Bitcoin News Today: Bitcoin Dips Below $100K as Bulls Bet Big vs. Bearish Outflows

Bitcoin's price has retreated below $100,000 for the first time since June, intensifying fears of a deeper correction as market sentiment turns bearish. Analysts warn that the cryptocurrency's underperformance against gold and equities in 2025-unusual for a post-halving year-reflects broader macroeconomic pressures, including strong U.S. dollar demand and higher Treasury yields. Despite this, institutional figures like Michael Saylor, CEO of Strategy (MSTR), have doubled down on Bitcoin, dismissing rumors of asset sales and reaffirming aggressive accumulation strategies.

The recent sell-off has coincided with mounting outflows from U.S. spot Bitcoin ETFs, which saw $939 million in withdrawals last week alone. CoinShares data highlights waning institutional appetite, while Santiment analysts caution that widespread "bottom is in" sentiment often precedes further declines. "Large ETF inflows have historically marked tops, and outflows now signal panic," the firm noted, adding that Bitcoin's social dominance has surged to over 40% amid a one-month low in positive sentiment.

Technical indicators present a mixed picture. Coindesk's analysis identifies a potential wedge pattern, suggesting renewed upside potential if Bitcoin holds above $100,000. However, CryptoQuant's Bull Score Index has plummeted from 80 in October to 20, signaling deepening bearish conditions. Long-term holders (LTHs) have sold 815,000 BTC in the past 30 days-the highest since early 2024-adding downward pressure.

Meanwhile, corporate actions highlight diverging strategies. CoinW's new CrazyEarn product offers a 50% annual percentage yield (APY) with a three-day lock-up, attracting over 1,000 participants in prior rounds. Conversely, companies like Strategy have leveraged market dips to expand holdings, with MSTR now owning 641,692 BTC valued at $22.5 billion. Saylor dismissed recent on-chain movements of $5.77 billion in Bitcoin as a custodial transfer, vowing to "always buy" during volatility.

Gold remains a key alternative asset, surging 57% year-to-date compared to Bitcoin's 8% gain. Yet Saylor argues that Bitcoin's long-term returns-averaging 50% annually over five years-outpace traditional assets, positioning it as a superior store of value.

As the market grapples with uncertainty, analysts remain split. While some point to potential catalysts like Federal Reserve rate cuts and TGA liquidity injections post-shutdown, others warn of a "capitulation phase," with the 365-day moving average at $102,000 acting as critical support.

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