Crypto Market Overview for August 17–22, 2026: Bitcoin Breaks Higher as ETF Inflows and a Short Squeeze Reinforce Momentum 📈 Bitcoin posted one of its strongest weeks of August, rising roughly 22–23% from around $63,000 to a peak near $79,500 before ending the week around $77,000–78,000. Ethereum gained about 26% and moved above $2,500, while SOL, XRP and BNB also recorded double-digit advances. ⚡ A major driver was the large short squeeze, with roughly $2.7 billion in short positions liquidated within 24 hours. Forced position closures created additional mechanical buying pressure and accelerated BTC’s breakout after an extended consolidation period. 💰 Spot demand also played an important role. U.S. spot Bitcoin ETFs attracted around $1.6 billion in inflows from Monday through Thursday. On August 20 alone, inflows reached roughly $606 million, with BlackRock’s IBIT accounting for most of the total, indicating that the rally was not driven solely by derivatives. 🌐 The broader macro backdrop provided additional support as U.S. Treasury yields eased during parts of the week, while new regulatory signals from the SEC improved expectations for greater clarity around the U.S. crypto framework. ⚠️ However, funding rates have turned positive and open interest has risen quickly following the rally, suggesting that leveraged long exposure is rebuilding. The Fear & Greed Index has also moved into Greed, reflecting a rapid shift toward stronger risk appetite. 🔎 In the week ahead, the $80,000 area will be a key level for BTC. A sustained breakout could extend the advance, while a loss of the $74,000–75,000 support zone could increase the risk of long liquidations and a sharper correction. #CryptoMarket $BTC $GRAM $XRP