The panic index drops to 9! Cryptocurrency market sentiment hits a new low this year. Can Bitcoin break out of the "extreme panic zone"?

Cryptocurrency market sentiment continues to weaken, with the Fear and Greed Index released by CoinMarketCap plummeting to 9, entering the “Extreme Fear” zone, indicating a significant decline in investor confidence. This figure is not only below the 15 recorded a week ago but also well below the neutral level of 41 last month. It previously touched an annual low of 5 on February 6, highlighting the rapid shift in sentiment.

CoinMarketCap points out that the index uses a scoring system from 0 to 100, with lower values representing greater market fear. Its calculation model is based on five major dimensions, including mainstream asset price momentum, implied volatility indicators for BTC and ETH, put/call ratios for options, stablecoin supply proportions, and platform social interaction activity. This system attempts to quantify traders’ true psychological states behind price fluctuations.

From a price perspective, Bitcoin is currently fluctuating around $70,500, with a 24-hour trading volume of approximately $42.8 billion; Ethereum hovers near $2,096; Solana around $87.6. Although major cryptocurrencies have recovered somewhat after a sharp decline last week, the total market capitalization of the crypto market has also returned above $2.4 trillion, but the sentiment indicator has not warmed up accordingly, reflecting that funds remain cautious.

Historical experience shows that the Fear Index below 10 often appears during periods of market stress. U.S. regulators have also pointed out that extreme fear may indicate undervaluation, while extreme greed could suggest bubble risks. As Warren Buffett famously said, market sentiment often breeds turning points at extreme moments.

CoinMarketCap also reminds that this index is not an independent trading signal but more of a sentiment reference tool, best used in conjunction with technical analysis, capital flow data, and macroeconomic indicators. In the current environment, although sentiment remains low, signs of price stabilization are emerging. Upcoming macro events and liquidity changes may determine whether Bitcoin can escape the “Extreme Fear” zone.