Market Overview - The cryptocurrency market experienced significant losses early Monday, with major cryptocurrencies like bitcoin (BTC) and ether (ETH) contributing to a liquidation of leveraged bets worth $1.5 billion [1] - The decline followed a dovish Fed interest-rate cut, which was anticipated to lower the dollar index and promote risk-taking in crypto markets [1] Bitcoin Analysis - Recent signals indicate a downward trend for bitcoin, with BTCUSD falling out of its upward channel established since early September and dropping below key support levels and the 50-day moving average [2] - This combination of negative indicators suggests further declines are likely unless there is a fundamental shift in market sentiment [2] Derivatives Positioning - The top 20 tokens, excluding BTC and HYPE, have seen double-digit declines in futures open interest as overleveraged bets are liquidated [3] - Shorts are increasing in Binance-listed USDT futures, with open interest rising to 276K BTC, while funding rates for several altcoins are notably negative, indicating a bearish sentiment [3] - BTC front-month futures on the CME are trading at a $100 premium to the spot price, and a potential shift to a discount could signal increased selling pressure [3] Market Sentiment and Altcoins - The sell-off was exacerbated by a $1.6 billion liquidation cascade, with $500 million occurring in ether trading pairs [3] - Funding rates for ether have turned negative, indicating a shift in sentiment after a significant rally from $2,400 in July to $4,831 in late August [3] - Major cryptocurrencies like BTC, ETH, and SOL are at critical support levels, and a recovery could occur if traders are overly aggressive in short positions [3] - The average crypto token relative strength index (RSI) is at 28.4, suggesting heavily oversold conditions that may lead to a relief rally unless BTC and ETH break their support levels [3]