Bitcoin News Today: Bitcoin's Death Cross: Cyclical Bottom or Deeper Downturn?

Bitcoin's price plunged below $94,000 on November 16, 2025, as its 50-day moving average crossed below the 200-day average-a bearish technical signal known as a "death cross"-sparking fresh concerns about a prolonged downturn. The move, confirmed by multiple data platforms, marks one of the most significant technical milestones in the cryptocurrency's recent cycle. The price drop erased all of 2025's gains, with Bitcoin down nearly 28% from its October peak of $126,000.

The death cross, historically associated with bearish trends, has shown mixed outcomes in Bitcoin's cycles. While the immediate aftermath often sees volatility, historical data from 2014 to 2025 reveals an average 15–26% rebound within two to three months of the crossover, according to on-chain analysts. This time, however, the market's reaction has been more severe. Bitcoin's price fell as low as $89,426-a level not seen since April-triggering over $1 billion in liquidations and pushing the Fear & Greed Index to an extreme fear level of 10 according to analysis.

Analysts remain divided on whether the death cross signals a cyclical bottom or a deeper correction. Some argue that previous death crosses in Bitcoin's history have often marked local lows rather than tops. For example, in 2019, the price dropped 10% during a government reopening, only to rebound months later according to market analysis. "History shows that while the short-term is 50/50, the medium-term tends to favor bulls," said one analyst, citing Mario Nawfal's data, which highlights a 1–3 week median gain of 0.25–2.35% post-cross.

The macroeconomic backdrop complicates the outlook. The Federal Reserve's uncertainty over rate cuts-balancing inflation risks against labor market slowdowns-has amplified Bitcoin's volatility. Billionaire Cameron Winklevoss warned on social media that this might be the "last time you'll ever be able to buy Bitcoin below $90k," underscoring the bearish sentiment. Meanwhile, institutional investors and hedge funds have trimmed stakes in Mastercard and other traditional assets, reflecting broader market caution [^5–9].

Glassnode data suggests that the death cross could act as a "positive signal" if Bitcoin stabilizes above the 50-week simple moving average, which currently sits at $110,459 according to market analysis. A rebound within seven days, according to one analysis, could validate the ongoing bull cycle. However, the path forward remains fraught with uncertainty, as macroeconomic headwinds and regulatory shifts continue to weigh on risk assets.

As the market digests the death cross, traders are closely watching for a potential catalyst-a Fed rate cut, a surge in spot ETF inflows, or a shift in macro sentiment-that could reignite bullish momentum. For now, Bitcoin's 41-day correction has tested historical patterns, leaving investors to wonder whether this is a buying opportunity or a warning sign of deeper turmoil.