Bitcoin edged lower on Monday after briefly topping the $90,000 level earlier in the session, as the cryptocurrency has again struggled to sustain gains above that threshold, echoing several failed rebound attempts seen earlier this month.

The world’s largest cryptocurrency last traded 0.6% lower at $87,408.15 by 09:31 ET (14:31 GMT).

Bitcoin has repeatedly tested the $90,000 mark in December, only to retreat as buying momentum faded and year-end trading volumes remained thin.

Bitcoin rises amid Fed easing bets but struggles to retain momentum

Bitcoin’s rise early in the Monday session was supported by broader strength across financial markets, as investors continued to price in expectations that the U.S. Federal Reserve will further reduce interest rates in 2026 following its recent cut.

Lower interest rate expectations tend to support risk assets, including cryptocurrencies, by reducing the appeal of cash and fixed income investments and encouraging flows into higher-return alternatives.

Precious metals Gold, silver, and platinum reversed course after hitting fresh peaks on ongoing geopolitical risks, including U.S.-led talks aimed at ending the war in Ukraine that have so far failed to deliver a clear breakthrough.

The recent strength in precious metals highlighted persistent demand for both safe-haven and alternative assets, creating a supportive backdrop for crypto markets.

Despite the initial upswing, Bitcoin failed to sustain its momentum, with traders pointing to profit-taking and subdued liquidity as limiting factors. Investors continue to view the $90,000 level as a key psychological and technical resistance, requiring stronger catalysts to trigger a sustained rally.

Institutional participation has been uneven, which supported crypto markets earlier in the year, with some funds adopting a wait-and-see approach ahead of key economic data releases early in the new year.

Crypto price today: altcoins flat amid year-end lull

Most altcoins saw muted price action on Monday.

World no.2 crypto Ethereum traded flat at $2,947.51. 

World no. 3 crypto XRP was also muted at $1.86. 

Solana, Cardano and Polygon each edged slightly lower.

Among meme tokens, both Dogecoin and $TRUMP saw marginal movement.