Bitcoin slips below $86,000—here's what's happening

Business Dec 16, 2025

Bitcoin just dipped to around $85,300, sliding further from its October peak of $126,000.
It's now edging closer to its April 2025 low of $74,400—a sign that crypto isn't rebounding in line with other risk assets, as analysts have noted.

Why does this matter?

Crypto markets are still shaky as 2025 wraps up.
Even with big players like Strategy Inc. snapping up nearly $1 billion in Bitcoin for the second week straight, overall confidence is low and prices keep dropping.

What's behind the drop?

Most of the pressure comes from holders selling near recent highs, not panic sell-offs.
Trading volumes are thin and risk appetite is fading—not just for Bitcoin but also for coins like Ether and Dogecoin (down about 5%).
Even Coinbase shares took a hit, falling 7% as market liquidity dries up.