Is the Bitcoin Bull Market Over? Analysts Weigh In

Has Bitcoin Peaked? Analysts Spot Ominous Signals

As the crypto market enters 2025, questions surrounding the longevity of bitcoin’s bull run grow louder. 10x Research, a prominent digital asset analysis firm, has raised cautionary flags about the state of the market. CEO and Head of Research Markus Thielen, in a Dec. 29, 2024 update, highlighted emerging technical patterns that may suggest a shift in market momentum.

Historical Patterns and Bearish Indicators

10x Research’s latest report draws parallels between the current market and previous bull cycles in 2017 and 2019. These cycles exhibited early-month rallies followed by profit-taking near the end of the month, signaling the late stages of a bull market.

In December 2024, bitcoin reached an all-time high of $108,364 on Dec. 16, before retreating to $92,000. Analysts identified a “shooting star” candlestick pattern—a bearish indicator that historically marks market tops, as seen in December 2017 and November 2021. Thielen noted:

“The shooting star pattern serves as a bearish reversal signal, indicating weakening buying pressure and potential price reversals.”

The report stresses the significance of the $90,000–$92,000 support range, warning that a breach could lead to steep declines. It also suggests a potential January rally ahead of key political events, like Trump’s inauguration, followed by another round of profit-taking that could confirm the December shooting star as a market top.

Diverging Perspectives Among Analysts

While 10x Research maintains a cautious outlook, it does not declare the bull market definitively over. Instead, the firm forecasts heightened volatility in 2025, with sharp rallies and sell-offs likely. Other analysts share varied perspectives:

• Crypto Birb: The X account Crypto Birb predicts that the bitcoin bull run is 80% complete and expects a peak above $225,000 by mid-2025. It advises investors to secure profits before the bear market begins in 2026, forecasting an 80-90% downturn.

• Tutor: Another prominent X account, Tutor, believes the market is in its “grand finale” phase. Tutor highlights the emotional struggle between holding for higher gains versus exiting based on rational technical signals.

“FOMO and bias can cloud judgment, but history rewards those who prepare and stay rational,” Tutor stated.

Navigating 2025’s Uncertainty

As 2025 unfolds, investors face critical decisions. Should they ride potential final rallies, or secure profits ahead of a potential downturn? With the market poised for heightened volatility, analysts emphasize the importance of risk management and disciplined trading strategies.

The debate over bitcoin’s trajectory underscores the need for sharp market insights and careful planning. Whether the bull market continues or nears its end, one thing remains clear: the decisions made in the coming months will have lasting consequences for portfolios.