Crypto markets extended losses as total market capitalization slipped below $3 trillion again, signaling rising correction risks. Bitcoin fell 1.5% to around $86,600, dragging major altcoins lower, with Ether sliding toward $2,930 and XRP dropping below $1.90. Weakness is being driven mainly by large-cap, institutionally held tokens as professional investors reduce risk amid a stronger U.S. dollar and thin year-end liquidity. Market sentiment has turned sharply bearish, with fear at extreme levels, while analysts now watch $81,000 as key Bitcoin support despite continued long-term institutional accumulation.
