Bitcoin at the end of the year shows the weakest performance since the 2018 crisis

The cryptocurrency market is experiencing a challenging period as the year comes to an end. According to the latest data, Bitcoin is trading at around $90.66K, reflecting a critical decline from its 2025 peak. Against the backdrop of fluctuations in the US dollar exchange rate and market unpredictability, cryptocurrencies are showing results that many experts compare to the painful period of 2018.

Dramatic Decline in the Fourth Quarter

CoinGlass analytical data indicate a sharp drop in quotes in the last quarter of the year — over 22% from the beginning of this period. Bitcoin has lost about a third of its value from the maximum set at the start of the year, trading significantly below expectations of both institutional and retail market participants.

Such rates of decline have not been observed in the cryptocurrency market outside of major bear cycles. Experts, including leading FxPro analyst Alex Kupcicic, emphasize that the current recovery from the lowest points should be viewed as a short-term correction, not a true trend reversal. “The market is trying to show signs of activity, but it is still far from restoring participant confidence,” he notes.

Sentiment Indicators Remain Gloomy

Despite the total market capitalization of cryptocurrencies exceeding $3 trillion for the second time, this figure masks deep pessimism. The fear and greed index, recorded at 24, indicates that market participants are only gradually emerging from extreme pessimism, but full readiness to accept risks has not yet been observed.

Analysts warn that such a level of market relaxation more likely indicates fatigue from prolonged decline rather than a genuine return to positive dynamics. Against the backdrop of fluctuating dollar rates, global uncertainty continues to act as a restraining factor.

The Market Remains on the Verge of Turmoil

The current situation demonstrates that Bitcoin and the cryptocurrency sector as a whole remain highly sensitive to sudden fluctuations. The most critical period appears to be during the US trading session, when volumes and volatility reach their peak. Experts recommend participants be prepared for possible sharp reversals rather than rely on a steady upward trend.