Bitcoin reclaims 50-week moving average as analysts eye end of bear market
Reported by Cointelegraph · AI-assisted summary by ChikoCorp AI News Desk
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Summary
Bitcoin closed above its 50-week moving average of $78,788 for the first time in over 10 months, closing at $81,159 on Coinbase. Analysts like Alex Thorn and Ryan Lee interpret this milestone as a possible signal that Bitcoin’s bear market may be ending. However, some caution that one weekly close above the average does not confirm a definitive trend change.
Why it matters
According to Galaxy Research and other analysts, breaking above the 50-week moving average has historically marked the end of previous Bitcoin bear markets, potentially indicating a shift to a bull market. This milestone may affect market sentiment and institutional interest, though some experts emphasize watching for sustained price action above this level to confirm the trend.
Key context
The 50-week moving average often acts as a ceiling during bear markets. In four of five prior bear markets, breaking this level to the upside signaled a market bottom. Nevertheless, past cycles have shown rare instances where the breakout failed, especially if macroeconomic conditions remained challenging. Other analysts, like trader Craig Cobb, use alternative indicators such as specific price levels and quarterly candle patterns to confirm bull market starts.
Key numbers and entities
Bitcoin closed at $81,159 on Coinbase. The 50-week moving average is $78,788. The last weekly close above this moving average was November 9, 2025. Analysts cited include Alex Thorn of Galaxy Research, Ryan Lee of Bitget, Ben Simpson of Collective Shift, and trader Craig Cobb. Bitcoin's July low was about $57,000.
What remains unclear
It is uncertain whether Bitcoin can maintain levels above the 50-week moving average and consistently form higher lows. The macroeconomic environment and its effect on Bitcoin's momentum going forward are not established. Confirmation of a bull market remains contingent on further price action beyond this initial closing above the moving average.