Bitcoin eyes breakout above $88.5K as Ethereum waits to follow

Bitcoin is teetering on the edge of a breakout. The price remains stuck just below $88,500, a level that’s already been tested several times. According to analyst Michaël van de Poppe, the moment of breakout is near and that could have major consequences not only for BTC, but also for Ethereum.

It’s almost time. $BTC is fighting the $88.5K resistance zone and has been rejected there multiple times over the past few days.

It’s all depending on the U.S. Open, and Friday is usually corrective.

However, with all the macroeconomic data pointing to a positive outlook,… pic.twitter.com/atMOq815cD

— Michaël van de Poppe (@CryptoMichNL) December 19, 2025

Bitcoin hits resistance at $88,500 again

Over the past few days, Bitcoin has hovered around the $88,500 resistance. Every attempt to break through has been rejected so far, but analysts are seeing pressure building. Van de Poppe believes the opening of the US markets, especially on Fridays, will be crucial. Fridays are often known for corrective price action, but given the broader macroeconomic picture, he remains optimistic.

He points to strong macroeconomic data and signs that the business cycle is turning upward. That could restore investor confidence and give Bitcoin the strength for a convincing breakout. If that happens, a move toward $90K or higher seems likely.

Ethereum waiting in the wings

Ethereum also looks ready to move, but its price action is still closely tied to Bitcoin. ETH/BTC is currently holding a key support level, which Van de Poppe sees as a positive sign. He expects that once Bitcoin breaks above $88,000, Ethereum will quickly follow with a move of its own.

According to him, it’s actually been an Ethereum driven market since April 2025, suggesting that ETH has been outperforming BTC in recent months. Still, the next major move depends on Bitcoin making the first move.