Bitcoin price shows a 99% yearly gain but faces short-term resistance as altcoins capture market leadership; traders are pausing ahead of the Federal Reserve interest rate decision, shifting volume into Ethereum and other altcoins.
-
Bitcoin up 99% year-over-year, short-term resistance at ~$116k.
-
Altcoins account for 85.2% of futures trading volume, driven by Ethereum gains.
-
Investor caution ahead of the Federal Reserve interest rate decision is stalling large Bitcoin moves.
Bitcoin price update: Bitcoin up 99% yearly as altcoins lead futures volume; read the Fed-driven market outlook and next steps for traders.
Bitcoin sees a 99% yearly gain, but short-term resistance continues as altcoins take the lead ahead of the Federal Reserve’s interest rate decision.
- Bitcoin has gained 99% in value over the last year despite recent fluctuations and a 2.7% decline in the past month.
- Altcoins are leading the market, as they account for 85.2% of futures trading volume, with Ethereum and others gaining traction.
- Investors are adopting a cautious stance ahead of the Federal Reserve’s interest rate decision, stalling Bitcoin’s momentum.
Bitcoin, the leading cryptocurrency, recorded a 2.7% decline over the last 30 days according to CoinGecko data (reported as a plain-text source). Despite that short-term dip, Bitcoin’s year-over-year performance remains strong. The asset recently tested resistance between $114,395 and $116,833 as market participants awaited the Federal Reserve’s upcoming interest rate decision.
What is driving Bitcoin’s recent stall?
Bitcoin’s recent price stall is driven by investor caution ahead of the Federal Reserve interest rate decision, which is prompting traders to wait for macro clarity before initiating large Bitcoin positions. Short-term resistance around $114k–$116k has limited upside despite a 99% yearly gain.
How are altcoins influencing market dynamics?
Altcoins are currently leading market flows, making up 85.2% of total futures trading volume, with Ethereum among the notable beneficiaries. Market analysts, including CryptoQuant community analyst Maartunn (mentioned in plain text), point to growing altcoin speculation and rising open interest gaps as signals of shifting risk appetite.
Why are traders cautious before the Fed meeting?
Traders are awaiting the Federal Open Market Committee outcome because changes to policy or forward guidance can materially affect risk assets. Historically, unexpected Fed messaging increases volatility across crypto markets, prompting many investors to reduce position sizes until the decision is known.
Altcoins (including Ethereum) are leading the dance 🕺
At this moment, they make up 85.2% of total futures trading volume.
What this shift means for the market 👇 pic.twitter.com/y9TbIHebAg
— Maartunn (@JA_Maartun) September 16, 2025
As Bitcoin’s momentum stalls, alternative tokens have absorbed more speculative capital. Data referenced by independent analytics (plain-text reference: CryptoQuant) show widening open interest differences between Bitcoin and altcoins, reinforcing the narrative that traders are rotating into higher-beta positions ahead of macro clarity.
When could Bitcoin regain momentum?
Bitcoin could regain momentum if the Federal Reserve’s decision reduces near-term macro uncertainty or if on-chain flows show renewed accumulation. Key short-term indicators to watch include futures funding rates, open interest trends, and Bitcoin spot volume relative to altcoin volume.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Bitcoin still a good long-term investment after a 99% yearly gain?
Bitcoin’s 99% yearly rise shows long-term momentum, but investors should evaluate risk tolerance, time horizon, and diversification. Historical performance does not guarantee future returns; consider dollar-cost averaging and risk management.
How much of futures trading is currently in altcoins?
Altcoins account for roughly 85.2% of total futures trading volume according to market analytics cited as plain-text sources. This represents a significant shift in derivatives activity toward non-Bitcoin assets.
What should traders watch around the Federal Reserve decision?
Watch volatility spikes, changes in futures open interest, and funding rate shifts. Also monitor macro commentary from the Federal Reserve for guidance on interest rate trajectory and liquidity conditions.
Key Takeaways
- Yearly strength: Bitcoin is up ~99% year-over-year, underscoring long-term momentum.
- Altcoin dominance: Altcoins now make up 85.2% of futures volume, signaling market rotation.
- Fed-driven caution: The Federal Reserve interest rate decision is the primary short-term catalyst for volatility; traders are waiting for clarity.
Conclusion
Bitcoin’s 99% yearly gain highlights durable market strength, but short-term momentum is paused as altcoins lead derivatives flows and investors await the Federal Reserve interest rate decision. Monitor futures volumes, funding rates, and Fed guidance to assess whether Bitcoin can break resistance or if altcoins will continue to dominate. For ongoing coverage and internal analysis, see COINOTAG reports and updates.
