Bitcoin steady near $96,600; break above $97,600 could open $98,800 and $100,000

Bitcoin is consolidating near $96,600, with buyers defending the $95,700–$95,200 area. A push above $97,600 would expose $98,800 and put the psychological $100,000 level back on the radar. Policy and positioning shifted on January 14, 2026 as Wintermute outlined 2026 scenarios and Rhode Island advanced a small‑transaction tax exemption bill.