BTC short-term decline of -1.17%: Panic spreading and long-term holders selling dominate downward pressure

Between 15:30 and 15:45 (UTC) on February 16, 2026, Bitcoin experienced a 15-minute candlestick return decline of -1.17%, with short-term price volatility significantly increasing, drawing market attention. The current total cryptocurrency market capitalization is approximately $2.31 trillion, down 2.27% from the previous day; Bitcoin’s market share accounts for 58.2%. Trading volume has modestly rebounded, but investor sentiment remains extremely bearish, with the Fear and Greed Index dropping to 5, approaching historical lows.

The main driver of this volatility is sustained extreme panic sentiment in the market, combined with concentrated selling by long-term holders. Amid the overall correction in February, on-chain data shows that especially between February 5-12, many long-term Bitcoin holders chose to take profits or cut losses, significantly increasing market selling pressure. Additionally, forced liquidations of leveraged long positions further intensified short-term selling pressure, pushing prices downward.

Furthermore, macroeconomic uncertainties and negative industry events amplified volatility: U.S. government shutdown, escalating trade tensions, and synchronized declines in U.S. stocks accelerated global risk aversion; confidence was also shaken by a $150 million hacking incident on a trading platform in early February. Technically, Bitcoin repeatedly tested the critical support level at $71,000, triggering stop-loss orders. The short-term death cross of MACD and RSI in oversold territory reinforced the downward trend, and market confidence in a subsequent rebound remains low.

Currently, market risk is high, and sharp fluctuations may persist in the short term. Continuous attention should be paid to key support levels at $71,000, on-chain large fund flows, and macroeconomic developments in major global economies. Caution is advised against sudden panic-driven sell-offs. It is recommended to closely monitor real-time market data and developments.