Bitcoin’s Fear and Greed Index has surged to 61, marking its first entry into “greed” territory since early October 2025.
At a Glance
- BTC Fear and Greed Index reached 61, highest since October 2025
- Bitcoin price briefly touched $98,000 before stabilizing near $96,000
- Whale addresses accumulated 32,600 BTC since January 10
- Why it matters: Rising sentiment signals stronger demand but raises overheating risks
The shift follows a week-long rally that lifted Bitcoin 7% and pushed the index out of the “fear” and “extreme fear” zones that dominated the prior three months. The gauge tracks volatility, surveys, and social media to measure momentary investor emotion.
Greed Returns as Price Tests $98K
The climb into greed coincided with Bitcoin spiking to a two-month peak of almost $98,000. The move unfolded against a backdrop of heightened geopolitical tension after the U.S. launched a military operation in Venezuela and later threatened intervention in Iran amid mass protests.
President Donald Trump later eased rhetoric, stating violence in Iran had ceased and pledging no immediate attack. The announcement produced little volatility; Bitcoin continues to trade around $96,000.
What the Numbers Show
- Index level: 61 (greed)
- Last time in greed: October 1, 2025
- Weekly gain: 7%
- Accumulation by 10-10,000 BTC wallets: 32,600 BTC since January 10
- Shrimp wallets (<0.01 BTC): net sellers during the same period
According to analytics platform Santiment, whales accumulating while smaller wallets offload creates conditions historically favorable to continued uptrends.
Bullish Calls Mount
Several market observers expect further upside. X user Jelle flagged a potential push to $100,000 within weeks. Ali Martinez previously outlined $94,500 as a key breakout level that could open a path toward $105,921.
The renewed optimism stands in contrast to the cautious sentiment that prevailed through late 2025, when the index lingered below 30 for extended stretches.
Overheating Warning
Entering greed territory can cut both ways. While it reflects rising confidence and demand, it also raises the probability that buying is driven by FOMO rather than fundamentals. Historical data shows that once the index reaches “extreme greed,” local price tops and subsequent corrections become more likely.
For now, the reading sits at the lower end of the greed band, leaving room for further ascent before extreme euphoria sets in.
Key Takeaways
- Bitcoin sentiment has flipped from fear to greed in under a month
- Whale accumulation and shrimp selling align with prior bull-run patterns
- Price targets of $100,000-$105,000 are circulating among traders
- A move into extreme greed could signal an impending pullback
