Pulling out of risk: The crypto market shows caution ahead of the year's end, with a defensive strategy becoming the top priority

Analysis from Greeks.Live shows that since December 26, 2025, options traders are significantly shifting their approach. Instead of a one-sided price prediction, they are moving towards a more neutral strategy—selling premiums rather than betting in a single direction. This reflects a clear warning sentiment across the entire cryptocurrency market.

Price Hotspots and Market Pressure

The $88,770 USD level is currently considered the most关注ed options expiration point, serving as the main reference for traders. However, the actual trading pressure is focused around the $98,134 USD level—a “pain point” actively discussed in the market. The gap between these two levels indicates considerable uncertainty about the market’s next move.

Upcoming Series of Expirations

On Friday, (December 26, 2025), a significant event will occur as more than half of the total options contracts reach their expiration date. This is the time when all traders must decide: hold, close positions, or roll over to the next month. This reality makes position shifting the dominant trend, rather than opening new trades.

Strategic Recommendations Amid Limited Liquidity

Due to year-end festivities causing thin market liquidity, most analysts recommend avoiding active trading until the market reopens on Monday. Instead, those who wish to maintain positions should adopt defensive strategies such as vertical spreads (call spread) or naked put selling (selling uncovered puts)—strategies that generate cash flow without taking on excessive directional risk.

Market Expansion: Meme Positions and Other Opportunities

An interesting trend emerging is the shift of interest towards other assets. Meme positions along with alternative assets are attracting increasing attention from the trading community. Market probability models indicate that if a two-standard-deviation decline occurs within the next six months, prices could drop to around $17,000 USD—a figure worth considering for investors.

Preparing for 2026

With the recent rule changes in the 2025 market, experts emphasize the importance of planning ahead. 2026 will open up entirely new investment opportunities, but traders need to prepare strategies now—when liquidity remains limited and risk-averse sentiment dominates.