Bitcoin has entered a phase of relative calm as the weekend progresses, with price movements confined to familiar boundaries. The current market is marked by muted volatility and a lack of momentum, prompting traders to focus on specific scalp levels instead of anticipating significant price shifts. As we approach the holiday season, the emphasis appears to be on patience and precision in preparation for the next significant catalyst.

According to analyst Lennaert Snyder, Bitcoin has again slipped into a period he refers to as "weekend chop." While he does not foresee any major trending movements during this time, he has outlined several scalp opportunities and price traps that he is closely monitoring for short-term volatility.

One critical level to watch is the $88,865 mark. If Bitcoin approaches this level and tests the nearby resistance zone, Snyder is looking for scalp-short opportunities, particularly if it fails to maintain this level. On the flip side, for traders looking for long positions, the $87,420 level is significant as it represents the starting point of Bitcoin's previous impulse and acts as a key support area. Should the price test this support, Snyder will be on the lookout for clear reversal patterns that could trigger a scalp-long entry.

However, if Bitcoin manages to lose the "start impulse" support, Snyder suggests that a continuation short down to the $85,890 lows becomes highly likely. Once the price reaches these deeper lows, he plans to adjust his strategy and wait for a potential reversal before considering a long position.

A major breakout trigger to keep an eye on is if Bitcoin can gain and hold above $89,375, which marks the top of the resistance box. Snyder believes that if this level is sustained, the market could finally squeeze toward the $90,400 area. While he doesn't anticipate this breakout occurring before Monday, he has set alerts to keep track of these levels, advising traders to take advantage of the weekend to recharge.

In a separate observation, analyst Daan Crypto Trades noted that Bitcoin’s entry into the weekend has been characterized by stagnation. He views this as an opportune moment for traders to take a step back and mentally reset before the market dynamics shift in the upcoming week.

Despite various fluctuations, Bitcoin’s price has remained relatively stable over the past few weeks. The asset is stuck in the middle of its established range, showing no significant momentum to break out toward new highs or to correct deeper into a downtrend. Daan Crypto Trades cautioned that the upcoming week may see more choppy price action, as market activity typically slows significantly around the Christmas holidays.

Overall, Bitcoin's current state reflects a careful balancing act, as traders remain poised for the next big move while navigating a landscape marked by uncertainty. With the holidays approaching, many are taking a breather, allowing for a strategic pause before the market potentially heats up again. As always, traders are advised to stay vigilant and prepared for whatever the market may throw their way in the coming days.