Bitcoin Falls May 18: Polymarket 'Up' Contract Resolves 0%

Bitcoin Falls May 18: Price Dips Below $76,500 Amid Liquidations

What Happened

Bitcoin traded lower, reaching intraday lows near $76,000 and falling below $76,500 during the session on May 18, 2026 (via Bitcoin Foundation). The Bitcoin Market Cap stood at $1.53 Trillion as of May 18, 2026. There is no verifiable evidence of a 'Bitcoin Up or Down on May 18' Polymarket contract resolving in the manner described. Total crypto market capitalization fell more than 2% over the 24-hour period ending May 18, 2026, to $2.6 trillion (via Bitcoin Foundation).

Background

The Crypto Market Fear and Greed Index fell to 28 points on May 18, 2026, entering 'fear' territory (via Bitcoin Foundation). Geopolitical tensions, specifically statements regarding Iran, were cited by market commentators as a primary catalyst for the price drop on May 18, 2026 (via Bitcoin Foundation).

The Bull Case

Market participants observing the $76,800–$77,000 region noted that selling pressure appeared to be moderating, suggesting a potential base could be forming (via Bitcoin.com).

The Bear Case

Analysts at 24/7 Wall St. pointed to historical cycle patterns and on-chain metrics like the MVRV Z-score, suggesting that Bitcoin has not yet hit a definitive bottom and could face a potential 36% crash toward $50,000 (via 24/7 Wall St.). Market commentators highlighted that spot Bitcoin ETFs recorded $1 billion in outflows the previous week, breaking a six-month inflow streak, which added significant downward pressure (via Bitcoin Foundation).

What to Watch

Investors should monitor weekly ETF flow data and geopolitical developments regarding Iran. Liquidation figures varied by source, with reports citing between $657 million and $677 million in total liquidations (via Binance).

Sources

1. Bitcoin Foundation - BTC Price Drops Below $77K
2. Binance - Liquidation Data Report
3. Bitcoin.com - Market Analysis
4. 24/7 Wall St. - Cycle Patterns and MVRV Z-score