Bitcoin in the "Waiting Zone": What to Expect from BTC in Early 2026?

Currently (January 2026), Bitcoin is trading in a range of around $91,930 - $92,700, showing moderate growth since the beginning of the year. However, Bitfinex experts warn that the market is facing a "tight supply zone" formed by buyers who entered the asset at last year's peaks.

Key Levels: What Should Traders Watch?

Analysts highlight several critical levels, the break of which will determine the trend for the coming months:
- Resistance $93,500 - $95,000: This is the main barrier. Bitfinex notes that until the price consolidates above this zone, an impulsive rally should not be expected.
- $100,000 Psychological Barrier: A breakout of $94,789 will pave the way for the long-awaited six-figure mark, which BTC could reach by the end of January if the current momentum continues.
- $91,500 – $92,000 Support: Holding this level is critical to maintaining bullish sentiment in the first quarter of 2026.
- $84,500 Critical Zone: If bears manage to push the price lower, a pullback to the accumulation level around $80,000 is possible.

Bitfinex Secrets: Why is the price "stuck"?

According to the Bitfinex Alpha report, the current stagnation is caused by several factors:
1. Breakeven Pressure: Holders who bought BTC in the $92,100–$117,400 range are now actively exiting positions upon reaching breakeven, creating a "price ceiling."
2. Institutional Dominance: The market has matured. Price movement now depends more on macroeconomic liquidity and flows into spot ETFs than on retail speculation.
3. Derivatives Clearance: The sharp decline in options open interest at the end of 2025 cleared the market, setting the stage for a healthier, but less volatile, rally.

Bitcoin 2026 Forecast: The Year of Liquidity

Bitfinex predicts 2026 will be the "year of liquidity." Crypto ETP assets under management are expected to double to exceed $400 billion by the end of the year. Despite the current hiccup, medium-term targets remain ambitious: many analysts see BTC in the $120,000-$150,000 range by mid-year, and some historical models point to a potential cycle peak around $290,000.

Investor Summary: The market is currently in a buildup phase. The key to breaking out of the flat will be a sustained influx of capital into ETFs and a breakout of the $95,000 zone. Until then, volatile trading within the current range remains the most likely scenario.