The crypto market is navigating a tense phase as Bitcoin hovers around critical price levels, with analysts warning of increased selling pressure from large holders. A widely shared post by analyst Chiefingza, amplified by RookieXBT, pointed to robust support below the $80,000 mark, suggesting that while a wall of worry persists, there may be a cushion against a deeper breakdown.
Whale profit-taking puts $81,000 support under scrutiny. According to data shared by Ali Charts, Bitcoin whales realized approximately $156 million in profits and reduced their holdings by 8,162 BTC in just 24 hours — equivalent to roughly $664 million. This reduction indicates large investors are trimming exposure ahead of the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) decision. At the same time, the Coinbase Premium Index dropped to about -0.17, one of its lowest readings since September, signaling weaker relative demand from U.S. investors as Bitcoin traded cheaper on Coinbase than on Binance.
Key price levels define the next move. Ali Charts identified $81,000 as immediate support, where nearly one million BTC previously changed hands. A break below that level could open the door to $77,000, followed by $67,000. To revive the bullish case, Bitcoin needs to reclaim $84,500, where around 620,000 BTC traded historically. If that happens, analysts see potential upside targets at $92,000 and $104,000. Bitcoin rose 1.36% from about $80,628 to $81,721, but the $81,000 level remains critical.
Short-term holders feel the squeeze. Analyst Darkfost noted that short-term Bitcoin holders have remained profitable on average for almost two months, but their estimated cost basis of $76,500 leaves average unrealized profits at just 5.5% — down sharply from around 20% less than a month earlier. Darkfost warned the last comparable profit level occurred shortly before Bitcoin’s October 2025 peak, after which the market consolidated as short-term holders realized profits. Nevertheless, $76,500 is being watched as a potential support level where short-term holders may defend their average entry price.
Markets largely expect the Federal Reserve to hold rates steady, with attention already shifting to a possible December rate hike. Ali Charts observed that Bitcoin’s first-hour response to tracked FOMC meetings often remained below 1%, but a clearer direction tended to emerge within 24 hours and often persisted a week later.
This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice.
