Core Insights - Bitcoin traders are experiencing heightened tension as the cryptocurrency consolidates below $115,000, with a significant number of short positions and increased whale activity ahead of the upcoming FOMC meeting [1][2][8] - There is a 97.8% probability that the Federal Reserve will cut interest rates by 25 basis points, which is influencing market sentiment [1][8] Market Conditions - As of October 28, Bitcoin is trading between $114,473 and $116,000, with analysts suggesting that future price movements may be more influenced by Federal Reserve actions than technical charts [2][3] - Mark Cullen describes the current market as a "Bitcoin liquidity sandwich," indicating that short positions above the October 13 bounce high are creating pressure that could lead to a squeeze before any significant correction [3][4] Liquidation Zones - Analysis from Coinglass shows increasing short-side pressure between $115,000 and $121,000, indicating potential for a squeeze [4] - CoinAnk highlights significant liquidation zones between $102,000 and $112,000, with extreme pressure on support in the $102,000–$105,000 range and dense resistance in the $108,000–$112,000 band [5] Volatility Expectations - The two-sided pressure in the market is often a precursor to sharp volatility in Bitcoin prices, reflecting trader indecision ahead of policy announcements [6] - A CME futures gap at the $111,000 level has been identified, which historically has a 70% fill rate, suggesting that current consolidation may lead to a price surge depending on macroeconomic factors post-FOMC [7] Sentiment and Whale Activity - The anticipation of rate cuts has revived bullish sentiment among traders, particularly large players, as seen in the CME FedWatch Tool data [8][9] - A similar market setup in 2024 led to a significant Bitcoin price increase, indicating that current conditions may also lead to a bullish trend [9]