Bitcoin’s Price: A Tug-of-War Between Asia and the US

Bitcoin’s price is hanging around $110,000, after a bumpy ride. While some think the price will drop further, many believe the long-term outlook is still positive, seeing this as a normal pause in a strong market. The short-term picture is uncertain, but Bitcoin’s key support levels haven’t been broken yet.

A Regional Liquidity Battle

Recently, Bitcoin’s price movements aren’t driven so much by big investment funds as by a battle between Asian and US markets.

  • Asia’s Role: Asian markets often kick off price changes, setting the pace for the day.
  • US Influence: US investors decide if these Asian-led moves stick or fade.

This back-and-forth between time zones makes Bitcoin’s price very jumpy.

Coinbase vs. Kimchi Premium: Deciphering the Clues

To understand this better, let’s look at some key indicators:

  • Coinbase: When big US investors move Bitcoin out of Coinbase Prime (a platform they use), it often means they’re holding onto it for the long term. The Coinbase Premium Index (CPI) compares Coinbase’s price to Binance’s, showing US demand. A positive CPI suggests strong US buying.

  • Binance & Korea: Binance Netflow shows Asian buying and selling activity. The Korea Premium Index (KPI), or “Kimchi Premium,” reflects South Korean demand. A KPI between 1% and 3% is healthy; above 5% suggests overheated speculation.

The Big Picture: Asia often starts the price movement, but the US determines if it lasts. When both US and Asian indicators are positive, the price goes up globally. If US investors sell while Asians keep buying, things get volatile.

What’s Next for Bitcoin?

The key to a strong end of the year for Bitcoin is a clear positive shift in the CPI (US demand) combined with continued Asian buying. This could be the trigger for Bitcoin’s next big price jump.

Technical Analysis: Charts and Numbers

Bitcoin’s 8-hour chart shows a period of cautious consolidation around $110,918. The price has repeatedly tested the $110,000 support level, but it’s struggling to break through resistance levels. It’s currently below its 50-day and 100-day moving averages.

  • Holding Above $110,000: Staying above this level and reclaiming $113,000 would signal renewed buying interest, potentially leading to another attempt to reach $118,000.

  • Falling Below $110,000: A drop below $110,000-$108,000 could lead to a faster fall towards $105,000.

For now, Bitcoin is in a holding pattern, with investors watching closely to see if buyers can maintain support around $110,000.