Extreme fear grips crypto market

[Ben Graham]

Bitcoin slid below $90,000 today, reinforcing the sense that demand has evaporated even at these levels. Ethereum followed suit, falling under $3,000 and opening the door to a potentially deeper correction.

Sentiment has deteriorated sharply. The Fear&Greed Index has plunged to 11, signaling widespread panic among speculative traders and inexperienced investors.

For market veterans, however, such drawdowns—while painful—are far from unprecedented. Bitcoin's history is marked by dramatic cycles in which phases of intense disappointment have consistently followed periods of unrestrained euphoria. Many long-time participants recall moments when Bitcoin appeared "dead," only for the market to stage powerful recoveries.

Multiple factors may be driving the current retracement, including macroeconomic pressures such as high interest rates and recession risks, as well as industry-specific concerns like regulatory scrutiny and controversies involving major players. Futures liquidations in November alone have been sizeable enough to amplify downward momentum. During such episodes, newer investors often capitulate at a loss, adding fuel to the decline.

Seasoned participants, by contrast, tend to view these periods as opportunities to accumulate positions at more attractive prices. They recognize that despite its volatility, the crypto market has significant long-term growth potential. The key is maintaining discipline: controlling emotions, conducting thorough analysis, and adhering to core investment principles. In times of extreme fear, diversification, long-term positioning, and prudent risk management become especially important. Chasing quick gains or concentrating capital in a single asset can magnify losses; gradual accumulation based on fundamentals and industry outlooks is generally more sustainable.

From this perspective, the current correction may represent a temporary pause before the next phase of market expansion.

Technical outlook

Bitcoin

Buyers are currently focused on reclaiming the $92,900 level, which would open the path toward $95,900 and potentially extend to the $99,400 area. The broader upside target remains near $102,400; a breakout above this level would signal an attempt to re-establish a bullish market structure.

On the downside, support is expected near $89,200. A drop below this zone could accelerate selling pressure and push BTC toward $86,500, with a deeper target at $83,900.

Ethereum

A sustained move above $3,069 would clear the way toward $3,163. The upper target stands near $3,256, and a breakout above that level would point to renewed bullish momentum and stronger buyer interest.

If ETH declines, initial support lies around $2,920. A breakdown below this area could quickly send the price toward $2,756, with an extended target at $2,592.

Chart indicators

• Red indicators represent support and resistance levels, where a slowdown or active price increase is expected.
• Green represents the 50-day moving average.
• Blue indicates the 100-day moving average.
• Light green signifies the 200-day moving average.

Crossovers or tests of the moving averages usually halt or set the market's momentum.

The material has been provided by InstaForex Company - www.instaforex.com