1/16/2026 510 words 3 min read

Bitcoin rally collapses at $97K as funding rate stalls, retail traders sit out

Bitcoin rally collapses at $97K as funding rate stalls, retail traders sit out

Overview

Bitcoin’s recent rally has faced a significant setback as it struggled to maintain the $97,000 mark. The funding rate for Bitcoin has stalled, leading to a noticeable retreat in the market. Meanwhile, retail traders appear to be sitting on the sidelines, raising questions about the future momentum of Bitcoin’s price movement.

Bitcoin’s Struggles at $97,000

Despite Bitcoin’s ascent toward the $97,000 threshold, it ultimately failed to maintain this level. This inability to hold the price point is critical as it reflects a lack of sustained buying pressure in the market. The funding rate, which is a crucial indicator of market sentiment and trader confidence, has stalled. A stagnant funding rate often signals that traders are not heavily leveraging their positions, indicating a potential lack of enthusiasm or conviction in the current market environment.

The situation becomes even more complex when considering the role of retail traders. The current market dynamics suggest that retail investors are largely absent from the trading scene. Their reluctance to engage in the market could be attributed to several factors, including uncertainty around Bitcoin’s price stability and broader market conditions. Retail participation is often a key driver of momentum in cryptocurrency markets, so their absence could hinder any potential recovery or further price increases.

The question now arises: will traditional finance (TradFi) play a role in reigniting the rally towards the coveted $100,000 mark? The intersection of traditional financial systems and the cryptocurrency market is an area of increasing interest. As institutional interest in Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies continues to grow, the potential for TradFi to influence price movements becomes more pronounced. However, the current market scenario, characterized by stalled funding rates and a lack of retail engagement, suggests that any significant rally may remain elusive without a shift in trader sentiment.

From author

The current state of Bitcoin’s market is a reflection of broader trends within the cryptocurrency space. The inability to maintain a high price point, coupled with stagnant funding rates, underscores the challenges that Bitcoin faces in achieving new highs. Moreover, the role of retail traders cannot be understated; their active participation is often a bellwether for market confidence. Without their engagement, Bitcoin may struggle to gain the momentum necessary for significant price movements.

As we observe the market, it becomes clear that the dynamics at play are multifaceted. While institutional interest may provide some support, the overall sentiment among retail traders will likely be a crucial factor in determining the trajectory of Bitcoin’s price in the near future.

Impact on the crypto market

  • Bitcoin’s failure to hold the $97,000 level may deter potential investors from entering the market.
  • Stalled funding rates suggest a lack of trader confidence, which could lead to further price declines.
  • Retail traders’ absence indicates reduced market activity, potentially affecting liquidity and volatility.
  • The potential influence of TradFi on cryptocurrency markets remains an area of speculation, with uncertain implications for future price movements.
  • Ongoing market conditions may prompt traders to adopt a more cautious approach, impacting short-term trading strategies.
Source: Cointelegraph (RSS)

Updated: 1/16/2026, 1:24:43 AM

Share

Recent posts