validators for the rollout of its highly anticipated Alpenglow upgrade. The update, scheduled to be implemented in stages between August and October, is expected to increase transaction processing speeds by as much as 80 times, significantly enhancing the network’s performance and scalability.
XRP remains under pressure, trading within a relatively narrow range between $1.10 and $1.15.
RippleX Principal Engineer Ayo Akinyele projects that agentic transactions could climb to 10 million after recently surpassing the 1 million mark.
The XRP Ledger continues to attract developers by offering an efficient and seamless infrastructure for digital payments.
XRP is edging lower on Thursday, though losses remain modest, with the token holding above the $1.13 level. The cross-border payment cryptocurrency reached a weekly peak of $1.16 on Tuesday, supported by progress surrounding the US Clarity Act and growing indications that inflationary pressures in the United States are easing.
Despite these positive developments, ongoing geopolitical tensions between the US and Iran continue to dampen appetite for risk-sensitive assets. This cautious mood is reflected in the cryptocurrency market, where the Fear & Greed Index remains firmly in the Fear zone. Investor sentiment slipped to 31 on Thursday from 33 a day earlier, reducing demand for XRP and related digital asset products.
RippleX records over 1 million agentic AI transactions
RippleX, the development arm behind the XRP Ledger, has achieved a significant milestone, with agent-driven AI transactions now exceeding 1 million.
Speaking to The Block, RippleX Principal Engineer Ayo Akinyele said he expects adoption to accelerate substantially, potentially pushing the total number of agentic transactions beyond 10 million in the near future.
According to Akinyele, the figure could eventually surpass 100 million within a few years as AI technologies advance and the supporting infrastructure becomes increasingly efficient.
Agentic payments are transactions initiated and completed by autonomous AI systems without requiring human approval at every step. Operating within predefined parameters such as spending limits and policy rules, these AI agents can independently determine how and when to make payments in pursuit of specific objectives.
As AI capabilities continue to improve, developers are increasingly embracing agentic transaction models. Autonomous agents can monitor systems, purchase data, access computing resources, and pay for various digital services needed to carry out assigned tasks.
Akinyele emphasized that RippleX is focused on creating a seamless payment experience for AI agents using the XRP Ledger, highlighting the network’s settlement efficiency as a key advantage for handling API payments and other digital service transactions.
Price Analysis: XRP Recovery Loses Steam as Bearish Pressure Persists
XRP remains supported above the $1.13 level, but its recovery is struggling to gain traction as the token continues to trade beneath several important Exponential Moving Averages (EMAs). The 50-day EMA near $1.15, the 100-day EMA around $1.23, and the 200-day EMA at $1.44 continue to act as significant resistance barriers. Nevertheless, XRP is holding above the Bollinger Bands’ midpoint at $1.11, indicating that buyers are still providing some support. Meanwhile, the Relative Strength Index (RSI) sits near 54, reflecting modest bullish momentum without signaling overbought conditions.
The Moving Average Convergence Divergence (MACD) indicator also remains above the zero line, suggesting that the recent rebound is still intact, although the broader market structure remains constrained by overhead resistance.
On the upside, the first obstacle for bulls is the 50-day EMA near $1.15, followed closely by the upper Bollinger Band around $1.16. If buying pressure strengthens, the next targets are the 100-day EMA at approximately $1.23 and the 200-day EMA near $1.44. On the downside, immediate support is located at the Bollinger Bands’ midpoint around $1.11, while stronger support emerges near the lower Bollinger Band at $1.06. A decisive move below this area could pave the way for a deeper corrective decline.
Bitcoin Reclaims Key Resistance as ETF Demand Returns
Bitcoin surged back above a critical resistance level that has defined trading over the past month, climbing to around $65,800, up 2.55% over the previous 24 hours after briefly topping $66,000. Trading volume exceeded $31 billion, helping extend its seven-day gain to 5% and pushing its 30-day return into positive territory at 2.44%. This marks Bitcoin’s first positive monthly performance since plunging to a 21-month low near $57,800 in late June.
The recovery above $65,000 is significant because the level has acted as a major technical barrier throughout the month. Bitcoin spent weeks trading below its 50-month EMA around $65,150, with repeated rebound attempts failing to break through. Moving above this resistance and maintaining gains on stronger volume suggests that the intense selling pressure that drove prices lower may be fading. As a result, Bitcoin’s market capitalization has rebounded to approximately $1.3 trillion.
The rally was not driven by a single event but rather a combination of supportive factors. Spot Bitcoin ETFs recorded five consecutive sessions of net inflows, geopolitical tensions between the United States and Iran showed signs of easing, and exchange balances continued to decline as large holders reduced selling activity. Together, these developments created Bitcoin’s strongest 24-hour performance in more than a month.
A key theme behind the rebound is the return of demand through spot Bitcoin ETFs. Throughout much of 2026, weak ETF inflows limited Bitcoin’s ability to sustain rallies. The recent five-day buying streak has effectively reversed part of June’s sharp decline and could pave the way for a move toward $68,000, provided support levels hold.
However, risks remain. The Federal Reserve’s July 28–29 meeting could introduce fresh volatility, and Bitcoin is still down roughly 25% year-to-date. Earlier ETF inflow recoveries this year were often followed by renewed outflows after major macroeconomic events. While the breakout above $65,000 is encouraging, the next several trading sessions will determine whether it becomes a solid foundation for further gains or merely another temporary recovery.
ETF Inflows Provide the Fuel
The main catalyst behind Bitcoin’s rebound has been the return of institutional demand through spot Bitcoin ETFs. The sector has now recorded its first five-day inflow streak since April, signaling renewed accumulation after months of persistent redemptions. For many market participants, the lack of ETF demand was the primary reason Bitcoin struggled to gain momentum throughout 2026.
On Monday alone, US spot Bitcoin ETFs attracted approximately $227 million in net inflows. These inflows directly impact the spot market because ETF issuers must purchase physical Bitcoin to back newly created shares. As a result, ETF flow trends have become one of the most important drivers of Bitcoin’s price action.
The latest inflow streak also represents an important psychological shift. Earlier in July, a brief three-day inflow period totaling $510 million interrupted a damaging 10-day outflow streak of $2.73 billion. While that provided initial stabilization, the current five-day run has delivered enough buying pressure to push Bitcoin decisively above the key $65,000 resistance level.
Assets held across US spot Bitcoin ETFs have recovered toward $79 billion, while cumulative net inflows since their launch in January 2024 have risen to $51.63 billion. These figures highlight a recovery in investor confidence rather than a continuation of the previous downturn.
Since their introduction, spot Bitcoin ETFs have become one of the most influential sources of demand for the cryptocurrency, offering regulated access for institutional investors such as pension funds, wealth managers, and financial advisors. When ETF inflows are strong, Bitcoin benefits from a consistent source of buying pressure. When flows weaken, prices often struggle to find support. The recent five-day inflow streak has restored that demand, helping Bitcoin reclaim a level that had repeatedly capped previous rallies. The market’s focus now shifts to whether this momentum can survive upcoming macroeconomic events, particularly the Federal Reserve meeting.
IBIT Takes the Lead, Signaling Institutional Demand Is Back
Among all spot Bitcoin ETF flow metrics, the most closely watched indicator is which fund attracts the most capital. On Monday, the answer was clear: BlackRock’s IBIT led the market with $116 million in net inflows, a development widely viewed as a sign of renewed institutional participation rather than short-term speculative buying.
The distinction is important. IBIT is considered the strongest proxy for institutional positioning within the spot Bitcoin ETF market. Given its massive asset base, each dollar flowing into the fund typically translates into larger underlying Bitcoin purchases compared with smaller ETF competitors. When IBIT leads inflows, it suggests that long-term investors are accumulating exposure rather than traders simply buying a temporary dip.
The broader ETF picture also reflected widespread buying interest. IBIT attracted $116.5 million, while ARK 21Shares added $72.7 million, Fidelity brought in $24.1 million, Bitwise gained $8.8 million, Morgan Stanley’s offering received $6.9 million, and VanEck collected $1.8 million. Meanwhile, the two Grayscale products moved in opposite directions, with the legacy trust losing $45.4 million while the lower-fee version gained $41.4 million. Combined, these flows produced approximately $227 million in net inflows, helping Bitcoin break above the crucial $65,000 level.
The composition of the inflows matters as much as the total. Earlier in July, sessions led by Fidelity or ARK while IBIT continued to experience outflows were viewed as tactical positioning or retail-driven activity. In contrast, when IBIT became the leading recipient of inflows—such as the $209.4 million inflow on July 6 and the $116 million gain on Monday—the market interpreted it as a much stronger signal of institutional accumulation.
IBIT itself posted a 1.55% increase in net asset value during Monday’s session, reflecting Bitcoin’s rise in the spot market. Its influence on the ETF ecosystem is substantial. The fund accounted for nearly 79% of June’s record ETF outflows, making its return to positive flows particularly meaningful. Because of its size, IBIT has the ability to drive sentiment and liquidity across the entire ETF complex. For now, that influence is working in Bitcoin’s favor, although investors remain focused on whether the trend can continue through the upcoming Federal Reserve meeting.
June’s Selloff Created the Foundation for the Recovery
To appreciate why a $227 million inflow day is attracting so much attention, it is important to understand the scale of June’s decline. June 2026 became the worst month ever for spot Bitcoin ETFs, with approximately $4.5 billion leaving the sector, surpassing the previous record outflow of $3.56 billion recorded in February 2025. IBIT alone accounted for nearly 79% of those redemptions.
The asset decline was dramatic. Total assets held by spot Bitcoin ETFs fell from more than $104 billion in mid-May to roughly $77 billion at the height of the June selloff. At the same time, Bitcoin dropped from above $93,000 at the start of 2026 to around $60,000 by the end of June, briefly touching a 21-month low near $57,800.
Unlike previous crypto bear markets, this downturn was not triggered by failures within the digital asset industry. There were no major exchange collapses, stablecoin de-peggings, or systemic credit crises. Instead, the decline was largely driven by macroeconomic pressures, including a hawkish Federal Reserve and heavy institutional ETF outflows.
This difference is crucial because recoveries from macro-driven selloffs tend to be faster than recoveries from structural crises. The underlying infrastructure remained intact throughout the downturn; only investor positioning changed. As a result, the return of ETF inflows has the potential to reverse the damage more quickly than in previous cycles.
That is why the recent five-day inflow streak is viewed as more than just a short-term rebound. It suggests that capital which exited due to macroeconomic concerns may now be returning as those concerns begin to ease. Compared with a backdrop of record outflows and a 21-month price low, Bitcoin’s move back above $65,000 appears to be the early stages of a mechanical recovery driven by the same flows that fueled the selloff.
Bulls and Bears Remain Divided
The institutional outlook for Bitcoin remains sharply split. One camp has become increasingly cautious, with at least one major financial institution cutting its 12-month Bitcoin target from $112,000 to $82,000 on July 1. The bank also projected zero net ETF inflows over the next year, citing stalled cryptocurrency legislation in Washington and concerns about weak institutional demand.
This bearish view argues that the ETF demand engine that powered Bitcoin’s rise in 2024 and 2025 has fundamentally weakened. If that assessment is correct, then every inflow streak seen this year—including the current one—would represent a temporary bounce rather than the start of a sustained bull market.
The opposing camp believes the June correction effectively flushed out weak holders and that the return of IBIT-led inflows marks the beginning of a more durable recovery. Supporters of this view argue that the recent inflow streak has already halted the systematic selling pressure that drove Bitcoin to its lows.
A more moderate perspective compares Bitcoin ETF adoption to the historical development of gold ETFs. Under this framework, periods of strong gains are naturally followed by significant corrections before long-term growth resumes. From this viewpoint, Bitcoin’s recent volatility may simply be part of a broader maturation process rather than a sign of structural weakness.
Ultimately, the debate will be decided by ETF flows. If inflows continue beyond the Federal Reserve meeting and develop into a sustained multi-week trend, confidence in a stronger recovery could grow and higher price targets may return. If flows weaken again, the bearish argument that institutional demand remains fragile will gain credibility. For now, however, the recent five-day inflow streak has shifted momentum back toward the bullish side of the market.
Exchange Outflows and Whale Activity Strengthen the Bullish Narrative
Beyond ETF inflows, on-chain data is also providing evidence that Bitcoin’s recovery may have stronger foundations. In a single day, roughly $686 million worth of Bitcoin was withdrawn from Binance, Coinbase, and Bybit, a substantial exchange outflow that is typically interpreted as investors moving coins into long-term storage rather than keeping them on exchanges for potential sale. When exchange balances decline, the amount of Bitcoin readily available for selling decreases, creating a more supportive supply environment.
Another encouraging signal comes from whale activity. The Momentum Whale Inflow Ratio, which measures the amount of Bitcoin large holders transfer to exchanges, turned negative for the first time in 2026 after remaining positive for five consecutive months. A positive reading generally suggests whales are preparing to sell by moving coins onto exchanges, while a negative reading indicates reduced selling intent and fewer coins entering the market.
The shift is particularly notable because it breaks a pattern that persisted throughout most of the 2026 downturn. During the decline, large holders consistently supplied Bitcoin to exchanges, creating selling pressure that repeatedly capped recovery attempts. The recent negative reading suggests that major investors have become less active sellers, removing a key source of overhead supply.
When viewed together, ETF inflows and exchange outflows create a favorable supply-demand dynamic. ETF issuers continue purchasing Bitcoin in response to investor demand, while fewer coins remain available on exchanges for sale. This combination often creates conditions for stronger price advances, as reduced supply meets increasing demand. Such an environment likely contributed to Bitcoin’s ability to break above $65,000 and briefly test $66,000.
While these indicators remain constructive, they are not permanent. Whale behavior can change quickly, and exchange balances can rise again if investors decide to take profits. Nevertheless, current on-chain data points toward accumulation rather than distribution, supporting the possibility of a continued move toward $68,000 in the near term.
Improving Macro Conditions Helped Fuel the Rally
The broader macroeconomic environment also played an important role in Bitcoin’s recent rebound. Reports suggesting that diplomatic discussions between the United States and Iran could resume helped ease geopolitical concerns that had previously driven investors toward defensive assets. As tensions appeared to soften, capital flowed back into risk-sensitive markets, including equities, commodities, and cryptocurrencies.
The relationship between Bitcoin and traditional financial markets was evident during the rally. On the same day Bitcoin reclaimed $65,000, US equities also moved higher, supported by strong corporate earnings and renewed optimism in the technology sector. In risk-on environments, Bitcoin tends to behave similarly to high-growth assets, benefiting from improved investor sentiment.
The significance of this shift becomes clearer when compared with earlier periods of heightened geopolitical uncertainty. During previous escalations in US-Iran tensions, Bitcoin ETFs experienced substantial outflows, including a single-day withdrawal of approximately $424.7 million, highlighting how sensitive institutional flows have become to macro developments. As geopolitical risks eased, investor appetite returned and ETF inflows resumed.
This improvement in sentiment directly challenges one of the key bearish arguments for Bitcoin. Critics have maintained that institutional demand remains weak and that ETF inflows are unlikely to recover meaningfully. However, a sustained risk-on environment—supported by easing geopolitical tensions and resilient corporate earnings—could encourage institutions to reallocate capital toward risk assets, including Bitcoin.
At the same time, the geopolitical backdrop remains fragile. Any renewed escalation could quickly reverse the current trend, driving investors back toward traditional safe-haven assets and weakening demand for cryptocurrencies. As a result, the same macro conditions that have supported Bitcoin’s rebound also represent one of its greatest risks.
The Federal Reserve Remains the Biggest Near-Term Risk
Despite improving flows and sentiment, attention is increasingly turning to the Federal Reserve’s July 28–29 policy meeting, which many investors view as the most important event for Bitcoin’s near-term outlook.
Current market expectations suggest roughly a 70% probability that the Fed leaves interest rates unchanged, with only a small chance of a surprise policy move. While a rate cut appears unlikely, even a neutral decision could influence risk assets depending on the tone of the Fed’s communication.
The Fed has been a major factor behind Bitcoin’s weakness this year. June’s sharp decline occurred amid a combination of persistent ETF outflows and a central bank that showed little willingness to ease monetary policy. Higher interest rates generally reduce the appeal of speculative and growth-oriented assets, including cryptocurrencies.
The primary concern for investors is asymmetrical risk. A rate hold is largely priced into markets and may have a limited impact on its own. However, a more hawkish-than-expected message—or an unexpected rate increase—could trigger a sharp reaction across risk assets. Given Bitcoin’s high sensitivity to changes in investor sentiment, it would likely experience outsized volatility under such a scenario.
On the other hand, a more dovish tone could provide significant support. If the Fed acknowledges signs of moderating inflation and hints at a more accommodative policy outlook later in the year, the current risk-on momentum could accelerate. In that case, Bitcoin may have a clearer path toward $68,000 and potentially higher levels.
The period leading up to the Fed meeting is therefore critical. Bitcoin has already regained the important $65,000 threshold and briefly touched $66,000, supported by ETF inflows, improving macro sentiment, and favorable on-chain data. Whether those gains can be consolidated into a sustainable uptrend will likely depend on how markets position themselves ahead of the Fed decision and how policymakers ultimately shape expectations for the remainder of the year.
For now, ETF demand, declining exchange balances, and improving risk appetite provide support for the bullish case. However, the Federal Reserve remains the single most important variable that could either extend the rally or abruptly halt it.
Bitcoin slides below $63,000 as escalating Middle East tensions continue to pressure risk assets.
Ethereum retreats but finds near-term support at its 50-day EMA, despite persistent ETF outflows.
XRP remains technically fragile, leaving the door open for a break below $1.10 even as modest capital inflows provide limited support.
Cryptocurrencies trade broadly lower on Friday as investors continue to evaluate the fallout from ongoing military exchanges between the United States and Iran. Bitcoin (BTC) has fallen more than 1% on the day, slipping below $63,000 and extending its pullback from the weekly peak near $65,600.
Ethereum (ETH) and XRP are also under pressure, with ETH drifting toward key short-term support around $1,800, while XRP remains pinned below the crucial $1.10 threshold.
US-Iran conflict dampens risk appetite
Military operations involving the US and Iran entered a sixth consecutive night, intensifying geopolitical uncertainty across global markets. According to reports, strikes in southern Iran have targeted civilian infrastructure, including power facilities and a railway station in Bandar Abbas.
Adding to market concerns, Reuters reported that Iran has directed Yemen’s Houthi forces to prepare for a potential closure of the Red Sea oil shipping route should attacks on Iranian energy assets escalate further, raising fears of disruption to global energy supplies.
Despite the heightened tensions, overall crypto market sentiment has remained relatively stable, though firmly cautious. The Fear & Greed Index stood at 27 on Friday, up slightly from 25 a day earlier, but still within the Fear zone. The modest improvement reflects lingering optimism following softer US inflation data earlier this week, which briefly supported a rebound in risk assets such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, and XRP before geopolitical concerns regained prominence.
Meanwhile, spot Bitcoin ETF inflows remained positive on Thursday, totaling approximately $79 million. However, the figure represented a slowdown from the $108 million recorded on Wednesday and the $181 million seen on Tuesday. Should institutional demand remain resilient in the weeks ahead, it could help offset geopolitical headwinds, supporting a period of consolidation before Bitcoin potentially makes another push above the $65,000 level.
Ethereum spot ETFs shifted back into risk-off territory on Thursday, recording net outflows of $28 million. The reversal snapped a two-day streak of inflows that brought in $54 million on Wednesday and $58 million on Tuesday. The renewed selling pressure coincided with Ethereum’s rejection from its weekly peak near $1,947, highlighting growing investor caution and reinforcing the broader risk-averse mood across financial markets.
For XRP, spot ETF demand showed signs of improvement on Thursday, drawing nearly $7 million in net inflows, according to SoSoValue data. The uptick followed several sessions of subdued activity and suggests a modest return of investor interest. As a result, cumulative net inflows rose to approximately $1.49 billion, while total net assets stood near $997 million. Nevertheless, continued inflows into US-listed XRP ETFs will be crucial to counterbalance selling pressure in the spot market and provide a foundation for a more sustained recovery.
Bitcoin Price Outlook: Technical Weakness Keeps BTC Under Pressure
Bitcoin continues to exhibit a bearish near-term bias, trading below its 50-day, 100-day, and 200-day Exponential Moving Averages (EMAs), signaling that sellers remain in control. Additional overhead pressure comes from the Parabolic SAR indicator positioned around $65,600, reinforcing a key resistance zone. Meanwhile, the Relative Strength Index (RSI) sits at 47, slightly below the neutral 50 mark, reflecting subdued buying momentum despite a mildly positive reading from the Moving Average Convergence Divergence (MACD) histogram.
On the upside, Bitcoin faces immediate resistance at the 50-day EMA near $65,007, followed by the Parabolic SAR around $65,600. Together, these levels form a significant near-term barrier ahead of the 100-day EMA at $68,323 and the longer-term 200-day EMA at $74,367.
On the downside, support is located around $61,106, where a previously broken descending trendline now serves as a key structural floor. A daily close below this level could accelerate selling pressure and trigger a deeper correction. For sentiment to improve meaningfully, Bitcoin will need to reclaim and hold above the dense resistance zone around $65,000, which currently caps recovery attempts and preserves the prevailing bearish outlook.
Altcoin Outlook: Ethereum and XRP Drift Toward Key Support Levels
Ethereum (ETH) trades around $1,830, remaining above its short-term support cluster formed by the 50-day EMA at $1,811 and the Parabolic SAR at $1,801. These levels provide a modest cushion against further declines, although the broader trend remains constrained. ETH continues to trade below the 100-day EMA at $1,942 and the 200-day EMA at $2,185, keeping the medium- and long-term outlook cautious. Momentum indicators offer mixed signals, with the RSI near 55 suggesting moderate buying interest, while a still-positive but weakening MACD points to fading bullish momentum.
On the downside, the $1,830–$1,800 region represents a critical support zone. A break below this area could expose Ethereum to a deeper correction. On the upside, initial resistance is located at the 100-day EMA near $1,942, followed by the more significant 200-day EMA around $2,185. A decisive move above these barriers would be required to restore a stronger bullish outlook.
XRP Remains Under Pressure Below Key Resistance
XRP continues to trade below the important $1.10 resistance zone, maintaining a bearish technical bias. The token remains firmly below its 50-day, 100-day, and 200-day EMAs, indicating that sellers retain control of the broader trend. Additional resistance is provided by the middle Bollinger Band near $1.10 and a previously broken descending trendline around $1.12, suggesting that recovery attempts are being met with persistent selling pressure.
Momentum indicators remain relatively weak but not deeply oversold. The MACD retains a slightly positive reading, while the RSI near 44 reflects limited buying conviction and mild downside pressure.
On the upside, resistance begins at $1.10, followed by $1.12 and the 50-day EMA near $1.15. Beyond that, the upper Bollinger Band around $1.16 precedes stronger resistance levels at the 100-day EMA near $1.25 and the 200-day EMA around $1.45.
On the downside, immediate support is located near the lower Bollinger Band at $1.03. A sustained move below this level could trigger further weakness and expose XRP to lower psychological support zones, leaving the overall technical outlook negative while the token remains beneath its key moving averages.
Bitcoin slipped to $64,195.94, down 1.40% on the day, after failing to break above $65,500 for the second time in just over a week. Its market capitalization stood at $1.29 trillion, supported by a circulating supply of 20 million BTC, while 24-hour trading volume reached $32.35 billion. Although Bitcoin remains up 2.2% over the past week, repeated rejections near the same resistance level suggest buying momentum is fading.
The rally gained traction on Wednesday when Bitcoin climbed above $65,000, reaching a three-week high of $65,529.09 after opening at $65,009.12. The cryptocurrency posted a 3.5% daily gain, with weekly performance improving to 4.03%, as trading volume totaled $23.73 billion. During the week, prices fluctuated between $62,194.46 and $64,805.30, peaking at $65,471.67.
However, the advance quickly lost steam on Thursday. Bitcoin retreated toward $64,000, falling 1.1% from the start of the UTC trading day, while Ether declined 1.7%. The pullback reflected another round of profit-taking near resistance, compounded by renewed geopolitical tensions after Iran launched attacks on U.S. military bases in Gulf states as U.S. airstrikes continued.
Current market dynamics suggest Bitcoin’s strength is being driven more by leveraged positioning than by genuine spot demand. ETF inflows, largely concentrated in a single fund, continue to influence price action, but inconsistent inflow patterns have made rallies toward $65,000 difficult to sustain. Analysts argue that Bitcoin’s estimated average holder cost basis near $53,700 remains a more meaningful reference point than bullish options positioning targeting $72,000, which has yet to receive support from underlying market flows.
Bitcoin has endured a challenging year, falling 26.1% since the start of 2026 after beginning the year above $93,000. It has declined 45.5% over the past twelve months and now trades 54.3% below its all-time high of $126,080, recorded on October 6, 2025. Among major asset classes, Bitcoin has been one of the weakest performers this year, trailing U.S. Treasuries, silver, and the Swiss franc.
Elsewhere in the crypto market, Ether traded at $1,883.01, down 2.18%, XRP eased 0.92% to $1.11, and Solana fell 2.55% to $76.20. The broader digital asset market continues to move largely in response to the same macro and liquidity-driven factors influencing Bitcoin.
Bitcoin’s 54.3% Decline Has Lasted 268 Days, Suggesting the Correction May Not Be Over
Bitcoin has now spent 268 days in a drawdown, falling 54.3% from its record high. Those figures alone challenge the view that the market has already established a definitive bottom.
History offers an important perspective. The previous two major Bitcoin bear markets lasted 363 and 376 days, with peak-to-trough losses of 84.3% and 77.6%, respectively. Compared with those cycles, the current downturn has covered only about three-quarters of the historical duration and remains significantly shallower than even the mildest of the last two declines. That suggests the correction could still be unfolding rather than reaching its conclusion.
The familiar four-year Bitcoin cycle has once again become a focus for market participants. While the current decline has not mirrored the bear markets of 2014, 2018, or 2022 exactly, its timing and overall structure share notable similarities. If Bitcoin were to experience a 70% decline from its $126,080 peak—consistent with the trend of progressively less severe bear markets—the price would fall into the $38,000–$39,000 range by early October, roughly four years after the previous cycle low. However, this represents one possible scenario rather than the most likely outcome.
There is also an important argument against an overly bearish outlook. Bitcoin recorded its lowest realized volatility on record in 2025, and historically, periods of reduced volatility have often been followed by less severe drawdowns. As a result, applying a simple 70% decline based on past cycles may overstate the downside under today’s different market conditions.
Price action throughout the year highlights the key technical levels. Bitcoin dropped from above $80,000 in late January to around $60,000 in February before staging a rebound. It finished June near $60,000 after posting a fresh 21-month low during the final week of the month. On July 1, BTC briefly touched $57,800, marking a maximum drawdown of roughly 54%, before recovering to $64,195.94.
One technical development has received relatively little attention. In late June, Bitcoin recorded its first weekly close below the 200-week moving average since 2023 after remaining under the $60,000 level for an entire week. Historically, BTC has only traded beneath this long-term trend indicator during the most severe phases of previous bear markets. Although the subsequent recovery above $60,000 is encouraging, the earlier breakdown remains a significant technical event that continues to shape the broader market outlook.
IBIT Continues to Dominate Bitcoin ETF Flows
On July 15, US spot Bitcoin ETFs attracted $107.7 million in net inflows, with BlackRock’s iShares Bitcoin Trust (IBIT) accounting for $80.8 million, or roughly three-quarters of the total. Fidelity’s FBTC contributed $16.9 million, while Grayscale’s lower-fee BTC ETF added $10 million. All remaining Bitcoin ETF products—including BITB, ARKB, BTCO, EZBC, BRRR, HODL, BTCW, MSBT, and GBTC—recorded no meaningful net activity.
The pattern has become increasingly consistent. On July 14, Bitcoin ETFs collectively attracted $181.1 million, with IBIT contributing $138.9 million and FBTC adding $21 million. No Bitcoin ETF experienced net outflows that day, lifting total Bitcoin ETF assets back to approximately $78 billion, while US spot Ether ETFs surpassed $10 billion in assets under management.
Earlier in the month, the concentration was equally apparent. On July 6, Bitcoin ETFs received $265.69 million, of which $209.4 million flowed into IBIT. The following day, overall inflows slowed sharply to $21.09 million, yet IBIT still attracted $54.45 million, implying competing funds collectively experienced net redemptions. Over the July 6–10 period, IBIT accumulated $291.9 million, exceeding the sector’s total net inflow of $197.4 million as outflows from other funds offset much of BlackRock’s gains. During the same week, GBTC lost $108.2 million, FBTC shed $93.4 million, and ARKB recorded $15.3 million in redemptions.
IBIT’s influence is just as significant during periods of outflows. Between June 22 and June 26, US spot Bitcoin ETFs experienced roughly $1.79 billion in net withdrawals, with IBIT accounting for around 73% of those redemptions. Given that the Bitcoin ETF market now manages roughly $78.5 billion in assets and holds more than 1.21 million BTC, flows into and out of IBIT increasingly shape the direction of the broader ETF market.
The impact extends beyond investor sentiment. When ETF shares are redeemed, authorized participants return those shares to the issuer, prompting custodians to sell Bitcoin in the spot market to meet cash withdrawals. Industry research cited throughout 2026 suggests ETF-related transactions now explain nearly 45% of weekly Bitcoin price movements, making fund flows a major driver of market action rather than simply a reflection of investor confidence.
As a result, Bitcoin’s near-term performance increasingly depends on a single question: how are BlackRock’s ETF investors positioning themselves?
Recovery in ETF Flows Remains Small Relative to Earlier Outflows
Although Bitcoin and Ether ETFs recently ended a prolonged redemption streak, the recovery remains modest compared with the scale of previous withdrawals.
Across eight consecutive weeks, US spot Bitcoin and Ether ETFs recorded approximately $9.46 billion in cumulative outflows, surpassing the previous record of five straight weeks of redemptions. Selling intensified through June amid broader risk-off sentiment across financial markets.
June alone generated approximately $4.51 billion in ETF withdrawals, bringing estimated net outflows for 2026 to around $5.8 billion by mid-July. May contributed another $2.30 billion, while a single trading session on June 25 saw roughly $700 million leave the sector. By the beginning of July, year-to-date net outflows had already reached $5.4 billion.
Against that backdrop, the rebound has been relatively limited. During the week of July 6–10, Bitcoin ETFs attracted $197.4 million, while Ether ETFs added $84.42 million, producing combined inflows of $281.8 million—the first positive weekly reading for both asset classes since early May.
Even so, the recovery represents only about 3% of the previous $9.46 billion withdrawn, highlighting how little of the earlier selling has been reversed.
Relative to assets under management, Ether also showed stronger momentum than Bitcoin. With approximately $9.59 billion in ETF assets, Ether’s weekly inflows equaled about 0.88% of total AUM—more than three times Bitcoin’s relative inflow intensity. Despite this stronger rebound, Ether ETFs have still experienced roughly $1.2 billion in cumulative outflows since early May.
The daily flow pattern during that positive week also reflected fragile demand. Bitcoin ETFs recorded $265.69 million in inflows on Monday, followed by just $21.44 million on Tuesday. Redemptions then returned on Wednesday (-$84.86 million) and Thursday (-$95.30 million) before Friday’s $90.44 million inflow preserved a positive weekly total. Two of the five trading sessions still ended in net outflows, underscoring that the recovery relied heavily on a handful of strong inflow days.
Before that reversal, Bitcoin ETFs had endured a 10-session outflow streak that drained approximately $2.73 billion. The streak ended on July 2 with a $221.72 million inflow led by Fidelity. Those sustained redemptions translated into billions of dollars in systematic Bitcoin selling through ETF redemption mechanisms, creating persistent market pressure regardless of broader investor views on Bitcoin’s long-term outlook.
July’s ETF Flows Highlight a Market Driven by Short-Term Swings
Bitcoin ETF activity throughout July has been characterized by sharp reversals rather than a sustained trend, with trading between July 13 and July 15 providing a clear example of the market’s recent volatility.
On July 13, US spot Bitcoin ETFs recorded a $425 million net outflow, marking the largest single-day redemption during the current period. IBIT’s net asset value declined 2.89%, with BlackRock’s redemption equating to roughly 2,990 BTC, worth approximately $185.5 million. Fidelity also experienced substantial withdrawals totaling around $245.6 million. Meanwhile, US spot Ether ETFs posted $15.41 million in net redemptions.
The following day, sentiment shifted sharply. On July 14, Bitcoin ETFs attracted $181.1 million in net inflows, led by IBIT’s $138.9 million contribution. No Bitcoin ETF reported net outflows during the session, while Bitcoin ETF prices climbed nearly 4% and Ether ETFs gained about 6%, representing their strongest daily performance in several weeks.
Momentum continued on July 15, with Bitcoin ETFs adding another $107.7 million, including $80.8 million flowing into IBIT.
Taken together, the market experienced a $425 million withdrawal followed by $288.8 million in combined inflows over the next two sessions. Throughout July, ETF flows have frequently alternated between inflows and outflows every few trading days, with neither buying nor selling pressure maintaining control for an extended period. The largest redemption of the month and one of its strongest inflow sessions occurred just 24 hours apart, highlighting the lack of a sustained directional trend.
This pattern is significant because of its influence on Bitcoin’s price discovery. If ETF flows now account for an estimated 45% of weekly Bitcoin price movements, frequent reversals in those flows can introduce considerable short-term volatility. That leaves the remaining portion of market activity—including spot trading and derivatives positioning—to absorb rapid shifts in buying and selling pressure.
One area has shown greater consistency. While spot Bitcoin ETF flows have fluctuated, leveraged Bitcoin strategy ETFs have attracted steadier inflows over the past seven weeks. That demand has helped support Strategy (MSTR) shares and prevented the stock from trading below its net asset value. At the same time, Bitcoin futures markets have continued to record positive flows, a trend often associated with stronger institutional participation.
The contrast between stable demand for leveraged products and inconsistent flows into spot Bitcoin ETFs suggests that investors using leverage have displayed greater conviction than buyers of the underlying asset. Such a divergence is unusual and may indicate that speculative positioning is currently stronger than demand in the spot market.
Leverage Continues to Drive Bitcoin as Futures Activity Outpaces Spot Buying
Bitcoin’s futures open interest has climbed to $48.90 billion, increasing 3.52%—or roughly $1.66 billion—over the past two days. The data suggests that recent price gains have been fueled primarily by leveraged positions rather than genuine spot-market demand.
The contrast between derivatives and spot flows is striking. During the period in which Bitcoin rallied from $62,194.46 to $65,529.09, US spot Bitcoin ETFs attracted $288.8 million in net inflows. Over the same timeframe, futures open interest expanded by $1.66 billion, nearly six times larger than ETF demand. This indicates that the rally was driven largely by traders increasing leveraged exposure instead of investors purchasing Bitcoin outright.
Although the increase in open interest has been described as orderly rather than excessively speculative, the size of the derivatives market remains significant. With nearly $49 billion in outstanding futures positions, relatively modest price swings can still trigger substantial forced liquidations. For comparison, the largest liquidation event over the past month totaled $363.41 million on June 25.
Recent price action, however, has not been characterized by widespread liquidations. Bitcoin’s pullback from $65,529.09 to $64,195.94 occurred without meaningful forced selling from either long or short positions, suggesting the decline reflected genuine spot-market selling rather than a cascade of leveraged liquidations.
While this orderly behavior reduces immediate systemic stress, it also implies that speculative positioning remains largely intact. Unlike liquidation-driven declines, which often reset positioning and establish stronger support levels, gradual spot-led selling leaves leveraged exposure largely untouched, creating the potential for continued volatility.
This dynamic reflects a broader imbalance in market participation. Long-term value investors may still be waiting for deeper discounts following Bitcoin’s 54.3% decline from its peak, while momentum investors appear reluctant to return until ETF inflows strengthen and broader catalysts emerge. With both groups remaining cautious, leveraged traders have become the primary force influencing short-term price action.
Perpetual futures funding rates remain positive at approximately 0.0043% every four hours, equivalent to an annualized rate of about 9.35%. Throughout Bitcoin’s advance toward $65,529.09, funding stayed positive but relatively moderate, averaging around 0.0060% every four hours.
Positive funding means traders holding long positions pay those holding shorts. However, current funding levels remain well below the elevated readings typically associated with overheated markets, indicating that leveraged bullish positioning has not yet reached extreme levels.
Liquidation data supports that interpretation. During the latest 24-hour period, total liquidations reached $37.32 million, with short positions accounting for $31.66 million, or roughly 85% of the total. Similar figures from another observation period showed shorts representing more than 82% of all liquidations.
This suggests that Bitcoin’s move from roughly $62,200 toward $65,500 was driven largely by a moderate short squeeze rather than sustained spot buying. Yet the scale of the squeeze was relatively small. The $31.66 million in liquidated short positions represents only around 0.06% of the nearly $49 billion in total futures open interest, implying that only a small portion of bearish positioning was forced out.
Compared with previous market extremes, the recent activity appears relatively subdued. During a major derivatives event in late February, perpetual funding briefly turned sharply negative while more than $500 million in crypto positions were liquidated within a single day, primarily long positions. Current conditions remain far from that level of market stress.
As a result, Bitcoin’s inability to break decisively above $65,500 is understandable. Funding rates remain moderate, short positioning has not been fully exhausted, and bearish traders retain room to re-enter the market without facing prohibitively expensive funding costs.
The combination of neutral funding, stable open interest, and only modest short-covering has produced a rally that lacked sustained follow-through, leaving Bitcoin unable to overcome a key technical resistance level.
Technical Indicators Show Improving Short-Term Momentum but Weak Long-Term Structure
From a technical perspective, Bitcoin continues to trade below its 50-day exponential moving average (EMA), currently located in the $65,100–$65,700 range. The recent high at $65,529.09 tested this resistance zone before reversing lower, reinforcing the importance of the 50-day EMA as a key trend indicator.
Momentum indicators paint a mixed picture. Daily Relative Strength Index (RSI) readings remain around 48–49, suggesting momentum has improved from oversold conditions but has yet to establish a clearly bullish trend. On the weekly timeframe, RSI remains below the critical 50 level, indicating that the broader market trend has not yet shifted in favor of buyers.
Meanwhile, the MACD shows bearish momentum gradually weakening, although it has yet to generate a confirmed bullish reversal signal.
Short-term price action remains relatively constructive. Bitcoin has maintained higher lows after its advance toward $65,500, with chart patterns resembling a pennant or symmetrical triangle that typically reflects consolidation rather than an immediate reversal. On the weekly chart, however, these higher lows continue to develop within a broader descending channel, a structure commonly associated with bear-market rallies.
The key technical levels remain well defined. A sustained move above $65,000 would strengthen the case for additional upside in the near term, while a decline below $64,500 could return Bitcoin to a broader consolidation range. Initial support lies near the 20-day moving average around $62,500, with $63,800 serving as another important support area after previously acting as resistance. On the upside, reclaiming the 50-day EMA would represent the first meaningful improvement in trend strength, opening the possibility of testing resistance between $66,600 and $67,600.
The broader technical picture remains less encouraging. In late June, Bitcoin recorded its first weekly close below the 200-week moving average since 2023—a level that has historically only been broken during the deepest phases of previous bear markets. Although the current price has recovered above that long-term average, a single rebound is insufficient to restore the long-term bullish structure. Sustained trading above the 200-week moving average over multiple weeks would be required to confirm a more durable trend reversal.
Taken together, both market flows and technical indicators point to the same conclusion: Bitcoin’s recent strength is primarily a short-term development occurring within a longer-term structure that has yet to fully recover.
Bitcoin approaches its 50-day Exponential Moving Average (EMA) at $65,142, with a decisive close above the level signaling potential for further upside.
Ethereum finishes above the $1,800 resistance mark, reinforcing expectations for a sustained recovery.
XRP trades around $1.15 after rebounding by more than 4% in the previous session, indicating improving bullish momentum.
Bitcoin, Ethereum, and XRP edge higher as recovery momentum builds
Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), and Ripple (XRP) trade with modest gains on Wednesday as risk appetite returns to the cryptocurrency market. BTC is approaching its 50-day Exponential Moving Average (EMA), ETH has reclaimed the $1,800 resistance level, and XRP is holding firmly above an important support zone. If these technical levels remain intact, the three leading cryptocurrencies could extend their recovery in the sessions ahead.
Bitcoin eyes further upside if it breaks above the 50-day EMA
Bitcoin is trading around $64,510 on Wednesday after rallying more than 4% and closing above the $64,000 resistance level in the previous session. Although the rebound has improved short-term sentiment, BTC continues to trade below its 50-day, 100-day, and 200-day EMAs, located at $65,142, $68,524, and $74,562, respectively. Remaining beneath these key moving averages indicates that the broader trend still favors the downside, despite signs of stabilizing momentum. The Relative Strength Index (RSI) has climbed to 54, reflecting modest bullish momentum, while the Moving Average Convergence Divergence (MACD) remains in positive territory, suggesting selling pressure may continue to ease even if a stronger bullish reversal has yet to emerge.
On the downside, $64,004 serves as the first support level, where buyers could step in to protect the recent recovery.
To the upside, Bitcoin faces immediate resistance at its 50-day EMA near $65,142, followed by the 100-day EMA at $68,524 and the 200-day EMA around $74,562. A sustained move above these key dynamic resistance levels would improve the medium-term outlook and weaken the prevailing bearish trend. Beyond them, the next major obstacle lies at the previous horizontal resistance near $84,410.
Ethereum holds above key resistance at $1,800
Ethereum (ETH) trades around $1,866 on Wednesday after closing above its 50-day Exponential Moving Average (EMA) at $1,805 in the previous session, reinforcing the near-term bullish outlook. However, the second-largest cryptocurrency remains below its 100-day EMA at $1,945 and 200-day EMA at $2,193, indicating that the broader trend has yet to turn decisively positive.
The 50-day EMA is now acting as immediate support, suggesting buyers are defending the recent breakout. Meanwhile, the Relative Strength Index (RSI) hovers near 61, reflecting healthy bullish momentum without entering overbought territory. The Moving Average Convergence Divergence (MACD) also remains constructive, with the MACD line above its signal line and a positive histogram, pointing to strengthening upside momentum despite the presence of key overhead resistance.
On the upside, Ethereum’s next resistance is located at the 100-day EMA near $1,945, followed by the psychologically important $2,000 level. Beyond that, the 200-day EMA around $2,193 represents a major hurdle that bulls must overcome to confirm a broader trend reversal.
On the downside, initial support is seen at the 50-day EMA around $1,805, while a stronger long-term support level lies near $1,385, where buyers could re-emerge if the current recovery loses momentum.
XRP rebounds from channel support but faces strong overhead resistance
XRP trades around $1.099 on Wednesday after bouncing 4% in the previous session from support at the upper boundary of its descending channel. While the rebound has improved short-term sentiment, the token remains below its key moving averages, keeping the broader outlook tilted to the downside.
XRP continues to trade beneath the 50-day Exponential Moving Average (EMA) at $1.157, the 100-day EMA at $1.254, and the 200-day EMA at $1.461. Remaining below these major trend indicators suggests that bearish pressure is still in control despite the recent recovery.
Momentum indicators paint a mixed picture. The Relative Strength Index (RSI) stands at 47, just below the neutral 50 level, indicating that bullish momentum is beginning to improve but has yet to gain conviction. Meanwhile, the Moving Average Convergence Divergence (MACD) remains slightly positive, signaling stabilizing momentum without confirming a sustained bullish reversal.
On the downside, immediate support is located near $1.040, where the lower boundary of the descending parallel channel may attract renewed buying interest and help preserve the recent recovery.
To the upside, XRP faces its first resistance at the 50-day EMA around $1.157, followed by the 100-day EMA near $1.254 and the $1.300 horizontal resistance level. Beyond these, the 200-day EMA at $1.461 and the longer-term resistance around $1.900 represent significant barriers. Until XRP reclaims the 50-day EMA, any near-term gains are likely to be viewed as corrective moves within the prevailing bearish trend.
Bitcoin staged a modest recovery into Friday, trading near the $64,000 mark while continuing to find support around its 200-week Simple Moving Average (SMA).
Spot Bitcoin ETF flows have remained mixed throughout the week, reflecting a cautious market sentiment as investors assess the impact of Strategy’s latest Bitcoin sale.
Although geopolitical tensions have eased slightly, lingering uncertainty continues to weigh on risk appetite, limiting the cryptocurrency’s potential for stronger gains.
Bitcoin Weekly Outlook: Resilient Above $64,000 Despite Strategy Sale and Geopolitical Headwinds
Bitcoin (BTC) climbed back above $64,000 on Friday, extending a modest recovery while maintaining support above a key technical zone throughout the week. Mixed spot Bitcoin ETF flows through Thursday reflected cautious institutional sentiment, while the market largely absorbed the impact of Strategy’s recent BTC sale, underscoring Bitcoin’s strong liquidity and resilience. Although easing tensions between the US and Iran helped improve risk appetite late in the week, ongoing uncertainty in the Middle East continued to limit the cryptocurrency’s upside potential.
Geopolitical Uncertainty Continues to Influence Market Sentiment
Investor sentiment remained fragile throughout the week as developments in the Middle East shaped broader risk appetite. Concerns initially rose after Iran announced plans to impose new service charges on vessels transiting a strategically important shipping route, arguing that the fees were intended to cover security, monitoring, and environmental protection costs rather than serve as transit tolls.
Market anxiety intensified after an oil tanker was struck while moving through the Strait of Hormuz, prompting a fresh round of US military strikes against Iranian targets. Iran responded with attacks on US military assets in Bahrain and Kuwait, while comments from US President Donald Trump suggesting that a ceasefire agreement with Iran had effectively ended added to uncertainty across financial markets.
Sentiment improved later in the week after Trump indicated that Iran had reached out seeking negotiations, raising hopes for a potential easing of tensions. The improvement helped Bitcoin erase earlier losses and advance toward the $64,000 level by Friday. Nevertheless, the geopolitical backdrop remains fragile, and any renewed escalation between the US and Iran could trigger fresh selling pressure across risk-sensitive assets, including cryptocurrencies.
Strategy’s Bitcoin Sale Highlights Market Depth
On Monday, Strategy disclosed the sale of 3,588 BTC worth approximately $216 million to fund dividend payments related to its Digital Credit program. While the announcement initially contributed to a roughly 4% decline in Bitcoin, the cryptocurrency quickly recovered and ended the session with modest gains, suggesting the market absorbed the selling pressure effectively.
According to Crypto Finance, transactions of this scale are typically conducted through over-the-counter (OTC) channels and are often hedged well before becoming public knowledge. As a result, much of the market impact is generally priced in before official disclosure.
The report also emphasized that Bitcoin’s growing liquidity enables it to handle large transactions without causing prolonged price disruptions, helping explain the brief nature of the selloff.
Dean Chen, an analyst at Bitunix Exchange, noted that Strategy’s sale demonstrated the maturity of the Bitcoin treasury model rather than undermining it. In his view, selling a small portion of holdings showed that Bitcoin can increasingly function as a liquid corporate treasury asset.
Outlook Remains Cautiously Bearish
Despite Bitcoin’s resilience, Chen remains cautiously bearish in the near term. He points to elevated US Treasury yields, stronger return opportunities in equities, continued investor interest in AI-related ventures and IPOs, and still-modest institutional inflows despite some improvement in spot Bitcoin ETF demand.
Looking ahead, Chen believes Bitcoin’s direction will depend more on whether global investors increase allocations to risk assets than on Strategy’s transaction itself. He expects BTC to remain range-bound with a slight downside bias as competition for global liquidity remains intense and new capital inflows remain limited.
For the near term, Chen identifies $68,500 as a key resistance level and $62,000 as major support. Unless macroeconomic conditions improve meaningfully, he expects Bitcoin to end the month slightly below current levels.
Institutional Investors Remain Undecided
Institutional interest showed tentative signs of recovery early this week after several consecutive weeks of net outflows. However, momentum faded later in the week as spot Bitcoin ETFs recorded two sessions of withdrawals. According to SoSoValue data, net inflows still stood at $106.96 million through Thursday, reflecting a modest improvement in overall demand.
If Friday’s ETF flows finish in positive territory, Bitcoin could end an eight-week streak of persistent outflows, potentially signaling a shift in institutional sentiment. While the data suggests investors are becoming more willing to re-enter the market, the mixed flow pattern highlights ongoing caution. Nevertheless, a sustained return of institutional capital could provide additional support for Bitcoin prices in the weeks ahead.
Total Bitcoin spot ETF net inflow daily chart. Source: SoSoValue
Total Bitcoin spot ETF net inflow weekly chart. Source: SoSoValue
Cautious Fed Outlook Keeps Bitcoin Range-Bound
On the macroeconomic front, attention centered on the release of the minutes from the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) meeting held on June 16–17. The report showed that Federal Reserve policymakers remain divided on the future path of interest rates, with concerns about inflation persisting even as worries surrounding the labor market have eased somewhat.
Following the release of the minutes, market expectations shifted slightly, with CME FedWatch data indicating that traders are pricing in approximately a 21.9% probability of a rate hike at the Fed’s July meeting. The prospect of interest rates remaining elevated for longer has encouraged a cautious stance among investors.
As a result, demand for risk-sensitive assets has remained subdued, with many market participants opting to stay on the sidelines until there is greater clarity on the Fed’s policy direction. This cautious macroeconomic backdrop has contributed to Bitcoin’s largely sideways price action throughout the week.
Technical Outlook: Premature to Confirm a Market Bottom
Bitcoin continued its gradual recovery on Friday, reclaiming the $64,000 level after posting a 6.84% gain the previous week. The cryptocurrency is currently finding support near its 200-week Simple Moving Average (SMA) at $62,874, having successfully rebounded from a long-term ascending trendline that has connected major lows since January 2023.
Should the 200-week SMA continue to hold as a support level, Bitcoin could build on its recent strength and target the 78.6% Fibonacci retracement level at $65,520, measured from the August 2024 low of $49,000 to the October 2025 all-time high of $126,199.
Technical indicators on the weekly chart point to improving, though still fragile, momentum. The Relative Strength Index (RSI) remains subdued near 39 but is stabilizing, while the Moving Average Convergence Divergence (MACD) remains slightly negative yet continues to recover, indicating that bearish momentum is gradually fading.
Despite these encouraging signs, it remains too early to declare that Bitcoin has established a definitive bottom. A decisive break below the 200-week SMA at $62,874 would weaken the bullish recovery scenario and could open the door for a deeper pullback toward the long-term ascending trendline support near $58,000.
On the daily timeframe, Bitcoin continues to trade with a cautious bias, remaining below its 50-day, 100-day, and 200-day Exponential Moving Averages (EMAs). These key moving averages remain well above current prices and continue to reinforce the broader medium-term downtrend.
BTC is currently hovering just above an important horizontal support area near $64,004. While momentum indicators have improved, they have yet to signal a decisive bullish breakout. The Relative Strength Index (RSI) is holding around 53, indicating modest buying strength, while the MACD remains above the zero line, reflecting recovering bullish momentum.
On the upside, the first significant obstacle lies at the 50-day EMA around $65,413. Additional resistance levels are located near the 100-day EMA at $69,000 and the 200-day EMA at $75,029. Beyond these levels, a major horizontal resistance zone around $84,410 could further limit advances.
On the downside, immediate support remains at $64,004. A sustained move below this level would increase bearish pressure and could pave the way for a decline toward the $60,000 psychological support zone, which may attract renewed buying interest.
Bitcoin Rebounds Above $64,000 as June’s Sell-Off Loses Momentum
Bitcoin entered July 7 on firmer footing, reclaiming territory that appeared out of reach just weeks earlier. The leading cryptocurrency traded at $64,033.85, up 0.76% over the previous 24 hours, extending a recovery that has lifted prices 6.27% over the past week from late-June lows in the upper-$50,000 range. During the session, Bitcoin fluctuated between $63,694.40 and $64,476.62, maintaining its position near the upper end of the range—a sign that buyers continued to support the upward move. The rebound follows one of the harshest periods of the current market cycle, when Bitcoin spent an entire week below $60,000 and briefly slipped under its 200-week moving average for the first time since 2023. Attention now turns to the forces driving the recovery, the key technical levels ahead, and the catalysts that could shape the next major move.
Bitcoin Regains $64,000 Following June’s Market Shakeout
The return above $64,000 signals a measure of stability after a turbulent June. With prices now roughly 6.27% higher week-over-week, Bitcoin has recovered meaningfully from a sharp decline that dragged the asset into the high-$50,000s. The move marks a notable improvement in sentiment following one of the most challenging months of the ongoing cycle.
Bitcoin’s market capitalization stands at approximately $1.284 trillion, accounting for around 54%–55% of the total cryptocurrency market and reinforcing its dominance within the sector. At this scale, even modest percentage gains carry significant weight; the latest 0.76% daily increase added nearly $9.7 billion in market value. Unlike smaller digital assets that can experience outsized swings on limited liquidity, Bitcoin’s weekly advance reflects substantial capital flows and broader market repositioning.
Despite the recovery, the asset remains deep below its historical peak. Bitcoin’s record high of $126,000, reached in October 2025, is still nearly 49% above current levels, underscoring the extent of the retracement. The move back to $64,000 does not reverse the broader correction but suggests an effort to establish a more durable base after the June decline.
From a technical perspective, Bitcoin pushed toward resistance near $64,500 before consolidating close to session highs. Holding near the top of the daily range indicates buyers were willing to defend gains rather than take profits aggressively. Whether that support persists will determine if the $64,000 area evolves into a sustainable foundation or proves to be another temporary rebound within a broader corrective trend.
What’s Driving the Recovery? Short Covering Takes Center Stage
The rally appears to have been fueled largely by forced buying rather than a wave of new bullish conviction. More than $450 million in short liquidations generated automatic buying pressure after Bitcoin climbed above $62,000, creating a self-reinforcing rally. When leveraged bearish positions are liquidated, exchanges close those trades by purchasing the underlying asset, which can accelerate upside momentum.
Liquidation data highlights the extent of the squeeze. Short liquidations totaled approximately $86.6 million, compared with $54.01 million in long liquidations, suggesting bearish traders were caught off guard by the reversal and forced to cover positions. The imbalance reflects a market where many participants had anticipated further declines but instead faced a rapid upside move.
Trading activity also surged during the rebound, with volume rising 104.7% above average levels. While strong volume can indicate genuine demand, a meaningful share of the activity likely came from liquidation-driven buying rather than sustained spot-market accumulation by long-term investors. This distinction is important because rallies driven primarily by short squeezes can lose momentum once forced buying subsides.
The pattern is typical of recoveries following steep selloffs. Much of the excessive leverage that amplified June’s decline had already been flushed from the market, with open interest dropping sharply during the correction. Such leverage resets often lay the groundwork for rebounds by reducing forced-selling pressure. With many bearish positions eliminated, another significant decline may require a fresh negative catalyst rather than simply a continuation of liquidation-driven selling.
The next test for Bitcoin is whether genuine spot demand can replace the mechanical buying that powered the recent advance. Short squeezes can spark impressive rallies, but sustained uptrends generally require consistent participation from long-term buyers. For now, the liquidation-driven surge has helped Bitcoin reclaim the $64,000 mark, but the durability of the recovery will depend on whether real demand emerges to support prices in the sessions ahead.
ETF Inflows Return After June’s Historic Outflow Wave
A key factor supporting Bitcoin’s recent recovery has emerged from the spot ETF market. On July 2, spot Bitcoin ETFs recorded net inflows of $221.72 million, ending a painful 10-session outflow streak that had drained roughly $2.7 billion from the sector. Subsequent data remained positive, with an additional $46.6 million in net inflows, suggesting institutional sentiment may be stabilizing after weeks of persistent selling pressure.
The improvement comes after a difficult June, during which Bitcoin ETFs experienced their largest monthly outflows on record. Investors withdrew approximately $4.5 billion from the funds, intensifying downside pressure and highlighting a broad reduction in institutional crypto exposure. Reflecting the bearish mood, analysts at Citigroup reportedly reduced their 12-month Bitcoin ETF inflow outlook to zero, underscoring the depth of market pessimism at the time.
Against that backdrop, the return of positive ETF flows carries considerable importance. Spot ETF demand has become one of the most closely watched indicators of institutional appetite for Bitcoin. The July 2 inflow suggests that some large investors viewed the late-June decline into the high-$50,000 range as a buying opportunity rather than a reason to exit.
The relationship between ETF flows and Bitcoin prices is straightforward. When investors purchase shares of a spot Bitcoin ETF, fund managers must acquire Bitcoin in the open market to back those holdings, creating direct spot demand. Conversely, redemptions force funds to sell Bitcoin, adding pressure to prices. As a result, the shift from significant outflows to net inflows effectively turns a major headwind into a potential tailwind for the market.
The challenge now is determining whether the trend can persist. One strong inflow day alone does not confirm a durable turnaround. Markets will likely need to see several consecutive sessions of positive ETF demand before investors gain confidence that institutional buying has genuinely returned. Historically, sustained inflows tend to emerge when broader macro conditions improve, particularly if the U.S. dollar weakens and Treasury yields ease. For now, the renewed inflows provide an encouraging signal, but confirmation will require continued participation.
Bitcoin Recovery Gains Traction Despite Persistent Extreme Fear
One of the more remarkable aspects of Bitcoin’s rebound is that sentiment has remained deeply negative even as prices recover. The Crypto Fear & Greed Index currently stands at 23, firmly within Extreme Fear territory, despite Bitcoin’s weekly gain of more than 6%. While the index has improved from recent lows, investor psychology remains notably cautious.
Sentiment reached particularly depressed levels in late June. The seven-day average for the index fell to 19, while the indicator briefly touched 10 when Bitcoin traded near $58,411. Such readings typically reflect widespread capitulation, uncertainty, and risk aversion among market participants—conditions that have historically appeared near major market bottoms.
This divergence between price action and sentiment is often viewed as a bullish contrarian signal. When fear dominates market psychology, much of the selling pressure may already have been exhausted. As bearish positioning unwinds and sellers become scarce, markets can recover even before investor confidence returns. In that sense, Bitcoin’s rise alongside continued pessimism resembles the early stages of previous recovery phases.
However, the current rally differs from the highly speculative advances seen during stronger bull-market periods. Much of the recent move appears to have been driven by short-covering activity and cautious repositioning rather than aggressive risk-taking. There are few signs of the exuberance or leverage expansion typically associated with mature uptrends.
That dynamic presents both opportunities and risks. The absence of widespread optimism means the market is far from overheated, leaving room for additional gains if fundamentals continue to improve. At the same time, lingering fear reflects ongoing uncertainty about whether the broader correction has truly run its course.
For now, the combination of improving ETF flows and deeply bearish sentiment creates a constructive backdrop for Bitcoin. While Extreme Fear alone is not enough to confirm a lasting bottom, its coexistence with strengthening institutional demand suggests that downside pressure may be fading and that the market could be laying the groundwork for a more sustainable recovery.
While daily price movements continue to dominate headlines, on-chain data reveals a more subtle but potentially important trend: large Bitcoin holders have been steadily increasing their exposure. Over the past two weeks, whale wallets accumulated more than 270,000 BTC, indicating that long-term investors have been using the recent market weakness as an opportunity to add positions.
This accumulation stands in sharp contrast to the cautious sentiment reflected across retail markets. While the Crypto Fear & Greed Index remains in Extreme Fear territory, major holders appear to be positioning for a longer-term recovery rather than preparing for further downside.
Whale activity often attracts attention because these investors typically operate with greater capital, longer investment horizons, and less sensitivity to short-term volatility. When large holders buy aggressively during periods of market stress, it can signal that they view prevailing prices as undervalued relative to future expectations. The acquisition of more than 270,000 BTC during the aftermath of June’s sell-off represents a significant transfer of supply into stronger hands.
Supporting this narrative is the continued decline in Bitcoin balances held on exchanges. As coins move from trading platforms into private wallets, the available supply for immediate sale decreases. Such outflows are commonly interpreted as a sign that investors intend to hold rather than liquidate their positions. Reduced exchange reserves can strengthen future rallies by limiting the amount of Bitcoin readily available when demand increases.
Taken together, whale accumulation and declining exchange balances suggest a market undergoing quiet accumulation beneath an atmosphere of widespread caution. While retail participants largely retreated during the June downturn, larger investors appear to have used the weakness to build positions. This divergence often emerges during transitional periods when markets begin shifting from distribution and capitulation toward stabilization and recovery.
The trend also complements the broader deleveraging process that unfolded during June’s correction. Open interest fell sharply as leveraged positions were liquidated, removing much of the excess speculation that had built up during earlier stages of the cycle. With leverage significantly reduced, exchange balances falling, and whales actively accumulating, the overall market structure appears healthier than it did during the height of the sell-off.
Although no single indicator guarantees a sustained advance, the combination of stronger hands accumulating, lower exchange supply, and a cleaner leverage profile provides a constructive foundation for Bitcoin’s recovery. The recent whale activity suggests that patient capital sees value where fearful investors remain hesitant.
Why the 200-Week Moving Average Remains a Critical Level
Bitcoin’s late-June decline carried significant technical implications, particularly because it pushed the cryptocurrency below one of its most closely watched long-term indicators: the 200-week moving average.
The market not only fell beneath the level intraday but also recorded its first weekly close below the 200-week average since 2023. For many long-term investors and technical analysts, this moving average serves as a key measure of Bitcoin’s structural trend and has historically acted as a major support zone during periods of market stress.
The importance of the breakdown stems largely from its rarity. Bitcoin has only traded below the 200-week moving average during the most severe phases of previous bear markets. Each occurrence has coincided with deep capitulation and widespread pessimism, which explains why the June breakdown intensified bearish sentiment across the market.
At the same time, history offers a more balanced perspective. In prior cycles, Bitcoin eventually reclaimed the 200-week moving average after breaking below it, transforming periods of extreme weakness into the foundation for future uptrends. As a result, the indicator has often served as both a warning signal and a long-term recovery marker.
Several factors suggest the recent breakdown may have occurred under conditions of significant market exhaustion. During the sharp sell-off, Bitcoin appeared deeply oversold, while open interest fell to approximately $46.5 billion as leveraged positions were systematically liquidated. The removal of excess leverage reduced forced-selling pressure and helped reset market conditions after months of speculative activity.
The subsequent rebound above $64,000 has further eased immediate concerns. More importantly, Bitcoin has reclaimed the psychologically significant $60,000 level, which previously served as a major support area during the February crash. That zone has once again emerged as a crucial battleground between buyers and sellers.
Maintaining price action above $60,000 is essential if Bitcoin is to repair the technical damage caused by the late-June breakdown. A sustained hold above that threshold would strengthen the case that the move below the 200-week moving average represented a capitulation event rather than the beginning of a deeper bear market.
For now, Bitcoin’s recovery suggests that buyers are attempting to rebuild the market structure that fractured during June’s decline. Whether the effort succeeds will depend on the cryptocurrency’s ability to defend key support levels, attract continued institutional demand, and convert the recent rebound into a broader trend reversal.
Bitcoin Trapped Between Key Support and Resistance Levels
Bitcoin’s near-term outlook is being shaped by a relatively narrow trading range, with support at $63,000 and resistance near $64,500 emerging as the most important levels for traders. How price reacts around these zones will likely determine the cryptocurrency’s next significant move.
During the latest recovery attempt, Bitcoin climbed toward the $64,500 resistance area before encountering selling pressure and consolidating just below that threshold. Despite the rejection, the asset remained near the upper end of its daily range, suggesting buyers continue to absorb supply rather than retreat aggressively. This resilience keeps the bullish case intact for now.
The key level on the downside is $63,000. As long as Bitcoin remains above this support zone, the recovery structure stays intact. A decisive break below it, however, could signal fading momentum and increase the risk of a deeper pullback.
Below $63,000, several support levels come into focus:
$62,000 – first layer of support beneath the current range.
$59,000 – the area that helped stabilize the recent rebound.
$58,115 – June’s monthly low and a major short-term support level.
$55,000 – a critical downside target if bearish pressure intensifies.
A drop below $58,115 would be particularly significant, as it would suggest sellers have regained control and could trigger another wave of downside momentum.
On the upside, a convincing break above $64,500 would strengthen the recovery narrative and shift attention toward higher resistance levels. The next major obstacle lies near $65,600, followed by a broader target zone between $65,600 and $70,000 if bullish momentum continues to build.
The current setup reflects a market still searching for direction. Bitcoin is effectively compressed between support and resistance, and such periods of consolidation often precede larger price swings. At present, the advantage appears to lean slightly toward buyers, given the market’s ability to hold near session highs and repeatedly challenge resistance rather than retreat toward support.
Why the 50-Month EMA Around $65,631 Matters
Despite recent gains, Bitcoin remains below one of its most important long-term technical barriers: the 50-month Exponential Moving Average (EMA), currently located around $65,631–$65,742.
This indicator serves as a widely monitored gauge of medium-term trend strength. Trading below the 50-month EMA suggests that sellers still maintain an advantage on the broader timeframe, even though short-term momentum has improved.
For Bitcoin bulls, reclaiming this level is arguably the most important technical objective in the near term.
A sustained move above the 50-month EMA would signal that the recent recovery is evolving into something more meaningful than a simple relief rally. It would also reduce the bearish bias that has dominated price action since the June decline and could shift the medium-term outlook toward a more neutral or constructive stance.
At current levels, Bitcoin remains only about 2.5% below the indicator. While that distance appears relatively small, overcoming a major long-term resistance zone typically requires consistent buying pressure and strong follow-through. As a result, the upcoming sessions could prove pivotal.
The broader moving-average structure highlights Bitcoin’s transitional position:
50-Month EMA: ~$65,631 (major resistance)
100-Month EMA: ~$40,322 (major long-term support)
The fact that Bitcoin remains comfortably above its 100-month EMA suggests that the long-term bull market structure has not been invalidated. However, remaining below the 50-month EMA indicates that the medium-term trend remains under pressure.
In other words, Bitcoin currently sits between a long-term bullish foundation and a medium-term corrective phase.
Looking further ahead, a move above $74,092 would represent a far more decisive bullish breakout and substantially improve the longer-term outlook. That level aligns closely with the monthly opening range near $73,674, illustrating how much ground Bitcoin must recover following June’s sell-off.
For now, the focus remains squarely on the 50-month EMA near $65,631. Reclaiming that level would provide important confirmation that buyers are regaining control and that the recent rebound has the potential to evolve into a broader recovery. Failure to do so, however, would leave Bitcoin vulnerable to remaining trapped within its corrective structure despite the recent bounce.
Derivatives Data Points to a Healthier Recovery
Bitcoin’s derivatives market is offering a relatively constructive signal as the recent rebound unfolds. Unlike previous rallies that were fueled by aggressive speculation, current positioning suggests traders are adding exposure cautiously rather than chasing price higher.
Open interest currently stands at approximately $47.71 billion, recovering from the sharp decline seen during June’s liquidation-driven selloff. Open interest reflects the total value of active futures and derivatives contracts, making it a useful measure of market participation and leverage.
The recovery in open interest indicates that traders are gradually returning to the market after leverage was largely flushed out during the correction. Importantly, the increase has not yet reached levels associated with excessive speculation, suggesting that the market is rebuilding participation on a more sustainable footing.
Funding rates reinforce this interpretation. Bitcoin’s funding rate remains positive at around 0.0087%, meaning long-position holders are paying a modest premium to short sellers. While positive funding generally reflects bullish sentiment, the current reading remains relatively subdued and far below the levels typically associated with market euphoria.
Historically, sharply elevated funding rates have often preceded corrections because they signal overcrowded bullish positioning. The current environment looks different. Traders appear constructive, but not excessively optimistic, leaving room for further upside without creating immediate vulnerability to a long-side liquidation event.
Recent liquidation data supports that view. During the latest recovery, approximately $86.6 million in short positions were liquidated compared with roughly $54 million in long liquidations. The imbalance highlights that bearish traders were forced to cover as prices moved higher, contributing to the rally’s momentum.
However, the broader derivatives landscape remains balanced. Open interest has recovered without exploding higher, funding rates remain moderate, and positioning does not indicate widespread speculative excess. Compared with conditions preceding June’s decline—when leverage had become stretched—the market now appears significantly healthier.
Taken together, derivatives metrics suggest Bitcoin’s rebound rests on a stronger foundation than a purely sentiment-driven bounce. The recovery may lack the explosive enthusiasm often seen during mature bull runs, but it also lacks the dangerous leverage imbalances that frequently lead to sharp corrections.
Prediction Markets Show Cautious Optimism
Beyond spot and derivatives activity, prediction markets offer another perspective on trader expectations. Recent contracts focused on Bitcoin’s July 7 closing price suggested participants were leaning modestly bullish, though conviction remained relatively limited.
A directional market asking whether Bitcoin would finish the day above its opening level assigned approximately:
59.5% probability to a higher close (YES)
40.5% probability to a lower or unchanged close (NO)
These figures indicate that traders saw a slightly better-than-even chance of continued gains, but not enough confidence to signal a strong consensus.
The probability distribution reflects cautious optimism rather than outright bullish conviction. Participants generally expected Bitcoin to maintain its recovery, yet remained uncertain about whether the move had enough momentum to extend significantly higher.
Momentum indicators paint a similar picture. While Bitcoin had posted a strong 24-hour gain of roughly 8.5% following the July 6 rally, shorter-term measures showed signs of slowing momentum. One-hour performance was essentially flat, while trend indicators remained below levels typically associated with sustained upside acceleration.
In practical terms, the market appears to be transitioning from an impulsive rebound phase into a consolidation phase. The initial surge attracted buyers and forced short-covering, but traders are now waiting for confirmation before committing aggressively to the next directional move.
Liquidity conditions also warrant caution when interpreting prediction-market data. Some contracts attracted relatively modest trading volume and liquidity, meaning probabilities can be influenced by comparatively small transactions. As a result, these markets are often more useful for identifying sentiment trends than for generating precise forecasts.
Across multiple prediction platforms, the broader message remained consistent: traders generally expected Bitcoin to hold its recent gains, but confidence in a sustained breakout remained limited.
That outlook aligns closely with signals from the spot market, ETF flows, sentiment indicators, and derivatives positioning. Bitcoin has clearly improved from its late-June lows, but the market has not yet reached a point where participants are overwhelmingly convinced that a new bullish trend is underway.
For now, the evidence suggests a market that is recovering and stabilizing rather than one experiencing a full-scale bull-market resurgence. The balance of probabilities favors further upside, but confirmation will likely require stronger momentum, continued ETF inflows, and a decisive break above major resistance levels such as $64,500 and the 50-month EMA near $65,631.
Bitcoin rebounded to around $61,800 on Friday after plunging to a 21-month low of $57,800 earlier in the week. Despite the recovery, sentiment remains cautious as US-listed spot Bitcoin ETFs experienced net outflows totaling $526.64 million through Thursday, marking an eighth straight week of withdrawals. Analysts suggest that quarter-end portfolio rebalancing by institutional investors could offer near-term support and help stabilize Bitcoin prices.
Bitcoin (BTC) has gained more than 3% this week and was trading above $61,800 on Friday, recovering from a drop to a 21-month low earlier in the week. Despite the rebound, institutional selling pressure remained evident, as spot Bitcoin Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) registered net outflows exceeding $526 million through Thursday, putting the market on track for an eighth consecutive week of withdrawals. Analysts, however, believe quarter-end portfolio rebalancing could offer temporary support for the leading cryptocurrency.
Institutional outflows remain a headwind
Institutional appetite for Bitcoin continued to weaken throughout the week. According to SoSoValue data, spot BTC ETFs recorded cumulative net outflows of $526.64 million by Thursday. Unless Friday sees a substantial reversal in fund flows, Bitcoin ETFs will log their eighth straight week of net withdrawals. The persistent outflows suggest institutional investors remain cautious, leaving the market with limited support as Bitcoin recently fell to a 21-month low of $57,800.
Meanwhile, a recent report from CryptoQuant pointed to growing signs of heightened volatility ahead. The firm noted that Bitcoin exchange inflows surged to nearly 50,000 BTC in a single day, reaching levels seen only four other times in 2026. On Tuesday alone, approximately 49,000 BTC flowed into exchanges, an unusually large amount that has historically coincided with periods of significant price swings.
CryptoQuant analysts emphasized that the increase in exchange deposits occurred while Bitcoin was testing the key $60,000 support zone. A decisive break below that level could open the door for a decline toward $53,000, which corresponds to Bitcoin’s realized price.
The report added that such elevated inflow activity indicates a substantial volume of Bitcoin is being transferred to exchanges, a pattern that has often preceded major directional moves in the market.
Progress in US-Iran talks supports Bitcoin rebound
Improving sentiment around geopolitical developments helped Bitcoin recover during the second half of the week, with BTC climbing back above $61,000 after plunging to a 21-month low of $57,800 on Wednesday.
On Wednesday, Qatar’s Foreign Ministry reported that the United States and Iran had achieved “positive progress” in indirect negotiations held in Doha, with discussions advancing matters linked to the June ceasefire framework. Officials noted that the talks were building on outcomes from a recent summit in Switzerland, fueling optimism that a more lasting agreement could be reached.
US President Donald Trump also expressed confidence in the negotiations, stating that progress had been made regarding potential restrictions on Iran’s nuclear program and that denuclearization efforts were moving forward. Meanwhile, Vice President JD Vance indicated that nuclear-related issues would likely be addressed in future discussions.
The next round of negotiations is expected after the funeral ceremonies for Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, whose burial is scheduled for July 9.
Despite the improved outlook, uncertainty surrounding the Strait of Hormuz remains a key risk factor. Although shipping traffic through the strategic waterway has recovered significantly, volumes remain below pre-conflict levels. Market participants will continue monitoring developments in the Middle East, as any resurgence in tensions between Washington and Tehran could quickly undermine risk sentiment and trigger renewed selling pressure in assets such as Bitcoin.
Softer US labor data eases pressure from Fed expectations
On the macroeconomic front, weaker-than-expected US employment figures have reduced expectations for further Federal Reserve tightening, creating a more favorable environment for risk assets.
Investor expectations for additional rate hikes declined after Thursday’s labor market report showed the US economy added just 57,000 jobs in June, well below forecasts of 110,000. In addition, the previous month’s payroll figure was revised lower from 172,000 to 129,000, while the unemployment rate edged down to 4.2%.
The softer labor market data, combined with easing inflation concerns driven by lower crude oil prices, prompted traders to scale back expectations for future Fed tightening. Markets shifted from anticipating one or two rate hikes in 2026 to pricing in anywhere between no hikes and a single increase. This reassessment weakened the US dollar and provided additional support for Bitcoin’s recovery.
Could quarter-end rebalancing become Bitcoin’s next catalyst?
A recent report from K33 Research suggests that quarter-end portfolio rebalancing may offer a short-term boost for Bitcoin.
According to the study, ETF flow patterns during the six trading days surrounding month-end—three sessions before and three sessions after—have frequently diverged from prevailing monthly trends. Over the past 18 months, this phenomenon was observed in half of the sample periods.
K33 analysts noted that several months in which Bitcoin underperformed the S&P 500 were followed by stronger ETF inflows around month-end and during the opening days of the following month. This behavior is consistent with portfolio rebalancing, where investors increase Bitcoin allocations after periods of relative weakness to restore target weightings within diversified portfolios.
However, the analysts cautioned that the relationship is not always consistent. Roughly half of the observed periods failed to exhibit the same pattern, suggesting that rebalancing is only one of several factors shaping institutional demand for Bitcoin.
That said, the trend has become increasingly noticeable over the last four quarters. If it persists, quarter-end portfolio adjustments could provide a meaningful tailwind for Bitcoin, potentially supporting a recovery during the opening trading sessions of July.
Market analysts remain divided on whether quarter-end portfolio rebalancing can provide a meaningful boost to Bitcoin’s outlook.
According to Ryan Lee, Chief Analyst at Bitget, quarter-end rebalancing may generate short-term trading activity, but it is unlikely to alter Bitcoin’s broader market direction. He noted that BTC has been trading in a relatively tight range between $58,000 and $62,000 after losing roughly 14% during the second quarter, while continued spot ETF outflows and weakening institutional demand remain significant headwinds.
Lee explained that portfolio adjustments can trigger opportunistic buying when cryptocurrency allocations fall below target levels. However, he emphasized that Bitcoin’s next major move will likely depend more on factors such as ETF flows, macroeconomic developments, and overall investor risk appetite than on routine portfolio rebalancing.
Dean Chen, an analyst at Bitunix, expressed an even more cautious view. In his assessment, quarter-end rebalancing is unlikely to act as a meaningful bullish catalyst for Bitcoin and should instead be viewed primarily as a short-term liquidity redistribution process rather than a source of new capital entering the market.
Chen noted that in a prolonged downtrend, rebalancing flows can work in either direction. While some investors may increase exposure to underweighted risk assets, generating temporary buying pressure, others may choose to cut positions as part of broader risk-reduction and deleveraging strategies.
As a result, he believes quarter-end rebalancing is more likely to increase short-term market volatility than establish a sustained directional trend. In his view, the process merely reallocates existing capital rather than introducing fresh funds into the market.
Consequently, Chen argues that quarter-end portfolio adjustments should be treated as a temporary market influence rather than a structural driver capable of changing Bitcoin’s longer-term trajectory. Instead, the cryptocurrency’s broader outlook will continue to be shaped by institutional demand, ETF flows, macroeconomic conditions, and overall market sentiment.
Technical Outlook: Is Bitcoin Forming a Bottom?
Bitcoin rebounded more than 3% this week, climbing above $61,800 on Friday after finding support near a long-term ascending trendline that has connected major lows since January 2023. Despite the recovery, BTC still recorded a fresh yearly low of $57,800 earlier in the week, marking its weakest level since September 2024.
On the weekly timeframe, maintaining support around the $58,000 trendline remains critical for the bullish case. If buyers continue defending this area, Bitcoin could extend its rebound toward the 200-week Simple Moving Average (SMA) near $62,652. A decisive weekly close above that level would strengthen the recovery outlook and potentially open the door for a move toward the 78.6% Fibonacci retracement level at $65,520, measured from the August 2024 low of $49,000 to the October 2025 record high of $126,199.
However, longer-term momentum indicators continue to flash warning signs. The Relative Strength Index (RSI) on the weekly chart has fallen to around 35 and is approaching oversold territory, reflecting persistent bearish pressure. Meanwhile, the Moving Average Convergence Divergence (MACD) generated a bearish crossover in late June and remains in negative territory, reinforcing the broader downtrend.
Should Bitcoin break below the ascending trendline and close the week under the $58,000 area, selling pressure could intensify, exposing the next major support zone around $55,777.
On the daily chart, BTC has recovered from its recent 21-month low but still trades below its key moving averages, keeping the broader trend tilted to the downside. The cryptocurrency remains beneath the 50-day, 100-day, and 200-day Exponential Moving Averages (EMAs), located at approximately $66,028, $69,826, and $75,782, respectively.
The daily RSI has improved to around 44 but remains below the neutral 50 level, suggesting that buying interest is recovering only gradually. At the same time, the MACD has turned positive, with the MACD line moving above both its signal line and the zero line, indicating improving momentum. Nevertheless, the recovery remains insufficient to fully offset the prevailing bearish structure.
From a resistance perspective, Bitcoin faces its first significant hurdle near $64,000. A successful break above this level would bring the 50-day EMA at $66,028 into focus, followed by the 100-day EMA at $69,826 and the 200-day EMA at $75,782. Beyond those levels, a more substantial resistance zone emerges around $84,410.
Conversely, if Bitcoin fails to regain and sustain trading above the $64,000 region, downside risks could re-emerge. In that scenario, the market may retest lower support levels, with the psychologically important $55,000 area serving as the next major target for bears.
Bitcoin investors are unlikely to remember June 2026 positively. The world’s largest cryptocurrency ended the month down more than 20%, pressured by persistent inflation, shifting Federal Reserve expectations, and an unprecedented wave of institutional selling through spot Bitcoin exchange-traded funds (ETFs).
By June 25, Bitcoin had fallen to an intraday low of $58,188 — its weakest level since September 2024 and more than 53% below its October all-time high of $126,198.
The wider crypto market suffered alongside it. Total cryptocurrency market capitalization dropped to $2.1 trillion by the end of June, down sharply from the $4.3 trillion peak recorded in October 2025. Bitcoin’s year-to-date decline widened to 34%, while its market dominance rose to roughly 55.6% as altcoins experienced even steeper losses. June’s sharp selloff, however, was not triggered by a crypto-specific event. Instead, it stemmed from a critical U.S. inflation report.
The Inflation Report That Shook Markets
On June 25, investors received a harsh macroeconomic reality check. May’s Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) price index — the Federal Reserve’s preferred inflation gauge — came in significantly hotter than expected. Headline inflation climbed to 4.1% year-over-year, its highest level since April 2023 and more than double the Fed’s 2% target. Core PCE, which excludes food and energy, rose to 3.4%, also marking a multi-year high.
Major financial institutions quickly revised their forecasts. Bank of America now expects three consecutive 25-basis-point rate hikes in September, October, and December, potentially lifting the federal funds rate to between 4.25% and 4.50%, up from the current 3.50%–3.75% range. Deutsche Bank projected two rate hikes beginning in September, while Goldman Sachs pushed its expectations for rate cuts back to 2027.
For Bitcoin, the environment became increasingly unfavorable. Higher interest rates tend to attract capital toward safer, yield-generating assets while reducing appetite for speculative investments. Within a day of the inflation release, more than $1.48 billion in crypto positions were liquidated, including approximately $665 million tied to Bitcoin alone.
Adding to the uncertainty, new Federal Reserve Chairman Kevin Warsh abandoned the Fed’s previous practice of forward guidance, leaving markets highly sensitive to every inflation reading. Although the Federal Open Market Committee held rates steady during its June meeting, officials removed any indication that future rate cuts were still on the table.
ETF Outflows Become the Main Story
Beyond macroeconomic pressures, June’s most significant development unfolded inside the spot Bitcoin ETF market.
According to SoSoValue, U.S. spot Bitcoin ETFs recorded $4.06 billion in net outflows during June 2026 — the largest monthly redemption since the products launched in January 2024. The figure surpassed the prior record of $3.56 billion set in February 2025. In the final week of June alone, investors withdrew $1.79 billion. Combined with May’s $2.43 billion in outflows, ETF flows for the year have now turned negative overall.
BlackRock’s NASDAQ:IBIT accounted for the majority of the withdrawals, losing roughly $3.3 billion — about 75% of June’s total outflows. On June 26 alone, the fund saw $444.5 million redeemed in a single trading session, matching the combined outflows from every other spot Bitcoin ETF that day.
Meanwhile, Fidelity Investments’s NYSE:FBTC lost $456 million during the month, while Grayscale Investments’s NYSE:GBTC recorded $303 million in redemptions.
Overall, ETF issuers are estimated to have sold around 51,726 Bitcoin — worth approximately $5 billion — over a 30-day period as authorized participants liquidated holdings to satisfy redemption demand. Just months earlier, the iShares Bitcoin Trust had been the dominant source of inflows into the category. By late June, it had effectively become the market’s primary exit route.
Signs of Stabilization Remain
Despite the heavy losses, not every indicator points toward further downside.
On-chain data suggests long-term holders have continued accumulating Bitcoin near the $58,000 level. Geoff Kendrick of Standard Chartered has argued that the recent ETF outflows appear cyclical rather than structural. In addition, the Crypto Fear and Greed Index fell to 11 — firmly within “Extreme Fear” territory — a level that has historically aligned with market bottoms rather than the beginning of extended downturns.
Strategy, formerly known as MicroStrategy, still holds 847,363 Bitcoin and remains one of the largest corporate Bitcoin owners globally. However, the company’s disclosure that it sold 32 Bitcoin to fund dividend obligations — its first net sale in years — added another layer of uncertainty to an already fragile market environment.
Attention now shifts to July 29, when the Federal Open Market Committee meets again under Chairman Warsh. With CME FedWatch data implying more than a 37% probability of another rate hike by December, the market will likely scrutinize the tone of the meeting as closely as the decision itself.
June ultimately served as a reminder that while the ETF era opened Bitcoin to institutional capital, institutional investors can reverse course just as quickly.
Bitcoin Breaks Below $60,000 as Bearish Structure Deepens
Bitcoin has slipped below the $60,000 threshold, reinforcing a deterioration in near-term market structure. BTC traded around $60,128 on Monday, briefly touching $59,748—its weakest level since October 2024. The move caps a month-long decline that has fully unwound the spring rally.
June opened near $73,674 and briefly topped at $74,092 before reversing sharply to a monthly low of $58,115, ending the month down ~18.4%. The key issue is not just the break of $60,000, but the loss of trend integrity: short-term moving averages are rolling over, and dip-buying has largely faded.
Despite strength in broader equities—particularly the Nasdaq, driven by AI-related momentum and easing geopolitical concerns—Bitcoin has failed to participate.
This divergence suggests BTC is currently behaving less like a macro hedge and more like a high-beta liquidity-sensitive risk asset competing for speculative flows. Capital rotation appears to be favoring AI infrastructure, large-cap tech, and IPO narratives, draining marginal demand from crypto.
Above 100-month EMA: $40,322 (long-term trend still intact)
Price action confirms sustained downside pressure, with weekly losses near 4.5% and monthly drawdown ~18%, alongside declining trend structure across shorter timeframes.
The market remains technically weak, though still within a cyclical correction rather than a structural breakdown.
Institutional Flows: ETF Demand Reversal Becomes Central Risk
A major shift has emerged in institutional positioning:
~ $5.96B net outflows from US spot Bitcoin ETFs over the past 30 days
Including a peak monthly redemption of ~$2.43B
Multiple large single-day withdrawals ($400–500M+), including a $1.26B outlier
Roughly $3.4B exited in a single week at peak stress
Given ETFs have become a dominant marginal price driver, this reversal materially weakens demand elasticity. Brief inflow days have not yet signaled trend reversal.
Sustained inflows would be required to stabilize price action; continued outflows would reinforce downside momentum.
Corporate Demand Weakens: Strategy Flywheel Under Pressure
The corporate accumulation narrative is also deteriorating.
Strategy, the largest corporate Bitcoin holder (~847,000 BTC), is now under pressure as BTC trades below its average cost basis. Its equity drawdown has reduced its premium-to-NAV, weakening its ability to raise capital for further accumulation.
More importantly, the firm has expanded financial flexibility to include potential Bitcoin sales for liquidity and buybacks—marking a meaningful shift away from its previous purely accumulation-driven stance.
Even if accumulation continues, the reflexive “buy-the-premium” flywheel that previously amplified demand is clearly impaired.
Derivatives markets have undergone a sharp deleveraging:
Open interest down ~19%
Majority of liquidations from long positions
Multi-billion-dollar cascading liquidation events during breakdown
This reset improves structural stability but removes a key source of reflexive upside (forced shorts and leverage expansion). Recovery now depends on genuine spot demand rather than positioning-driven flows.
Technical Structure: Bearish Alignment Across Timeframes
Bitcoin’s technical setup is aligned bearish across multiple horizons.
Price remains below all major short- and medium-term moving averages, including:
20-month EMA: $79,979
50-month EMA: $65,631 (critical level)
A sustained reclaim of $65,631 would materially weaken the bearish structure. Until then, rallies are corrective within a broader downtrend.
Shorter-term indicators reinforce weakness:
50-day MA (~$70,238) trending lower and acting as resistance
200-day MA rolling over
Most intraday averages flattening or declining above price
Price is also compressing between roughly $59,000–$61,000, suggesting volatility expansion risk rather than immediate resolution.
Key Levels: Downside Risk Remains Active
Critical support: $58,115
Break would confirm continuation of downtrend
Downside targets:
$55,000: secondary structural support
$48,000: deeper cycle retracement zone
The rising 100-month EMA (~$40,322) defines the long-term structural floor, consistent with a cyclical correction rather than full regime failure.
As long as $58,115 holds, rebound scenarios remain valid—but fragile.
Upside Structure: Heavy Resistance Cluster
Key resistance levels:
$62,500: initial supply zone
$64,178–$67,180: dense resistance cluster
$65,631: 50-month EMA (key structural pivot)
A reclaim of $65,631 would be the first meaningful signal of structural repair and open a path toward $70,000. Failure to reclaim it keeps rallies within corrective territory.
Momentum & Sentiment: Oversold, Not Reversed
Momentum remains weak across timeframes:
RSI: deeply depressed, near oversold on daily
MACD: negative with no confirmed bullish crossover
Breadth: broadly bearish across indicators
Sentiment sits at “Extreme Fear” (~18 on Fear & Greed Index), historically consistent with late-stage stress but not a timing signal on its own.
The core tension remains unresolved: sentiment is washed out, but price has not confirmed reversal.
Bottom Line
Bitcoin is in a structurally corrective phase driven by three reinforcing forces:
Bitcoin remains under pressure near the $60,000 mark as weak buyer conviction, persistent selling activity, and cautious positioning in derivatives markets continue to cap recovery attempts.
Meanwhile, Strategy has approved a Bitcoin monetization program that permits the sale of up to $1.25 billion worth of BTC, aiming to enhance liquidity and strengthen its financial flexibility.
According to Bitget analyst Lacie Zhang, the initiative helps alleviate funding concerns but also signals a notable departure from Strategy’s longstanding approach of continuously accumulating Bitcoin.
Bitcoin hovers near $60K as weak demand caps recovery; Strategy approves BTC sales program
Bitcoin (BTC) traded around $60,000 on Monday, attempting to stabilize after last week’s sharp decline. Despite finding support near $58,000, the cryptocurrency has struggled to stage a convincing rebound, with analysts pointing to weak buyer conviction and a broadly defensive market environment.
According to Glassnode, Bitcoin remains stuck near recent lows as buyers have yet to show the confidence needed to drive a sustained recovery. While trading activity has increased, spot markets continue to record net selling pressure, suggesting liquidity is still being used for distribution rather than accumulation.
The cautious mood is also evident in derivatives markets, where traders are scaling back leverage and increasing downside protection. Elevated options skew indicates stronger demand for hedging against further losses, while institutional appetite remains subdued. US spot Bitcoin ETFs have slipped into aggregate unrealized losses and continue to experience net outflows, highlighting limited interest from large investors despite higher trading volumes.
Meanwhile, Strategy unveiled a new Digital Credit Capital Framework aimed at strengthening liquidity and supporting its preferred securities. The company reported a cash reserve of $2.55 billion as of June 28 and authorized a $1 billion repurchase program for its Digital Credit Securities.
As part of the initiative, Strategy’s board approved a Bitcoin monetization program that allows the sale of up to $1.25 billion worth of BTC. The proceeds may be used to bolster cash reserves, fund dividend and interest payments, and support share repurchase programs.
According to Bitget Wallet analyst Lacie Zhang, the move helps ease concerns over Strategy’s liquidity position but also represents a significant shift from the company’s longstanding Bitcoin accumulation strategy. She noted that expanding cash reserves to $2.55 billion extends the firm’s liquidity runway and could improve investor confidence, particularly among holders of its preferred securities.
Strategy currently holds approximately 847,000 BTC, and its MSTR shares rose 12.6% following the announcement, snapping a nine-session losing streak. At the time of writing, Bitcoin was trading near $60,450, up 1.6% over the previous 24 hours.
Bitcoin’s historically dependable four-year halving cycle indicates that the current bear market could persist through Q3 before a more sustainable bottom is established. But how do valuation metrics, central bank policy, liquidity growth, market sentiment, and institutional participation factor into the outlook?
Key Bitcoin Takeaways
The well-established four-year halving cycle points to continued downside pressure through Q3 before Bitcoin potentially forms a lasting market bottom.
Near-term momentum for Q3 still leans bearish, though the outlook for Q4 is becoming increasingly constructive as valuations remain relatively subdued and long-term holders continue to show resilience.
Long-term investors may still need to remain patient until price action provides clearer confirmation of a more bullish trend heading into the lead-up to the 2028 halving cycle.
Bitcoin H1 2026 Review
In our previous Bitcoin outlook, we noted that “Bitcoin remains in a downtrend from the October 2025 peak” and that “there is still no clear evidence the current decline has ended.” Despite several recovery attempts — including a rebound above $80K in mid-May — that assessment has largely held true. The main question facing crypto traders now is not whether the downtrend exists, but when and at what level it may finally bottom out.
Below, we revisit our quarterly outlook for the world’s largest cryptocurrency and examine the key fundamental and technical forces likely to influence Bitcoin over the months ahead.
Bitcoin Q3 2026 Outlook
From a broader market-cycle perspective, analysts continue to focus on Bitcoin’s historically reliable four-year cycle linked to the Bitcoin Halving. While past performance does not guarantee future results, the cycle has consistently helped identify major market tops and bottoms over time.
For newer market participants, the Bitcoin Halving refers to the event where mining rewards are reduced by half. This slows the pace of new Bitcoin issuance, tightening supply growth over time. Reduced supply inflation has historically strengthened Bitcoin’s scarcity narrative and increased its appeal among long-term investors. Following the April 2024 halving, Bitcoin’s annual supply growth rate fell below 1% — less than half the estimated annual supply growth of gold.
One of the most widely followed long-term cycle charts — sometimes nicknamed “The Only Bitcoin Chart You’ll Ever Need™” — illustrates how previous halvings often marked the shift from the yellow post-bottom recovery phase into the green full-scale bull market phase, eventually followed by the red bear-market reset phase as optimism fades and sentiment resets.
Projecting a similar cycle forward from the April 2024 halving suggests that Bitcoin likely peaked near the beginning of Q4 2025, with a more durable long-term bottom potentially not arriving until closer to the start of Q4 2026.
Beyond the four-year cycle, Bitcoin’s broader fundamental and technical outlook remains mixed, with several competing forces shaping the market environment.
From a macroeconomic standpoint, the monetary policy landscape appears to be shifting once again, as an increasing number of central banks lean toward higher interest rates while managing the ongoing effects of geopolitical disruptions. Although most global central banks have still been easing policy in recent months, the broader trend may be starting to reverse. Major institutions such as the European Central Bank, Bank of Japan, and Federal Reserve are all signaling a growing bias toward additional tightening, potentially pressuring other central banks around the world to follow suit.
Looking ahead, the growing focus on the risk of renewed inflation could become a meaningful headwind for Bitcoin during the second half of the year, particularly as governments around the world continue to maintain relatively accommodative fiscal policies.
At the same time, the expansion of fiat liquidity within the global financial system has moderated in recent months. The so-called “M2” money supply — a broad measure tracked by central banks that includes physical cash, checking deposits, savings accounts, and other short-term savings instruments such as certificates of deposit (CDs) — continues to increase overall, but at a slower pace. Year-over-year M2 growth has cooled to around 6%, down from levels near 12% seen earlier this year.
One of the core narratives underpinning Bitcoin’s long-term appeal is its role as “hard money” — a potential hedge against the debasement of fiat currencies. As long as the global money supply continues to expand over time, that narrative may continue to provide underlying support for Bitcoin prices.
Beyond the broader macro backdrop, another major driver of Bitcoin’s rise in recent years has been sustained accumulation from both large financial institutions and retail investors. Alongside the growing number of companies adding Bitcoin to their corporate treasuries, institutional participation through traditional finance channels has also expanded significantly. In particular, spot Bitcoin ETFs have attracted substantial demand from “TradFi” investors, with cumulative inflows approaching $53 billion. However, those inflows have largely plateaued since mid-2025, suggesting institutional momentum has slowed for now.
Broadly speaking, renewed buying activity in Bitcoin ETFs would likely provide support for the cryptocurrency, while a transition toward sustained outflows or coordinated selling could create additional downward pressure.
From a valuation standpoint, one closely watched indicator is the MVRV (Market Value to Realized Value) Z-score, which compares Bitcoin’s current market price with the average price at which coins last moved on-chain. The metric has now declined to around 0.3 — much closer to the historical bear-market bottom zone near 0.0 than the overheated peak above 3.0 seen earlier in the cycle. This suggests that Bitcoin’s valuation has become significantly less stretched, even if broader market conditions remain uncertain.
In another sign that Bitcoin is gradually maturing as an investment vehicle — and arguably emerging as a distinct asset class — this valuation metric has become noticeably less volatile over time. For example, the latest cycle peak failed to rise above 4, well below the extreme readings between 7 and 10 seen in prior cycles. As a result, the indicator may also avoid falling as deeply below zero as previous bear-market bottoms in the -0.3 to -0.6 range would imply. Whether the MVRV Z-score continues to serve as a reliable long-term valuation gauge remains to be seen.
Another important factor to monitor is the behavior of long-term holders. As highlighted in previous outlooks, investors who have held Bitcoin for more than a year are generally not seeking short-term profits. Instead, they tend to be committed long-term participants — often referred to as “HODLers” — who are less likely to sell unless they are sitting on exceptionally large gains.
As the chart below illustrates, the share of Bitcoin held for at least one year has declined from record highs above 70% to below 59%. However, the metric now appears to be stabilizing and gradually trending higher again as long-term holders continue to withstand the worst phase of the bear market. Because this indicator naturally evolves slowly, it may not shift dramatically in the near term. Still, any renewed wave of selling from longer-term holders could counterbalance ETF inflows during the second half of the year.
Taking all of these factors into account, the near-term outlook for Bitcoin in Q3 remains tilted to the downside. Growth in global money supply and Bitcoin ETF inflows has slowed, central banks are increasingly adopting a more hawkish stance, and the historically reliable four-year cycle continues to point toward additional short-term weakness.
That said, the outlook for Q4 is beginning to appear more constructive. Valuation metrics have cooled considerably, long-term holders continue to show resilience, and the four-year cycle itself is approaching what could become a major cyclical bottom.
Naturally, the scenarios outlined in this report may not unfold exactly as expected — and in some cases, the market may have already priced in these risks and opportunities. As always, traders and investors should approach Bitcoin and other crypto assets with caution while closely monitoring both macroeconomic conditions and crypto-specific indicators as the year progresses.
Bitcoin Technical Analysis
Looking at the longer-term chart, Bitcoin remains firmly in a downtrend from the October 2025 peak. Since topping out, the cryptocurrency has continued to form a pattern of lower highs and lower lows, interrupted only by periodic consolidation phases and short-lived relief rallies.
As we highlighted three months ago, there is still little technical evidence suggesting that the broader downtrend has ended. If Bitcoin breaks below the year-to-date lows around $60K, the next major support zone begins in the mid-$50K area. Such a move would imply an approximate 60% decline from the cycle peak, consistent with the pattern of progressively smaller bear-market drawdowns seen as Bitcoin has matured over time — roughly -93%, -86%, -84%, and -78% during the 2011, 2014, 2018, and 2022 bear markets, respectively.
On the upside, bulls would likely need to reclaim former support-turned-resistance near the $66K region before confidence in a longer-term trend reversal can improve meaningfully. Beyond that, the May high near $83K remains the next major hurdle. Until those levels are decisively broken, long-term investors may continue to benefit from patience while waiting for clearer confirmation of a more sustainable bullish trend heading into the 2028 halving cycle.
Bitcoin briefly dropped to $58,000 as growing macro uncertainty and leveraged liquidations fueled heavy market selling pressure.
The cost basis of short-term holders continued to deteriorate, pointing to weakening speculative demand for Bitcoin.
Meanwhile, weakness in Strategy’s preferred stock, STRC, may limit the company’s ability to fund additional Bitcoin purchases if capital market conditions worsen.
Bitcoin briefly slid toward the $58,000 mark on Thursday as growing macroeconomic uncertainty, weakening confidence among short-term investors and heavy liquidations intensified selling pressure across the crypto market.
The downturn coincided with a sharp reversal in US equities that wiped nearly $1 trillion from the S&P 500, while Bitcoin touched the $58,000 level for the first time in 21 months.
Short-term holder sentiment continues to deteriorate
According to CryptoQuant, speculative demand in the market continues to weaken, with the Short-Term Holder (STH) Realized Price Year-on-Year Momentum falling further into negative territory.
The indicator has dropped from roughly -2.4% in mid-March to around -24% as of Tuesday, signaling that recent investors are buying Bitcoin at much lower price levels than they were a year ago.
CryptoQuant said the persistent decline points to fading participation from short-term traders, though the current reading remains less extreme than during previous bear-market reset phases, when the metric typically plunged between -55% and -65%.
“These levels coincided with periods of severe short-term holder cost-basis reset, after which market conditions eventually improved,” CryptoQuant analyst Zizcrypto noted.
The firm added that although Bitcoin’s price may recover before the indicator turns positive again, there is still little evidence of a sustained rebound in short-term holder conviction.
The weak on-chain environment unfolded alongside a steep sell-off in traditional financial markets. The Kobeissi Letter linked the declines to renewed inflation fears and rising concerns over the escalating costs tied to artificial intelligence infrastructure.
Markets initially overlooked US Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) data showing inflation accelerated to 4.1% in May, its highest level since April 2023. However, sentiment deteriorated rapidly after Apple shares fell nearly 6% following the company’s announcement of higher product prices.
The broader risk-off mood spilled into crypto markets, where nearly $500 million worth of leveraged Bitcoin long positions were liquidated within about an hour, accelerating BTC’s drop toward $58,000.
STRC weakness clouds Strategy’s Bitcoin accumulation outlook
Meanwhile, Arkham Intelligence said growing concerns around Strategy’s STRC perpetual preferred shares added fresh uncertainty for Bitcoin investors.
The firm noted that STRC’s roughly 25% decline below its $100 par value reflects investor worries about Strategy’s ability to maintain its $1.2 billion annual dividend payments, rather than fears of an imminent collapse.
Unlike Terra’s algorithmic stablecoin model, STRC does not include a forced liquidation mechanism or mandatory dividend structure that could trigger a death spiral.
Still, Arkham warned that prolonged weakness in the preferred shares may make future fundraising more difficult, potentially slowing Strategy’s long-term Bitcoin accumulation plans if investor appetite continues to fade.
At the time of writing, Bitcoin was trading near $59,770, down almost 2% over the past 24 hours.
The wave of selling that began in Seoul and swept through the semiconductor sector quickly extended beyond equities and into cryptocurrencies. Bitcoin (BTC-USD) fell to around $62,300, losing roughly 3% on the day after slipping below the $63,000 level as a broad risk-off mood pushed high-growth and high-volatility assets lower across the board. The decline was not driven by any crypto-specific catalyst—there were no exchange failures, protocol issues, or regulatory shocks. Instead, Bitcoin once again behaved as it has for much of the year, trading closely alongside the AI and technology sectors and weakening when those areas came under pressure.
That relationship has become a defining feature of the market. Once promoted as a form of digital gold and a hedge against traditional assets, Bitcoin has instead moved largely in tandem with risk assets throughout 2026. The cryptocurrency remains about 50% below its October 2025 peak near $126,200, with its decline mirroring the same concerns over interest rates, tightening liquidity conditions, and growing doubts surrounding AI-driven valuations that have weighed on the Nasdaq. When South Korea’s Kospi plunged 10% amid a memory-chip selloff and technology stocks came under pressure globally, Bitcoin followed the same downward path. Even though gold, a traditional safe-haven asset, also weakened, Bitcoin experienced a steeper drop because of its higher-risk profile.
The key focus is not the 3% decline itself, but where it leaves the price. Bitcoin is now testing the critical $62,500–$60,000 support zone that traders have been monitoring for weeks as the final major floor before a potentially deeper downturn. A decisive break below this range could signal substantially greater downside risk, while a successful defense would suggest the move is simply another sharp selloff within a broader consolidation phase. For now, the market’s next direction hinges on how Bitcoin reacts at this pivotal level.
Bitcoin’s Technical Position
Bitcoin is trading near $62,300, down roughly 3% on the day and more than 3% over the past week. The decline has pushed BTC below the $64,000 support area and under the psychologically important $63,000 level, both of which had recently provided a short-term floor. From its October 2025 record high near $126,200, Bitcoin has now lost approximately half of its value, leaving the February 2026 low around $60,062 as the next critical support level directly beneath current prices.
The broader trend has been characterized by a gradual decline interrupted by periodic sharp selloffs. Throughout the year, Bitcoin surrendered the $90,000, $80,000, and $70,000 thresholds before finding temporary stability in the $64,000–$66,000 range. That support zone has since failed, leaving the $62,500–$60,000 region as the final major cushion before the key $60,000 psychological mark. A decisive break below that area would significantly weaken the chart structure and expose the market to deeper downside risks.
Market volatility has increased alongside the recent equity-market correction. As is often the case during risk-off periods, alternative cryptocurrencies have suffered larger losses than Bitcoin. Although BTC has held up somewhat better than major rivals such as Ethereum and Solana, that relative strength offers limited reassurance while prices remain under pressure and support levels continue to be tested.
The Correlation Driving Bitcoin in 2026
The defining characteristic of Bitcoin in 2026 has been its growing sensitivity to broader risk sentiment, particularly within the technology and AI sectors. Today’s price action reinforced that relationship. A selloff in leading AI and semiconductor stocks triggered sharp declines across Asian equity markets, with weakness spreading from Seoul into Tokyo, Hong Kong, Europe, and the United States. Bitcoin fell alongside those markets, reflecting the fact that the same capital flows fueling AI-related investments have also been supporting crypto assets. When investors reduce risk exposure, both sectors tend to come under pressure simultaneously.
This marks a significant departure from Bitcoin’s original investment narrative as an uncorrelated asset or “digital gold.” While there have been periods since late 2025 when Bitcoin diverged from the Nasdaq, that divergence has often been unfavorable—underperforming during portions of technology rallies while still participating in equity-market declines. As a result, Bitcoin has increasingly behaved like a high-beta liquidity asset: among the first positions investors sell when reducing risk and among the last to recover when confidence returns.
Consequently, Bitcoin’s near-term outlook appears more dependent on macroeconomic forces than on crypto-specific developments. Factors such as Federal Reserve policy expectations, liquidity conditions, and sentiment toward AI and technology stocks are currently exerting greater influence on price action than blockchain adoption trends or traditional crypto cycle narratives. As long as risk appetite remains constrained and technology markets face headwinds, Bitcoin is likely to remain under pressure. A more durable recovery may require stabilization in broader financial markets before meaningful buying interest returns to the cryptocurrency sector.
The $62,500–$60,000 Zone Is Bitcoin’s Critical Line of Defense
From a technical perspective, nearly every major chart signal points to the same conclusion: the $62,500–$60,000 support region is now the most important battleground for Bitcoin. After the breakdown of the $66,000–$65,000 support area, BTC has fallen directly into this final major demand zone. Whether the current correction stabilizes or evolves into a deeper bearish phase will likely depend on how price behaves here. Liquidity is concentrated around $60,000 on the downside and roughly $68,400 on the upside, creating a clearly defined range. Holding above $60,000 preserves the broader consolidation structure, while a decisive break could expose a much larger downside vacuum.
The bearish case remains technically credible. A breakdown from a weekly bearish-flag formation projects a potential measured-move target near $52,000. Although that objective has not yet been confirmed, it remains a valid risk scenario while prices trade beneath key resistance levels. Below $60,000, market participants are increasingly focused on the $50,000 area as the next major support reference. Prediction markets and sentiment indicators have also reflected growing expectations that Bitcoin could revisit sub-$50,000 levels later in the year if macroeconomic conditions continue to deteriorate. While such outcomes are far from guaranteed, they represent the downside roadmap traders may follow if current support fails.
The significance of $60,000 extends beyond technical analysis alone. It served as the floor during the February 2026 selloff, when Bitcoin briefly touched approximately $60,062 before rebounding. Since then, the level has repeatedly acted as the psychological anchor of the correction. A sustained move below it would establish a new low for 2026 and signal that buyers have lost control of one of the market’s most closely watched support zones. Such a breakdown could trigger additional liquidation and capitulation from investors who have defended the area throughout the year. For that reason, the $62,500–$60,000 range is not merely another support level—it is arguably the last major support level that currently matters.
Moving Averages Continue to Cap Any Recovery Attempt
Bitcoin’s inability to generate a meaningful recovery is also reflected in its moving-average structure. The 50-day simple moving average sits near $72,450, while the 200-day simple moving average remains even higher around $76,911. Both trend indicators are well above current prices and have repeatedly acted as barriers to upside momentum. When price trades significantly below both medium- and long-term moving averages, rallies often encounter persistent selling pressure from investors looking to exit positions at more favorable levels.
Before Bitcoin can challenge those longer-term trend lines, it must first reclaim lower resistance zones. The $66,000–$68,000 region represents the initial hurdle and would need to be recovered to neutralize the immediate bearish structure. Beyond that, a move through $70,000–$71,000 would reopen the path toward the broader $76,000–$80,000 resistance area. Given Bitcoin’s current position near $62,300, such a recovery would require a significant improvement in market sentiment, potentially driven by softer inflation data, a more accommodative stance from the Federal Reserve, or renewed institutional demand.
Until such catalysts emerge, the technical picture remains tilted to the downside. The prevailing moving-average structure continues to reinforce bearish momentum, and many quantitative and algorithmic models still classify Bitcoin’s trend as negative. In practical terms, the market remains in a downtrend unless buyers can reclaim key resistance levels. At present, bulls are focused on defending support rather than launching a meaningful advance, leaving the burden of proof firmly on the upside.
ETF Outflows Continue to Pressure Bitcoin
One of the biggest headwinds for Bitcoin remains the persistent wave of capital leaving U.S. spot Bitcoin ETFs. The institutional demand that was expected to provide a long-term support base has instead become a source of selling pressure. During the first 18 trading days of June, spot Bitcoin ETFs recorded approximately $2.27 billion in net outflows, extending a broader withdrawal trend that had already removed roughly $4.4 billion over a 13-day stretch spanning late May and early June. These redemptions create direct selling pressure because ETF issuers must liquidate underlying Bitcoin holdings to meet investor withdrawals.
A significant portion of the recent outflows has been concentrated in iShares Bitcoin Trust (IBIT). The fund became the dominant vehicle for institutional Bitcoin exposure after attracting the majority of industry inflows thanks to the distribution network and market presence of BlackRock. During periods of strong demand, IBIT accounted for a substantial share of total ETF inflows. However, that same concentration now magnifies the impact of withdrawals. When IBIT experiences significant redemptions, the entire ETF sector often posts negative flow figures, making the fund a critical indicator of institutional sentiment.
As a result, investors are paying close attention to IBIT’s daily flow data rather than simply monitoring industry-wide totals. A sustained return of inflows exceeding $100 million per day would likely signal renewed institutional conviction. By contrast, small positive flow readings during periods of market weakness may reflect tactical positioning rather than meaningful demand. Until consistent inflows return, the ETF market is acting more as a source of supply than a source of support for Bitcoin prices.
There is, however, a notable development on the product side. BlackRock recently expanded its digital-asset offering with the launch of a new income-oriented Bitcoin ETF structure designed to appeal to yield-focused investors. While this demonstrates continued innovation and institutional interest in crypto-related investment products, expanding product offerings alone does not offset ongoing redemptions from existing spot Bitcoin ETFs. At present, the impact of outflows remains the dominant factor.
Leverage Remains a Major Vulnerability
Beyond ETF-related selling, Bitcoin continues to face risks associated with excessive leverage. Many of the sharpest declines throughout 2026 have followed a familiar pattern: a key technical support level breaks, leveraged long positions are liquidated, and the resulting forced selling pushes prices even lower, triggering additional liquidations in a self-reinforcing cycle.
This dynamic has been particularly evident during major selloffs, where liquidations have overwhelmingly affected bullish traders. When large numbers of leveraged long positions are forced to close, market declines can accelerate rapidly as selling pressure becomes disconnected from underlying fundamentals. The result is often a cascade that drives prices far beyond what spot-market activity alone would justify.
At the same time, heavy long-liquidation events can eventually create the conditions for stabilization. Historically, periods of aggressive deleveraging have sometimes marked local market bottoms because they remove speculative excess and reduce systemic risk. Once weaker leveraged participants have been forced out, the market can rebuild on a healthier foundation with less vulnerability to liquidation-driven declines.
For now, however, leverage remains more of a threat than a benefit. With Bitcoin trading near the crucial $62,500–$60,000 support zone, any decisive breakdown could trigger another round of forced selling. The liquidation mechanism that ultimately helps cleanse the market can also intensify downside volatility in the short term. While a completed deleveraging cycle may eventually lay the groundwork for a stronger recovery, the process itself can be painful, and there is no guarantee that the $60,000 support level survives before that reset is complete.
Market Sentiment Remains Deeply Bearish
Investor psychology currently reflects the weakness visible in Bitcoin’s price action. The widely followed Crypto Fear & Greed Index has remained near the 20–23 range, firmly within “Extreme Fear” territory. Such readings indicate that market participants are more concerned about preserving capital than chasing upside opportunities. Historically, extreme fear has often appeared near important market lows, but it can also characterize prolonged bearish periods where confidence remains absent and negative news triggers disproportionate selling pressure.
Prediction markets reinforce this cautious outlook. Traders are assigning a high probability to Bitcoin revisiting levels below $60,000 during 2026, while expectations for a return to six-figure prices have fallen substantially compared with earlier in the year. Confidence in Bitcoin reaching a new all-time high before year-end has also diminished sharply. Together, these forecasts suggest that market participants currently view downside risks as more likely than a rapid recovery.
Ironically, such pessimism can sometimes become a bullish signal. When sentiment becomes overwhelmingly negative, much of the bad news may already be reflected in prices. Combined with ongoing deleveraging and reduced speculative positioning, the conditions for a sharp relief rally can begin to emerge. However, extreme fear alone is rarely enough to reverse a trend. Markets typically require a catalyst capable of shifting expectations before a sustainable recovery can take hold.
Federal Reserve Policy Remains the Dominant Macro Driver
At present, the most influential factor affecting Bitcoin is not blockchain activity or crypto-specific developments, but monetary policy. Investors continue to focus on the actions of the U.S. Federal Reserve, whose policy stance has remained restrictive. Elevated interest rates increase the attractiveness of cash and fixed-income investments while reducing demand for non-yielding assets such as Bitcoin.
This relationship has been a defining theme throughout 2026. Bitcoin tends to perform best when liquidity is abundant and financial conditions are accommodative. Conversely, higher interest rates and tighter monetary policy often weigh on speculative assets by increasing financing costs and reducing overall risk appetite. Persistent inflation pressures and expectations that policymakers may maintain a restrictive stance have therefore created a challenging environment for cryptocurrencies.
The next major catalyst for markets is the release of U.S. Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) inflation data, the Federal Reserve’s preferred measure of inflation, alongside updated GDP figures. These reports could have significant implications for interest-rate expectations.
A stronger-than-expected inflation reading would reinforce concerns that policymakers may need to keep rates elevated for longer or even consider additional tightening. Such an outcome could strengthen the U.S. dollar, push bond yields higher, and increase pressure on Bitcoin as it tests critical support levels.
A softer inflation reading could ease concerns about further tightening, improve liquidity expectations, and provide risk assets with a potential catalyst for recovery. In that scenario, Bitcoin could attempt to reclaim resistance levels around $66,000 and stabilize above its current support zone.
Why the Next Few Days Matter
The convergence of several factors makes the current period particularly important for Bitcoin:
Price is sitting directly on the critical $62,500–$60,000 support area.
ETF outflows continue to create selling pressure.
Market sentiment remains entrenched in extreme fear.
Macro expectations are heavily dependent on incoming inflation data.
Taken together, these conditions suggest that Bitcoin is approaching an inflection point. If inflation data supports a more accommodative outlook and risk appetite improves, the combination of extreme pessimism and reduced leverage could fuel a meaningful rebound. Conversely, if inflation remains stubborn and rate-hike expectations strengthen, pressure on the $60,000 support zone could intensify, increasing the risk of a deeper decline toward lower technical targets.
For now, the market’s focus is less on crypto fundamentals and more on the broader macroeconomic environment. The fate of Bitcoin’s most important support level may ultimately depend on how investors interpret the next round of economic data.
The Iran Peace Dividend Failed to Gain Traction
A potential bullish catalyst emerged with the recent U.S.–Iran diplomatic breakthrough, but its positive impact on Bitcoin proved short-lived. The agreement signed in Switzerland on June 19, which included a halt to military operations and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, reduced geopolitical tensions that had unsettled markets throughout the spring. In the immediate aftermath, risk assets responded positively, and Bitcoin rebounded from levels near $59,000 as investors welcomed the easing of conflict-related uncertainty.
However, the relief rally quickly lost momentum. The reduction in geopolitical risk was overshadowed by more powerful macroeconomic concerns, particularly growing anxiety surrounding AI-sector valuations and expectations that the Federal Reserve may maintain a restrictive policy stance. While lower oil prices resulting from improved Middle East stability could eventually contribute to lower inflation and a more favorable interest-rate environment, those benefits are likely to materialize gradually. In contrast, the negative effects of tightening financial conditions and weakening risk appetite have had a much more immediate influence on markets.
Adding to the uncertainty is the fact that the agreement remains a framework rather than a fully implemented settlement. Disagreements over inspection procedures and implementation timelines have raised questions about how durable the arrangement will be. Any deterioration in negotiations could quickly reintroduce geopolitical risk into energy markets and broader financial assets.
The broader lesson for Bitcoin is that positive geopolitical developments alone are currently insufficient to drive a sustained recovery. At present, macroeconomic factors—particularly monetary policy expectations and technology-sector sentiment—remain far more influential than geopolitical headlines.
Alternative Cryptocurrencies Are Under Even Greater Pressure
While Bitcoin’s decline has attracted attention, the weakness across the broader cryptocurrency market has been even more severe. Major alternative cryptocurrencies have suffered larger losses, highlighting the risk-off environment currently dominating digital assets.
Ethereum has fallen more sharply than Bitcoin, dropping below key psychological support levels and extending a prolonged period of underperformance.
Solana has experienced some of the steepest losses among large-cap cryptocurrencies, reflecting its higher sensitivity to shifts in investor risk appetite.
XRP has shown relatively greater resilience but remains firmly in negative territory.
This pattern is typical of broad liquidity-driven selloffs. When investors reduce exposure to risk assets, capital tends to leave the most speculative segments first. As a result, alternative cryptocurrencies generally experience larger percentage declines than Bitcoin. The stronger relative performance of BTC is therefore less a sign of strength and more a reflection of its position as the most established and liquid asset within the crypto ecosystem.
What Altcoin Weakness Says About Bitcoin
The widespread decline across digital assets suggests that the current downturn is not driven by a problem unique to Bitcoin. Instead, it reflects a broader repricing of risk throughout the cryptocurrency market.
In some respects, that is mildly encouraging for Bitcoin because it indicates that the asset itself is not facing a specific structural issue. There has been no major protocol failure, regulatory shock, or Bitcoin-specific crisis driving the selloff. Rather, the entire crypto sector is responding to the same combination of tighter liquidity, weaker investor sentiment, ETF outflows, and macroeconomic uncertainty.
However, this also means Bitcoin is unlikely to stage a sustainable recovery in isolation. Historically, durable crypto bull markets require improving sentiment across the broader digital-asset landscape. As long as major altcoins continue to weaken and investors remain reluctant to take risk, Bitcoin’s upside potential may remain constrained.
The Bottom Line
Bitcoin currently sits at the intersection of several bearish forces:
Critical support near $60,000 is being tested.
ETF outflows continue to create selling pressure.
Leverage remains vulnerable to liquidation cascades.
Market sentiment is entrenched in extreme fear.
The Federal Reserve’s policy outlook remains restrictive.
Broader crypto markets continue to deteriorate.
Against that backdrop, positive developments such as easing geopolitical tensions have struggled to generate lasting momentum. For now, the market’s focus remains squarely on liquidity conditions, interest-rate expectations, and risk appetite. Until those factors improve, Bitcoin’s ability to sustain a meaningful recovery is likely to remain limited, regardless of isolated bullish headlines elsewhere.
The Structural Bid Beneath the Surface
Despite the heavy price pressure and persistent outflows in spot ETFs, there is an important countertrend emerging in the underlying on-chain data. While short-term flows have been dominated by ETF redemptions and leveraged positioning unwinds, long-term holder behavior has remained notably more constructive. In fact, during the same mid-2026 period when ETF products saw sustained outflows, long-term holder supply dynamics indicated net accumulation on a significantly larger scale. This divergence highlights a growing split between short-term speculative capital exiting the market and longer-horizon participants continuing to build exposure.
The contrast between these two flows is central to understanding the current phase of the cycle. ETF activity reflects relatively reactive, liquidity-driven capital—money that responds quickly to price declines, macro uncertainty, and risk-off conditions. By contrast, long-term holders tend to represent conviction-driven capital that is less sensitive to short-term volatility. The fact that these holders have continued to accumulate while ETF investors have been net sellers suggests that the current downturn may be more cyclical in nature rather than a structural rejection of Bitcoin as an asset.
Valuation Anchors and the Cyclical Debate
On-chain valuation metrics add further context to this debate. Bitcoin’s realized price, often used as a proxy for the aggregate cost basis of the network, is currently estimated around $54,000. Historically, bear market troughs have tended to form near or slightly below this level, with some prior cycles extending approximately 15–25% beneath realized price. That framework would imply a theoretical lower bound in the low-$40,000 range, though it is not a forecast—rather, it defines the historical range of downside observed in past cycles.
Importantly, trading above realized price suggests the market is not in a deep capitulation regime typical of major cycle lows. At current levels near $62,000, Bitcoin remains above this long-term valuation anchor, indicating that while sentiment is weak, the structural pricing framework is not yet consistent with extreme undervaluation.
This is why many on-chain analysts frame the current environment as a redistribution phase rather than a full structural breakdown. ETF outflows and short-term selling are viewed as cyclical positioning adjustments—profit-taking, deleveraging, and macro-driven risk reduction—rather than a wholesale exit of long-term capital from the asset class.
The Bull Case: Conviction Accumulation
From a bullish perspective, the key argument is that the market is undergoing a transfer of supply from weaker hands to stronger ones. Short-term participants, including ETF investors reacting to volatility and macro uncertainty, are supplying liquidity to long-term holders who are gradually increasing exposure. If sustained, this dynamic typically leads to a stronger foundation for future price appreciation once selling pressure exhausts itself.
In this view, the current drawdown functions as a reset mechanism: it flushes excess leverage, cools speculative excess, and redistributes coins into more stable hands. That process has historically preceded major recovery phases in previous Bitcoin cycles, where prolonged accumulation during periods of fear eventually gave way to renewed upward trends.
The Bear Case: Support Without Resolution
The counterargument is equally straightforward. Long-term holder accumulation has been present throughout much of Bitcoin’s decline from its prior peak near $126,000, yet it has not been sufficient to prevent lower highs and lower lows. Each stage of the downturn has featured some degree of accumulation behavior, but price has continued to trend downward regardless.
Moreover, while realized price provides a reference point, it does not function as a hard floor. Past cycles have indeed traded below it, sometimes meaningfully, before finding durable bottoms. That leaves open the possibility that further downside remains available if macro conditions worsen or if forced selling intensifies again.
The Core Tension in the Market
The current phase of Bitcoin can therefore be summarized as a tension between two competing forces:
Long-term structural support: ongoing accumulation by conviction holders and historically favorable on-chain valuation positioning.
At present, neither side has fully resolved the balance. The structural bid from long-term holders is real and meaningful, but it has not yet been strong enough to overpower cyclical selling pressure. Until that balance shifts decisively—either through exhaustion of sellers or a macro catalyst that restores risk appetite—the market remains in a contested state rather than a confirmed bottoming phase.
Bitcoin trades slightly above $64,000 on Tuesday after falling around 4% last week.
Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs saw outflows of $226 million and $10 million last week, marking a sixth straight week of withdrawals.
Meanwhile, DeXe and Celestia continue to post gains despite weakness across the broader crypto market.
Bitcoin (BTC) trades above $64,000 on Tuesday, remaining stable after a nearly 4% decline last week. Recent data indicates institutional outflows are slowing, pointing to potential broader market recovery, while DeXe (DEXE) and Celestia (TIA) have led gains over the past 24 hours.
Bitcoin maintains a modest rebound as ETF outflows ease.
Bitcoin-focused Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) saw more than $1 billion in outflows for four straight weeks during May and early June. However, institutional selling pressure has recently eased, with outflows slowing to $226 million last week after $315 million the week before.
Ethereum (ETH)-focused ETFs have also posted six consecutive weeks of outflows, totaling $10.05 million last week following $14.91 million in the previous week.
Bitcoin continues to show a mixed short-term outlook. The price remains below both the 50-day and 200-day Exponential Moving Averages (EMAs), currently near $68,889 and $78,623, respectively, though it is still holding above a short-term ascending support trendline.
Technical indicators also present a mixed picture on the daily chart. The Moving Average Convergence Divergence (MACD) remains positive with rising average lines, signaling some bullish momentum, while the Relative Strength Index (RSI) stays below neutral near 41, indicating that upward moves may still face selling pressure.
On the upside, the first key resistance level lies around the 50-day EMA near $68,889, followed by the reclaimed bearish trendline near $73,439. The 200-day EMA around $78,623 stands as a more significant longer-term resistance level.
On the downside, immediate support is located near the recent ascending trendline around $63,341. A stronger decline could shift attention toward the major psychological and structural support zone at $60,000, where buyers previously stepped in to defend the broader bullish trend.
DeXe and Celestia continue to regain bullish momentum.
DeXe (DEXE) surged more than 18% on Tuesday after rallying 32% the previous day. The token remains firmly above both the 50-day EMA near $16.13 and the 200-day EMA around $10.67, while moving closer to the June 3 peak at $24.49.
Technical indicators suggest strengthening momentum without signaling overbought conditions. The RSI is hovering near 60, while the MACD line is climbing toward a potential bullish crossover with its signal line, indicating that bullish momentum remains intact but may be moderating.
On the upside, key resistance is located near the Fibonacci level at $24.49. A decisive breakout above this zone could pave the way toward new cycle highs, with the 127.2% and 161.8% Fibonacci extension levels at $31.40 and $43.08 acting as the next major resistance targets.
On the downside, immediate support is seen at the 78.6% Fibonacci retracement near $20.14, followed by the 50% retracement level around $15.50.
Meanwhile, Celestia (TIA) gained more than 3% on Tuesday, building on the previous day’s 5% rebound from the 50-day EMA near $0.3738. Momentum has improved as the RSI climbs toward 56, while both the MACD and signal line have moved into positive territory, suggesting buyers continue to maintain short-term control as long as price holds above the 50-day EMA.
On the upside, initial resistance is located at the 50% retracement level of the decline from $0.6257 to $0.2693, near $0.4104. Stronger resistance is then seen between $0.4596 and $0.4722.
On the downside, immediate support remains near the 50-day EMA at $0.3738. A break below this level could expose the 23.6% retracement at $0.3285, while a deeper decline toward the $0.2693 swing low would weaken the improving bullish outlook.
The US dollar strengthened against the Japanese yen for most of the week, extending the broader bullish trend that has dominated the pair in recent months. As long as this momentum remains intact, traders are likely to view pullbacks as buying opportunities rather than signs of a reversal.
The ¥160 level may provide initial support in the near term. If the pair falls below that threshold, additional support could emerge around ¥158, where buyers may step in once again.
Bitcoin
Bitcoin moved lower during the week, but the cryptocurrency continues to find support around the key $60,000 level. This area remains an important technical floor for the market, and traders will be closely watching whether buyers can defend it in the coming sessions.
A decisive break below $60,000 could trigger additional selling pressure, potentially opening the door for a decline toward the $50,000 level, which represents the next major support zone.
AUD/USD
The Australian dollar attempted to move higher during the week but struggled to maintain its gains, with the market retreating and signaling a degree of underlying weakness. Despite the pullback, the pair remains confined within a well-defined trading range.
The 0.6950 level continues to serve as a key support zone, while 0.7150 remains a significant resistance area. As long as these boundaries hold, AUD/USD is likely to remain range-bound, with traders looking for opportunities at the extremes of the range.
USD/MXN
The US dollar advanced against the Mexican peso during the week, but the pair continues to encounter strong resistance around the 17.50 level. This area has repeatedly attracted selling interest and remains a key barrier for further upside momentum.
A sustained break above 17.50 could signal a shift in market sentiment and pave the way for a move toward the 18.00 peso level, which would become the next major upside target.
USD/CAD
The US dollar strengthened significantly against the Canadian dollar during the week, supported by growing concerns that the Canadian economy is losing momentum. Signs of slowing economic activity and increasing recession risks have weighed on the Canadian dollar, helping to drive USD/CAD higher.
As economic conditions in Canada remain challenging, the US dollar could continue to benefit from its relative strength, particularly if investors favor safer and higher-yielding assets.
Nasdaq 100
The Nasdaq 100 posted solid gains over the course of the week, reflecting the strong bullish sentiment that continues to support the technology-heavy index. Although the market opened with a gap higher on Monday, prices later pulled back to fill that gap before resuming their upward trajectory.
The successful rebound following the gap fill suggests that buyers remain firmly in control, reinforcing the positive outlook for the index.
Gold
Gold spent most of the week under pressure, although the broader market remained relatively stable as prices continued to hold above the critical $4,000 support level. This area has become a key battleground between buyers and sellers and is likely to determine the next major directional move.
A sustained break below $4,000 could signal a significant shift in market sentiment and potentially mark the beginning of a new bearish phase. For now, however, buyers appear willing to defend this important support zone.
Silver
Silver continued to trade in a volatile and directionless manner during the week, with prices hovering around the 50-week Exponential Moving Average (EMA). Similar to gold, the metal appears to be stuck in a broad consolidation phase, lacking the momentum needed to establish a sustained trend.
The market is currently positioned between two major technical levels: $60 on the downside and $70 on the upside. These boundaries have become the primary areas to watch for the next significant breakout.
Bitcoin Slides Below $63K as Hawkish Fed Crushes Rate-Cut Hopes and ETF Demand
The cryptocurrency market has received a stark reality check. For months, investors had pinned their hopes on the prospect of Federal Reserve rate cuts, expecting looser monetary policy to fuel another leg higher in Bitcoin (BTC). Those expectations helped support bullish sentiment earlier this week, with traders anticipating further gains if policymakers signaled a more accommodative stance.
Instead, the Federal Reserve delivered the opposite message. Under the leadership of Chair Kevin Warsh, the central bank left interest rates unchanged while adopting a distinctly hawkish tone. The decision has sent shockwaves through both traditional financial markets and digital assets, weighing heavily on institutional demand and pushing Bitcoin below the $63,000 level.
The shift stems not from the rate decision itself, but from the Fed’s outlook. Warsh abandoned the central bank’s traditional forward-guidance approach and issued a shorter policy statement, signaling greater uncertainty about future policy moves. More importantly, half of the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) now expects at least one additional rate increase before year-end.
Markets have rapidly adjusted to the new reality, with traders assigning a roughly 90% probability to another rate hike. The repricing has effectively erased expectations of imminent monetary easing, reinforcing the view that borrowing costs will remain elevated for longer. As hopes for cheaper liquidity fade, risk-sensitive assets such as Bitcoin have come under renewed pressure.
The hawkish policy outlook has also dampened enthusiasm for spot Bitcoin ETFs, which had previously benefited from expectations of lower interest rates and stronger capital inflows. With investors reassessing the macroeconomic landscape, institutional demand has weakened, adding another headwind for the world’s largest cryptocurrency.
ETF Outflows Accelerate as Institutions Retreat, but Bitcoin Whales Buy the Dip
Institutional investors have responded swiftly to the Federal Reserve’s hawkish shift by reducing their exposure to cryptocurrency investment products. The brief optimism that supported markets earlier in the week has largely disappeared, triggering renewed selling pressure across digital assets.
Spot Bitcoin ETFs recorded net outflows of $82.2 million in a single session, according to CoinGlass data. The withdrawals highlight growing caution among institutional participants as markets adjust to the prospect of higher interest rates and a longer period of restrictive monetary policy.
While a handful of funds managed to attract fresh capital, the inflows were insufficient to offset broader weakness. Fidelity’s FBTC was among the few ETFs to register positive flows, but overall sentiment remained negative as investors reassessed the appeal of risk assets in a higher-rate environment.
However, ETF outflows tell only part of the story. Beneath the surface, some of Bitcoin’s largest holders appear to be taking advantage of the price decline. On-chain data from Santiment shows that addresses holding at least 1,000 BTC now collectively control approximately 7.17 million coins, the highest level since March 14.
The number of these whale wallets has also climbed to 2,044, suggesting that large investors are accumulating while institutional ETF participants are reducing exposure. This divergence highlights a growing split within the market: traditional investors are becoming more defensive amid macroeconomic uncertainty, while long-term Bitcoin holders continue to view the pullback as a buying opportunity.
Bitcoin Falls Below $63K as Bearish Momentum Builds
Mounting institutional selling pressure has pushed Bitcoin lower, erasing much of the rebound seen earlier this week. The world’s largest cryptocurrency broke below the key $63,000 support level and was trading near $62,700, according to CoinMarketCap data.
The decline follows a sharp 4.5% daily loss, leaving Bitcoin significantly below several important valuation benchmarks. At current levels, BTC is trading roughly 17% beneath its on-chain True Market Mean of $77,200, a metric often used to gauge the average cost basis of market participants.
Recent buyers are feeling the strain of the downturn. On-chain data suggests that short-term holders are, on average, sitting on losses of around 10%, reflecting the pressure created by a stronger US dollar and fading expectations of near-term monetary easing. While long-term investors and whales continue to accumulate during the pullback, the broader spot market remains under pressure.
The technical outlook has also deteriorated. According to Investing.com indicators, Bitcoin has shifted into a strong sell zone as several key moving averages begin to trend lower, signaling that bearish sentiment is gaining control of the market.
Momentum indicators are reinforcing the negative outlook. The Relative Strength Index (RSI) and Commodity Channel Index (CCI) have both moved deeper into bearish territory, highlighting weakening buying interest and a lack of conviction among bulls. At the same time, capital flows appear to be rotating away from cryptocurrencies and toward high-growth artificial intelligence-related equities, limiting the prospects for an immediate recovery.
Unless Bitcoin can quickly reclaim the $64,000 region and re-establish upward momentum, technical conditions suggest that sellers are likely to retain the upper hand in the near term. For now, the path of least resistance remains tilted to the downside as traders navigate a stronger dollar environment and increasingly hawkish Federal Reserve expectations.
Bitcoin remains firmly above the $65,000 level, supported by improving market sentiment following confirmation of a preliminary peace agreement between the United States and Iran. Meanwhile, Zcash extends its rally for a third straight session, approaching the $500 mark as bullish momentum indicators continue to strengthen. Worldcoin is also showing renewed upside momentum around $0.60, backed by a bullish MACD crossover and sustained support from its 200-day EMA demand zone.
Bitcoin (BTC) is showing early signs of recovery, holding above the $65,000 level on Monday as the broader cryptocurrency market rebounds amid improving risk sentiment. Market confidence has been boosted by news that the United States and Iran have confirmed a preliminary peace agreement, easing geopolitical concerns and encouraging investors to re-enter risk assets.
Among the top 100 cryptocurrencies, Zcash (ZEC) is leading the rally, climbing toward the $500 mark as bullish momentum continues to strengthen. Worldcoin (WLD) is also benefiting from the renewed appetite for risk, with investor sentiment gradually improving. This shift is reflected in the Crypto Fear & Greed Index, which rose to 20 on Monday from 18 a day earlier and just 8 a week ago, signaling a steady reduction in market fear and a growing willingness among traders to take on risk.
Bitcoin Gains Momentum as Geopolitical Tensions Ease
Bitcoin (BTC) is extending its recovery, climbing toward the $66,000 level as investor sentiment improves following signs of de-escalation between the United States and Iran. Market optimism has been fueled by reports that both countries have reached a preliminary agreement expected to take effect on Friday, easing concerns over disruptions to global energy supplies.
According to reports, the agreement includes the lifting of the US naval blockade on Iranian ports and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for global oil and gas shipments. The existing ceasefire agreement is also expected to be extended by 60 days to provide additional time for ongoing nuclear negotiations. While Iran has announced that hostilities should cease across multiple fronts, reports of continued military strikes in southern Lebanon suggest that uncertainties remain.
The prospect of reduced geopolitical risk has boosted appetite for risk assets across financial markets, including cryptocurrencies. Bitcoin has rebounded toward $66,000 and could target the $70,000 area if bullish sentiment continues to strengthen.
However, the broader technical outlook remains cautious. BTC is still trading below the Bollinger Bands’ midline near $66,500 and beneath key 50-day, 100-day, and 200-day exponential moving averages clustered between $70,700 and $78,800. These levels continue to act as significant resistance zones.
Momentum indicators present a mixed picture. The daily MACD histogram has turned positive, signaling improving bullish momentum, while the Relative Strength Index (RSI) remains subdued around 42, indicating that buying pressure has yet to fully regain control. As a result, Bitcoin’s recent rebound remains vulnerable unless it can decisively break above key technical resistance levels.
Bitcoin Faces Key Resistance as Recovery Gains Traction
On the upside, Bitcoin’s first major hurdle sits near the Bollinger Bands’ midpoint around $66,500. A sustained breakout above this level could open the door toward the 50-day EMA near $70,700, followed by the 100-day EMA around $73,300. Despite the recent rebound, these technical barriers continue to cap bullish momentum.
On the downside, meaningful support remains limited until the lower Bollinger Band near $56,900. If the current recovery loses steam, this area could serve as the next significant demand zone and help contain a deeper pullback.
Zcash and Worldcoin Extend Rally as Bulls Maintain Control
Zcash (ZEC) continues to advance toward the key $500 resistance level, maintaining a constructive technical outlook. The cryptocurrency remains comfortably above its 50-day, 100-day, and 200-day exponential moving averages, which are clustered between approximately $475 and $374. This bullish EMA alignment signals that the broader uptrend remains intact despite a moderation in momentum.
Technical indicators suggest buyers still hold the upper hand, although upside momentum has eased somewhat. The Relative Strength Index (RSI) remains slightly above the neutral 50 threshold, indicating balanced but positive market conditions. Meanwhile, the MACD histogram remains marginally negative, reflecting a mild slowdown in bullish momentum rather than a decisive shift toward bearish control.
Overall, Zcash continues to show resilience within its prevailing uptrend, while the broader recovery in risk assets is also supporting strength in cryptocurrencies such as Worldcoin, which has benefited from improving investor sentiment and growing demand for higher-risk assets.
Zcash Eyes $590 Resistance as Uptrend Remains Intact
On the upside, Zcash’s next major challenge is the descending trendline resistance zone around $590. A successful break above this area could reinforce the bullish outlook, while failure to overcome it may encourage profit-taking and a renewed attempt by sellers to regain control.
On the downside, immediate support is located at the 50-day EMA near $475, followed by the 100-day EMA around $431 and the 200-day EMA close to $374. Together, these levels form a broad support zone that underpins the current uptrend. A decisive break below this demand area would be needed to invalidate the prevailing bullish market structure.
Worldcoin (WLD) is trading near $0.60, extending its recovery and holding comfortably above its major moving averages. The token remains well supported by the 50-day EMA near $0.38, the 100-day EMA around $0.37, and the 200-day EMA close to $0.45, indicating that the broader trend continues to strengthen as long as these support levels remain intact.
Momentum indicators also support the bullish case. The Relative Strength Index (RSI) is holding in the mid-60s on the daily chart, reflecting strong buying interest without yet reaching extreme overbought conditions. At the same time, the MACD histogram remains positive, signaling that bullish momentum is still in place despite the sharp recent advance.
As a result, Worldcoin’s technical outlook remains constructive, with buyers maintaining control and the recovery trend supported by both price action and momentum indicators.
Worldcoin Holds Bullish Bias Above Key Support Levels
Worldcoin (WLD) continues to maintain a constructive technical outlook, with its most important support level located at the 200-day EMA near $0.45. Additional buying interest is likely to emerge around the 50-day and 100-day EMAs, which are closely clustered between $0.37 and $0.38, creating a strong support zone beneath the current price.
A daily close below the $0.45 level would weaken the bullish structure and increase the risk of a corrective move toward the EMA cluster. Such a decline could signal fading momentum and trigger a broader mean-reversion phase after the recent rally.
On the other hand, as long as Worldcoin remains above the 200-day EMA, the bullish trend remains intact. Sustained price action above $0.45 would preserve the potential for further gains and possible retests of recent highs, with the chart currently showing no major resistance levels that could significantly impede the advance. Momentum indicators also remain supportive, suggesting buyers continue to hold the upper hand in the near term.
Ethereum is participating in the rebound, but it is not driving it. ETH traded near $1,650 on Thursday, gaining around 2% over the past 24 hours after opening at $1,620.37 and climbing to an intraday high of $1,665. The move mirrored the broader crypto market’s oversold recovery as Bitcoin rebounded toward $62,880. Daily trading volume hovered near $12 billion, while Ethereum’s market capitalization remained close to $201 billion, preserving its position as the second-largest cryptocurrency. Although the rebound is visible, it barely offsets the scale of the recent decline.
The broader context remains deeply bearish. Ethereum has dropped roughly 44% since the start of 2026 and continues to trade nearly 67% below its record high of $4,946.05, marking a steeper decline than Bitcoin over the same period. ETH entered the year above $2,500 before sliding into the $1,600 range under pressure from weak capital inflows, a restrictive macroeconomic environment, and a structural issue unique to Ethereum. Market sentiment remains extremely pessimistic, with the Fear and Greed Index sitting at 9, a level typically associated with capitulation.
Unlike Bitcoin, Ethereum faces an additional challenge tied to its own ecosystem design. While both assets are weighed down by higher interest rates, Federal Reserve hawkishness, and geopolitical uncertainty, Ethereum also struggles with a value-capture issue. Its scaling strategy increasingly shifts activity toward Layer-2 networks, reducing fee generation on the main chain and weakening the investment narrative even as adoption expands. This structural concern helps explain why ETH has underperformed Bitcoin, why the ETH/BTC ratio has fallen toward multi-year lows, and why the June low near $1,505 has become such a critical technical level.
The Tape: From a $1,620 Open to $1,665, With $1,505 Still Critical
Thursday’s trading reflected the broader market’s relief rally. Ethereum opened at $1,620.37, about 1.1% lower than the previous session, before strengthening through the day to touch $1,665 and later stabilize near $1,650. The price action closely tracked Bitcoin’s rebound from its own $61,456 opening level, reinforcing the idea that the move was driven by market-wide positioning rather than Ethereum-specific developments. Without a clear catalyst unique to ETH, the token continues to behave largely as a higher-beta extension of Bitcoin.
The recent losses remain severe. Over the past week, Ethereum has fallen around 7.5%, bringing prices dangerously close to the June low of $1,505, the support level that now defines the short-term outlook. Holding above that floor leaves room for a broader recovery bounce, while a decisive breakdown could trigger another leg lower. Although the rebound toward $1,650 created some distance from immediate danger, ETH still trades much closer to key support than to any major resistance zone.
Trading volume reflects the intensity of the recent selloff. Roughly $12 billion in daily turnover points to aggressive repositioning as leveraged positions were unwound across the crypto market amid nearly $1 billion in liquidations tied to renewed Iran-related geopolitical tensions. As one of the more volatile large-cap tokens, Ethereum absorbed a disproportionate share of the pressure. The current price action suggests an asset that has undergone heavy distribution and is now attempting to stabilize around a support level that remains vital to preserving any near-term bullish scenario.
Down 44% This Year and Severely Underperforming Bitcoin
Ethereum’s relative weakness becomes most apparent when compared directly with Bitcoin. ETH is down roughly 44% from its opening level in 2026 and remains nearly 67% below its all-time high, marking a steeper decline than Bitcoin over the same period. Bitcoin itself has fallen around 43% over the past year, but Ethereum’s deeper losses and prolonged underperformance against BTC highlight the broader shift in market preference. With Ethereum trading near $1,650 and Bitcoin around $62,880, the ETH/BTC ratio sits close to 0.026, a historically depressed level that reflects years of relative weakness.
That ratio has become one of the clearest indicators of investor sentiment toward Ethereum compared with Bitcoin, and the trend has consistently moved against ETH. As capital flows back into crypto markets, institutional demand has increasingly concentrated around Bitcoin, which has established itself as the preferred vehicle for large-scale exposure. The launch of spot Bitcoin ETFs created a straightforward institutional gateway that Ethereum-related products have struggled to replicate at the same scale. The result has been a persistent structural advantage for Bitcoin that the current bearish environment has only intensified.
Ethereum’s underperformance is not driven solely by sentiment. It also reflects a deeper debate about the token’s long-term value proposition. Bitcoin benefits from a simple and easily understood narrative as digital gold with a fixed supply and store-of-value characteristics. Ethereum, by contrast, derives its value from functioning as the settlement layer for a vast ecosystem of decentralized applications. That complexity has increasingly become a challenge, as investors question how much of the ecosystem’s economic activity ultimately benefits the ETH token itself. The sharp year-to-date decline reflects growing uncertainty around that question.
The Value-Capture Debate: Scaling Success Versus Token Economics
The central bearish argument surrounding Ethereum is structural. While the network continues to expand in usage, the economic value captured by the base-layer token may be weakening as activity migrates to Layer-2 solutions. Ethereum’s scaling roadmap intentionally moves transactions away from the main chain and onto faster, lower-cost rollups that later settle back onto Ethereum in batches. Although this design improves efficiency and lowers transaction costs, it also reduces the amount of fee revenue flowing directly through the base layer.
That dynamic has become a major concern for investors. Ethereum’s ecosystem can continue growing while the ETH token itself captures a smaller share of the value being generated. Network activity may remain robust, but the direct relationship between adoption and fee generation has weakened because scaling solutions absorb more of the transactional economics. This issue is relatively unique to Ethereum among major cryptocurrencies and remains one of the most frequently cited explanations for its persistent underperformance against Bitcoin.
Ethereum’s roadmap continues to emphasize scaling improvements, which reinforces both sides of the debate. Upcoming upgrades, including the Glamsterdam release focused on proposer-builder separation, scalability, and lower transaction costs, alongside the later Hegotá upgrade aimed at improving state management and node efficiency, demonstrate the network’s accelerating development pace. Supporters view these upgrades as strengthening Ethereum’s long-term resilience and competitiveness. Critics argue that continued scaling efforts may further dilute fee capture at the base layer. Until the market reaches a clearer consensus on which interpretation is correct, that uncertainty is likely to remain a major overhang for ETH.
ETF Flows: Extended Outflows With Only Limited Recovery
Institutional demand for Ethereum exposure has remained weak, reflecting the broader risk-off environment across crypto markets. Spot Ethereum funds recently endured a 17-day streak of net outflows before finally posting a modest $19.3 million inflow in early June. Notably, that entire inflow came from a single major Ethereum fund, while most competing products recorded no meaningful activity. Total assets under management across Ethereum funds now sit near $9.78 billion, approximately $2 billion below their peak levels earlier in the year. Since launch in 2024, cumulative inflows into these products have reached roughly $11.21 billion.
Fund flows have remained a consistent source of pressure. Weekly outflows recently approached $168 million, contributing to nearly $880 million in redemptions over a four-week period as investors reduced exposure amid broader market volatility. Like Bitcoin, Ethereum increasingly depends on regulated investment products as part of its marginal demand structure. When flows reverse, they create additional selling pressure on a market that is already under stress.
Ethereum’s ETFs also face a structural disadvantage compared with holding ETH directly. Due to regulatory limitations, spot Ethereum funds are currently unable to stake their holdings, meaning investors miss out on the staking rewards available through direct ownership of ETH. For an asset whose appeal partly depends on yield generation, that limitation significantly weakens the attractiveness of the ETF structure. Although fund flows have occasionally stabilized, the market has yet to see the kind of sustained institutional demand necessary to support a durable reversal in Ethereum’s broader trend.
Extreme Fear at 9 and a Market Deep in Capitulation
Market sentiment around Ethereum has deteriorated to levels that often coincide with major washouts, though not necessarily with immediate reversals. The Fear and Greed Index currently sits at 9, firmly within extreme-fear territory, reflecting a market that has been heavily punished and psychologically exhausted. Over the past month, ETH has closed higher in only about one-third of trading sessions, while volatility has remained above 10%, reinforcing the picture of a highly stressed asset trapped in a sustained downtrend.
Extreme fear cuts both ways. Historically, deeply pessimistic sentiment can create the conditions for sharp relief rallies once aggressive selling pressure fades and marginal sellers are exhausted. The rebound toward $1,650 carries elements of that dynamic, with oversold conditions sparking a short-term recovery across the crypto market. At the same time, prolonged bear markets can sustain extreme fear for far longer than traders expect. A low sentiment reading alone does not signal a bottom; it simply confirms that fear remains dominant.
Supporters of the bullish interpretation argue that the recent collapse has flushed out excessive leverage and forced weak hands from the market, leaving behind a more resilient holder base. On-chain data showing Ethereum balances on centralized exchanges falling to record lows reinforces that argument, since coins leaving exchanges are typically associated with reduced near-term selling pressure and increased long-term holding or staking activity. Combined with reports of accumulation from large holders, the blockchain data suggests that selling pressure may be closer to exhaustion than acceleration. Whether that translates into a sustained recovery, however, still depends heavily on macroeconomic conditions and a stabilization in capital flows.
Corporate Treasury Exposure and Billions in Unrealized Losses
Ethereum has increasingly developed its own version of the corporate treasury strategy previously associated with Bitcoin, and it is now facing similar vulnerabilities. Following the model pioneered by Bitcoin treasury companies, several publicly traded firms adopted ETH as a reserve asset, attracted by Ethereum’s ability to generate staking yield in addition to offering exposure to crypto markets. The strategy gained momentum throughout 2025 as companies sought both balance-sheet diversification and yield generation through staking rewards.
The current bear market has exposed the risks embedded in that approach. One of the largest corporate holders of Ethereum is reportedly carrying unrealized losses approaching $9 billion, despite continuing to accumulate aggressively, including a purchase of roughly 126,000 ETH near this year’s lows. The company has also explored preferred-share issuance to finance its Ethereum position, highlighting the same balance-sheet pressures and leverage concerns that have emerged across crypto treasury structures. The leverage that amplified gains during the bull market is now magnifying downside stress during the decline.
For Ethereum, the implications are mixed. On one side, treasury firms became an important source of demand during the accumulation phase, and financial stress within that cohort raises concerns about whether that demand can continue. On the other side, continued purchases during periods of severe weakness suggest that some large holders still view current prices as attractive long-term value opportunities. Treasury companies therefore represent both a potential source of risk, if financing pressure triggers forced selling, and a possible source of support, if conviction buying persists. Which side ultimately dominates will likely depend on whether Ethereum can maintain critical support levels.
The Macro Pressure: Higher Rates, Stronger Dollar, and Bitcoin Weakness
Ethereum also remains trapped within the broader macroeconomic environment pressuring global risk assets. Consumer inflation running near 4.2% and wholesale inflation around 6.5% year-over-year have reinforced expectations for continued Federal Reserve hawkishness, with markets pricing in another quarter-point rate increase by December. For speculative assets that do not inherently provide traditional cash flow, that environment remains highly unfavorable. With cash yields above 5% and the U.S. 10-year Treasury yielding around 4.52%, the opportunity cost of holding cryptocurrencies has risen sharply, while a stronger U.S. dollar near the 100 level adds further pressure across dollar-denominated assets.
Ethereum’s relationship with Bitcoin amplifies that challenge. ETH continues to trade as a higher-beta extension of Bitcoin, meaning it tends to exaggerate Bitcoin’s moves in both directions. As long as Bitcoin remains constrained near the $62,800 region by ETF outflows and restrictive monetary policy, Ethereum faces even greater downside sensitivity. When Bitcoin rallies modestly, ETH typically rebounds more aggressively, but when Bitcoin weakens, Ethereum tends to decline even faster. The same macro headwinds weighing on Bitcoin are therefore exerting an even stronger impact on Ethereum.
Geopolitical tensions have added another layer of pressure. Escalating conflict involving U.S. strikes on Iran triggered another wave of deleveraging across crypto markets, driving liquidations and intensifying the broader risk-off move. The resulting demand for safe-haven assets has strengthened the dollar while reducing appetite for speculative investments such as cryptocurrencies. At the same time, energy-driven inflation tied to geopolitical instability reinforces the Federal Reserve’s hawkish stance, creating a feedback loop that pressures Ethereum from multiple directions simultaneously. For ETH to establish a more durable recovery, broader macro conditions likely need to improve first, and current economic data does not yet point toward that shift.
The Bullish Thesis: Tightening Supply, Staking, and Long-Term Upgrades
Despite the weak price action, the bullish argument for Ethereum remains centered on structural developments that may not yet be reflected in the market. One of the strongest points is supply dynamics. Ethereum balances held on centralized exchanges have fallen to historic lows, reducing the amount of immediately available supply that can be sold into the market. Historically, shrinking exchange reserves have often preceded stronger rallies once demand returns. Continued growth in staking participation strengthens this dynamic further by locking additional ETH out of circulation.
Another major pillar of the bullish case is Ethereum’s staking yield. Unlike Bitcoin, ETH can generate native yield through staking, transforming it from a purely passive asset into a productive one. That yield-generating capability remains a core reason why corporations, institutional investors, and long-term holders continue accumulating Ethereum despite the ongoing drawdown. The ability to earn staking rewards provides a structural incentive to hold and lock up ETH regardless of short-term price fluctuations.
The final component of the bullish narrative revolves around Ethereum’s ongoing development roadmap. Upcoming upgrades such as Glamsterdam and Hegotá are designed to improve scalability, reduce transaction costs, strengthen efficiency, and expand the network’s long-term capacity. Supporters argue that the accelerated pace of development demonstrates Ethereum’s continued adaptability and strengthens its position as the dominant smart-contract platform.
Long-term bullish projections are built almost entirely around these structural themes, with some valuation models targeting ranges between $4,000 and $8,000, while more aggressive forecasts project significantly higher prices if institutional adoption accelerates meaningfully. Critics, however, maintain that none of these long-term advantages will matter unless Ethereum resolves its value-capture concerns and macro conditions improve. A tightening supply and staking yield may not be enough if investors continue questioning whether the ETH token itself captures sufficient value from the ecosystem it supports. In many ways, the bullish thesis remains a multi-year argument, while the current market continues to trade according to near-term macro and liquidity realities.
The Bitcoin ecosystem continues to face mounting challenges, with another major setback emerging from the Layer-2 sector. In a surprising development, Botanix, a prominent Bitcoin Layer-2 network, has announced that it will cease operations, giving users until July 9 to withdraw their assets.
The shutdown comes amid a sharp downturn in the cryptocurrency market. Bitcoin has fallen to around $61,000 during the latest wave of selling pressure, raising concerns that the current correction could evolve into a more prolonged bearish phase.
Botanix confirmed a phased closure of its EVM-compatible Layer-2 network, warning users to remove their funds before the July 9 deadline. Any assets left on the platform after that date will be transferred to the custody of a validator group known as the Federation, making direct withdrawals no longer possible.
The closure marks a disappointing end for a project that previously secured $11.5 million in funding from leading venture capital firms, including Polychain Capital and Placeholder Capital.
In an unusually candid post-mortem, the Botanix team acknowledged that limited user adoption ultimately led to the project’s downfall. According to the developers, demand for Bitcoin-based programmability and decentralized finance remains underdeveloped. Most DeFi participants continue to favor wrapped Bitcoin on Ethereum and other established platforms, while many Bitcoin holders still view BTC primarily as a long-term store of value rather than an asset for active on-chain trading.
As a result, the network struggled to generate sufficient transaction fees to support its operational and infrastructure costs, leading to the decision to shut down the platform.
Bitcoin Price Plunge
The shutdown of Botanix comes at a particularly difficult time for the cryptocurrency market, which is already facing intense selling pressure. Bitcoin has experienced a sharp decline this week, falling below several key psychological support levels and dropping to around $61,600, according to market data from CoinMarketCap.
The latest sell-off has further weakened investor sentiment, triggering concerns that the market could be entering a deeper correction phase. As Bitcoin struggles to regain momentum, risk assets across the crypto sector—including smaller Layer-2 networks and DeFi projects—have come under increased pressure.
For emerging ecosystems such as Botanix, the unfavorable market environment has only amplified existing challenges. With declining trading activity, weaker user engagement, and reduced fee generation, many smaller blockchain projects are finding it increasingly difficult to sustain operations during the downturn.
The sharp decline has significantly weakened retail investor sentiment and sparked a wave of liquidations across major cryptocurrency exchanges. The rapid correction highlights deteriorating market liquidity, creating a more challenging environment for smaller blockchain networks and emerging ecosystems. As capital flows out of riskier assets, projects with limited adoption and weaker financial foundations become increasingly exposed to market stress.
Analysts Predict Bitcoin Bear Market Could Persist
Several well-known cryptocurrency analysts argue that the current downturn may have further room to run. Influential market commentators on X, including Ash Crypto and 0xChiefy, suggest that prevailing macroeconomic conditions and historical Bitcoin market cycles indicate the potential for additional downside pressure.
According to their analysis, a combination of economic uncertainty, tightening liquidity conditions, and recurring bearish patterns from previous market cycles could lead to deeper corrections before a sustainable recovery takes hold. As a result, traders and investors are closely monitoring key support levels and broader market developments for signs of stabilization.
Analysts believe the current bearish momentum could continue to weigh on Bitcoin prices, potentially driving the market lower before a durable macroeconomic bottom is established. Their outlook is further reinforced by a significant wave of institutional selling, with reports indicating that more than 52,500 BTC have been liquidated through spot Bitcoin ETFs.
The large-scale distribution by institutional investors has added considerable selling pressure to the market, creating a supply overhang that may limit the prospects for a near-term recovery. As long as this excess supply remains in circulation, upward price movements could face substantial resistance.
Nevertheless, historical market data offers a more optimistic longer-term perspective. According to CoinMetrics, deeper declines during Bitcoin bear markets have often been followed by stronger and more explosive recoveries. While the current environment remains challenging, past cycles suggest that periods of extreme weakness can ultimately lay the foundation for powerful bullish reversals once market sentiment and liquidity conditions improve.
The chart provides Bitcoin investors with a reason for cautious optimism. Historical market cycles suggest that while bear markets can be painful and prolonged, they have often been followed by powerful recoveries. As a result, many investors believe that once the current downturn reaches its macro bottom, Bitcoin could stage a significant rebound and potentially climb to new all-time highs.
Past performance indicates that deeper corrections have frequently laid the groundwork for stronger bull runs, driven by renewed investor confidence, improving liquidity conditions, and growing institutional participation. Although short-term risks remain elevated, long-term market participants continue to view the current weakness as part of Bitcoin’s broader cyclical pattern.
BTC Technical Indicators Signal Continued Weakness
A review of Bitcoin’s technical indicators reinforces the prevailing bearish sentiment across the market. According to live technical data from Investing.com, Bitcoin is currently generating a strong sell signal on the daily, weekly, and monthly timeframes, suggesting that downward pressure remains firmly in control.
The 14-day Relative Strength Index (RSI) is hovering around 34.8, a level that reflects weakening buying interest and sustained selling activity. While not yet in deeply oversold territory, the indicator points to a market where bears continue to hold the upper hand.
Adding to the negative outlook, key moving averages—from the short-term 5-day MA to the long-term 200-day MA—remain above Bitcoin’s current trading price. This bearish alignment indicates that major trend indicators continue to act as resistance, limiting the potential for a near-term recovery.
As long as Bitcoin trades below these critical moving averages, technical momentum is likely to remain tilted to the downside, with sellers maintaining control of the broader market trend.
The crypto market came under heavy pressure this week, with Bitcoin falling more than 12% over seven days, sliding from above $70,000 to an intraweek low near $61,500. Total cryptocurrency market capitalization dropped to approximately $2.18 trillion on June 4, approaching its February lows and standing nearly 48% below the record peak above $4.2 trillion reached last year.
The weakness stood in sharp contrast to traditional financial markets. U.S. equities continued to climb to new all-time highs, driven largely by enthusiasm surrounding artificial intelligence and large-cap technology stocks. Meanwhile, cryptocurrencies and crypto-related equities moved decisively in the opposite direction.
The divergence highlights a growing liquidity challenge within digital assets. Persistent ETF outflows, the first disclosed Bitcoin sale by Strategy since 2022, and a lack of fresh stablecoin inflows have weighed on investor sentiment and reduced buying power across the market. At the same time, Bitcoin exchange netflow data suggests more coins are being transferred onto exchanges, increasing the potential for additional selling pressure.
Leverage has also become a concern. Although approximately $1.76 billion in crypto positions were liquidated on June 2—with nearly 90% of those liquidations coming from long positions—speculative activity remains elevated. Bitcoin-denominated open interest climbed to a record high of roughly 784,000 BTC the following day, indicating that leverage has been reduced but not fully flushed from the system.
With U.S. stocks attracting capital and the highly anticipated SpaceX IPO potentially drawing even more investor attention and liquidity, crypto markets currently lack a clear catalyst for a sustained recovery. Until fresh capital returns and selling pressure eases, Bitcoin may remain vulnerable to further downside despite improving risk sentiment elsewhere in financial markets.
Why Crypto Is Decoupling from Equities
While U.S. equities continue to advance on the back of strong AI-driven earnings growth and investor optimism, crypto markets are facing a unique combination of external macroeconomic headwinds and internal structural weaknesses. As a result, digital assets have decoupled to the downside even as traditional risk assets remain resilient.
Crypto-Specific Pressures
ETF outflows have emerged as one of the most significant drags on sentiment. U.S. spot Bitcoin ETFs recorded 13 consecutive trading sessions of net withdrawals between May 15 and June 3, with total outflows reaching $4.33 billion. The streak marked the longest period of sustained redemptions since the ETFs launched in 2024 and represented a sharp reversal from the $1.97 billion of net inflows seen in April. The shift has weakened one of the key demand drivers behind Bitcoin’s rally earlier this year.
Adding to the pressure, Strategy’s first disclosed Bitcoin sale since 2022—although limited to just 32 BTC—challenged the long-standing perception that major institutional holders would never reduce their positions. The transaction was economically insignificant but symbolically important, undermining a narrative that had supported investor confidence for years.
Meanwhile, Mt. Gox transferred 10,422 BTC, valued at roughly $739 million, ahead of its October creditor repayment deadline. The move revived concerns that a wave of previously locked-up Bitcoin could eventually enter the market, creating additional supply pressure.
Macro Headwinds Affecting All Risk Assets
Crypto is also contending with the same macroeconomic challenges facing broader financial markets.
Inflation remains stubbornly elevated, with April CPI rising 3.8% year-over-year, the highest reading since May 2023. Higher energy prices have added to concerns that inflation could remain above central bank targets for longer than expected.
At the same time, interest-rate expectations have shifted significantly. Prediction markets now imply roughly a 69% probability that the Federal Reserve will leave rates unchanged throughout 2026, a notable departure from the aggressive easing expectations that prevailed at the beginning of the year.
Adding to the challenge, the U.S. dollar has remained firm while Treasury yields have moved higher. The 10-year Treasury yield approached 4.5% on June 3 as stronger labor-market data and elevated oil prices reinforced expectations that monetary policy could remain restrictive. Higher yields increase the opportunity cost of holding non-yielding assets such as Bitcoin and tend to tighten financial conditions across risk markets.
Why Equities Are Holding Up Better
The key difference is that equities still possess a powerful internal growth narrative. Capital continues to flow into AI-related companies, supporting earnings expectations and offsetting some of the macroeconomic pressure. Crypto, by contrast, is experiencing a simultaneous erosion of its own demand base through ETF outflows, weak stablecoin liquidity growth, and renewed concerns about future supply.
In short, equities are managing to absorb macro headwinds because investors remain focused on growth opportunities. Crypto, however, is being squeezed from both directions—facing the same macro pressures as stocks while simultaneously navigating a deterioration in its own liquidity and demand dynamics.
Will Bitcoin Keep Grinding Lower?
For Bitcoin, the near-term outlook revolves around two critical price levels.
The Downside: $60,000
The $60,000 area represents the next major psychological support zone and broadly aligns with estimates of miners’ average production costs. A decisive break below this level would suggest that sellers remain firmly in control, increasing the likelihood that Bitcoin continues searching for a lower cycle bottom.
From a historical perspective, such a move would not be inconsistent with previous four-year market cycles, where prolonged periods of weakness and consolidation often occurred before a sustainable recovery emerged.
The Upside: $70,000
On the other hand, a recovery above $70,000 would be the first meaningful signal that the worst of the correction may already be priced in. Until either level is decisively breached, Bitcoin is likely to remain trapped in a volatile trading range, with price action heavily influenced by macroeconomic developments and shifts in investor sentiment.
With tensions around the Strait of Hormuz still unresolved and geopolitical risks continuing to support inflation concerns, the market currently lacks a clear bullish catalyst. Investors will therefore be closely watching the June 10 CPI release for clues about the future path of monetary policy.
Why the SpaceX IPO Matters
The planned SpaceX listing on June 12 could become an additional headwind for crypto markets. Expected to raise approximately $75 billion at a valuation of around $1.77 trillion, the offering would be the largest IPO on record, with roughly 30% of shares allocated to retail investors.
While the IPO is not directly related to digital assets, it could influence capital flows across risk markets.
Several factors make this possibility noteworthy:
Powerful return narrative: SpaceX’s valuation grew from roughly $500 million in its early years to around $800 billion by late 2025, creating a compelling growth story that may attract significant investor demand.
Fragile crypto sentiment: With Bitcoin under pressure and no obvious catalyst for a near-term rebound, some investors may choose to reallocate capital from crypto into one of the most anticipated equity listings in history.
Limited appeal of fixed income: Elevated yields and bond-market volatility may encourage investors seeking higher returns to favor equities over traditional safe-haven assets.
Portfolio rotation within equities: Capital could rotate from weaker sectors and underperforming stocks into the new listing, further concentrating market attention on a handful of high-profile growth opportunities.
The Bigger Picture
The broader consequence may be an increase in market concentration.
For crypto, any further diversion of capital could intensify liquidity pressures at a time when ETF flows, stablecoin growth, and market sentiment are already deteriorating. Under those conditions, digital assets may remain vulnerable to additional downside.
For equities, the situation is different but not without risk. Market performance has become increasingly dependent on a small number of AI-driven companies, and the addition of another mega-cap growth story could further concentrate investor flows. Historically, highly concentrated markets tend to be less resilient when sentiment eventually shifts.
Unless Bitcoin can reclaim key resistance levels or attract a fresh source of demand, the path of least resistance in the near term remains sideways to lower, with macroeconomic data, liquidity conditions, and cross-market capital flows likely to dictate the next major move.
Liquidity Is Missing, Selling Pressure Is Not
The current Bitcoin market faces a simple but significant problem: demand is weakening while supply continues to rise.
ETF Demand Remains Negative
The most important institutional demand source of the current cycle continues to deteriorate. U.S. spot Bitcoin ETFs recorded 13 consecutive trading sessions of net outflows between May 15 and June 3, with cumulative withdrawals reaching approximately $4.33 billion.
This persistent selling indicates that the primary channel responsible for absorbing large amounts of Bitcoin supply throughout much of the rally is no longer providing meaningful support. As long as ETF flows remain negative, the market loses one of its strongest structural demand drivers.
Stablecoin Liquidity Is Not Replacing Lost Demand
Normally, weakening ETF demand could be offset by rising stablecoin balances on exchanges, which often signal fresh capital waiting to enter the market.
That is not happening.
Data tracking aggregate stablecoin reserves across exchanges shows little evidence of meaningful accumulation since early June. In fact, reserves have generally trended lower since mid-May.
In practical terms, declining stablecoin reserves suggest that fresh buying power is not entering the market. Instead, capital appears to be moving away from exchanges, reducing the amount of liquidity available to absorb selling pressure when prices decline.
Bitcoin Supply Is Moving Onto Exchanges
At the same time, Bitcoin exchange netflow data points to increasing spot-market selling pressure.
Since roughly May 24, netflows have remained predominantly positive, meaning more Bitcoin has been transferred onto exchanges than withdrawn. Historically, this pattern is associated with rising sell-side activity, as investors typically move assets to exchanges when preparing to sell rather than hold them in long-term custody.
An expanding exchange supply base, combined with weakening demand, creates an unfavorable balance for price stability.
A Market Searching for Equilibrium
Taken together, the message from liquidity indicators is clear.
ETF demand has turned negative. Stablecoin reserves are not growing. Bitcoin continues to flow onto exchanges. In other words, the market is losing buyers while gaining potential sellers.
Until fresh liquidity returns or selling pressure eases, Bitcoin is likely to remain in a price-discovery phase as it searches for a level where demand is once again strong enough to absorb available supply. Without that rebalancing, downside risks remain elevated despite periodic relief rallies and short-term technical rebounds.
Leverage Was Hit, But Not Cleared
This week’s market correction triggered a sharp liquidation wave, but it did not fully reset speculative positioning.
Longs Were Heavily Liquidated
As Bitcoin declined, forced deleveraging was concentrated almost entirely on the long side. On June 2, total crypto liquidations reached approximately $1.76 billion, with nearly 90% of that amount coming from long positions.
This indicates that the downturn primarily punished leveraged bullish positioning rather than reflecting a broad-based reduction in risk exposure across both sides of the market.
Open Interest Remains Elevated
Despite the size of the liquidation event, derivatives positioning did not meaningfully reset.
Bitcoin open interest, measured in BTC terms, actually increased after the sell-off, climbing to a record level of roughly 784,000 BTC on June 3. This suggests that while some leverage was flushed out during the decline, speculative exposure quickly rebuilt, keeping overall market leverage structurally high.
In practical terms, the market experienced a liquidation shock without a full deleveraging cycle. That leaves conditions in place for continued volatility if price moves trigger another wave of forced liquidations.
Week Ahead: Key Macro and Market Events
Several high-impact events over the coming days may shape liquidity conditions across both crypto and broader risk assets:
June 10: U.S. CPI (May inflation data)
June 11: U.S. PPI (producer inflation data)
June 11: SpaceX IPO pricing
June 12: SpaceX Nasdaq debut
The SpaceX listing is expected to raise approximately $75 billion at a valuation near $1.77 trillion, making it the largest IPO on record. Two factors are particularly relevant for crypto markets.
1. Price Discovery and Risk Appetite
Private secondary market indications ahead of the IPO have been trading roughly in the $129–$137 range, suggesting limited discount to expected pricing. This means the first trading sessions will likely serve as the true test of demand, revealing how aggressively investors are willing to allocate capital into a highly concentrated growth story.
2. Potential Liquidity Siphon
More importantly for digital assets, the IPO could act as a significant liquidity magnet. Large-scale capital rotation into a single high-profile equity listing may temporarily reduce flows into alternative risk assets, including crypto.
If that occurs during a period of already weak ETF inflows, soft stablecoin liquidity, and elevated derivatives positioning, it could amplify downside pressure on Bitcoin.
At the same time, such concentration of capital into one name can reduce broader market resilience, as fewer assets share investor attention and liquidity. In that environment, smaller shocks can have outsized effects across remaining risk markets.
Overall, the combination of elevated leverage, fragile liquidity, and upcoming macro catalysts sets up a sensitive trading window where Bitcoin’s direction will likely depend less on narrative and more on actual capital flows and forced positioning dynamics.
The recent wave of selling in US spot Bitcoin ETFs has emerged as one of the clearest signs that institutional investors are becoming more cautious toward risk assets.
The BlackRock iShares Bitcoin Trust (IBIT) experienced net outflows totaling approximately $2.43 billion across nine consecutive trading sessions in May 2026. The streak culminated on May 26 with a $1.26 billion dark-pool block transaction, the largest single-day redemption recorded since the fund launched in January 2024.
Blockchain data reinforced the scale of the withdrawal activity. Roughly 6,005 BTC—worth about $403 million at the time—was transferred from custody wallets associated with IBIT to Coinbase Prime, offering direct evidence of the redemption process behind the reported fund outflows.
The sustained withdrawals effectively erased much of the nearly $3 billion that flowed into IBIT during April, a month that marked one of the strongest periods of spot Bitcoin ETF demand since October 2025.
The sharp reversal in investor flows, coupled with the sizable movement of Bitcoin to an exchange-linked custody platform, intensified risk-off sentiment across crypto markets. It also contributed additional sell-side liquidity to spot markets during a period already characterized by macroeconomic uncertainty.
Understanding the IBIT Redemption Trend
At the time of the outflow cycle, IBIT held an estimated 660,000–670,000 BTC, representing roughly $44–46 billion in assets under management. Against that backdrop, the $2.43 billion withdrawal equates to around 5–5.5% of total fund assets, suggesting a meaningful portfolio reallocation rather than routine redemption activity.
The magnitude of the May 26 event was particularly notable. The previous record for a single-session outflow stood at approximately $649 million in January, making the latest redemption nearly twice as large.
Data from CoinGlass also showed that selling pressure extended beyond IBIT. Comparable outflows were recorded across other major spot Bitcoin ETFs, including Fidelity’s FBTC, ARK Invest’s ARKB, and Grayscale’s GBTC. The synchronized withdrawals point to a broader institutional de-risking trend rather than concerns tied to any individual fund.
Longer-Term Context Remains Constructive
Despite the weakness seen in May, the broader flow picture remains positive. US spot Bitcoin ETFs still entered June with nearly $2 billion in net inflows year-to-date, while cumulative inflows since launch remained in the region of $58–59 billion.
As a result, although the recent redemption wave represents a significant short-term shift in sentiment, it has not fundamentally altered the larger institutional positioning that was built throughout 2024 and 2025. The data suggests a period of risk reduction and portfolio adjustment rather than a wholesale abandonment of long-term Bitcoin exposure.
Macro Conditions and Institutional Positioning: The Risk-Off Shift Driving Bitcoin ETF Outflows
The nine-session streak of Bitcoin ETF outflows unfolded against a backdrop of elevated US Treasury yields and a Federal Reserve policy stance that investors viewed as restrictive for risk assets. As financial conditions tightened, Bitcoin slipped below key consolidation levels, reinforcing bearish sentiment across digital asset markets.
Institutional investors responded by scaling back exposure to higher-volatility assets, including Bitcoin ETFs. The trend was not confined to the United States. Between May 25 and May 29, European crypto exchange-traded products recorded approximately $1.67 billion in net outflows, highlighting a broader global shift toward risk reduction.
The coordinated withdrawals across multiple regions suggest that the recent selling pressure reflects a wider institutional portfolio reallocation rather than concerns tied solely to BlackRock’s IBIT or other US-listed Bitcoin ETFs.
Interestingly, capital has not been exiting the crypto sector altogether. Newly launched XRP spot ETFs attracted roughly $132 million in net inflows without registering a single day of net redemptions during the same period. This divergence points to a rotation within digital assets, as investors selectively reallocate capital toward alternative crypto exposures rather than abandoning the asset class entirely.
$63,000 Emerges as Bitcoin’s Key Inflection Point
Bitcoin continues to trade just above the $63,000 level, a threshold increasingly viewed as the dividing line between a healthy consolidation phase and a more pronounced corrective move.
Should the market break decisively below this support zone, downside momentum could accelerate toward the $60,000 area, where longer-term investors have historically demonstrated stronger buying interest. Such a bearish outcome would likely be driven by continued institutional outflows, persistently high real yields, and Bitcoin’s inability to reclaim resistance around $65,000.
On the other hand, the bullish case remains intact if ETF redemptions begin to stabilize after the recent wave of selling. A softer-than-expected inflation report or a more accommodative tone from the Federal Reserve could improve risk sentiment and encourage fresh institutional allocations. Given that assets held by spot Bitcoin ETFs remain historically elevated despite recent withdrawals, a shift in macro expectations could provide the catalyst for Bitcoin’s next upward move.
For now, the $63,000 region represents the market’s most important near-term battleground, with the interplay between ETF flows and Federal Reserve policy likely determining Bitcoin’s next major directional trend.
Investors have continued to exit positions amid market weakness, realizing approximately $667 million in losses over the last three days.
Risk reduction by institutional investors in the United States remains evident, with US spot Ethereum ETFs recording net outflows for 14 straight trading days.
Although ETH has reclaimed the $2,000 mark, buying momentum remains subdued, suggesting that the recovery lacks strong conviction.
Following Ethereum’s (ETH) drop toward the key psychological support level of $2,000 in recent days, investors have increasingly realized losses.
Market participants have locked in approximately $667 million in losses over the past three days, marking the highest level of loss realization since early May.
This trend suggests that investors are continuing to sell amid market weakness, a sign of deteriorating sentiment that could increase the risk of further downside pressure on ETH prices.
Notably, selling pressure intensified after buyers were unable to drive Ethereum above the realized price, or average on-chain cost basis, of retail investors. This level has acted as a major resistance zone over the past three months, highlighting a recurring pattern in which retail holders tend to sell when prices approach their break-even point. As a result, the failure to break above this threshold has reinforced bearish sentiment and contributed to the recent wave of selling.
At the same time, network activity has continued to decline, with the number of active addresses nearing levels last recorded in early May. More significantly, this metric has fallen by nearly 50% since February, indicating a sharp slowdown in on-chain participation and weakening user engagement across the leading Layer 1 blockchain.
From a regional perspective, selling pressure has been largely driven by US investors, who continue to play a key role in influencing overall market sentiment. This trend is reflected in the Coinbase Premium Index—a gauge of US investor demand and sentiment—which has been on a steady decline since late April, signaling weakening buying interest and growing caution among American market participants.
Adding to the bearish outlook, US spot Ethereum ETFs recorded their 14th consecutive day of net outflows, underscoring a persistent risk-off stance among institutional investors in the United States.
One notable exception has been BitMine, which has continued to accumulate Ethereum, increasing its holdings to 5.39 million ETH.
In the derivatives market, open interest has kept rising and reached a new record high of more than 16 million contracts during the week, while funding rates have remained in positive territory. Despite these seemingly bullish signals, ETH prices have continued to decline, suggesting that a significant portion of the growing open interest may be coming from newly opened short positions. At the same time, some bullish traders appear to be either buying the dip or maintaining losing long positions, creating a divergence between derivatives activity and spot market performance. This combination points to growing speculative pressure and increases the likelihood of further volatility in the near term.
Ethereum Price Forecast: ETH Reclaims $2,000, but Upside Momentum Remains Limited
On the daily timeframe, Ethereum continues to exhibit a bearish short-term outlook, with the price trading below its 20-day, 50-day, and 100-day Exponential Moving Averages (EMAs). These indicators are clustered between $2,122 and $2,281, creating a strong resistance zone that is likely to limit any recovery attempts.
Momentum indicators suggest selling pressure is easing but remain far from signaling a bullish reversal. The 14-day Relative Strength Index (RSI) is hovering around 34, slightly above oversold levels, while the Stochastic Oscillator is gradually rebounding after reaching deeply oversold conditions.
On the downside, Ethereum’s first key support lies near $2,018. A decisive move below this level could open the door for a decline toward the next demand area around $1,909. If bearish pressure intensifies, additional support levels can be found near $1,741, followed by $1,524 and $1,404.
On the upside, Ethereum faces immediate resistance around $2,107, followed by the 20-day EMA at $2,122 and the 50-day EMA near $2,186. A decisive and sustained break above these levels would help reduce the current bearish bias and signal improving market sentiment.
Should buyers regain control, the next upside targets are located near $2,211, followed by the 100-day EMA at $2,280. Beyond that, ETH could challenge stronger resistance zones at $2,388, $2,746, and eventually $3,411, provided bullish momentum continues to build.
The British Pound experienced choppy trading throughout the week, with price action characterized by frequent swings in both directions. Despite the volatility, the 1.3550 level continues to act as a significant resistance zone. However, momentum suggests that it may only be a matter of time before the pair makes another attempt to challenge that area.
A decisive break above the 1.3550 resistance level could pave the way for further gains, potentially driving the pair toward the 1.3700 mark. For now, the broader uptrend remains intact, making short-term pullbacks attractive buying opportunities. Ongoing uncertainty surrounding US interest rate expectations is likely to keep volatility elevated, but the recent weakness in the US Dollar toward the end of the week has provided additional support for the British Pound, helping it maintain its bullish momentum against the greenback.
EUR/USD
The Euro has rebounded and is beginning to regain momentum. Overall, the pair appears likely to make another attempt toward the 1.18 level. However, market participants remain focused on the U.S. interest rate outlook, as they assess whether the recent volatility surrounding rate expectations will start to ease.
Silver
Silver remains highly volatile, with price action continuing to fluctuate within a choppy trading environment. While the broader outlook remains uncertain, the market is likely to stay sensitive to shifts in interest rate expectations. In addition, investor sentiment toward risk assets and the overall direction of the US Dollar will continue to play a key role in driving silver prices. As a result, traders should expect ongoing swings and periods of erratic movement in the near term.
Given the current market conditions, buying on short-term pullbacks appears to be a reasonable strategy. However, the outlook does not suggest an imminent breakout or a significant directional move. A decline below the $70 level could trigger a deeper sell-off and put additional pressure on prices, although such a scenario does not seem particularly likely in the near term. For now, the market appears more inclined toward range-bound trading, with continued back-and-forth price action expected.
Gold
Gold prices moved lower at the start of Monday’s trading session but quickly recovered, with bullish momentum driving the market higher throughout the remainder of the week. Strong buying interest continues to emerge around the $4,600 level, a key area that has attracted considerable attention from traders. Given its importance as a support zone, this level is likely to remain a focal point for market participants and could play a significant role in determining gold’s next directional move.
If interest rates continue to decline, gold could gain additional upward momentum and potentially advance toward the $4,800 level. The lower-rate environment would likely enhance the appeal of non-yielding assets such as gold. From a longer-term perspective, the overall outlook remains positive, with the broader trend continuing to favor further gains in the precious metal.
USD/JPY
The US Dollar posted modest gains against the Japanese Yen during the week, although the 160.00 level continues to act as a major resistance barrier. Recent interventions and increased market activity from the Bank of Japan suggest that policymakers remain committed to supporting the yen and preventing excessive currency weakness.
Despite these efforts, the yen continues to face challenges due to Japan’s relatively low interest rate environment, which limits its ability to attract capital flows and strengthen significantly. As a result, the broader outlook still favors the US Dollar, and it may only be a matter of time before USD/JPY makes another attempt to break above the 160.00 level.
A break below the 158.00 yen level would represent a significantly bearish development for USD/JPY. Such a move could signal a shift in market sentiment, potentially triggering additional selling pressure and raising the likelihood of a deeper correction. As a result, the 158.00 area remains a key support level that traders will be watching closely.
USD/CAD
The US Dollar initially strengthened during last week’s trading, but much of those gains were later surrendered against the Canadian Dollar. This price action suggests that traders should remain cautious, as bullish momentum has yet to establish itself convincingly.
At the same time, the 50-week Exponential Moving Average (EMA) continues to act as a notable resistance barrier, limiting upside progress. Until the pair can break decisively above this level, the market may remain vulnerable to further consolidation or renewed selling pressure.
A move below the 1.3750 level could be a significant bearish signal for USD/CAD, potentially opening the door to a much deeper decline. Such a breakdown would likely encourage additional selling pressure and shift the market’s near-term outlook to the downside.
From a broader perspective, however, the pair appears likely to remain trapped in a range-bound environment. As a result, traders should continue to expect considerable volatility and back-and-forth price action, with neither buyers nor sellers maintaining a clear long-term advantage for the time being.
Bitcoin
Bitcoin moved lower during the week but later recovered some of its losses, signaling a degree of market indecision. Price action suggests that traders remain cautious, with neither buyers nor sellers able to establish clear control.
While the market will likely need to make a more decisive directional move in the near future, Bitcoin does not currently appear to have the momentum required for a strong breakout to the upside. Until a clearer catalyst emerges, the cryptocurrency may continue to trade within a period of consolidation and uncertainty.
While the longer-term outlook remains constructive, any meaningful move higher is likely to develop gradually rather than through an immediate breakout. In the near term, a modest rebound appears possible this week as buyers attempt to regain control following recent weakness.
Looking ahead, the market could eventually make another push toward the $77,000 level, although achieving that target may require time and sustained buying interest. For traders and investors alike, patience is likely to be essential, as the path higher may involve periods of consolidation and uneven price action before a stronger trend emerges.
DAX
Germany’s DAX index experienced some selling pressure after rallying earlier in the week, giving back a portion of its gains. Despite the pullback, the 25,000 level appears to be providing an important area of support, helping to stabilize price action.
Overall, market sentiment remains relatively constructive, with many traders viewing declines as potential buying opportunities. As a result, pullbacks are likely to attract interest from investors looking to enter the market at more favorable levels, which could help support the index in the near term.
A break above last week’s high near the 25,425 level could serve as a strong bullish signal for the DAX. Such a move would likely reinforce positive market sentiment and attract additional buying interest from traders and investors who have been waiting for confirmation of further upside momentum.
If that resistance level is successfully cleared, participation in the market could increase significantly, potentially paving the way for a stronger advance and extending the broader upward trend.
Bitcoin retreats toward $76,000 as escalating Middle East tensions intensify following US “self-defense” strikes near the Strait of Hormuz.
Ethereum falls below $2,100, mirroring a broader risk-off mood even as Iranian negotiators gather in Qatar to finalize the US-Iran memorandum of understanding.
XRP deepens its decline below $1.35 while continuing to hold above the SuperTrend indicator’s dynamic support around $1.32.
Cryptocurrency markets remain under pressure on Tuesday, with Bitcoin (BTC) pulling back toward the crucial $76,000 support area as risk-off sentiment persists. Ethereum (ETH) trades below the $2,100 mark, while Ripple (XRP) continues to consolidate beneath $1.35 after encountering resistance near $1.37.
Military tensions cloud US-Iran peace prospects
The weakness across global financial markets follows US military strikes launched Monday against targets in southern Iran near the Strait of Hormuz. According to a statement from US Central Command (CENTCOM) spokesperson Captain Tim Hawkins, the operations were carried out in “self-defense” and aimed at “protecting US troops from threats posed by Iranian forces.”
The consequences of the latest strikes for a potential US-Iran peace agreement remain uncertain. Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) stated on Tuesday that the country reserves the “legitimate and definite” right to respond to any violations of a ceasefire by the United States, according to BBC reports.
Despite rising tensions, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stressed that a diplomatic resolution is still achievable, referencing Tuesday’s planned talks in Doha involving Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and Qatar’s Prime Minister. The discussions are expected to focus on finalizing the memorandum of understanding (MoU) between Washington and Tehran.
“We’ll see if we can make progress. There’s still a lot of back-and-forth over the wording in the initial document, so it may take a few more days,” Rubio told reporters during a visit to India.
Meanwhile, sentiment in the crypto market remains fragile. The Crypto Fear & Greed Index edged up to 34 on Tuesday from 30 a day earlier, but it still sits firmly in Fear territory. Investors continue to assess the broader economic risks stemming from the conflict, particularly as inflationary pressures in the United States remain elevated.
Price analysis: Bitcoin remains under pressure as downside risks persist
Bitcoin is trading around $76,668, maintaining a bearish short-term outlook as the price continues to stay below the 50-day, 100-day, and 200-day Exponential Moving Averages (EMAs), which are positioned between approximately $76,784 and $81,285.
The alignment of these short- and long-term EMAs above the current market price indicates that upward moves are facing strong resistance pressure. Meanwhile, the Relative Strength Index (RSI) remains below the neutral 50 level on the daily chart, signaling weakening bullish momentum rather than deeply oversold conditions.
On the upside, Bitcoin faces immediate resistance at the 50-day EMA near $76,784, followed closely by the 100-day EMA around $76,880. A stronger resistance zone is located at the 200-day EMA near $81,285. To the downside, the key structural support remains the ascending trend line around $70,500. A daily close below this level could intensify bearish momentum and trigger a deeper correction.
Altcoins technical outlook: Ethereum and XRP remain under selling pressure
Ethereum is trading near $2,095 and continues to show a bearish short-term structure as the price stays below major moving averages. The 50-day EMA at $2,217, the 100-day EMA at $2,294, and the 200-day EMA at $2,516 are acting as layered dynamic resistance levels, indicating that recovery attempts may remain limited while ETH trades beneath this zone.
Momentum indicators also reflect ongoing weakness. The Relative Strength Index (RSI) remains in the upper-30 range on the daily chart, pointing to subdued buying strength, while the Moving Average Convergence Divergence (MACD) histogram stays in negative territory, suggesting bearish pressure continues to dominate despite intermittent rebounds.
On the downside, Ethereum’s immediate support is located around the ascending trendline near $2,074, where buyers could attempt to defend the price during pullbacks. A decisive break below this level would likely expose ETH to deeper losses and further strengthen the prevailing bearish structure.
To the upside, a move back above the 50-day EMA at $2,217 would provide the first signal that bearish pressure is easing. Additional resistance levels are seen at the 100-day EMA near $2,294 and the 200-day EMA around $2,516. Ethereum bulls would need to reclaim these key zones to confirm a more sustainable bullish reversal.
Meanwhile, XRP is trading near $1.34 and continues to maintain a bearish near-term outlook as the token remains below the 50-day EMA near $1.40, the 100-day EMA at $1.47, and the 200-day EMA at $1.68. Weak momentum indicators further support the downside bias, with the Relative Strength Index (RSI) hovering around 40 on the daily chart and the MACD histogram remaining in negative territory. This suggests that recovery attempts are likely to encounter selling pressure while the major moving averages continue to cap upward momentum.
On the upside, XRP faces initial resistance at the 50-day EMA around $1.40, followed by a stronger hurdle at the 100-day EMA near $1.47. The 200-day EMA at $1.68 represents a major long-term resistance zone and continues to act as the broader bearish ceiling unless successfully reclaimed.
On the downside, immediate support is seen at the SuperTrend indicator near $1.33. A decisive move below this level could trigger a deeper correction and intensify bearish momentum. However, as long as XRP remains above the SuperTrend support, the token is likely to continue consolidating beneath the cluster of major moving averages.