Bitcoin Struggles to Hold Gains as Risk Sentiment Weakens
Bitcoin traded in a narrow range on Monday, failing to maintain its early upward momentum as rising oil prices and ongoing geopolitical tensions dampened investor appetite for risk.
The leading cryptocurrency was last seen 0.1% lower at $77,899.7 as of 09:41 ET (13:41 GMT), after briefly climbing to an intraday high of $79,461.7.
Key Resistance Near $80,000 Caps Bitcoin’s Upside
Bitcoin continues to face strong resistance around the crucial $80,000 level. The latest pullback follows multiple attempts to break higher after rebounds near the $79,000 zone, signaling hesitation among buyers at these levels.
Oil Prices and Iran Developments Weigh on Crypto
Earlier gains were fueled by a report suggesting that Iran had proposed reopening the Strait of Hormuz, potentially delaying nuclear negotiations and easing pressure on global oil supply.
The proposal, reportedly delivered through intermediaries, initially boosted market optimism. However, Bitcoin reversed course as oil prices remained elevated near multi-week highs, reflecting uncertainty over whether the United States will accept the offer.
Adding to the uncertainty, U.S. President Donald Trump recently canceled a planned diplomatic visit aimed at advancing talks with Iran, indicating that discussions could instead continue remotely.
Bitcoin Conference 2026 Draws Market Attention
Investor focus is also shifting to the upcoming Bitcoin Conference 2026, set to begin in Las Vegas. The event is expected to attract a large global audience, including investors, developers, and policymakers.
Historically, Bitcoin tends to experience increased volatility around major industry events. Prices often rise ahead of such gatherings due to optimism, followed by periods of consolidation or profit-taking.
Central Bank Decisions in Focus
Markets are also closely watching key central bank meetings this week, particularly from the Federal Reserve and the Bank of Japan, for signals on future interest rate policy amid persistent inflation concerns.
The Federal Reserve is widely expected to keep rates unchanged in its upcoming decision, which could be the final meeting chaired by Jerome Powell before a potential leadership transition.
Meanwhile, the Bank of Japan has begun its policy meeting, with expectations that rates will remain steady for now, while policymakers hint at possible tightening in the months ahead.
Crypto Funds See Continued Inflows
Despite short-term price pressure, crypto investment products continue to attract capital. According to data from CoinShares, global crypto funds recorded $1.2 billion in net inflows last week.
Although slightly lower than the previous week’s $1.4 billion, the trend remains positive. Total assets under management climbed to $155.3 billion, marking the highest level since early February.
Bitcoin-focused funds led the inflows, attracting $932.5 million and bringing year-to-date inflows close to $4 billion. Major asset managers such as BlackRock, ARK 21Shares, and Fidelity were among the top contributors.
Altcoins Move Lower as Market Consolidates
Across the broader crypto market, most altcoins traded lower. Ethereum declined 0.7% to $2,319.45, while XRP dropped 1% to $1.41.
Solana fell 1%, and Cardano lost 1.7%. Polygon managed a modest gain of 0.7%.
Among meme coins, Dogecoin remained largely unchanged.
