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Bitcoin is trading just below the critical $90,000 level, struggling to regain bullish momentum after weeks of uncertainty. Market sentiment has shifted slightly — from extreme fear to cautious observation — but confidence remains fragile. Analysts are split on what comes next. Some warn that failure to reclaim $90K could extend the current downtrend, while others believe a breakout above this level could trigger a sharp move to the upside.

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Adding to the uncertainty, on-chain data from CryptoQuant reveals that Bitcoin is now undergoing its seventh compression of Realized Volatility on the daily timeframe during this cycle. These periods of low volatility often precede significant price moves. The Garman-Klass Realized Volatility metric, used to assess intraday volatility, is currently flashing an alert, signaling that Bitcoin could be on the verge of a major breakout — in either direction.

Historically, four of the past six volatility compressions in this cycle have resulted in price increases, while two have led to declines. As Bitcoin hovers near a critical resistance level, this volatility squeeze is likely to act as a pressure valve — setting the stage for Bitcoin’s next big move. Traders are now watching closely for confirmation.

Bitcoin Momentum Stalls As Volatility Signals Caution

Bitcoin is holding steady above the $85,000 mark, showing resilience after weeks of volatility. However, upward momentum has begun to fade, and the price has failed to push higher despite repeated attempts. Bulls are struggling to reclaim the $90,000 level, while bears are increasingly testing the strength of the $85K support zone. A clean break below this level could confirm a deeper retrace and open the door to further downside.

Analysts remain divided on what comes next. Some warn that if Bitcoin fails to reclaim $90K soon, the market could enter a more prolonged correction phase. Others remain optimistic, pointing to the potential for a breakout if bulls manage to regain control and flip resistance into support.

Adding to the uncertainty, top analyst Axel Adler shared a key on-chain insight on X. According to Adler, the Bitcoin market is now undergoing its seventh Realized Volatility compression on the daily timeframe in this cycle. The Garman-Klass Realized Volatility metric — which tracks intraday price swings — is flashing an alert, signaling that a significant move is likely on the horizon.

Historically, these volatility compressions have preceded major price shifts. In four out of six previous instances, Bitcoin rallied sharply following the compression. In the remaining two cases, the move was to the downside. With Bitcoin hovering at a critical level, this volatility squeeze could act as a launchpad for the next big move — up or down. As pressure builds, traders are closely watching for confirmation signals that will reveal the market’s true direction.

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Price Action Details: Key Levels To Watch

Bitcoin is currently trading at $87,000 after several days of ranging between $84,000 and $88,000. The price action has been relatively stable, but bulls are running out of time to reclaim control. To confirm the start of a new uptrend, BTC must decisively push above the $90,000 mark — a key psychological and technical resistance zone.

At the moment, both the 4-hour 200-day moving average (MA) and exponential moving average (EMA) are acting as short-term support, helping Bitcoin stay above the $86K-$87K region. These levels are critical for maintaining momentum and preventing a breakdown in market structure.

However, if bulls fail to hold this support and lose the $85K zone, bearish pressure could intensify. A drop below $84K would invalidate the current range and likely send BTC down to retest the $81,000 level — a key area of previous demand.

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As price continues to coil within a tight band, the next breakout — or breakdown — will likely set the tone for the coming weeks. Until then, bulls must act quickly to reclaim $90K and shift sentiment back in their favor before the market turns against them.

Featured image from Dall-E, chart from TradingView 

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