- Bitcoin insiders claim the recent downturn may mark the cycle bottom
- Analysts remain divided as sentiment weakens despite long term optimism
- Market data shows fear rising while bullish forecasts refuse to fade
Bitcoin market sentiment shifted after fresh claims suggested the asset may have already exited its bearish phase. Consequently, attention has turned toward whether the recent downturn marked an ending rather than a warning. According to Samson Mow, the past 12 months resembled a completed bear market.
He stated on X that Bitcoin could now be positioned for a prolonged bull cycle lasting many years.
Rather than following the traditional four year pattern, Mow argued that Bitcoin may be entering a decade long expansion. Moreover, he suggested that price weakness reflected structural consolidation rather than long term deterioration. Supporting this view, analyst PlanC shared a similar outlook on social media.
According to PlanC, investors who held through the year already endured the harshest market conditions.
Importantly, PlanC pointed out that Bitcoin has never recorded two consecutive red yearly candles. However, the asset remained on track to close the year below its opening level. Bitcoin traded near $87,210 at publication, reflecting an 8.98% decline since Jan. 1, market data showed. Additionally, the price slipped 3.29% over the past 30 days, reinforcing cautious short term sentiment.
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Market Sentiment Weakens as Long Term Views Clash
Earlier bullish projections from Arthur Hayes and Tom Lee targeted $250,000 by year end. Consequently, the sharp contrast between forecasts and current prices fueled renewed debate. Meanwhile, market psychology remained under pressure throughout December. According to the Crypto Fear & Greed Index, sentiment dropped to 20 out of 100 during extreme fear.
Despite weakened sentiment, the industry remains divided on Bitcoin’s path ahead. Some analysts believe the market already peaked, while others see present levels as a foundation. Veteran trader Peter Brandt projected a potential decline toward $60,000 by the third quarter of 2026. Similarly, Jurrien Timmer described 2026 as a possible pause year near $65,000.
Conversely, optimism continues among corporate leaders. According to Phong Le, Bitcoin fundamentals remained strong despite declining sentiment. Moreover, Matt Hougan maintained that 2026 could still deliver positive performance. Hence, Bitcoin remains caught between short term fear and long term bullish conviction.
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