Bitcoin, once riding high at $52,000, has hit a roadblock in its upward trajectory. It currently hovers below this crucial milestone, but the general sentiment remains positive. Recent data reveals an interesting pattern among long-term Bitcoin holders. Over the past few months, these individuals have collectively sold approximately 200,000 BTC from their reserves. This consistent selling trend has been ongoing for nearly three months, resulting in a gradual decrease in their balances. This behavior, referred to as “typical hodler activity” during bull markets, showcases a cautious approach among long-term holders in the current market conditions.
Analyzing the current trend in Bitcoin holdings among investors reveals a significant difference from previous bull markets. In the previous cycle, holders reduced their BTC balances by around 15%. However, in the current scenario, the decrease amounts to a mere 1.5%. This suggests that while long-term holders are still parting with some of their Bitcoin, they are doing so at a much slower pace, indicating a more conservative approach amidst the prevailing market conditions.
While long-term holders have been selling off their Bitcoin, multiple cohorts of investors have been actively accumulating the digital asset. According to Ki Young Ju, CEO of CryptoQuant, there has been a surge in Bitcoin inflows into accumulation addresses, reaching an all-time high of 25,300 BTC. These addresses, characterized by specific traits such as no outgoing transactions, holding more than 10 BTC, and displaying consistent activity over several years, indicate a strategic effort by major holders to accumulate Bitcoin before anticipated price surges.
In a noteworthy shift in investor behavior, there has been a significant decrease in the amount of Bitcoin held on exchanges since mid-March 2020. Initially, over 17% of Bitcoin’s total supply was on trading platforms, a record high. However, this figure has steadily declined throughout Bitcoin’s 2021 bull run, reaching a low point in early 2024. Glassnode data shows a continuous decrease in exchange-held Bitcoin, with the percentage of Bitcoin’s supply on exchanges dropping from 12.03% to 11.79% year-to-date.
This week saw a substantial movement of over 18,000 BTC, valued at approximately $1 billion, from Coinbase to multiple non-exchange addresses believed to be custodial wallets. This significant transfer indicates strategic positioning by large holders to secure their assets outside of traditional exchange platforms.
The landscape of Bitcoin investments is evolving, with long-term holders adopting a more cautious approach, while strategic accumulation efforts and changes in exchange holdings signal a shift in investor behavior towards safeguarding and maximizing their Bitcoin holdings. As the market continues to adapt to these dynamics, investors must remain vigilant and informed to navigate the ever-changing world of cryptocurrency investments.