Bitcoin swings from $85,000 to $81,800, liquidations top $430 million

Bitcoin experienced a sharp rally to nearly $85,000 late Wednesday before reversing course, dropping to around $81,800 within hours. This swift $3,000 fluctuation occurred in less than a day and left the world’s leading cryptocurrency down approximately 2% over the past 24 hours. The dramatic price movement resulted in extensive liquidations across the market. According to data provider CoinGlass, traders saw approximately $431 million in leveraged positions forcefully closed during the 24-hour period. Liquidations occur when cryptocurrency exchanges automatically end leveraged trades if account balances fall below a required threshold, in an attempt to prevent further losses.