Onchain Indicators Every Bitcoin Trader Must Watch Before Betting on a Pullback

Bitcoin (BTC)

Bitcoin cryptocurrencies and graph statistic background

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  • Bitcoin hit $124K but pulled back to $121K, reflecting short-term volatility.
  • Onchain metrics suggest BTC could rise further, with limited profit-taking by short-term holders.
  • Technical indicators warn of a potential short-term correction despite bullish momentum.

Bitcoin (BTC) surged to a fresh all-time high of $124,450 during early Asian trading hours on Thursday, before pulling back to $121,670 at the time of writing. The rally has sparked debate among traders and analysts: is BTC’s climb just beginning, or is it entering a short-term top?

Onchain Data Signals More Upside

Despite the recent correction, multiple onchain metrics indicate Bitcoin has not yet peaked. Data from CryptoQuant shows that funding rates and short-term capital inflows remain low compared to previous bull cycles. The funding rate, an indicator of market overheating, has increased slightly, signaling optimism among traders, yet it remains well below prior peaks.

Meanwhile, the short-term holder (STH) Spent Output Profit Ratio (SOPR) shows only limited profit-taking, with a current value of 1.01%. This suggests that most short-term investors are holding onto gains, unlike previous peaks in March and November 2024 when STHs cashed out more aggressively. CoinGlass’s 30 bull market peak indicators also imply Bitcoin could aim for $187,000 before overheating signals emerge.

Technical Indicators Warn of Possible Pullback

While onchain data hints at further upside, some technical indicators suggest BTC might be forming a near-term top. Analyst Captain Faibik highlighted bearish signals on the daily chart, including the “9th TD sell candle,” a rising wedge, and divergence in the relative strength index (RSI). BTC’s RSI recently reached overbought levels on multiple time frames (70–72), prompting a retracement to $121,000.

These patterns often precede short-term price declines, although they do not guarantee a reversal. BTC’s prior all-time high of $123,000 in July also led to a 6% drawdown to $115,000, demonstrating that temporary pullbacks are common during strong uptrends.

BTC/USD four-hour chart. Source: Cointelegraph/TradingView

Volatility Remains Key

Bitcoin’s record-breaking surge underscores growing institutional interest and market liquidity, yet short-term volatility remains a factor. While onchain data suggests more gains are possible, traders should watch technical indicators for signs of retracement. As BTC navigates these highs, cautious optimism may be the strategy for investors seeking to balance potential rewards with market risks.

Disclaimer: The information in this article is for general purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. The author’s views are personal and may not reflect the views of Chain Affairs. Before making any investment decisions, you should always conduct your own research. Chain Affairs is not responsible for any financial losses

Also Read: Bitcoin Hits $124K on Cooler CPI Data as Altcoins Outshine and BTC Dominance Falls