#WhenisBestTimetoEntertheMarket Current Market Pulse (Feb 19, 2026)

While the outflows are historic, the "fracture" you mentioned is showing some nuance between different asset classes and regions:
The BTC vs. ETH Divergence: While Bitcoin has been struggling to hold the $66,000 level, we’re seeing a fascinating shift in institutional pockets. For example, reports this week show Harvard Management Company actually trimmed its Bitcoin ETF position by 20% to rotate into Ethereum ETFs, suggesting that while "capital" is leaving the top dog, it is hunting for value in the broader ecosystem.
The "Fear" Floor: You noted the Fear and Greed Index at 8-9 points. Historically, we haven't seen it stay this low for long without a "relief bounce." The fact that Bitcoin is consolidating between $65,000 and $71,000 despite the negative headlines suggests that the "smart money" floor might be forming higher than the $60,000 support you noted. Looking Ahead: The "Spring" Narrative
You're spot on about the "flushing out of weak hands." High-profile bulls like Michael Saylor have been vocal this week, arguing that this "winter" will be shorter because the infrastructure (banks, digital credit networks) is far more robust than it was four years ago.
The real test will be the US-Iran nuclear negotiations and the next inflation data release. If those stabilize, the "strategic pause" you mentioned could turn into an aggressive re-entry before the end of Q1.
Note: The narrowing yield spreads and the "yen carry trade" liquidation you mentioned remain the "canary in the coal mine." If the DXY (Dollar Index) continues to climb, the $60,000 support level will be the ultimate battlefield.