Bitcoin is inching closer to the $100,000 mark, recently making its way into the low $90,000s, prompting traders to look for signs of a significant move back into six-figure territory. On January 5, the cryptocurrency was trading around $92,000 to $93,000, continuing its upward momentum from late December lows and reflecting a series of positive market sessions.
Renowned market analyst Michaël van de Poppe shared his insights on Twitter, stating, “There we go! Final hurdle before $100K: that”s where Bitcoin is currently at. I wouldn”t expect a clear-cut, immediate breakout; however, I do expect to see it happen in the coming week. The year started bullish.” His comments resonate with many technical analysts, who have pinpointed a resistance band in the low-to-mid $90,000 range, suggesting it may serve as a critical barrier before any upward movement.
Despite the prevailing optimism, some experts urge caution. While several short-term indicators hint at potential continuation, seasoned traders note that the current price action occurs amid substantial futures gaps and institutional trading flows that could lead to quick price changes. The significance of institutional involvement cannot be overstated, particularly as spot Bitcoin exchange-traded funds (ETFs) have been net buyers at the start of the year, with various funds reporting solid inflows that analysts believe are contributing to market support.
As early January progresses, the positive contributions from ETFs are seen as a key driver behind the healthy start for crypto risk assets in 2026, reflecting renewed interest from major investors. However, while these inflows can help propel prices toward key targets like $100,000, they can also reverse quickly, making any potential breakout quite fragile until bolstered by consistent on-chain data or fund-flow confirmations.
Technical analysts remain divided on the short-term outlook. Traders monitoring exchange heatmaps have flagged substantial sell interest clustered around $94,500 to $95,300. If this area is reached without additional buying pressure, it could trigger short signals and lead to a volatile retreat toward the mid-$80,000s. Conversely, some analysts argue that the current upward movement has closed several short-term gaps, suggesting that a decisive breakthrough above $100,000 would require a series of higher daily closes and a solidification of ETF demand.
In summary, while the potential for a breakout exists, market participants must remain vigilant. The broader market context as we enter 2026 is mixed following a turbulent 2025, where Bitcoin experienced significant highs and lows. Observers note that the market”s recovery remains delicate, with sentiment capable of shifting rapidly. Key factors influencing the continuation of this rally include macroeconomic conditions and the flow of institutional capital, which are likely to play decisive roles in whether the current upward trend persists or if a pullback occurs.
For the time being, traders will closely monitor price movements around the low-$90,000 resistance levels, alongside ETF flows and futures funding rates. If Van de Poppe”s short-term prediction holds true, and buyers maintain control, Bitcoin could potentially reach $100,000 within days. However, if sellers regain traction in the identified zones, a drop into the mid-to-low $80,000s would signal the need for further market consolidation before another upward attempt can be made.
