2025-12-30 20:24:34

Market consolidation is often more about mentality than technicals.

On Monday, Bitcoin repeatedly tested around $90,599, with the market shouting "Hold steady at 90K, target 100K." But looking at the chart, the rebound momentum seems to be gradually weakening. It's like a cat that wakes up, turns over, stretches, and then goes back to sleep.

**The story behind the chart**

A series of small upward K-lines appeared on the four-hour chart, but then the price retreated below the upper band of the Bollinger Bands. The signs of a weakening rebound are becoming more obvious—trading activity is cooling down. Currently, Bitcoin is mainly fluctuating between $87,000 and $88,000, with only a 0.3% decline over the past day. Ethereum is also oscillating up and down, ranging between $2,900 and $2,950. This narrow-range consolidation has been going on for a while, and market vitality is clearly lacking.

Anyone who always dances to the rhythm of ups and downs will most likely get their face slapped in the end.

**What on-chain data says**

More worth paying attention to is the change in capital flows. Recent on-chain data shows funds are flowing out, especially the movements in ETFs are critical—Bitcoin spot ETFs saw a net outflow of $782 million from December 22 to 26, and Ethereum ETFs also followed with a $102 million outflow. Large institutions like BlackRock are reducing their holdings.

But this doesn’t mean institutions are truly bearish. This phase of capital withdrawal is more like a natural reaction to taking profits at high levels. The true bearish signals are not that obvious yet.

BTC1.39%

ETH1.18%

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CafeMinor

· 8h ago

Consolidation really tests people's resolve. Bitcoin is a bit weak this wave; it feels like it's about to move to the next step.

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quietly_staking

· 8h ago

A good mindset is indeed important, but I think the main reason for this sideways movement is still the lack of new catalysts.

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LayerZeroHero

· 8h ago

It has been proven that the protocol architecture logic behind this wave of ETF net outflows is actually quite clear—institutions are testing the liquidity bottom line, which is not a true bearish signal.

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BearWhisperGod

· 8h ago

The lazy cat metaphor is spot on, that's exactly the vibe. Staying calm is really important; those who follow the K-line swings have already been liquidated.

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MerkleTreeHugger

· 8h ago

Consolidation is a test of your mindset; sometimes technical analysis alone isn't enough to manage your emotions.

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AirdropFreedom

· 9h ago

Sideways trading is the most exhausting; maintaining the right mindset is truly a big test. Looking at this cat market, it’s retreating to continue sleeping... Feeling mentally drained, and I still have to hold on to a 0.3% decline.

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TokenUnlocker

· 9h ago

Consolidation really tests human nature. The technical analysis methods are basically useless during sideways trading; it depends on who has a steadier mindset. The analogy of the lazy bed cat is perfect haha, just no motivation. ETF outflow of 782 million? Institutions really don't pay attention to details. Looking at this pace, even 100,000 might have to wait a bit longer. Don't rush.

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