Bitcoin Stuck Near $90K: Miners Say Don’t Expect a Breakout Yet

Market Overview - Bitcoin price is currently around $90,000, approximately 30% below its October high of $126,000, indicating a standoff between buyers and sellers [1][3] - The market is experiencing a consolidation phase, with Bitcoin trading in a narrow range for about 195 days, marking one of its longest periods of low volatility [3] Influencing Factors - Major Bitcoin mining firm BitRiver has indicated that prices may remain flat due to external factors such as tight interest rates and geopolitical tensions, which are driving investors towards safer assets like gold [1][5] - Institutional investors have withdrawn significant amounts from spot Bitcoin ETFs, with $1.37 billion leaving between January 6 and 9, contributing to the lack of price momentum [3] Historical Context - Historically, long periods of market stagnation for Bitcoin have preceded significant rallies, as seen in past cycles from 2013, 2017, and 2021 [4] - On-chain data suggests reduced panic selling and less forced liquidation, indicating a more patient market rather than one in collapse [6] Future Outlook - Some analysts maintain a bullish outlook, suggesting that Bitcoin could benefit from a weakening U.S. dollar or a return of institutional investments through spot Bitcoin ETFs [7] - A London-based crypto group predicts a strong price movement for Bitcoin later in 2026, although the current market conditions are not favorable for quick profits [7]