The crypto market is in a recovery mode as Bitcoin has today rallied above $58,000 for the first time in September, marking a 4.8% gain within 24 hours.

Despite surpassing $58K, this surge has sparked skepticism among traders. The market’s behavior highlights a tension between rising price momentum and trader expectations, as reflected in the funding rates on major exchanges like Binance and BitMEX.

Traders Shorting Bitcoin Amid Comeback

In a recent analysis, Santiment shared a chart showing that traders on Binance and BitMEX took substantial short positions during Bitcoin’s rally. The funding rates, depicted in red and green bars, indicate that bearish sentiment was prevalent as Bitcoin’s price neared the recent monthly peak.

On Binance, a notable number of traders started shorting Bitcoin near the rally’s low point, reflecting skepticism about the rally’s durability.

BTC Funding Rates Santiment

Similarly, traders on BitMEX exhibited bearish behavior, adding to the overall market uncertainty. These actions, driven by the expectation that the rally would not hold, led to substantial liquidations.

However, Santiment noted that this ongoing FUD from traders surrounding Bitcoin’s rally may actually drive prices higher.

Bitcoin Eyes Further Gains

Despite skepticism about the sustainability of Bitcoin’s rally, analyst Rekt Capital highlighted a positive development. He noted that Bitcoin’s weekly close above approximately $53,250 helps protect the lower end of the bargain-buying zone beneath the black down trending channel.

Rekt Capital had stated that Bitcoin must reclaim $55,881 as support to sustain and build on this momentum. This level has already been achieved, setting the stage for Bitcoin to move toward higher levels.

Yet, insights suggest that September typically experiences a pullback as gains from the summer are realized.

In addition, the Bitcoin Risk Index is currently at 99.62, reflecting levels similar to those in mid-August and raising concerns about a potential decline. However, analysts suggest that if the index decreases, it could pave the way for significant price spikes.

Analysts’ Long-Term Predictions

Amid the current market conditions, various analysts have shared their outlook on Bitcoin’s future. Ben Armstrong, also known as Bitboy, suggested that Bitcoin could reach $146,641 in this cycle.

Meanwhile, Michael Saylor, co-founder of MicroStrategy, projected that Bitcoin could reach $13 million by 2045, estimating it might represent 7% of global capital due to its perceived zero counterparty risk.

These ambitious projections reflect optimism from key industry figures amid ongoing market volatility.