Bitcoin Faces Key Tests at $76K and $82K Ahead of Fed Decision

Bitcoin has been trading in a narrow range between $76,000 and $82,000 as the Federal Reserve's interest-rate decision approaches. According to Bitfinex analysts, leverage has accumulated on both sides of this month-long range, making Bitcoin vulnerable to sharp moves after the Fed announces its policy decision.

The asset currently trades near $79,100, placing it between the main liquidation areas identified by the analysts. Buyers have repeatedly failed to secure a breakout above the low-$82,000 region, while sellers have not managed to push BTC below the lower boundary of the range.

Although price volatility has narrowed, Bitfinex said the underlying derivatives positions have continued to grow. Short positioning above $82,000 has increased 43%, creating a liquidation pool worth as much as $1.95 billion if Bitcoin moves through the range ceiling.

The analysts warn that conditions below the market carry a different risk. Leveraged long positions have accumulated between $75,000 and $76,000, meaning a sustained decline beneath the range floor could force traders to close their positions and deepen the fall.