Bitcoin Rises to $81,690 as Short Liquidations Surge

Published: 2026-09-19 03:47:50 |

Bitcoin initially gained about 1% to $78,732, before extending its rebound to 6.6% and reaching $81,690, its highest level in nearly two weeks. Bitcoin held above $80,000, while Ethereum climbed above $2,600 and reached $2,646. The stronger rally drove $652 million in crypto liquidations, up sharply from the earlier $157 million total. Short positions accounted for $583 million, or 89.4%, indicating a major short squeeze. About 125,002 traders were liquidated, including an $8.53 million BTC-USD position on Hyperliquid. Market sentiment improved as the Crypto Fear and Greed Index rose from 56 to 71. Bitcoin resistance stands near $81,282 and $82,300. Support is around the 20-day moving average at $78,164, followed by $75,046 and $72,504. Bitcoin remains above its major moving averages, although the MACD is still bearish and earlier RSI readings showed overbought risk. Ethereum also trades above its 20-, 50- and 200-day moving averages. Solana rose 12% to $113.69 and XRP gained 8.3% to $1.41, while Bitcoin’s slightly lower market share suggests rotation into altcoins. The short-term outlook remains bullish, but traders should watch leverage, profit-taking, volatility, macro risks and a possible Bitcoin pullback towards its 20-day moving average.

Bullish

The immediate price impact is bullish. Bitcoin’s move from around $78,732 to $81,690, its break above $80,000 and the sharp rise in Ethereum and major altcoins show strong buying momentum. The $652 million liquidation event was dominated by short positions, suggesting forced buying amplified the rally. Improving market sentiment and Bitcoin’s position above its 20-, 50- and 200-day moving averages also support the short-term bullish view. However, the rally may become unstable if leverage remains high. Resistance near $81,282 and $82,300 could trigger profit-taking, while bearish MACD momentum and overbought conditions raise the risk of a pullback towards the $78,164 20-day moving average. A sustained move above resistance would strengthen the bullish trend, while a break below support could weaken momentum. Over the longer term, continued altcoin rotation and improving sentiment could support crypto prices, but macroeconomic risks and renewed volatility remain important constraints.