BTC/USD Hesitant as Bullish Momentum Fades

Bitcoin (BTC/USD) Technical Outlook:

Bitcoin prices are currently trading over 36% higher for the month of Jan, buoyed by renewed optimism surrounding the speculative asset. As fears of FTX contagion and higher interest rates subside, the sharp rebound in BTC/USD drove prices higher before stabilizing above $22,000.

Although recession fears and monetary policy remain at the forefront of risk sentiment, technical levels have assisted in driving the recovery.

On the weekly chart below, the strong rebound that has lifted Bitcoin to levels last tested in September last year has driven the CCI (commodity channel index) into overbought territory. With the current weekly candle showing little movement, the potential formation of a doji candle around $22,781 suggests that bulls may be losing steam.

Bitcoin (BTC/USD) Weekly Chart

Chart prepared by Tammy Da Costa using TradingView

After reaching a high of $23,362 early last week, a slowdown in bullish momentum drove prices back towards the September high of $22,781. With support at prior resistance, a break in either direction could help determine Bitcoin’s next big move.

Although prices currently remain above both the 50 and 200-day MA (moving average), the daily chart below highlights the way in which the $22,871 handle has restricted gains.

Bitcoin (BTC/USD) Daily Chart

Chart prepared by Tammy Da Costa using TradingView

For bullish continuation to be possible, a clear break towards the upside could result in a potential retest of the August high at $25,212.

However, if bears exert pressure and force prices lower, an increase in selling pressure below $21,500 could bring the December 2017 high back into play at $19,666.

Bitcoin Price Levels Ahead

Bitcoin Further Reading:

— Written by Tammy Da Costa, Analyst for DailyFX.com

Contact and follow Tammy on Twitter: @Tams707