It’s only been a month into 2024, and Bitcoin has already experienced a whirlwind of activity. These events range from the SEC’s approval of spot Bitcoin ETFs to the cryptocurrency’s price underperforming with a decrease over the past month and selloffs from the Grayscale BTC Trust. Amidst all these, on-chain data has revealed an interesting sentiment of strategic accumulation among whales of the largest cryptocurrency.
According to information provided by crypto analytics firm IntoTheBlock, Bitcoin whales have added over 76,000 BTC worth approximately $3 billion to their holdings since the beginning of the year.
Bitcoin whales have increased their $BTC holdings by ~$3B (76,000 BTC) sine the start of this year. pic.twitter.com/0hi3Q7WXEo
— IntoTheBlock (@intotheblock) January 27, 2024
Bitcoin Whales Increase Holdings By $3 Billion Despite Market Downturn
The price of Bitcoin climbed shortly after the approval of spot ETFs in the US to reach a 20-month high of $48,600. However, in a surprising turn of events, the crypto has suffered a price dip, reaching as low as $38,880 during the week.
Despite this series of events, on-chain data suggests that the selloff is coming mostly from small-term holders and a few large whales, as the majority of whales have been taking advantage of the price dip to scoop up more Bitcoin into their wallets.
The total balance among Bitcoin whales has jumped by 76,000 in January, with the count now nearing 7.8 million BTC. Consequently, addresses holding more than 1,000 BTC have now reached a new all-time high.
Despite the negative price movement, Bitcoin held in addresses with over 1,000 BTC has reached a new yearly high! pic.twitter.com/4qQhbXSD9S
— IntoTheBlock (@intotheblock) January 26, 2024
Price Surge Incoming?
BTC’s future price outlook looks unclear at the moment, as the crypto is currently trading at a minor resistance around the $42,000 level. According to analyst Michaël van de Poppe, Bitcoin could continue consolidating between $37,000 and $48,000 for the coming months, giving altcoins a time to shine.
However, fundamentals surrounding Bitcoin point to a price growth in the longer term. Renowned economist Peter Schiff recently commented that Bitcoin has the possibility of surging to $10 million within the next decade if it becomes a hedge against the devaluation of the US dollar.
The community and investors also like to keep an eye out for crypto whales because they can significantly influence price movements. When whales stock up on BTC, it often signals they believe the price is undervalued and ready to rise substantially in the near future.
If the whale accumulation continues, it could lead to a change to positive sentiment among the wider Bitcoin investing market. The next Bitcoin halving is also on its way, and many analysts predict a price growth around the event.
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