Bitcoin's Volatile Ride: Price Plunge, Short Squeeze, and Geopolitical Risks

The cryptocurrency market is experiencing a perfect storm of uncertainty, with bitcoin's price facing a potentially devastating 50% plunge, a short squeeze brewing, and escalating tensions in the Middle East casting a shadow over the entire market.

According to a new cycle model, dubbed the "Akiba Cycle Model v2," bitcoin's price could plummet to $35,000 by December 2026, marking a 50% loss from its current value. The model, which has accurately predicted previous cycle highs and lows, suggests that the current bull market has reached its peak, and a sharp correction is imminent.

However, some analysts believe that a short squeeze could be on the horizon, as funding rates have plunged to -6%, indicating that short sellers are piling on. This could lead to a rapid price increase as these short positions are forced to cover, potentially leading to a short squeeze. Bitcoin's open interest has also climbed to 687,000 BTC, indicating increased participation in the market.

Meanwhile, the escalating tensions in the Middle East are casting a shadow over the entire market. Iran's attacks on U.S. bases and allies in the region have sparked concerns about the potential for a wider conflict, which could lead to a flight to safety and a decline in risk assets like bitcoin. The conflict has already led to a brief decline in bitcoin's price, which fell to $63,000 before rebounding.

In other news, Ethereum's price is also facing a critical juncture, with its next big move dependent on a daily close above $2,100. A positive funding rate and increase in holder profitability could generate sufficient momentum to hold the level, but a failure to breach this resistance could lead to further declines.

On the regulatory front, a proposal has been submitted to the SEC for a Solana-based liquid staking token ETF, which would allow a U.S. exchange to trade shares of a fund holding JitoSOL. This would mark the first SEC exchange filing for a liquid staking token ETP and could potentially pave the way for further institutional investment in the cryptocurrency market.

As the cryptocurrency market navigates these multiple headwinds, investors are advised to exercise caution and stay informed about the latest developments. With the potential for a short squeeze, a 50% price plunge, and geopolitical risks, the next few weeks could be pivotal for the market.

Sources:

• "New Bitcoin cycle data projects BTC will lose half its value before December" (Source 1)
• "Bitcoin sets up potential short squeeze as funding plunges to -6%" (Source 2)
• "Bitcoin could see further downside risks as Iran attacks U.S. bases across Middle East" (Source 3)
• "ETH’s next big move depends on daily close above $2.1K: Data" (Source 4)
• "SEC approval sought for JitoSOL Solana-based liquid staking token ETF" (Source 5)