Large volume fell below the 60-day line: signal of medium-term trend turning bearish?

A surge in trading volume below the 60-day moving average may signal weakening bullish momentum and potential bearish reversal in crypto markets.

Jun 13, 2025 at 03:42 am

Understanding the 60-Day Moving Average in Cryptocurrency

In cryptocurrency trading, technical analysis plays a crucial role in predicting price movements. One of the most commonly used indicators is the 60-day moving average (MA), which smooths out price data over the last 60 days to provide traders with insights into the medium-term trend. When large volume trades fall below this line, it can be interpreted as a potential shift in market sentiment.

The 60-day MA acts as both a support and resistance level depending on where the price is positioned relative to it. If the price remains above this average, it often signals strength in the asset. Conversely, when volume surges but prices trade below the 60-day MA, it may indicate that large players are selling aggressively, possibly signaling a bearish reversal.

What Does "Large Volume Fell Below the 60-Day Line" Mean?

This phrase refers to a situation where a significant spike in trading volume occurs, but instead of pushing the price above the 60-day MA, the price closes or trades below it. This divergence between volume and price behavior can raise concerns among technical analysts.

• A spike in volume typically suggests strong interest in an asset.
• However, if the price fails to move above the 60-day moving average, it implies that the buying pressure was not strong enough to overcome the selling pressure.
• In some cases, this pattern may precede a pullback or a sustained downtrend, especially if other indicators like RSI or MACD also show weakening momentum.

Historical Examples of Volume Below 60-Day MA in Crypto Markets

Looking at past cycles in the crypto market helps contextualize how significant this signal can be. For instance:

• During the late 2021 Bitcoin correction, there were multiple instances where volume surged while the price remained below the 60-day MA for extended periods. These moments often marked temporary tops or areas of distribution by whales and institutions.
• Similarly, Ethereum experienced similar patterns during its bull run, where large-volume selloffs below the 60-day line preceded short-to-medium term corrections.

These historical patterns suggest that traders should pay attention to volume action relative to key moving averages, especially in highly volatile assets like cryptocurrencies.

How to Confirm Bearish Signals from Volume Below 60-Day MA

Relying solely on one indicator can lead to false signals. Therefore, traders must look for confirmation through additional tools and techniques:

• Check the Relative Strength Index (RSI): If RSI is declining or forming bearish divergences, it strengthens the bearish case.
• Analyze candlestick patterns: Bearish formations like engulfing candles or shooting stars appearing alongside volume spikes below the 60-day MA can offer confirmation.
• Monitor On-chain metrics: Tools like Glassnode or Santiment can help identify whether large holders are accumulating or distributing their holdings during such volume surges.

By combining these methods, traders can better assess whether a medium-term bearish trend is indeed developing.

Practical Steps for Traders Facing This Signal

For active traders, recognizing this pattern early can be critical for risk management and position sizing. Here's what you can do:

• Reduce exposure gradually if the price fails to reclaim the 60-day MA after a high-volume session.
• Set stop-loss orders slightly above recent swing highs to protect against sudden reversals.
• Consider hedging positions using options or inverse ETFs if available in your trading platform.
• Keep a close eye on news and macroeconomic events that might influence short-term volatility and invalidate the bearish signal.
• Use lower timeframes (like 4-hour or daily charts) to find precise entry points for shorting or exiting long positions.

Each step requires careful monitoring and discipline to avoid emotional decision-making.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can volume falling below the 60-day MA still result in a bullish trend?

Yes, it’s possible. Sometimes markets experience sharp corrections followed by strong rebounds. If the price quickly moves back above the 60-day MA with sustained volume, it could indicate healthy consolidation rather than a bearish reversal.

Q: How reliable is the 60-day MA compared to other moving averages?

The 60-day MA is more responsive than longer-term MAs like the 200-day but less sensitive than shorter ones like the 20-day. Its reliability depends on the asset’s volatility and the presence of confirming signals from other indicators.

Q: Should I sell immediately if I see volume fall below the 60-day MA?

Not necessarily. It’s a warning sign, not a direct sell signal. Evaluate your strategy, risk tolerance, and supporting evidence before making any move. Some traders wait for a confirmed breakdown below key support levels before acting.

Q: What timeframes are best for analyzing volume against the 60-day MA?

Daily charts are most effective for assessing medium-term trends. However, intraday traders can use 4-hour or 1-hour charts to spot early signs of weakness or strength around the 60-day MA.