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Bitcoin Price Watch: BTC Struggles Below $118K as Momentum Cools

Bitcoin is trading for $117,276 on Sept. 18, 2025, marking a continuation of its recovery rally from recent lows. The cryptocurrency currently holds a market capitalization of $2.33 trillion with a 24-hour trading volume of $58.34 billion and an intraday price range between $114,940 and $117,815.

Bitcoin
On the daily chart, bitcoin has formed a rounded bottom pattern that confirms a recovery from the local low of $107,270. This structure points to a potential trend reversal, but volume data signals caution: as prices have risen, trading volume has steadily declined, typically a sign of waning momentum.

The price appears to be stalling just below the $118,000 resistance level, an area that may act as an exit or partial take-profit zone. A break and close above this range could open the door toward $120,000, but confirmation through renewed volume is required. Overall, the daily chart suggests bitcoin is in a relief rally, but without follow-through buying, the move may lack sustainability.

The 4-hour chart shows that bitcoin had been accumulating sideways between September 13 and 16 before breaking out on Sept. 17. That move was supported by a notable volume spike, with the price reaching near $117,934. Since then, bitcoin has consolidated modestly, finding support around $117,000. This behavior is consistent with a continuation setup, assuming volume returns to the market. Should price revisit the $116,000–$116,500 zone and hold, that area could act as a secondary entry. However, failure to breach $118,000 with strength may trigger a near-term reversal.

On the 1-hour chart, bitcoin completed a textbook cup and handle pattern that culminated in a breakout near $117,934. Following the surge, the price has entered a tight consolidation phase, possibly forming a bull flag or pennant. The volume spike during the breakout, followed by a low-volume pullback, is considered a healthy consolidation in technical terms. An entry on the breakout at $117,000 has already passed, but a re-entry opportunity may present itself if bitcoin clears the $117,800 to $118,000 zone with conviction. Conversely, a drop below $116,500 would invalidate the current bullish setup.