Bitcoin demand growth has slowed since October 2025, indicating a bear market cycle, says CryptoQuant. Waves of demand followed ETF launches, US election results, and BTC treasury company bubble. Institutional demand declined by 24,000 BTC in Q4 2025. Funding rates hit a low, signaling a bear market. Price structure below 365-day moving average.

Some analysts predict higher BTC prices in 2026 due to increased demand and lower interest rates. Falling interest rates are positive for crypto prices. Market sentiment remains in “fear” territory. Only 22.1% of investors expect FOMC to lower interest rates in January. Trump pressured Powell to lower rates, reviewing potential replacements.

Overall, the market is gripped by fear as interest rates remain uncertain. BTC’s demand growth has slowed, institutional demand is down, and funding rates hit a low. Analysts predict higher prices in 2026, but sentiment remains fearful. Trump’s pressure on Powell adds to market uncertainty.

Read more at Cointelegraph: Critical Bitcoin Market Metrics Signal Start of Bear Market: CryptoQuant