Permissioned Scale: Key to Unlocking Crypto’s Potential in Asia-Middle East

Bitcoin (BTC) is encountering stiff resistance at $117,000, stalling its upward momentum after a robust rally earlier in August 2025. Trading at around $115,100 as of August 24, BTC has repeatedly failed to break this critical psychological and technical barrier, with analysts noting a cautious market amid declining trading volume. According to CoinGecko, BTC fell 1.42% in the past 24 hours, reflecting profit-taking and resistance pressure.

Technical analysis highlights $117,000–$117,700 as a formidable ceiling, aligning with the 50-period simple moving average ($117,462) and Fibonacci retracement levels. The Relative Strength Index (RSI) at 50.73 indicates neutral sentiment, while the Directional Movement Index shows sellers holding a slight edge, with -DI at 26.8 versus +DI at 24.6. Support levels at $114,500 and $112,000 remain critical, with a potential drop to $111,700 if breached, per CoinEdition.

Analysts suggest a decisive breakout above $117,700, backed by strong volume, could target $121,100 or even $131,000, driven by institutional buying and ETF inflows. However, net outflows of $108.82 million on August 23 signal short-term profit-taking, capping upside potential. Macroeconomic factors, including anticipated US Federal Reserve rate cuts and geopolitical tensions, add volatility, though Bitcoin’s long-term bullish structure persists, supported by a 19.91 million circulating supply and a $2.32 trillion market cap.

Posts on X reflect mixed sentiment, with some traders eyeing a dip to $111,000 before a rally, while others remain optimistic about a new all-time high if $120,000 is reclaimed. For now, investors are advised to monitor $114,500 support and await a clear breakout for confirmation of Bitcoin’s next move.