U.S. traders pull back as Bitcoin slides below $90K

Bitcoin extended its decline on Monday, slipping toward the mid-$80K range as one of its most important demand indicators — the Coinbase Premium Index — fell back into negative territory. 

The signal points to a growing divergence between U.S. buyers and the rest of the market, raising questions about whether domestic demand is now dragging on BTC’s short-term outlook.

Bitcoin Coinbase premium dips as U.S. appetite weakens

The Coinbase Premium Index compares BTC prices on Coinbase to those on offshore exchanges like Binance. 

When it turns positive, it typically reflects strong buying pressure from U.S. institutions and high-net-worth traders.

Source: Coinglass

Over the past two weeks, however, the index has slipped below zero again. This is a sign that U.S. traders are either stepping back or actively selling into the market. 

Historical data shows that sustained negative premium readings often align with periods of broader downside momentum.

Notably, these readings come at a moment when Bitcoin’s price structure has already weakened, amplifying the signal’s potential importance.

BTC breaks down as volatility pressure builds

Bitcoin is now trading near $86,000, extending a series of lower lows that began in late October.

Momentum indicators continue to lean bearish, with the daily RSI hovering near oversold territory and failing to sustain any relief bounce.

Source: TradingView

The Choppiness Index, a measure of volatility contraction, is now pushing above 60.

When the index rises this high, it typically suggests that an extended period of sideways movement is ending and a larger directional move is approaching.

Given current price action and weakening U.S. demand, that move risks leaning to the downside.

Futures positioning echoes cooling sentiment

Open interest across major exchanges remains elevated, but Coinglass data shows clear signs of derisking.

Futures positions have steadily unwound since late November as BTC’s attempts to reclaim $92,000 repeatedly failed.

This combination, falling open interest, a negative U.S. premium, and declining spot prices, points to traders exiting the market rather than positioning for upside.

What comes next for Bitcoin?

If the negative U.S. demand trend persists, Bitcoin could revisit the $82K–$84K liquidity zone, an area that has acted as both support and a magnet for liquidations throughout the year.

A major shift in the Coinbase Premium Index would be one of the earliest signs of renewed strength — but for now, that bid remains absent.

Final Thoughts

• Bitcoin’s short-term outlook remains pressured as U.S. demand weakens, with the Coinbase Premium Index slipping back below zero.
• With volatility compressing and price structure deteriorating, BTC may be poised for a sharper move toward the $82K–$84K zone unless sentiment reverses.