Bitcoin has risen above the $78,000 mark for the first time since early February 2026, demonstrating significant growth in the cryptocurrency market. As of April 18, the asset’s price remained near $77,000, indicating a stable consolidation at high levels.
This is reported by Business • Media
Sharp Increase in Liquidations in the Futures Market
The active rise in Bitcoin’s price was accompanied by a substantial increase in liquidation volume in the cryptocurrency futures market. In just 24 hours, the total amount of forcibly closed positions exceeded $750 million. Liquidations affected over 163,000 traders, with the largest losses recorded in Bitcoin (over $381 million) and Ethereum (around $177 million).
Fear and Greed Index: Market Remains in the Fear Zone
The psychological state of cryptocurrency market participants is reflected in the Fear and Greed Index. Over the past day, it has risen from 21 to 26 points, but it still remains in the fear zone. This indicates a continued caution among investors despite the positive price dynamics.
Analysts at Santiment note that market sentiment remains subdued. The number of pessimistic statements about Bitcoin exceeds the number of optimistic comments.
“Despite the current rise in Bitcoin, market sentiment remains extremely low, even when one might expect the emergence of FOMO. For every two bullish comments about Bitcoin, there are three bearish ones.”
At Santiment, they explain this dynamic as a result of retail investor fatigue, which has arisen due to prolonged geopolitical tension and an ambiguous news background. According to analysts, distrust, fear, uncertainty, and profit-taking could create a foundation for further growth if the trend goes against the expectations of most market participants.
Experts also warn of the possibility of sharp changes in the situation influenced by external factors — geopolitical news, changes in the U.S. stock market, and the progress of the CLARITY Act bill.
Previously, analysts noted that miners have sold around 61,000 BTC recently, which has also impacted market dynamics.