Bitcoin Breaks Below $79,000 as ETF Outflows Intensify Selling Pressure

Key Facts

According to reports, Bitcoin's price has dropped below the $79,000 level following a wave of record outflows from Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs). This decline marks a breach of key technical support levels after net outflows reached $1.54 billion in a single week. Additionally, data indicates a shift in retail liquidity toward emerging projects, with the new Pepeto project raising over $9 million in its presale despite the broader market downturn.

This slump occurs amid persistent inflationary pressures, with the US Consumer Price Index (CPI) recording a 2.8% increase as of May 12, 2026. Compared to other major crypto-linked assets, MSTR (MicroStrategy) shares are showing sensitivity to the underlying asset's volatility per market data. These movements reflect a broader risk reassessment by institutions that had previously entered the market near the $82,000 mark.

BTC prices remain under pressure at current levels as of close May 17, 2026, with traders monitoring for further downside if outflow momentum persists. The market is awaiting upcoming catalysts from the economic calendar, specifically speeches by Fed officials Williams and Goolsbee, as their commentary on monetary policy will be pivotal for risk appetite in the cryptocurrency sector.