Crypto Markets Hold Steady as Altcoins Push Higher
September 19, 2025
Cryptocurrency markets are trading with caution as investors await new catalysts following the Federal Reserve’s rate cut. Bitcoin (BTC) remains in a narrow range, with $118,000 acting as a key resistance level that bulls must overcome to signal further upside.
Open interest in BTC futures has risen to 149,000 BTC, ending a two-month decline. This increase reflects renewed activity in the futures market, potentially on the bearish side, while the three-month annualized premium remains subdued below 10%.
Smaller altcoins are showing notable strength, hinting at a potential altcoin season. In the past 24 hours, IMX, NEAR, and HASH each rose more than 10%, standing out as the only top-100 tokens with double-digit gains.
Timothy Misir, head of research at BRN, advised traders to maintain prudent risk management.
“Institutional flows and large accumulation activity support the bullish case, while record options open interest and dense supply near $118,000 create tangible pinch points. Trade the market as it is: keep position sizes conservative, manage leverage carefully, and watch $115,200 as key support while monitoring $118,000 for a breakout,” Misir said.
