Analysis: Bitcoin's Gains in 2026 Concentrated in North American Trading Hours, Asian Session Drags on Overall Performance

Odaily News Bitcoin briefly touched $96,000, accumulating a gain of nearly 10% since 2026. This upward trend has been primarily driven by strong performance during North American trading hours. According to Velo data, Bitcoin's cumulative return during the North American session is approximately 8%. In contrast, the European session recorded only a modest gain of about 3%, while the Asian trading session has been a drag on the overall performance.

This trend is in stark contrast to the situation at the end of 2025. Back then, Bitcoin had accumulated a decline of up to 20% during the North American trading session by the end of November, hitting a low near $80,000. In the fourth quarter, Bitcoin often faced selling pressure at the US market open, while spot Bitcoin ETFs experienced outflows almost daily. Currently, the strongest returns appear shortly after the US market opens, whereas this period was precisely Bitcoin's weakest performer over the past six months. (CoinDesk)