Bitcoin, often referred to as digital gold, has experienced a period of consolidation following a recent rally. After reaching a multi-week high of approximately $66.5k last Friday, the cryptocurrency’s price has entered a cooling-off phase, declining over 3% in the last three days. So, what’s happening?
As September draws to a close, Bitcoin has exhibited a substantial recovery over the past four weeks, mirroring the ongoing global economic changes. After reaching a correction low of around $52.6k earlier this month, Bitcoin’s price has rebounded by more than 25% during this period. Let’s delve deeper into what the future holds for this prominent cryptocurrency.
What’s Putting Pressure on the Bitcoin Price?
Crowd Sentiment
Despite a reduced fear of further cryptocurrency capitulation over the past three weeks, on-chain data highlights that whale investors, especially those linked to U.S. spot Bitcoin ETFs, have intensified their accumulation efforts. Recent market data indicates that U.S. spot Bitcoin ETFs have experienced inflows of over $1.9 billion during this period.
The futures market is showing signs of overheating, with Open Interest around $19.1 billion. Since March 2024, it has surpassed $18.0 billion six times, each leading to a price drop. This marks the seventh occurrence, indicating a potential trend.
As a result, Bitcoin’s price has surged alongside the gold market, fostering an increased appetite for long positions among investors. However, market analysis from Santiment suggests that the market often reacts contrary to the crowd’s expectations, adding to the overall volatility.
Upcoming Market Events and Volatility
As the end of September approaches, traders are preparing for the $8 billion Bitcoin options expiration over the weekend. Historically, Bitcoin’s price tends to exhibit increased volatility during such significant liquidity events in the options market.
Additionally, on-chain data from CryptoQuant reveals that Bitcoin’s Open Interest market has surged to over $19 billion. Historical patterns show that Bitcoin’s price often declines whenever the Open Interest market spikes above $18 billion, suggesting a potential downtrend.
Bitcoin Price Analysis – What’s Next?
As global liquidity gradually increases, Bitcoin’s price is expected to rise accordingly. Moreover, the upcoming US 2024 general election is anticipated to act as a bullish trigger, as it has in previous election cycles.
However, the notable surge of altcoins, led by Ripple’s XRP, could signal the beginning of a significant altseason. This shift could potentially alter Bitcoin’s weekly dominance in the market, presenting new dynamics for traders to consider.
Will Bitcoin’s dominance continue, or will altcoins steal the show? Share your insights.