Bitcoin Struggles Toward 2025 Year-End: Price Dips Below $90K Amid Bearish Signals and Expert Concerns
By Staff Reporter | December 24, 2025
Bitcoin is limping toward the end of 2025 with persistent weakness, trading around $86,878.90 as of the latest updates, down significantly from its all-time highs earlier in the year.[1] The cryptocurrency, which closed November at $90,000—a 30% drop from peaks—has failed to hold key support levels like $100,000, fueling concerns among investors and analysts.[2]
Recent Price Action Signals Caution
Historical data reveals a downward trend in early December. On December 13, Bitcoin hovered at $90,249.30, following a slight uptick from $90,272 on December 12 after dipping from $92,510.40. By December 11 and 10, prices fluctuated between $92,507.40 and $91,996.10, indicating volatility but no sustained recovery.[3] Current real-time pricing sits at $86,878.90, with forecasts suggesting a modest 0.15% rise to $87,866.07 by December 26.[1]
Over the past 30 days, Bitcoin has seen only 50% green days with 2.22% volatility, underscoring market choppiness. Technical indicators point to a bearish sentiment, with the Bullish market score at just 11% and the Fear & Greed Index at 24, signaling "Extreme Fear."[1]
Expert Analyses Highlight Mixed but Leaning Bearish Outlook
Renowned analyst PlanB, in a recent YouTube analysis, noted Bitcoin’s drop below $100,000 and the breakdown of that critical support. Examining stock-to-flow models, realized price at around $56,000, and moving averages, PlanB highlighted an RSI (Relative Strength Index) at 55—down from 65—describing it as a "big dip." He warned that dipping to this level raises red flags for a potential bear market, despite mixed signals like a neutral RSI color.[2]
"The big question is, are we going to see a bull market ahead or a bear market? We are getting mixed signals," PlanB stated, emphasizing real-time charts showing RSI concerns that he had previously flagged as worrisome.[2]
Despite short-term gloom, some forecasts offer glimmers of optimism. Changelly predicts December 2025 prices ranging from a low of $87,814.27 to a high of $87,995.58, with an average of $87,904.93. Looking further, Digital Coin Price eyes an average of $210,644.67 for 2025 overall, potentially peaking at $230,617.59, while Wallet Investor sees $103,675 within a year and $196,072 in five years.[1]
Long-Term Bullish Factors Persist Amid Regulatory and Economic Pressures
Bullish underpinnings remain, driven by Bitcoin’s finite supply of 21 million coins, independence from traditional economic factors, growing institutional acceptance, and technological advancements like the Lightning Network for scalability. However, evolving regulatory landscapes—such as potential U.S. policy shifts under new administrations and global crackdowns—add uncertainty.[1]
Projections extend optimistically into the future. By 2029, averages could hit $397,306 to $476,474, and by 2030, experts forecast around $615,458, with highs up to $679,087 and lows at $594,884.[1] These estimates assume continued adoption, but near-term weakness tied to macroeconomic headwinds like interest rate policies and inflation concerns could prolong the slump.
Market Sentiment and Investor Implications
The "Extreme Fear" reading on the Fear & Greed Index reflects retail investor jitters, compounded by broader crypto market corrections. Bitcoin’s dominance as the bellwether asset means altcoins are also under pressure, with many following its lead downward.
Investors are advised to monitor RSI levels closely; a further drop below 55 could confirm bearish momentum, per PlanB’s analysis. Conversely, a bounce above recent highs near $92,000 might signal reversal.[2][3]
As 2025 closes, Bitcoin’s path remains uncertain. While short-term forecasts predict stability around $88,000, the failure to reclaim $90,000-plus levels echoes the original FOREX.com report on "persistent weakness." Market participants eye year-end tax selling and potential holiday liquidity dips as catalysts for further movement.
Broader Context: Crypto’s 2025 Rollercoaster
This weakness caps a volatile year. Bitcoin surged past $100,000 mid-year on ETF approvals and halving hype but corrected sharply amid profit-taking and geopolitical tensions. November’s 30% plunge from all-time highs set the tone for December’s malaise.[2]
Stakeholders from hedge funds to retail holders grapple with positioning. Long-term holders cite historical cycles—post-halving bull runs—as reasons for accumulation, while short-term traders hedge with derivatives.
"Bitcoin dropped below $100,000… what’s next?" PlanB pondered, capturing the sentiment dominating trading floors and online forums.[2]
With global markets closed for holidays, low volume could amplify swings. Analysts recommend diversified portfolios and risk management as Bitcoin navigates this pivotal juncture.
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