Jan 22, 2026
5 0
Bitcoin Must Hold $73,000 to Avoid Mid-$50,000s Slide
Nik Patel, a veteran trader, indicates that Bitcoin's crucial support level for 2026 is around $73,000. A breach below this level could result in a prolonged price drop to the mid-$50,000s.
- Patel predicts new all-time highs for Bitcoin in the first half of 2026, challenging the four-year cycle narrative.
- The key technical argument is that as long as Bitcoin remains above $73,000 on higher timeframes, the bullish structure holds.
- Despite expecting a quicker reversal, the resilience above the April 2025 lows supports a bullish outlook.
- Patel downplays moving averages and VWAPs in favor of price action and structural integrity, emphasizing the significance of the $73,000 level.
- A macroeconomic backdrop inconsistent with a deep bear market, including rising inflation breakevens and falling real rates, supports continued growth.
- If Bitcoin closes below $73,000 on higher timeframes, Patel anticipates consolidation in the mid-$50,000s without new highs in 2026.
Patel stresses timeframe closes over intraday movements, planning to cut exposure if there is a monthly close below $73,000 but willing to re-enter upon a quick recovery.
Current Bitcoin price stands at $90,060.
