Bitcoin Slides in Risk Off Rout as Markets Reprice Risk

2026-01-31
Bitcoin Slides in Risk Off Rout as Markets Reprice Risk

Bitcoin has come under renewed pressure as a global risk off move rippled across financial markets. While stocks and gold managed partial rebounds after sharp intraday declines, crypto assets failed to attract similar buying interest. 

Bitcoin briefly traded near its weakest levels in months, reinforcing the view that it continues to behave like a high risk asset during periods of stress. 

With ETF outflows persisting and macro uncertainty building, traders are now watching key support areas closely for signs of stability or further weakness.

Key Takeaways

  • Why is bitcoin underperforming during the current market selloff
  • Which support zones are traders watching most closely
  • How ETF flows and macro sentiment are shaping downside risks

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For readers looking to follow crypto markets more actively during volatile periods, registering on Bitrue provides a practical way to access spot trading tools in a more controlled environment.

Why Has Bitcoin Fallen Harder Than Other Assets?

The latest decline in bitcoin occurred as global markets shifted sharply into risk off mode. U.S. equities sold off during the trading session, while gold experienced a steep drop before staging a rebound later in the day. 

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Bitcoin, however, failed to recover meaningfully, remaining close to session lows even as broader markets stabilised.

This behaviour has once again challenged the idea of bitcoin acting as a consistent macro hedge. Despite being framed by some investors as a form of digital gold, bitcoin continues to trade more like a high beta asset when liquidity tightens and uncertainty rises. 

During periods of stress, capital tends to move away from assets perceived as volatile, and crypto remains firmly in that category for many market participants.

Another factor weighing on sentiment is the lack of strong institutional demand. Recent months have seen persistent outflows from spot bitcoin exchange traded funds. 

These products were initially expected to provide a steady source of inflows during market dips, but the data suggests institutions remain cautious. Without consistent buying from this segment, price declines have struggled to attract sustained support.

Together, these dynamics explain why bitcoin has lagged traditional assets during the current selloff. Until the market sees clearer signs of renewed demand, rallies may continue to face selling pressure.

Read also: USD vs Gold: Which Is the Better Store of Value Today?

Where Are the Key Support Zones Now?

As bitcoin trades lower, attention has shifted to several important price areas that could determine the next phase of the move. 

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The region around $88,000 to $85,000 has acted as an important buffer in recent weeks, with buyers stepping in during previous pullbacks. A sustained break below this zone would signal a loss of short term confidence.

Below that, the $80,000 area stands out as a level where buyers previously emerged during earlier market stress. 

If price moves into this region again, traders will be watching closely to see whether demand returns or whether selling pressure accelerates. A failure to stabilise here could open the door to a deeper correction.

Some analysts have pointed to the $75,000 area as another potential stopping point, reflecting past market reactions during periods of heightened uncertainty. 

In more pessimistic scenarios, a move toward $70,000 has been discussed as a possibility if risk aversion intensifies and liquidity continues to thin.

It is important to note that these zones are not guarantees of support. They represent areas where market participants have historically shown interest. In fast moving environments, prices can move through multiple levels quickly if sentiment deteriorates.

Read also: Why Crypto Down Today? Fed Rates and Geopolitics Sink

How Can Traders Navigate Volatility Using Crypto Platforms?

If you want to engage with bitcoin during periods of heightened volatility, starting with a clear and simple trading setup is essential. Begin by creating and verifying an account on Bitrue to gain access to its spot trading features. 

Once funds are deposited, you can trade bitcoin using market or limit orders depending on your risk preference and time horizon. This approach allows you to manage entries and exits with greater control.

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During uncertain market conditions, having access to a reliable platform can make a meaningful difference. 

Bitrue offers tools designed to help users monitor price movements and execute trades efficiently. While volatility can create opportunity, it also increases risk, making disciplined execution and risk management especially important.

Read also: How to Use Bitrue Alpha: Early Crypto Gems

Conclusion

Bitcoin recent weakness highlights how sensitive the crypto market remains to broader shifts in risk sentiment. 

Despite expectations that it might behave as a defensive asset, bitcoin has once again moved in line with equities during a period of stress, while lagging traditional safe havens like gold. Weak ETF flows and cautious institutional positioning have added to the pressure.

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As the market watches key support zones, the next move will likely depend on whether buyers regain confidence or whether risk aversion deepens further. 

For those choosing to participate, using a platform like Bitrue can offer a more accessible and structured way to trade crypto assets. In volatile environments, simplicity, discipline, and risk awareness remain essential.

FAQ

Why did bitcoin fall during the broader market selloff?

Bitcoin declined as investors reduced exposure to higher risk assets during a risk off move across global markets.

What support levels are traders watching most closely?

Key areas include the $88,000 to $85,000 zone, followed by $80,000 and potentially lower regions if selling pressure continues.

Are ETF flows still affecting bitcoin price action?

Yes, ongoing outflows from spot bitcoin ETFs suggest institutional demand remains cautious.

Does bitcoin still act as a safe haven asset?

Recent price behaviour suggests bitcoin is still treated primarily as a risk asset during periods of market stress.

How can traders participate more safely during volatility?

Using established crypto platforms such as Bitrue can help traders manage execution and monitor market conditions more effectively.

Disclaimer: The views expressed belong exclusively to the author and do not reflect the views of this platform. This platform and its affiliates disclaim any responsibility for the accuracy or suitability of the information provided. It is for informational purposes only and not intended as financial or investment advice.

Disclaimer: The content of this article does not constitute financial or investment advice.

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