Bitcoin, After Holding for 55 Days, Wavers in Just 22 as Key Indicator Signals Sharp Drop in Buying Pressure

▲ Bitcoin (BTC) / ChatGPT-generated image ©

As major cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin (BTC) and XRP (Ripple) search for direction amid a prolonged bearish stretch, a sharp analysis is drawing attention by arguing that investors should focus less on price levels or support lines and more on the duration of sideways movement within a downtrend.

According to crypto-specialized outlet Bitcoinist on February 28 (local time), digital asset analyst ArdiNSC explained on X that the length of time Bitcoin spends consolidating sideways is the most critical indicator of how supply and demand interact at a given price range. He emphasized that how quickly the market breaks out of a consolidation zone—or fails to do so—accurately signals the underlying strength of buyers or the pressure exerted by sellers.

To illustrate this, he compared two consolidation phases on the daily BTC/USD chart. The first structure formed after a sharp decline, showing a price range of about 21% and lasting 55 days before breaking downward. In contrast, the second consolidation, ongoing as of February 26, 2026, has displayed a similar range of around 20% but has formed in just 22 days.

The previous 55-day consolidation suggests that buyers actively absorbed selling pressure for nearly two months, slowing the downtrend. The vertical height of a consolidation range represents the price distance required for distribution, while the horizontal duration captures the time needed for that distribution. In other words, a prolonged sideways phase indicates an extended tug-of-war between the two sides, whereas a shorter period implies a more severe supply-demand imbalance.

Therefore, the current 22-day consolidation stands as a critical crossroads that could determine the market’s next direction. It has reached a similar depth of price movement in less than half the time of the previous structure. If this range breaks downward in the near term, it would signal that sellers are overwhelming buyers much more quickly at similar price levels—clear evidence that buying demand is rapidly fading within the broader downtrend.

Conversely, if Bitcoin holds this range longer than expected or achieves a decisive upward breakout with strong conviction, it would signal a revival of buying pressure and potential accumulation. Ultimately, while price levels themselves are important, the time spent within them more transparently reflects shifts in market psychology. In the current bearish environment, the duration of Bitcoin’s consolidation has become a key variable in gauging which side will seize control next.

Disclaimer: This article is for investment reference only, and no responsibility is taken for any investment losses based on it. The content should be interpreted solely for informational purposes.