Market StructureLead story

Analysts See Signs of Bitcoin Bear Market Nearing Its End

Analysts suggest the Bitcoin bear market might be nearing its end as the short-term holders' cost basis has dropped to $69,000, historically a signal for market bottoms. This is supported by a 74% probability of BTC reaching $70,000 this year, despite the current sentiment of "extreme fear" in the market.

Sunday, July 19, 2026BTC

Short-term holders' cost basis at $69,000 historically often signals market bottoms.

Despite "extreme fear" in the market, positive ETF inflows suggest institutional interest.

A successful breakout above $66,000 could pave the way to $70,000.

Story

The crypto world is closely watching Bitcoin as several indicators point to a potential end of the current bear market. A key factor is the short-term holders' (STH) cost basis, which has dropped to $69,000. Historically, a crossover of the STH cost basis with the current price has often signaled phases of capitulation or accumulation before a trend reversal. When the price falls below this cost basis, it suggests that many newer buyers are experiencing losses, which often leads to a market cleanse before a new uptrend can establish itself. Currently, Bitcoin is trading at $63,950, meaning a significant portion of STHs are underwater. This could represent a healthy market reset necessary for future growth. Current market sentiment, as measured by the Fear & Greed Index, stands at 25, indicating "extreme fear." Paradoxically, such phases are often the best accumulation periods for long-term investors, as prices tend to be undervalued. Recent net inflows into Bitcoin Spot ETFs of $132 million on July 19 could be an early sign that institutional capital is interpreting this fear as a buying opportunity. Although Bitcoin has seen only a slight gain of 0.76% in the last 24 hours and a minor dip over the past seven days, the combination of the STH cost basis and ETF flows suggests the market is navigating a critical phase. A successful test of the $66,000 resistance, as mentioned in some analyses, could provide confirmation for an impending breakout and increase the probability of a rise to $70,000 this year. For you, this means that despite the fear, the current market phase holds interesting developments for Bitcoin that you should monitor closely.

Issue context

The crypto market shows a slight recovery in total market capitalization today, driven by a modest increase in Bitcoin. Nevertheless, market sentiment remains characterized by "extreme fear," indicating continued uncertainty. As Bitcoin attempts to break free from critical levels, we observe how altcoins react to specific news and developments.

Your focus today should be on Bitcoin's price action in the context of the short-term holder cost basis and ETF flows. Be aware that geopolitical events and large whale sales can cause short-term volatility. While altcoin-specific news offers opportunities, it also carries increased risks, especially with meme coins. Stay vigilant and manage your risk carefully.

Market pulse

BTC

$64K

+0.76% 24h / -0.26% 7d

Fear & Greed

25

Extreme Fear

BTC Spot ETFs

+$132M

Net flow · 2026-07-19

BTC Funding

+0.0041%

20 perp markets · OI $47.7B

More from this issue

This story is part of the Biturai Market Brief and is for informational purposes only. No investment advice.