Since mid-January, Bitcoin has been stuck in a sideways movement, breaking out of a parallel upward channel to the downside. However, the monotony might soon come to an end, as indicated by the Bollinger Band Width (BBW) indicator. The BBW is a derivative of the Bollinger Bands, which consist of an upper and lower band surrounding a middle line, typically a simple moving average. These bands expand and contract based on price volatility, measured by the standard deviation from the mean. The BBW calculates the ratio of the difference between the upper and lower bands to the middle band, indicating the degree of divergence or convergence.
Drawing attention to the BBW, crypto analyst HornHairs highlights a reading close to 0.11. This number carries significance as it suggests that the bands are tightly converging, indicating a period of low volatility or a “squeeze.” HornHairs believes that the market is on the brink of a significant move in Bitcoin’s price and urges traders to prepare for either direction. The term “Mega Squeeze” used by HornHairs highlights the exceptionally tight convergence of the Bollinger Bands, suggesting that the subsequent market move could be more pronounced than usual.
Historical Precedents
Previous instances of a low BBW have historically been followed by a surge in volatility, leading to a strong upward or downward movement in Bitcoin’s price. Examining past occurrences, the BBW reached its current low on October 13 of the previous year. Subsequently, Bitcoin experienced an impressive rally, soaring over 30% within a mere 10 days. In a contrasting scenario, mid-August 2023 witnessed a 15% decline in Bitcoin’s value within just 8 days. Additionally, the start of January 2023 saw a remarkable surge, with Bitcoin escalating by 40% in only 17 days.
As of press time, Bitcoin is hovering around the $42,900 mark, with recent peaks at $49,000 and a local low at $38,600. These price points will be crucial to watch as the market navigates through this period of constricted volatility. The BBW indicator suggests that the forthcoming breakout, whether bullish or bearish, will likely drive the price towards or even beyond these levels, heralding a new phase of market activity.
Renowned crypto analyst CrediBULL comments on the emergence of the indicator, forecasting imminent volatility. CrediBULL believes that a large move is on the horizon, with a bet on an upward trajectory and the start of the next impulsive leg. However, it is essential to note that these predictions are speculative in nature, and investors should perform their own research before making any investment decisions.
Bitcoin’s recent period of sideways movement may soon be nearing its end as indicated by the Bollinger Band Width (BBW) indicator. This low volatility period, often referred to as a “squeeze,” historically precedes a surge in volatility and a significant price movement in Bitcoin. Traders should closely monitor key price levels and prepare for the breakout, whether bullish or bearish, that could propel Bitcoin into a new phase of market activity. However, it is important to approach these predictions with caution and conduct thorough research before making any investment decisions.
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