Understanding Open Interest and Funding Rate.



Funding Rate + Increasing OI:

If the funding rate is significantly positive or negative and open interest is rising, it could indicate an overcrowded trade. For example, if the funding rate is highly positive and open interest is increasing, it might mean too many traders are long, which could lead to a squeeze if the market moves against them.



Bullish Trend + Increasing Open Interest:

If open interest is increasing during an uptrend, it suggests that more participants are entering long positions, which could be a sign of a strong, sustained bullish trend.Bearish Trend + Increasing Open Interest: If open interest is increasing during a downtrend, it suggests that more participants are entering short positions, which could confirm a strong, sustained bearish trend.




Suppose Bitcoin is in an uptrend, and you notice that open interest is increasing alongside the price. This suggests that the uptrend might continue as new money is backing the rise. However, if you notice a sudden spike in open interest without significant price movement, it might be a sign that a large number of positions are being established, potentially leading to increased volatility or even a reversal if the price starts to drop.