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Bitcoin (BTC) continues to trade in a tight range as multiple technical indicators signal compression across timeframes. Analysts note growing tension between improving structure and weak spot demand, keeping price capped below $90,000. Near-term focus remains on whether Bitcoin can confirm a breakout toward $95,000 or extend consolidation into year-end.

Bitcoin Price Tests Descending Channel Resistance

According to analyst Alex, the daily BTC chart shows Bitcoin trading inside a descending channel that has guided the price lower since October 2025. The upper trendline has capped several recovery attempts from highs above $110,000, while recent candles form higher lows near $87,792. This structure suggests bullish pressure is gradually building.

SOURCE: X

Volume remains moderate, with no evidence of aggressive distribution or panic selling. Such conditions often reflect seller exhaustion rather than strong bearish conviction. Historically, Bitcoin price has shown a tendency to reverse once descending channels lose momentum after prolonged corrections.

The analyst noted that a confirmed daily close above the channel could invalidate the bearish structure. In that scenario, upside targets align with prior resistance between $95,000 and $100,000. However, failure to break higher risks another rotation toward the lower boundary of the channel.

Institutional Flows Continue to Cap Upside Momentum

Meanwhile, analyst KAY highlighted persistent headwinds from spot market dynamics using a 4-hour futures chart. Aggregated open interest remains stable between 237,000 and 250,000 contracts, while funding rates stay mildly positive. This balance suggests leverage is present but not excessive.

SOURCE: X

However, the Coinbase premium remains negative, signaling ongoing institutional selling pressure. This metric has correlated with repeated upside rejections and choppy trading between $80,000 and $90,000. Volume spikes during rallies further reinforce distribution rather than accumulation.

According to KAY, the absence of strong spot demand limits directional expansion. Year-end liquidity conditions may also contribute to muted price action. A sustained upside move likely requires the Coinbase premium to flip positive, confirming renewed institutional participation.

Short-Term Range Keeps Bitcoin Price Trapped

In addition, analyst Don outlined a clear horizontal structure on the one-hour BTC against USD chart. Bitcoin continues to trade within a defined range, supported near $84,000 and capped at $90,000. Current price action hovers near the midpoint around $87,481, reflecting market indecision.

A secondary descending trendline within the range adds overhead pressure. Still, buyers continue to defend the lower boundary, preventing deeper declines. Volume has tapered, a common feature during consolidation phases that precede expansion.

SOURCE: X

He noted that mid-range positioning offers balanced risk for both sides. A move toward either boundary could determine short-term direction. Holiday conditions and low volatility may persist, but breakout potential increases as compression tightens.

Overall, Bitcoin price remains at a critical junction, with structural pressure building beneath long-standing resistance. While institutional selling continues to restrain upside, improving technical formations suggest downside momentum is weakening. Market participants now watch for volume confirmation to determine whether BTC resolves higher or extends its consolidation range.

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