The crypto space began trading on the green side on April 15, as Bitcoin crossed the psychological $85,000 level. Around 2 PM IST, BTC traded at $85,856.47, a rise of 1.48% in the last 24 hours. While euphoria is evident among investor groups with the milestone, the approaching macroeconomic setup—most specifically Donald Trump’s shifting tariffs direction—is casting a certain uncertainty.
In spite of the challenges, the global crypto market cap is now at $2.71 trillion, with a 1.17% increase. Bitcoin dominance has also risen to 62.95%, as per CoinMarketCap, reflecting the token’s dominance
As per the CoinSwitch Markets Desk, technical indicators are testing the bullish tone. The S&P 500’s 50-day moving average fell below its 200-day average, creating what’s commonly referred to as a “death cross”—usually a bearish indicator in general markets.
But. Bitcoin appears to be diverging from this classic correlation. Bitcoin demand was rising, and CoinDCX Research highlighted that the $85K+ region may be used as a new support for the trend higher.
Price action shows a slow and steady buildup. People are buying the dip, and market structure is getting tighter, observed Riya Sehgal, Research Analyst at Delta Exchange.
Institutional Appetite Comes Back, In Spite Of ETF Redemptions
Even with reports of $795 million in crypto fund outflows during the previous week—Bitcoin being one of its biggest ETF departures in 2025—the long-term narrative appears to still be bullish.
Short-term volatility will remain but long-term faith in crypto is strong, said Avinash Shekhar, CEO at Pi42.
He further added that although Donald Trump’s temporary suspension of tariffs provided a boost to equities, cryptos did not ride that wave as forcefully. This decoupling could imply crypto is looking for its own narrative driver.
Expert Insight: Bullish Indications—but There’s Resistance Awaiting
Some analysts repeat a hopeful but cautious tone.
FxPro Chief Market Analyst Alex Kuptsikevich observed the Fear & Greed Index has moved up—from “extreme fear” to merely “fear,” currently at 31. “We need to observe a break above $2.85 trillion in total market cap to validate a bullish cycle,” he continued.
Edul Patel, CEO at Mudrex, noted that BTC’s recent upswing is not a relief rally. “Institutional demand remains intact. Strategy’s addition of 3,459 BTC this week alone demonstrates increasing conviction,” he explained.
Patel pointed out the existing resistance at $86,000 and support at $83,000. When Bitcoin convincingly crosses this barrier, it may indicate the next leg higher.
Altcoins Come Along for the Ride
Bitcoin is not alone in the rally. Here’s what the top tokens did:
- Ethereum (ETH): At $1,642.83, +0.43%, market cap of $198.27 billion.
- Tether (USDT): Firm at $0.9999, the most actively traded token and an indicator of good liquidity and adoption.
- Solana (SOL): Trump’s favorite network coin rose 0.54%, to $131.80, and has a solid market capitalization of $68.04 billion.
Looking Ahead: What Might Shake the Markets Next?
There is increasing speculation over two developments:
- Strategic Bitcoin Reserve: Speculation on the U.S. government establishing a BTC reserve has revived long-term investor interest.
- Bitcoin for State Payments: New York lawmakers’ aggressive proposal could soon allow for Bitcoin-based state services and tax payments, something that could drive adoption mainstream.
As these stories build momentum, they may provide the next game-changer Bitcoin must have to clear the elusive $100,000 plateau—a level some experts now think is reachable as late as 2025.
Final Take: Momentum With Caution
Yes, we’ve seen increased buying activity, a softening of investor fear, and promising legislative developments. But technical resistance, ETF withdrawals, and macroeconomic volatility—particularly regarding U.S. tariffs—continue to overhang the rally like a shadow.
The next couple of weeks will be decisive in determining if Bitcoin embarks on a new bullish chapter—or lingers at the precipice once more.
