Why is Bitcoin Price Falling Ahead of First Options Expiry of 2026

Bitcoin is trading in a tight range as the crypto market heads into the first monthly options expiry of 2026, according to data shared by GreeksLive.

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More than 25% of all open options positions are set to expire tomorrow, but so far, price action has remained relatively calm. Analysts say this is largely because there are no major market-moving events on the horizon and the U.S. Federal Reserve has left interest rates unchanged.

Bitcoin Stuck Between Key Levels

Bitcoin has slipped back into a consolidation phase after recent volatility. At the moment, $90,000 is acting as strong resistance, while $86,000 is providing firm support. As long as price stays between these levels, analysts expect sideways movement to continue.

At the same time, implied volatility (IV), a measure of expected price swings, has been trending lower, showing traders are not betting on a sharp breakout in the near term.

Institutional Flows Add Pressure

GreeksLive said that a large number of institutional-held coins have recently moved onto exchanges, increasing liquidity and adding short-term pressure to the market. Crypto-related U.S. stocks have also been underperforming.

As a result, market mood has started to turn more pessimistic, with traders becoming more sensitive to negative headlines and uncertainty.

What’s Next For Bitcoin Price?

Technical analysts say Bitcoin’s rejection near the $90,000–$95,000 zone confirms that resistance remains strong. There is also a warning that if selling pressure increases, Bitcoin could revisit lower levels before finding a more stable base.

However, markets can move in either direction. A clear break above resistance would be needed to shift sentiment bullish again, while a loss of support near $86,000 could open the door to deeper downside.

For now, Bitcoin appears to be doing what markets often do ahead of major expiries — move sideways, shake out traders, and wait for a new catalyst.