Investing.com– Bitcoin traded higher near the key $90,000 level on Monday after briefly topping it earlier in the session, but the cryptocurrency has again struggled to sustain gains above that threshold, echoing several failed rebound attempts seen earlier this month.
The world’s largest cryptocurrency last traded 2.2% higher at $89,663.6 by 02:07 ET (07:07 GMT).
Bitcoin has repeatedly tested the $90,000 mark in December, only to retreat as buying momentum faded and year-end trading volumes remained thin.
Bitcoin rises amid Fed easing bets; struggles near $90k
Bitcoin’s rise on Monday was supported by broader strength across financial markets, as investors continued to price in expectations that the U.S. Federal Reserve will further reduce interest rates in 2026 following its recent cut.
Lower interest rate expectations tend to support risk assets, including cryptocurrencies, by reducing the appeal of cash and fixed income investments and encouraging flows into higher-return alternatives.
The move higher also came as Bitcoin attempted to catch up with rallies seen in other asset classes.
Gold remained near record highs, while silver and platinum hit fresh peaks as investors assessed ongoing geopolitical risks, including U.S.-led talks aimed at ending the war in Ukraine that have so far failed to deliver a clear breakthrough.
The strength in precious metals highlighted persistent demand for both safe-haven and alternative assets, creating a supportive backdrop for crypto markets.
Despite the positive tone, Bitcoin’s gains remained capped, with traders pointing to profit-taking and subdued liquidity as limiting factors. Investors continue to view the $90,000 level as a key psychological and technical resistance, requiring stronger catalysts to trigger a sustained rally.
Institutional participation has been uneven, which supported crypto markets earlier in the year, with some funds adopting a wait-and-see approach ahead of key economic data releases early in the new year.
Crypto price today: altcoins see modest gains
Most altcoins eked out modest gains on Monday.
World no.2 crypto Ethereum rose 2.7% to $3,018.92.
World no. 3 crypto XRP gained 1.5% to $1.90.
Solana rose 2.7%, while Cardano and Polygon edged slightly lower.
Among meme tokens, both Dogecoin and $TRUMP rose 1%.
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