Bitcoin Holds $100K Amid Broad Crypto Slump; AI Tokens Rally
Bitcoin held around $100,600 after an 18% drop over the past 30 days, as a stronger dollar and hawkish Federal Reserve tone weighed on risk assets. Bitcoin futures open interest dropped to $24.9 billion amid widespread deleveraging, while options activity tilted bullish with calls dominating 64% of volume. Over $600 million in liquidations hit leveraged positions, mostly longs, reinforcing $100,000 as a key support level defended by liquidation walls. Ether underperformed with a 3.5% decline to $3,241. Most altcoins slid, driving the altcoin season index to 22/100—its lowest in 90 days. In contrast, AI-linked tokens powered gains, with FET up 23% and NEAR up 22% in 24 hours on renewed narrative-driven flows.
Bearish
Fed hawkishness and a stronger dollar pressured Bitcoin and most altcoins, driving deleveraging and forced liquidations. Although AI-linked tokens showed strong rebounds, they are unlikely to offset the broader downtrend. Historically, similar Fed tightening cycles have led to risk-asset sell-offs, signaling a bearish short-term outlook. If Bitcoin holds $100,000 support, it may stabilize sentiment, but longer-term direction hinges on policy shifts and macroeconomic conditions.