Bitcoin (BTC) continues to trade steadily near the $89,000 mark on December 26, 2025, showing notable stability despite several short-term market pressures. Reduced holiday trading activity, ongoing ETF outflows, and a record-setting options expiry are all influencing price action, yet BTC remains resilient.
Low Holiday Liquidity Limits Volatility
Global financial markets are operating with thin liquidity due to the holiday season. As many institutional desks remain inactive, Bitcoin’s trading volume has declined, resulting in slower price movements and a tight consolidation range.
Historically, such low-liquidity periods often lead to sideways price action, with sharper moves expected once normal market participation returns.
ETF Outflows Signal Caution, Not Weakness
Spot Bitcoin ETFs have recently experienced net outflows, reflecting short-term caution among institutional investors. Some funds appear to be rebalancing portfolios ahead of year-end, while others are taking partial profits after Bitcoin’s strong performance in recent months.
Despite this, overall ETF adoption remains strong, and long-term inflows continue to support Bitcoin’s broader bullish narrative.
Record Options Expiry Adds Market Pressure
A major driver of today’s consolidation is the record Bitcoin options expiry, involving billions of dollars in contracts. Large expiries often suppress price movement temporarily as traders hedge exposure, creating a narrow trading range.
Data shows a heavy concentration of open interest around $88,000–$90,000, reinforcing the current price stability near $89,000.
Key Price Levels to Monitor
Immediate Support: $86,800 – $87,500
Major Resistance: $90,500 – $92,000
A breakout above resistance could reignite bullish momentum, while a breakdown below support may lead to short-term corrective moves.
Market Outlook
Bitcoin’s ability to hold above key psychological levels amid ETF selling pressure and low liquidity highlights its underlying strength. As the options expiry passes and market participation increases in early January, traders are likely to see renewed volatility.
For now, BTC remains in consolidation mode, with the broader trend still supported by institutional interest and long-term adoption.
