Bithumb Suspends STABLE Deposits for Network Upgrade Amid Market Fear

VADODARA, January 29, 2026 — South Korean cryptocurrency exchange Bithumb announced a temporary suspension of deposits and withdrawals for the STABLE token. This latest crypto news event occurs as Bitcoin tests $88,475 amid global market fear. According to the official statement, the suspension begins at 2:00 a.m. UTC on February 4 to support a network upgrade. Market structure suggests this move could create a localized liquidity vacuum.

Investigation: Bithumb's STABLE Suspension Details

Bithumb's announcement specifies a precise operational halt. The exchange will suspend all deposit and withdrawal functions for STABLE starting February 4 at 2:00 a.m. UTC. Consequently, traders cannot move STABLE tokens on or off the platform during this period. The stated reason is to support a network upgrade. Underlying this trend, exchanges often implement such suspensions to ensure security during technical transitions. According to on-chain data, similar events historically correlate with short-term price volatility in affected assets.

Market Context & Historical Precedent

Historically, exchange suspensions during network upgrades create temporary order blocks. These blocks often lead to price dislocations once services resume. In contrast, well-executed upgrades can enhance network efficiency and long-term value. The current market environment amplifies these effects. Global crypto sentiment sits at Fear (26/100), according to real-time market intelligence. This fear score indicates heightened risk aversion among retail traders. , Bitcoin's price action at $88,475 reflects broader uncertainty. Related developments include the Federal Reserve's recent policy signals and an altcoin season index rise to 32.

Technical Architecture & Price Action

Market structure suggests Bithumb's suspension may create a Fair Value Gap (FVG) for STABLE. This gap could resolve post-upgrade, depending on network improvements. Technical analysis of Bitcoin shows critical levels. Bitcoin currently tests support near $88,000, with resistance at the Fibonacci 0.618 level of $90,000. The Relative Strength Index (RSI) hovers near 45, indicating neutral momentum. Volume profile analysis reveals weak buying pressure at current levels. Consequently, any negative news flow could trigger a breakdown. This technical setup mirrors patterns observed during previous exchange halts in 2021 and 2023.

By The Numbers

Why It Matters

This event matters for institutional liquidity cycles and retail market structure. Network upgrades require precise coordination to avoid security vulnerabilities. According to Ethereum's official documentation on network upgrades, proper execution minimizes downtime and maximizes user trust. Bithumb's suspension highlights the operational risks inherent in altcoin trading. Institutional investors monitor such events for systemic stability. Retail traders face immediate liquidity constraints. Consequently, market efficiency temporarily degrades during these periods. This degradation can amplify price swings in a fearful market environment.

Expert Commentary

CoinMarketBuzz Intelligence Desk notes: "Exchange suspensions during network upgrades are standard but carry latent risk. The key variable is upgrade success. A smooth transition typically sees liquidity normalization within 24-48 hours. However, in a fear-driven market, any technical hiccup could exacerbate selling pressure. Traders should watch Bitcoin's $88,000 support as a broader sentiment gauge."

Market Outlook & Price Scenarios

Market structure suggests two primary scenarios based on current data. First, a successful network upgrade could restore STABLE liquidity and stabilize altcoin markets. Second, technical issues could prolong the suspension, increasing fear. Historical cycles indicate that such events often resolve within days. The 12-month institutional outlook remains cautious but opportunistic. Network upgrades generally enhance blockchain scalability and security over time. Consequently, long-term holders may view this as a buying opportunity post-upgrade.

• Bullish Invalidation Level: $90,000 for Bitcoin. A break above this resistance confirms trend reversal and reduces fear sentiment.
• Bearish Invalidation Level: $88,000 for Bitcoin. A break below this support invalidates the current structure and signals deeper correction.