Post-Halving Pressure: Marathon Digital Anticipates Bitcoin Break-Even Price Of $43,000

The Bitcoin (BTC) market has been on a wild ride recently, hitting a new all-time high (ATH) before experiencing notable volatility that resulted in an 8% drop to the $65,500 level on Friday. 

Meanwhile, Marathon Digital, one of the largest US-based Bitcoin mining companies, is preparing to acquire more power infrastructure and streamline operations to meet the challenges posed by a reduction in revenue due to the upcoming April halving event

Bitcoin Miners Brace For Post-Halving Shakeout

According to a Bloomberg report, Marathon Digital plans to acquire additional power infrastructure and expand its mining capacity to keep costs low and maintain profitability. 

By optimizing operations and scaling up, Marathon aims to mitigate the impact of the impending revenue drop and secure wider margins in the post-halving landscape.

Marathon Digital recently announced an agreement to purchase a 200-megawatt data center in Garden City, Texas, for over $87 million. This acquisition marks the company’s second major investment in power infrastructure after it acquired multiple sites for $179 million earlier this year. 

By increasing its ownership of mining capacity infrastructure to 53%, up from a meager 3% in the previous year, Marathon is positioning itself for greater operational efficiency and cost-effectiveness, Bloomberg notes. 

However, post-halving, the Bitcoin mining industry is expected to undergo significant changes, with some miners facing profitability challenges and potential exits. 

Profitability Crisis Looms

Marathon Digital’s CEO, Fred Thiel, highlights the impact of revenue reduction, estimating that the industry’s average break-even point will rise from around $23,000 per Bitcoin to approximately $43,000. Thiel stated:

Post halving, there will be some miners to lose profitability, maybe challenged, or maybe looking for an exit as their revenues will drop because of the Bitcoin rewarded will drop. The simple math is, if the industry average break-even point was around $23,000 per Bitcoin, it will now go up to around $43,000.

It is worth noting that this does not necessarily mean that Bitcoin’s price will fall to $43,000 from its current trading price of $69,300. The breakeven price refers to the price at which miners like Marathon Digital can cover their operating costs and achieve profitability. It is not directly correlated to the market price of Bitcoin.

Bitcoin

As of the time of writing, BTC is trading at $69,300 and is on the verge of reclaiming the significant milestone of $70,000. The cryptocurrency experienced a notable spike in volatility during the early hours of Friday’s trading session but has since recovered, mitigating its losses from 8% down to 2.5%.

Featured image from Shutterstock, chart from TradingView.com 

Bitcoin ETFs Threaten Gold’s Dominance As Digitalization Trends Gain Momentum

In just over a month since their approval by the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Bitcoin ETFs have swiftly gained traction in the market, posing a formidable challenge to the long-standing dominance of gold ETFs.

Bitcoin ETFs Gain Ground on Gold ETFs

The rapid rise of Bitcoin ETFs has led to a convergence in asset values, with BTC ETFs closing the gap with gold ETFs. Bitcoin ETFs hold approximately $37 billion in assets after only 25 trading days, while gold ETFs have accumulated $93 billion in over 20 years of trading. 

Bitcoin ETFs

In this regard, Bloomberg’s Senior Commodity Strategist, Mike McGlone, emphasizes the shifting landscape, stating, “Tangible Gold is Losing Luster to Intangible Bitcoin.” 

According to McGlone, the US stock market’s continued resilience, the US currency’s strength, and 5% interest rates have presented headwinds for gold. Moreover, as the world increasingly embraces digitalization, the emergence of Bitcoin ETFs in the United States adds further competition to the precious metal.

McGlone further states that while the bias for gold prices remains upward, investors who solely focus on gold may risk falling behind potential paradigm-shifting digitalization trends. 

Ultimately, McGlone suggests that investors should consider diversifying their portfolios by incorporating Bitcoin or other digital assets to stay ahead in the evolving investment landscape.

Bitcoin Rally Driven By Institutional Demand 

The success of Bitcoin ETFs is further demonstrated by recent data suggesting that the upward trend in Bitcoin prices is driven primarily by institutional demand. At the same time, retail participation appears to be declining.

According to analyst Ali Martinez, as the price of Bitcoin continues to hover between $51,800 and $52,100, there has been a noticeable decrease in the creation of new Bitcoin addresses daily, indicating a lack of retail participation in the current bull rally and highlighting the growing influence of institutional investors in the cryptocurrency market.

Bitcoin ETFs

However, market expert Crypto Con points out a significant shift in Long-Term Bitcoin holder positions, signaling a potential downside movement. 

As seen in the chart below shared by Crypto Con, the position change line crossed below -50.00 for the first time in over a year, a pattern that has historically occurred at critical moments in Bitcoin’s market cycles. These moments include the cycle bottom, mid-top (which occurred only once), and the start/end of a cycle top parabola (which occurred most frequently).

Bitcoin ETFs

According to Crypto Con, this recent shift in long-term holder positions raises two possible scenarios: a mid-top or an imminent parabolic movement. Such a movement at this stage in the cycle is considered unusual. 

Primarily, it indicates that long-term Bitcoin holders are exiting their positions in significant numbers, possibly anticipating a market correction or a change in the overall trend.

Overall, the shift in Bitcoin holder positions and the decline in retail participation present contrasting dynamics in the current market landscape. While institutional demand continues to drive the price of Bitcoin higher, long-term holders appear to be taking profit or adjusting their positions. 

BTC chart

While BTC is currently trading at $51,800, it remains to be seen what the direction of the next move will be and how institutions will continue to influence the price action of the largest cryptocurrency as spot Bitcoin ETFs gain traction.

Featured image from Shutterstock, chart from TradingView.com

Bitcoin All-Time High Ahead: Historical Pattern Signals 50% Chance Of Reaching $100K By August

Bitcoin (BTC), the world’s largest cryptocurrency, has surged to a 26-month high, reaching $52,000 and reigniting predictions of surpassing its previous all-time high (ATH) of $69,000. 

The market has experienced a resurgence of bullish sentiments, fueled further by the recent adoption of Bitcoin spot exchange-traded funds (ETFs). These have spurred notable growth within just one month of approval by the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

Bitcoin Poised For A Major Breakout? 

Investment manager and market expert Timothy Peterson, who recently made a bold claim on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), reinforces Bitcoin’s renewed optimism. 

Peterson stated that Bitcoin had achieved an almost exact 100% gain in 180 days, a feat that has occurred 41 times since 2015. In 78% of these instances, Bitcoin reached even higher price levels. 

Furthermore, Peterson’s analysis of historical data suggests that the average return for the next 180 days after such a gain was also approximately 100%.Based on this historical pattern, Peterson asserts that there is a 50% chance Bitcoin will reach the significant milestone of $100,000 by August. 

However, despite this possibility, as the halving event approaches, there could be another correction that, while not putting the bull run in jeopardy, could trigger significant liquidation rates as the hype surrounding the current uptrend mounts.

Pre-Halving Correction Looms

The upcoming halving event scheduled for April, combined with historical patterns, suggests that Bitcoin may experience one final correction before the bull run resumes, presenting a crucial moment for investors.

Crypto analyst Rekt Capital emphasizes the significance of a pre-halving retrace, noting that historically, it tends to occur only a few weeks before the actual halving event. 

Looking back at previous halvings, such retracements have ranged from -38% in 2016 to -20% in 2020. Based on these patterns, a retracement of around 27% is possible in the current market scenario.

Bitcoin

If a retracement of this magnitude were to occur, it would place the Bitcoin price at approximately $37,900, as indicated in Rekt Capital’s pre-halving retrace chart. This level represents an important threshold for investors to accumulate the cryptocurrency before the next phase of the halving event and the anticipated bull run rally.

Key Resistance For BTC’s Trajectory

Bitcoin’s continued rise has brought its price to a critical juncture, with the current trading level of $52,100 catching the attention of the founders of blockchain data and intelligence platform Glassnode.

According to their analysis, historical data reveals that the $52,000 level has acted as a formidable resistance point on the weekly chart, making it a crucial threshold for Bitcoin’s trajectory. 

The platform’s founders suggest that a successful breach of this level could trigger a surge of buying pressure, potentially leading to a Fear of Missing Out (FOMO) scenario among investors.

Bitcoin

Overall, the future direction of BTC price remains uncertain, leaving investors to ponder whether the current uptrend will be sustained or if a potential pre-halving retrace will occur before resuming its upward trajectory to surpass its previous all-time high and reach the coveted $100,000 level.

Featured image from Shutterstock, chart from TradingView.com 

Bitcoin Price Soars, Smashing Through $45,000 On The Back Of Two Key Factors

In the past 14 days, the Bitcoin price has displayed a significant uptrend of 14.5%, signaling a resurgence in bullish sentiment. This rally comes as Bitcoin spot exchange-traded funds (ETFs) have been trading for nearly a month, with the market already factoring in this development. As a result, Bitcoin is back on its natural course, gaining momentum ahead of the scheduled halving in April.

Currently, Bitcoin has not only regained its bullish momentum after a brief dip to the $38,500 level but has also surpassed the $45,300 mark. It now edges closer to its 25-month high of $49,000, with the $50,000 milestone within reach. 

Achieving this level would significantly narrow the gap between the current price and Bitcoin’s all-time high (ATH) of $69,000. However, what are the main catalysts behind this uptrend, and how far can the Bitcoin price climb?

Reduction Of GBTC Flows And Net Positive BTC Spot ETF Inflows

According to the latest analysis by QCP Capital, two key factors are driving Bitcoin’s upward trajectory: 

Daily outflows from the Grayscale Bitcoin Trust (GBTC) have decreased from $500-600 million to $100-200 million. Simultaneously, total inflows across all Bitcoin ETFs are now positive. This shift in the GBTC flows, and the emergence of net positive BTC spot ETF inflows contribute to the current bullish trend, according to the crypto trading firm’s analysis

Additionally, notable price movements have been observed around “spot ETF fixings.” Between 3-4 pm EST, QCP has recorded that the Bitcoin price tends to tick higher, possibly due to the one-hour observation window used by the BlackRock ETF (IBIT) to calculate its Net Asset Value (NAV). 

Conversely, downward pressure is typically observed after 4 pm EST as GBTC employs a point fix, leading market makers to sell around and after the fix.

Strong Performance In US Equities

Despite the Federal Reserve’s hawkish stance and higher US yields driven by robust February Non-Farm Payroll data (353k actual vs. 180k expected), US equities continue outperforming. 

Companies like NVDA and META have rallied due to strong earnings and positive headlines. Underallocated investors will likely continue buying any equities dips as they chase returns. 

According to the analysis, this bullish sentiment is expected to “spill” over into BTC and Ethereum (ETH), further fueled by the upcoming BTC halving and the ETH spot ETF narratives.

Ultimately, the trading firm assesses significant interest in accumulators, which enable investors to purchase Bitcoin or ETH at a “substantial discount” to the current spot price. This strategy is believed to present an attractive opportunity for bullish investors looking to build long positions throughout the year.

Bitcoin Price Faces Strong Barriers On Its Way To $50,000

Despite the uptrend, notable resistance levels could impede further upward movement and potentially lead to a consolidation phase for Bitcoin. 

To assess the nearest-term resistances accurately, the 1-hour chart indicates potential price paths for Bitcoin in the coming days if these bearish thresholds are breached.

In the immediate time frame, the $45,500 level emerges as Bitcoin’s next resistance level. This level previously marked a correction in the Bitcoin price shortly after the introduction of ETF trading.

Bitcoin price

Subsequently, the next target would be the $46,600 level if the immediate resistance at $45,500 is surpassed. However, while these two thresholds may present challenges, no significant resistance levels are evident on Bitcoin’s hourly chart until the $48,500 level. 

This particular level represents the final hurdle for Bitcoin before reclaiming its previous high reached on January 11, immediately following the approval of ETFs by the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

Considering the combined factors of Grayscale’s reduced sell-off and the overall performance of the equity market, alongside renewed investor sentiment, Bitcoin could potentially surge to previous highs and even surpass them, marking new highs since the end of the crypto winter. 

The key factor to be seen is how Bitcoin’s price will respond when encountering these highlighted resistance walls and whether the buying pressure will be sufficient to propel Bitcoin back on track toward the bullish momentum observed at the beginning of 2024.

Featured image from Shutterstock, chart from TradingView.com

Bloodbath For Bitcoin: Grayscale’s $529 Million BTC Move To Coinbase Pushes Price Below $41,000

Bitcoin (BTC), the largest cryptocurrency in the market, has experienced a sharp drop below the $41,000 mark as exchange-traded funds (ETFs) for Bitcoin went live on January 12. 

The subsequent profit-taking, selling pressure, and outflows from Grayscale’s Bitcoin Trust ETF (GBTC) played a significant role in the downward trend.

Grayscale’s Bitcoin Transfers To Coinbase Intensify

On Tuesday, NewsBTC reported that six days ago, Grayscale initiated the first batch of BTC outflows from their holdings to a Coinbase, totaling 4,000 BTC (approximately $183 million) over six days. 

However, the asset manager resumed outflows from the Trust to the exchange on Tuesday, sending an additional 11,700 BTC (equivalent to $491.4 million) to Coinbase. 

Furthermore, on Friday, data from Arkham Intelligence revealed that 12,865 BTC ($529 million) were transferred from the Grayscale Trust address to Coinbase Prime. 

Bitcoin

In total, the Grayscale Trust address has transferred 54,343 BTC ($2.313 billion) to Coinbase Prime during the opening hours of the US stock market over five consecutive trading days since January 12, which has undoubtedly contributed to the downtrend in Bitcoin’s price.

Selling Frenzy Among BTC Miners

In addition to Grayscale’s selling spree, there has been increased selling activity by Bitcoin miners ahead of the upcoming Bitcoin halving. 

Crypto analyst Ali Martinez highlights that on-chain data from CryptoQuant indicates a substantial increase in selling activity by BTC miners. In the past 24 hours, miners offloaded nearly 10,600 BTC, with a value of approximately $455.8 million.

The persistent selling pressure has caused BTC to trade at $40,900, reflecting a slight 0.2% decrease over the past 24 hours. 

Bitcoin

The downtrend has been evident across various time frames, with declines of 5%, 6%, and 7% over the seven, fourteen, and thirty-day periods, respectively. However, despite these recent setbacks, Bitcoin remains remarkably positive year-to-date, with an impressive 98% gain.

Overall, the combined impact of Grayscale’s Bitcoin Trust ETF outflows and increased selling activity by miners has intensified the downward pressure on Bitcoin’s price, breaching the critical support level of $41,000. 

The focus now turns to how Bitcoin bulls will defend the crucial $40,000 support level, which stands as the last line of defense before a potential dip toward the $37,700 mark.

Bitcoin

Should this support level fail to hold, the Bitcoin market could witness further price declines, potentially pushing the price down to the $35,800 mark. However, with the Bitcoin halving scheduled for April, bullish investors are hopeful that this event will catalyze a significant bull run.

Featured image from Shutterstock, chart from TradingView.com

Bitcoin ETF Approval Triggers $1.2 Billion Trading Volume And New Highs For BTC Price

In a highly anticipated move, the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) approved all 11 Bitcoin ETF applications, and the market response has been nothing short of remarkable. The approval has led to significant trading volume and propelled Bitcoin to a new 22-month high.

Within minutes of the Bitcoin ETFs going live, Bitcoin surged over 8% to reach $48,400, representing a new record since the end of the crypto bear market. The early price movement aligns with the predictions made by the majority of experts in the crypto industry.

Bitcoin ETF Trading Makes Spectacular Debut

Bloomberg ETF expert James Seyffart reported an astonishing $1.2 billion in trading volume for spot Bitcoin ETFs within 30 minutes of trading. Seyffart captured the excitement with his “Cointucky Derby” analogy, highlighting the performance of different ETFs.

Grayscale’s GBTC Bitcoin Trust took the lead in the “Cointucky Derby,” recording an impressive trading volume of $446 million in the initial minutes. It was closely followed by BlackRock’s Bitcoin Trust, which achieved a trading volume of $388 million within the first half-hour.

Bitcoin ETF

Fidelity secured the third spot with a trading volume of $230 million, outperforming Hashdex and Wisdom Tree, which recorded $1 million and $1.1 million in trading volume, respectively.

While the exact breakdown of the trading volume remains uncertain, Seyffart noted that the evening’s data might provide more insights. 

However, the Bloomberg ETF expert speculated that a significant portion of the trading volume could be attributed to new flows into the ETFs. Additionally, he suggested that a notable portion of GBTC’s trading volume might be due to outflows.

Is Bitcoin On A Clear Path To $50,000?

With the Bitcoin ETF race in full throttle, Bitcoin appears to be on a promising trajectory toward the $50,000 milestone, which could serve as a significant catalyst for Bitcoin bulls and the broader crypto industry.

Currently, having surpassed the $48,000 mark, Bitcoin’s price has reached a level where minimal resistance levels are hindering its ascent to $50,000. 

The next notable hurdle lies well above $50,700, followed by potential attempts to reach $53,000. Given the expected spot buys in the Bitcoin market following the approval of Bitcoin ETFs, combined with a considerable separation between major resistance lines, these price levels may be easily breached.

Once beyond the $50,000 threshold, Bitcoin could potentially progress to $51,000, then $53,000, and subsequently $56,000, before ultimately setting its sights on the highly anticipated $60,000 milestone. 

This series of price targets may be readily attainable for the largest cryptocurrency in the market, as it navigates through the anticipated market dynamics.

Ultimately, the SEC’s approval of the Bitcoin ETFs has brought renewed optimism to the market, with investors and industry experts closely monitoring the impact of these ETFs on the broader cryptocurrency landscape. 

The surge in trading volume and Bitcoin’s impressive price movement signify growing interest from investors seeking regulated and traditional investment avenues in the cryptocurrency market.

Bitcoin ETF

Featured image from Shutterstock, chart from TradingView.com

Bitcoin ETF Approval Triggers $1.2 Billion Trading Volume And New Highs For BTC Price

In a highly anticipated move, the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) approved all 11 Bitcoin ETF applications, and the market response has been nothing short of remarkable. The approval has led to significant trading volume and propelled Bitcoin to a new 22-month high.

Within minutes of the Bitcoin ETFs going live, Bitcoin surged over 8% to reach $48,400, representing a new record since the end of the crypto bear market. The early price movement aligns with the predictions made by the majority of experts in the crypto industry.

Bitcoin ETF Trading Makes Spectacular Debut

Bloomberg ETF expert James Seyffart reported an astonishing $1.2 billion in trading volume for spot Bitcoin ETFs within 30 minutes of trading. Seyffart captured the excitement with his “Cointucky Derby” analogy, highlighting the performance of different ETFs.

Grayscale’s GBTC Bitcoin Trust took the lead in the “Cointucky Derby,” recording an impressive trading volume of $446 million in the initial minutes. It was closely followed by BlackRock’s Bitcoin Trust, which achieved a trading volume of $388 million within the first half-hour.

Bitcoin ETF

Fidelity secured the third spot with a trading volume of $230 million, outperforming Hashdex and Wisdom Tree, which recorded $1 million and $1.1 million in trading volume, respectively.

While the exact breakdown of the trading volume remains uncertain, Seyffart noted that the evening’s data might provide more insights. 

However, the Bloomberg ETF expert speculated that a significant portion of the trading volume could be attributed to new flows into the ETFs. Additionally, he suggested that a notable portion of GBTC’s trading volume might be due to outflows.

Is Bitcoin On A Clear Path To $50,000?

With the Bitcoin ETF race in full throttle, Bitcoin appears to be on a promising trajectory toward the $50,000 milestone, which could serve as a significant catalyst for Bitcoin bulls and the broader crypto industry.

Currently, having surpassed the $48,000 mark, Bitcoin’s price has reached a level where minimal resistance levels are hindering its ascent to $50,000. 

The next notable hurdle lies well above $50,700, followed by potential attempts to reach $53,000. Given the expected spot buys in the Bitcoin market following the approval of Bitcoin ETFs, combined with a considerable separation between major resistance lines, these price levels may be easily breached.

Once beyond the $50,000 threshold, Bitcoin could potentially progress to $51,000, then $53,000, and subsequently $56,000, before ultimately setting its sights on the highly anticipated $60,000 milestone. 

This series of price targets may be readily attainable for the largest cryptocurrency in the market, as it navigates through the anticipated market dynamics.

Ultimately, the SEC’s approval of the Bitcoin ETFs has brought renewed optimism to the market, with investors and industry experts closely monitoring the impact of these ETFs on the broader cryptocurrency landscape. 

The surge in trading volume and Bitcoin’s impressive price movement signify growing interest from investors seeking regulated and traditional investment avenues in the cryptocurrency market.

Bitcoin ETF

Featured image from Shutterstock, chart from TradingView.com

Bitcoin Price Breaks Through $47,000, Bullish Sentiment Builds With Anticipation Of ETF Approval

With the Bitcoin price soaring to new highs, the cryptocurrency community is excitedly buzzing as all signs point towards an imminent approval of the highly anticipated Bitcoin Exchange-Traded Fund (ETF) applications. 

This positive sentiment has propelled the Bitcoin price past the $47,100 mark, reaching levels not seen since April 2022 and inching closer to the coveted $50,000 milestone and its all-time high (ATH) of $69,000.

SEC Fast-Tracks Bitcoin ETF Review

Earlier this morning, several prominent players in the financial industry submitted their final registration of securities amendments for a Spot Bitcoin ETF. 

The list of applicants includes VanEck, Bitwise, Fidelity, Valkyrie, Franklin, Ark Invest, Grayscale, BlackRock, WisdomTree, and Invesco Galaxy. This development has further fueled the bullish Bitcoin price action.

In recent updates regarding the Bitcoin ETF applications, James Seyffart, an ETF expert at Bloomberg, revealed that the 19b-4 filings were pouring onto the SEC website. 

Although the process typically takes a few days to a couple of weeks, this influx of filings indicates that the SEC is expediting its review for this week. 

It is worth noting that the timeframe of January 8th to 10th has been closely watched by industry observers, and the accelerated pace of the SEC’s actions during this period adds to the anticipation surrounding the Bitcoin ETF approval.

Standard Chartered Expects $200,000 Bitcoin Price

As the Bitcoin price continues its upward trajectory, accompanied by widespread anticipation of imminent ETF approval, British multinational bank Standard Chartered has made a significant statement

The bank believes that ETF approval will serve as a pivotal catalyst for Bitcoin’s price surge, heralding a transformative moment for institutional participation in the cryptocurrency. 

Standard Chartered expects this approval to drive substantial inflows and contribute to significant price gains for Bitcoin.

Standard Chartered views the approval of Bitcoin ETFs as a watershed moment in normalizing institutional investment in Bitcoin. With regulatory clearance for ETFs, institutional money is expected to pour into the cryptocurrency market, further validating Bitcoin as an asset class.

Standard Chartered predicts that the price gains resulting from the approval of spot Bitcoin ETFs in the United States will be of a similar magnitude as witnessed previously. 

However, the bank anticipates these gains to materialize over a shorter period of one to two years, considering the accelerated development of the Bitcoin ETF market. 

In line with their end-2024 projection of Bitcoin reaching $10,000, Standard Chartered expects the approval of ETFs to drive inflows that could potentially elevate the price to around $20,000 by the end of 2025.

Bitcoin price

Bitcoin has reached the $47,100 mark, up a staggering 6.5% in the last 24 hours alone, coupled with an 8.7% increase in the last seven days.

Featured image from Shutterstock, chart from TradingView.com

Bitcoin Price Forecast: Analysts Caution Against Missing Out As BTC May Surge To $500k With ETF Launch

As the Bitcoin price has regained previously lost territory, following reports suggesting that the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) would reject the long-awaited Bitcoin spot exchange-traded funds (ETFs), new developments have reignited hopes among investors. 

Although the approval of these index funds is not expected to occur on Friday, sources indicate that the upcoming week may bring positive news. 

ETF Approval To Drive Gradual Bitcoin Price Surge To $500,000

FOX journalist Eleanor Terret reports that amended 19b-4 filings and last-minute phone calls regarding comments on S-1s and possible launch dates are expected in the coming days. 

While approvals seem likely in the next week, according to Terret, the timeline ultimately depends on the SEC’s ability to review the comments and amendments submitted efficiently. 

Terret describes the current situation as a meticulous process of “dotting the i’s and crossing the t’s,” emphasizing the attention to detail required for regulatory clearance. 

On the other hand, crypto analyst Adam Cochran offers valuable insights into the potential impact of Bitcoin ETFs, as all signs point to the imminent approval of these investment products.

Cochran suggests that many may “overestimate” the short-term effects of ETF approval while underestimating its long-term implications. In the immediate aftermath, market flows may not witness a significant surge. However, Cochran believes that investment advisors will review their clients’ portfolios over the next year and recommend diversifying even a small percentage, such as 1%, into the ETF. 

Cochran emphasizes that the Bitcoin price performance, with a remarkable 157% return in the latter half of 2023, will be a key factor driving investor interest. 

Cochran envisions a gradual upward trajectory for the Bitcoin price, characterized by persistent growth and occasional market volatility. 

Ultimately, Cochran’s long-term forecast indicates a potential Bitcoin price surge to $500,000 per coin, leaving sidelined investors regretfully waiting for a substantial market correction. Cochran further noted:

Also, ETFs result in spot buys, not leverage, which improves system health. And are long-term holders, less likely to sell volatility. So it creates a slow grind up of underlying market health. Like the best DCA you could ask for. 

Bitcoin ETF Pricing Potential Not Fully Realized

Crypto analyst Ali Martinez suggests that the pricing potential of a Bitcoin ETF may not have been fully realized, providing insight into the current state of the Bitcoin market.

Martinez points to a decline in the estimated leverage ratio across all exchanges, reaching a two-year low. This indicates that Bitcoin traders are adopting a more cautious approach, reducing their use of borrowed funds as they await regulatory clarity on the ETF. 

Furthermore, Martinez emphasizes the significance of Bitcoin’s price above $41,800. According to Martinez, Bitcoin’s ability to maintain its position above $41,800 is crucial for establishing a bullish outlook. 

This level is reinforced by approximately 2.41 million addresses holding over 1 million BTC, creating a substantial support zone. 

Bitcoin price

The significant number of addresses with substantial Bitcoin holdings suggests a strong interest in maintaining the cryptocurrency’s value and provides a foundation for market stability. Martinez notes that the resistance levels ahead for Bitcoin appear relatively minor. This implies that fewer significant barriers are impeding potential price increases. 

With reduced resistance, the market conditions become more favorable for stable or rising prices, further supporting the bullish sentiment.

Bitcoin price

Featured image from Shutterstock, chart from TradingView.com 

Bitcoin Price Targets: MVRV Points To $52,000 And $70,000 Levels For BTC, Expert Suggests

In a recent development, the Bitcoin price witnessed a remarkable surge of 7% within 24 hours, reaching a high point of $45,300. This significant price increase coincides with the anticipation surrounding the potential approval of a Bitcoin spot exchange-traded fund (ETF) by the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). 

In addition, market experts, backed by multiple models aligning to indicate increased price action and bullish momentum, suggest that Bitcoin could soon reach the $50,000 level and potentially establish a new all-time high (ATH).

Bitcoin Price Poised To Reach New All-Time High? 

At the forefront of this analysis is Ali Martinez, a renowned crypto analyst, who emphasizes the valuable insights provided by the Bitcoin Market Value to Realized Value (MVRV) pricing bands. 

These bands serve as a metric to analyze the price movement and potential levels of Bitcoin, or any other cryptocurrency, by comparing the market value to the average value at which coins were last moved on-chain. The MVRV ratio assesses whether Bitcoin is overvalued or undervalued relative to its historical on-chain activity. 

A high MVRV ratio suggests that the market value of Bitcoin has surpassed the average value at which coins were last moved, indicating a potential overvaluation. Conversely, a low MVRV ratio may indicate that Bitcoin is undervalued.

Bitcoin price

Considering these factors, Martinez highlights the significance of the MVRV pricing bands, which reveal key price targets for Bitcoin at $52,680 and $70,250, surpassing its previous ATH of $69,000. 

This analysis presents an optimistic outlook for Bitcoin’s future performance and reinforces the belief among investors that the cryptocurrency’s upward momentum is likely to continue.

However, despite these Bitcoin price projections that could propel the largest cryptocurrency on the market into uncharted waters, another analyst points to a more prudent prediction.

Cooling Period For BTC? 

According to renowned crypto analyst Crypto Con, despite a year-long bullish stance, he believes it is time for a cooldown as the new year, 2024, begins.

Crypto Con predicts a 30% correction from the directional movement index (DMI) overheat zone, projecting prices around $30,000. The overheat zone mentioned by Crypto Con suggests that the price of Bitcoin has experienced a significant upward movement and may be due to a correction or cooling period. 

Bitcoin price

As seen in the chart above, when the price enters this zone, it is seen as a signal that the trend may have become overextended and could potentially reverse or experience a pullback.

Drawing parallels to the example in 2019, characterized by a double peak in red, Crypto Con anticipates a drawdown that is both smaller in magnitude and shorter in duration. 

Furthermore, the analyst points to the consistent support offered by diagonal green zones throughout each cycle, suggesting a pattern that has been held thus far.

While some analysts project a new all-time high for the Bitcoin price, reaching uncharted waters above $70,000, others, such as Crypto Con, advocate for a cooling period and anticipate a correction in the near term.

Bitcoin price

Featured image from Shutterstock, chart from TradingView.com

Cathie Wood’s ARK ETF Overhauls Bitcoin Portfolio: ProShares In, Grayscale Out – What’s The Strategy?

In a significant shake-up of its Bitcoin (BTC)-related holdings, Cathie Wood’s ARK Next Generation Internet exchange-traded fund (ETF) has made strategic changes as BTC ends the year with a significant 156% surge.

According to a Bloomberg report, the ETF sold all its remaining 2.25 million shares of the Grayscale Bitcoin Trust (GBTC) while acquiring 4.32 million shares of the ProShares Bitcoin Strategy ETF. 

Caution As Reason For Exiting Grayscale Bitcoin Trust

According to Bloomberg, Wood cited caution as the reason behind the sale of the Grayscale Bitcoin Trust. The move was prompted by concerns that the anticipated conversion of the trust to a spot Bitcoin ETF might not receive approval from US regulators in early January. 

Additionally, Wood highlighted the substantial reduction in the trust’s discount to its net asset value, which, combined with its price increase, influenced the decision.

Wood emphasized the unpredictability surrounding which Bitcoin-related offerings would gain regulatory approval, expressing optimism about Bitcoin while acknowledging the uncertainty ahead.

In this regard, Bloomberg ETF expert Erich Balchunas highlights that approximately $100 million of the proceeds were used to purchase the ProShares Bitcoin Strategy ETF (BITO), likely as a liquid transition vehicle to maintain exposure to Bitcoin while gradually transitioning into either ARKW or ARKB.

Bitcoin

Interestingly, ARK has now become the second-largest holder of BITO, although Balchunas clarifies that this is a temporary parking spot. Blachunas emphasizes that institutions, including ARK, often employ highly liquid ETFs for transitions of this nature. 

Balchunas also points out that this move aligns with the prediction made by Bloomberg a month ago, reflecting strategic foresight on ARK’s part. 

According to Balchunas, this decision is smart as it allows ARK to boost its own ETF’s assets under management (AUM) while saving investors from incurring a significant expense ratio in the process.

Wood’s Long-Term Vision

Per the report, the reduction in holdings of the Grayscale Bitcoin Trust has been a gradual process for Cathie Wood, even as the price of Bitcoin surged to its highest level since April 2022. 

Throughout 2023, Bitcoin more than doubled in value, with significant gains occurring towards the end of the year amid speculation that the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) would approve spot Bitcoin ETFs in the first days of January 2024.

During the Sohn Australia conference last month, Wood touted the Grayscale Bitcoin Trust as her top pick. However, recent developments have led to a shift in the ETF’s portfolio composition.

In addition to the changes involving Grayscale and ProShares, the ARK ETF also purchased 20,000 shares of the ARK 21Shares Active Bitcoin Futures Strategy ETF and sold 148,885 shares of the cryptocurrency exchange Coinbase Global, according to the fund’s report.

The ARK Next Generation Internet ETF has achieved an impressive 103% gain for the year, surpassing the 55% advance of the Nasdaq 100 Index. 

It is worth noting that the fund’s performance has been characterized by significant volatility, experiencing declines of 19% and 67% in 2021 and 2022, respectively.

Bitcoin

The leading cryptocurrency in the market is trading at $42,800, exhibiting a sideways price movement over the past 24 hours. During this timeframe, there has been a marginal decrease of 0.3% in its value.

Featured image from Shutterstock, chart from TradingView.com 

Bitcoin Price Prediction: ETC Group Anticipates Surpassing $100,000 By End 2024

Numerous price predictions have emerged as the Bitcoin price continues to demonstrate significant growth throughout the year, fueled by factors such as the upcoming halving event and potential approval of a spot Bitcoin exchange-traded fund (ETF) by the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). 

Notably, the ETC Group has released a comprehensive report shedding light on the potential for new all-time highs in 2024 and an impressive milestone of $100,000 by year-end.

Bitcoin Price Recovery Sets The Stage For A Promising 2024

According to the ETC Group’s recent report, 2023 served as a recovery year for Bitcoin and crypto assets, with pivotal catalysts setting the stage for the following year. 

Per the report, BlackRock’s spot Bitcoin ETF filing in June 2023 laid the groundwork for increased adoption of this emerging asset class in 2024 and beyond. 

Despite the progress made, the report highlights that Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies are still in their infancy in terms of adoption in most developed countries. 

Global surveys indicate an adoption rate of approximately 18%, suggesting that roughly one in five individuals worldwide holds some crypto asset.

One of the highly anticipated events expected to drive Bitcoin price appreciation is the BTC Halving scheduled for the end of April 2024. While some argue that the halving is already priced in due to its public knowledge, historical data demonstrates significant price increases following previous halvings. 

Notably, the ETC Group’s base case prediction forecasts that Bitcoin’s price will reach new all-time highs in 2024 and surpass $100,000 by the year’s end.

On-Chain Metrics Signal Bullish Outlook For BTC In 2024

Several on-chain metrics indicate that Bitcoin’s supply is scarcer this cycle than the previous one.  According to the report, key indicators such as the percentage of exchange supply at a 5-year low and the all-time high percentage of supply in the last 1+ years suggest a potential bull market with increased distribution of accumulated coins to new investors. 

Additionally, macro factors, including the potential approval of a spot Bitcoin ETF in the US, a likely US recession, a reversal of monetary policy, and geopolitical risks, contribute to a favorable outlook for the Bitcoin price in 2024.

A major point of discussion among investors revolves around the potential price impact if a spot Bitcoin ETF gets approved in the US. The report highlights that variations in global Bitcoin ETP flows have explained approximately 40% of Bitcoin’s price variation over the past six months. 

Assuming that 20% of investors would consider such an investment and allocate 3% of their assets under management (AuM) to Bitcoin, an estimated $33.5 billion of new capital could enter the market

This influx of funds, almost doubling the global Bitcoin ETP AuM, could lead to a price impact of around 98%.

Overall, the ETC Group’s in-depth analysis and predictions suggest an auspicious year for Bitcoin price 2024. With anticipated new all-time highs and the possibility of surpassing $100,000 by year-end, Bitcoin’s growth trajectory shows no signs of slowing down. 

Bitcoin price

Featured image from Shutterstock, chart from TradingView.com 

Major Acquisition: MicroStrategy Grows Bitcoin Reserves By 14K BTC Ahead Of ETF Approval

MicroStrategy (MSTR), a prominent Bitcoin holding company, has once again expanded its BTC holdings with a substantial purchase of 14,620 Bitcoin, amounting to a staggering $615.7 million. 

The former CEO of the American business intelligence (BI) firm announced the acquisition, highlighting the company’s continued confidence in Bitcoin’s long-term potential. 

With the potential approval of Bitcoin spot exchange-traded funds (ETFs) on the horizon, MicroStrategy aims to capitalize on the positive impact on BTC’s price and the company’s profitability in the leading cryptocurrency market.

MicroStrategy Stock Skyrockets 337%

According to a CNBC report, MicroStrategy’s stock has experienced a remarkable 337% surge in 2023, making it one of the top gainers among US companies valued at $5 billion or more. 

This success surpasses the rallies of industry giants like Nvidia and Meta. Unlike its tech peers, MicroStrategy’s appeal to investors stems primarily from its Bitcoin holdings. 

Microstrategy

MicroStrategy’s market capitalization currently stands at $8.5 billion, with a staggering 90% directly tied to its Bitcoin holdings. The company’s stock price closely mirrors the performance of Bitcoin, with significant fluctuations in response to the cryptocurrency’s price movements. 

Per the report, in 2022, when Bitcoin experienced a 64% decline, MicroStrategy’s stock plummeted by 74%. Despite the substantial gains achieved this year, MicroStrategy shares are still below their peak levels in 2021, during the cryptocurrency’s peak.

Michael Saylor’s Vision

MicroStrategy’s decision to invest in Bitcoin dates back to July 2020, when the company recognized the potential of alternative assets, including digital currencies. 

At that time, MicroStrategy had a market capitalization of around $1.1 billion, primarily driven by its software business, which has been shrinking since 2015. Co-founder Michael Saylor, who was CEO then, saw an opportunity to put the company’s idle cash reserves to work, considering low interest rates and the need for diversification.

Saylor’s conviction in Bitcoin as a digital form of gold led MicroStrategy to prioritize Bitcoin purchases over equities and precious metals. This strategic move exposed investors to Bitcoin indirectly through MicroStrategy’s stock. 

Saylor, who transitioned to executive chairman, remains optimistic about Bitcoin’s future, expecting the bull market to continue into the next year. Despite its growing popularity, Saylor emphasized that Bitcoin still represents only a fraction of global capital allocation, with ample room for further growth.

As of December 27, 2023, MicroStrategy’s latest purchase adds to its already impressive Bitcoin portfolio, bringing the total holdings to 189,150 BTC. 

The company has invested approximately $5.9 billion, with an average purchase price of $31,168 per Bitcoin. These strategic acquisitions position MicroStrategy as a major player in the crypto space, aligning its interests with the anticipated growth and adoption of Bitcoin.

Microstrategy

The current market data shows that Bitcoin is trading at $42,900, reflecting a marginal 0.5% increase over the past 24 hours. The cryptocurrency briefly dipped below its critical support level of $42,000 but has since regained its position.

The market is anticipating the potential approval of the Bitcoin Spot ETF applications between January 5 and 10, 2024. 

This development holds significant promise for Bitcoin, as it could drive the cryptocurrency’s price well beyond $50,000, establishing a new yearly high and edging closer to its historical peak.

Featured image from Shutterstock, chart from TradingView.com

Mt. Gox Repayment Rumors Cause Bitcoin Price To Drop To $42,000, Market In Turmoil

Mt. Gox, the infamous Bitcoin exchange that suffered a major hack over a decade ago, has allegedly finally begun the process of repaying its customers for the 850,000 lost Bitcoin. This news has sent shockwaves through the market, causing a momentary disruption in the Bitcoin price uptrend.

As a result of these developments, the current price of Bitcoin stands at $42,625, with a 24-hour trading volume of $22,655,498,534.64. 

However, the market has witnessed a -2.40% decline in the past 24 hours, reflecting the uncertainty caused by the Mt. Gox repayment proceedings.

Bitcoin Price Plunges Amidst Mounting Speculation

Reports from participants in the mtgoxinsolvency subreddit group indicate that some individuals have already received payouts in yen via PayPal. 

However, those who opted for cash deposits into their bank accounts have not reported any inflows as of yet. Several users have shared notifications they received, alerting them to a system error that resulted in double payments. 

These users are now allegedly being requested to return the excess funds to the Rehabilitation Trustee promptly.

Moreover, the Rehabilitation Trustee has reached out to affected individuals to refund the mistakenly transferred amount, which was the second transfer, as the first transfer was the official repayment. 

Bitcoin price

Users have been instructed to use PayPal’s “Refund” feature to return the funds to the Rehabilitation Trustee’s account. Alternatively, they can transfer an equivalent amount of money to the Rehabilitation Trustee’s PayPal account if the “Refund” feature is unavailable.

While some users have confirmed receiving their repayments, there is uncertainty surrounding the timing of Bitcoin reimbursements or if they are taking effect.

No Bitcoin Outflows Detected From Mt. Gox?

In a recent statement by CryptoQuant co-founder and CEO, Ki Young Ju, it has been confirmed that “no Bitcoin outflows have been recorded from the Mt. Gox Trustee wallet at this time.” 

Furthermore, the trustee responsible for managing the rehabilitation proceedings of Mt. Gox, the now-defunct Bitcoin exchange, has yet to provide any official statements explaining the absence of outflows from the wallet. 

Consequently, the cryptocurrency community finds itself on edge, eagerly awaiting updates regarding the timing and method of Bitcoin reimbursements.

Once again, the cryptocurrency community has been hit by another bout of misinformation surrounding the long-awaited Mt. Gox exchange repayment to its customers. 

The spread of this news has had a notable impact on market sentiment and has stirred volatility in the Bitcoin price. The future timeline and potential effects of the exchange’s repayment, slated for 2024, remain uncertain.

Bitcoin price

Featured image from Shutterstock, chart from TradingView.com  

Countdown To Bitcoin ETF 2024 Decision: Traders Employ Hedging Tactics, Bloomberg Unveils

As the long-awaited deadline for a positive or negative decision on spot Bitcoin ETF applications approaches, Bloomberg reports that the BTC options market is seeing increased hedging activity as traders prepare for a crucial decision on January 10th.

The report indicates a surge in open interest for put options expiring on Jan. 12, suggesting that market participants are taking steps to mitigate potential losses in the event of a negative verdict by the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) regarding these index funds holding the cryptocurrency. 

Market Readies For Bitcoin ETF Verdict

The Bloomberg report highlights that the open interest for put options, which allow holders to sell Bitcoin, has seen a significant increase for contracts expiring on January 12. 

This surge in open interest has resulted in a higher put-to-call ratio for these specific options compared to contracts with expiration dates further out from the January 10 deadline. 

As seen in the chart below, the most prominent strike prices for the put contracts are $44,000, $42,000, and $40,000, respectively, indicating that put holders could exercise their options to minimize losses in case of a negative market reaction to the SEC decision.

Bitcoin ETF

The put-to-call ratio, considered a measure of overall market sentiment, stands at 0.67 for the January 12 options contracts, indicating a more cautious approach among traders. 

Ryan Kim, head of derivatives at FalconX, suggests that leveraged/speculative traders are employing Bitcoin put options to protect their leveraged longs, anticipating significant price movements in either direction. 

The higher put-call ratio for January 12 options further reflects the market’s desire for protection against a potential negative decision.

The surge in open interest for put options expiring on January 12 indicates a growing need for protection in case of an unfavorable ruling. While Bitcoin’s rally has softened the impact of its 2022 decline, market expectations for ETF approval may already be priced in, posing potential risks for the market. 

BTC’s Price Resistance And Potential Dip 

Bitcoin has experienced a remarkable rally this year, with expectations for ETF approval driving its price up by more than 60% since mid-October. 

However, the Bloomberg report suggests that the surge in demand for the anticipated ETFs may already be factored into the token’s price, potentially exposing the market to a “sell the news” scenario in the second week of January. 

Furthermore, QCP Capital, a Singapore-based crypto asset trading firm, predicts topside resistance for Bitcoin in the range of $45,000 to $48,500 and a possible retracement to $36,000 levels before the uptrend resumes.

Bitcoin ETF

Bitcoin is currently trading at $43,400, experiencing a 1% decline over the past 24 hours. Over the past 14 days, the cryptocurrency has shown a sideways price movement with a slight decrease of 0.4%. 

Given Bitcoin’s well-known volatility, it remains uncertain how the market will react as the looming decision and potential catalysts draw near, and how these factors will impact its price dynamics.

However, the upcoming decision is not the sole catalyst that can potentially drive Bitcoin’s price in 2024. The cryptocurrency is also anticipated to experience a significant catalyst in April 2024, known as the halving event

This event has historically resulted in an upward surge in Bitcoin’s price, and it is predicted to propel the cryptocurrency beyond its previous all-time high (ATH) of $69,000 throughout the upcoming year.

Featured image from Shutterstock, chart from TradingView.com 

Bitcoin Price Surges On Positive News: FASB’s Fair Value Recognition Reignites $42,000 Support Recovery

The Bitcoin price experienced a notable downturn as selling pressure intensified, resulting in a decline of over 4% from its annual peak of $44,500. This downturn was further exacerbated by the loss of the crucial $42,000 support level. 

However, the largest cryptocurrency in the market received a substantial uplift from the US Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB), which has spurred a rapid 1.8% surge in BTC’s value within the past two hours. As a result, Bitcoin has successfully recovered the $42,000 support level.

FASB’s Fair Value Recognition Brings Clarity To BTC?

In a significant development for the cryptocurrency industry, the FASB has announced new accounting rules that require companies, including prominent entities like MicroStrategy, Tesla, and Block, to measure their cryptocurrency holdings at fair value. 

These rules, set to go into effect in 2025, allow businesses to capture the real-time highs and lows of their Bitcoin and Ethereum (ETH) assets, providing a more accurate representation of their holdings.

Under the previous accounting practices, companies were only allowed to record the lows, resulting in a one-sided accounting treatment that often led to reduced valuations and diminished earnings for businesses holding cryptocurrencies. The highly volatile nature of crypto values further exacerbated the issue.

The FASB’s new rules address these concerns by mandating the recording of cryptocurrencies at fair value, a measurement technique aimed at reflecting the most up-to-date value of these assets. 

Changes in fair value will now be recorded in net income, allowing companies to account for fluctuations in the value of their crypto holdings more comprehensively.

The positive news for BTC lies in the fact that the new FASB rules provide greater transparency and accuracy in assessing the true value of cryptocurrency assets. By capturing fluctuations in fair value, companies will have a more realistic representation of their holdings, enabling better decision-making and financial reporting.

Bitcoin, being the most widely recognized and valuable cryptocurrency, stands to benefit significantly from these changes. The recognition of its fair value allows companies to showcase the true worth of their BTC holdings, potentially boosting investor confidence and attracting further institutional interest.

Turbulent Times Ahead For Bitcoin Price

Following these recent developments, the Bitcoin price has successfully rebounded to previously lost levels, demonstrating heightened volatility after a brief consolidation phase just below $42,000.

However, according to CoinGlass’ liquidation heatmap, Bitcoin’s price may be facing further volatility that could lead to a significant amount of liquidation of both long and short positions. 

Bitcoin price

The liquidation heatmap from CoinGlass highlights substantial indications of liquidation leverage exceeding $200 million both above and below the current Bitcoin price. 

Of particular concern is the thick liquidation leverage below $41,000, as seen in the chart above, which, combined with the prevailing trend, could become a probable target for the Bitcoin price in the coming days.

Conversely, following BTC’s correction, additional liquidation leverage has emerged in CoinGlass’s heatmap, particularly in the $42,000 and $43,000 range of short positions. This added selling pressure has contributed to the retracement of the Bitcoin price.

This potential scenario suggests a potential price swing up and down before a stable continuation of either the downward or upward momentum. The outcome remains uncertain as to which side will give way first and what prevailing trend will shape the latter part of the year.

Bitcoin price

Featured image from Shutterstock, chart from TradingView.com

Bitcoin $42,000 Support Under Pressure As Short Position Inflows Soar

Bitcoin (BTC) recently experienced a sharp decline, tumbling towards $40,000 amid a broader sell-off across the cryptocurrency market. While the most significant token managed to recover some losses, currently trading 4% lower at $42,000, concerns persist regarding the potential for further downside price action before a potential recovery.

Investors Show Caution With Short-BTC Position Inflows

According to a recent CoinShares report, digital asset investment products witnessed their 11th consecutive week of inflows, totaling $43 million. Notably, there was a significant increase in short position inflows due to recent price appreciation and perceived downside risks. 

Europe led with $43 million in inflows, followed by the US with $14 million (with half in short positions). On the other hand, Hong Kong and Brazil experienced outflows of $8 million and $4.6 million, respectively. 

Bitcoin remained the primary focus for investors, attracting $20 million in inflows, bringing the year-to-date inflows to $1.7 billion. Short-Bitcoin positions saw $8.6 million in inflows, suggesting some investors view the current price rises as unsustainable. 

Ethereum (ETH) also saw increased interest, with its sixth week of inflows totaling $10 million, marking a turnaround from previous outflows.

Selling Pressure Mounts As Miners Decrease Bitcoin Holdings

According to Satoshi Club, there are indications that miners are selling their Bitcoin holdings following the recent price drop. Data shows a significant decrease in miners’ BTC holdings, with increasing flows to exchanges, suggesting selling pressure in the market. 

Satoshi Club’s analysis highlights that this trend could be attributed to the anticipated halving in 2024, which will reduce miners’ rewards by half. 

Bitcoin

Additionally, Bitcoin’s net unrealized profit/loss, which indicates the investor profit ratio, has surpassed 0.5 for the first time since December 2021. This suggests that a significant portion of Bitcoin investments are currently profitable, potentially leading to increased selling pressure at current price highs.

BTC’s Bullish Structure Intact, But Deep Correction Threatens Run

In the 1-day chart for Bitcoin, the current trading price is closely aligned with a support level. Despite briefly dipping below this level, Bitcoin has managed to recover and trade above it, mitigating further declines.

However, in the event of continued selling pressure and an inability to maintain its current price level, Bitcoin’s next critical level of support would be $39,990. 

Bitcoin

It is worth noting that during the previous hype surrounding Bitcoin’s milestone, many traders entered long positions below the current levels. This influx of long positions could trigger a liquidation hunt before a recovery ensues.

If such a scenario unfolds, the hunt for liquidations could drive Bitcoin’s price further down, potentially testing support levels at $38,700 and $37,800.

On a positive note, Bitcoin’s current bullish structure would remain intact unless a significant correction occurs, pushing the price below the $29,900 level. This level began Bitcoin’s current bull run in late October.

The future outcome hinges on whether Bitcoin can successfully hold its nearest support levels and facilitate a recovery that shifts the focus from hunting long positions to hunting short sellers, eventually regaining previously conquered territories.

Featured image from Shutterstock, chart from TradingView.com

SEC’s “Crypto Asset Securities” Alert Boosts Spot Bitcoin ETF Prospects – Here’s Why

As anticipation builds for the long-awaited approval of a spot Bitcoin ETF by the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), an encouraging sign has emerged, further increasing the likelihood of approval

The SEC issued an investor alert regarding “crypto asset securities,” prompting speculation that the spot Bitcoin ETF may be closer than ever. 

Spot Bitcoin ETF Approval On The Horizon?

The recent investor alert issued by the SEC has garnered significant attention in the cryptocurrency community. While the alert does not explicitly mention the spot Bitcoin ETF, many market participants believe it is a positive indicator for its potential approval.

The parallel between the investor alert and the approval of Bitcoin Futures adds to the growing optimism surrounding the spot Bitcoin ETF. Before approving Bitcoin Futures, the SEC issued similar alerts and warnings, indicating their concern and engagement with the underlying asset class. 

Consequently, market observers, including Bloomberg’s ETF expert Erich Balchunas, are interpreting the investor alert on “crypto asset securities” as a potential precursor to the approval of a spot Bitcoin ETF. Balchunas stated: 

Oh snap, SEC tweeting out educational materials, warnings on crypto investing, which is something they also did ahead of $BITO

It is important to note that the SEC will evaluate various factors, including investor protection, market integrity, and compliance with existing regulations, before making a final determination on the spot Bitcoin ETF. 

However, given the increased attention and progress in cryptocurrency, the issuance of the investor alert signifies a step in the right direction.

Potential BTC Surge To $48,000 

Renowned crypto analyst, Crypto Con, has made interesting observations regarding BTC’s current market dynamics that shed light on the potential next steps for the largest cryptocurrency on the market.

According to Crypto Con, money has been pouring into BTC at a rate not witnessed since the last cycle’s peak, with historical data indicating similar patterns on only five prior occasions. 

This influx of funds has heightened the market’s sentiment and created anticipation for potential further price gains. Crypto Con highlights the significance of Bitcoin’s Money Flow Index (MFI), a technical indicator used to measure the strength and volume of funds flowing into or out of an asset, which reached a value of 91.57, historically indicating the presence of additional bullish momentum.

Bitcoin ETF

Furthermore, the analyst identifies the .618 cycle retrace of weekly candle bodies as a point of interest for potential target ranges. This level aligns with other significant price regions, further bolstering its importance. 

Crypto Con suggests that Bitcoin’s price could likely reach the range of $47,000-$48,000 based on these target ranges. However, the analyst also notes that significant price increases are often followed by retracements at this stage in the market cycle.

Crypto Con highlights the potential for a retracement after the completion of the current price rise. The analyst identifies the $31,000-$32,000 range as an area of interest for a potential retracement based on long-term data. 

Bitcoin ETF

As of the time of writing, Bitcoin (BTC) is being traded at $43,800, showcasing a noteworthy recovery within the past 24 hours following a retracement below $42,900 on Thursday. 

While this price rebound is encouraging, it remains uncertain whether the prevailing market dynamics possess sufficient strength to propel Bitcoin beyond its current yearly high of $44,500. There is a possibility that Bitcoin may experience another failed attempt to surpass this level, which could subsequently result in a deeper retracement before witnessing another upward movement.

Featured image from Shutterstock, chart from TradingView.com 

Sam Altman-Backed Crypto Startup Looks To Secure $100 Million For Bitcoin Private Credit Fund

Meanwhile Advisors, a crypto startup backed by the American entrepreneur Sam Altman, has announced plans to raise $100 million for a Bitcoin (BTC) private credit fund. 

The fund, known as Meanwhile Private Credit Fund aims to provide institutional investors with access to BTC while targeting an additional 5% yield denominated in the cryptocurrency.

Bitcoin Rally Sparks Launch Of Meanwhile Advisors Fund

According to a report by The Block, Meanwhile Advisors has launched the fund as Bitcoin continues its recent rally, with prices currently falling from the $44,000 level down to the $43,200 mark. 

Zac Townsend, the co-founder and CEO of Meanwhile Group, stated that the belief is that Bitcoin will appreciate significantly in the future, and the fund offers investors a unique opportunity to increase their exposure to digital assets.

The Meanwhile BTC Private Credit Fund adopts a single-close, closed-end structure. Participating limited partners (LPs) will contribute US dollars to the fund, which will be immediately converted to Bitcoin following the single close. 

Meanwhile will lend this BTC to borrowers to generate the targeted 5% return in Bitcoin. This structure allows LPs to accumulate more Bitcoin if its price appreciates during the fund’s lifecycle without requiring additional principal investment.

Townsend mentioned that the minimum investment amount per LP is $250,000, with no maximum limit. The fund’s investment period spans three years, followed by a four-year harvest period, resulting in a total term of seven years. 

However, capital is returned to investors during harvest, meaning a significant portion of the invested capital may be returned well before the seven-year mark.

Innovative Fee Approach? 

Per the report, the Meanwhile BTC Private Credit Fund charges a 2% management fee and a 20% carried interest fee, both in Bitcoin. The carried interest fee only applies when the LP’s Bitcoin holdings are increased. 

This fee structure ensures that if Bitcoin experiences substantial price appreciation, Meanwhile does not benefit from the price appreciation itself but rather from generating more Bitcoin for the LPs.

Addressing concerns about risk management, Townsend highlighted that the closed structure of the fund eliminates the risk of a “bank run” scenario that can lead to insolvency. Moreover, the fund focuses on making conservative loans to “creditworthy institutional borrowers”, mitigating risks associated with lending to retail investors at higher rates.

The Block also reported that Anchorage Digital serves as the fund’s custodian. Meanwhile Group’s insurance unit has previously launched a Bitcoin-denominated life insurance policy, and Townsend mentioned plans to introduce an accidental death coverage policy in Bitcoin as well.

Bitcoin

When writing, the leading cryptocurrency in the market is trading at $43,200, marking a decrease of nearly 2% within the last 24 hours. This decline follows an unsuccessful attempt to solidify its position above the significant $44,000 milestone. 

Nevertheless, Bitcoin has managed to maintain a 14% increase over the past seven days and is currently holding strong at the support level of $43,000, as it sets its sights on achieving a new annual peak.

Featured image from iStock, chart from TradingView.com

Bitcoin Poised For December Surge As Historical Patterns Suggest Strong Upside Ahead

As the eagerly awaited Bitcoin (BTC) exchange-traded fund (ETF) verdict approaches, excitement and anticipation continue to grow in the cryptocurrency market. 

According to a report by K33 Research, the upcoming decision, expected between January 8 and January 10, has been a significant factor behind Bitcoin’s positive momentum since October. Institutional demand remains robust, with traditional investors strongly interested in adding long BTC exposure. 

Bitcoin Set For Bullish December? 

Bitcoin has displayed a notable tendency to surge higher in the lead-up to major events, creating a sense of enthusiasm and driving prices upward. This phenomenon has been observed across various significant milestones in the cryptocurrency’s history. 

According to the report, examples include Bitcoin’s peak coinciding with the launch of the Chicago Mercantile Exchange’s (CME) BTC futures in 2017, its spike coinciding with Coinbase’s public listing in April 2021, and its peak on the day El Salvador declared Bitcoin legal tender in September 2021.

Similarly, Bitcoin reached its peak on the date of VanEck’s spot ETF deadline in November 2021. These instances highlight the potential for Bitcoin to experience significant price movements as the ETF verdict draws near.

The report emphasizes the substantial demand from institutional investors seeking exposure to Bitcoin. BTC exchange-traded products (ETPs) witnessed inflows of nearly 40,000 BTC in November, while CME open interest reached and maintained all-time highs. Futures premiums have also surged to 20%, indicating the strong interest from institutional players. 

In contrast, retail participation has shown signs of stagnation. Offshore flows have remained shallow, and Bitcoin-denominated open interest in BTC perpetual contracts is currently at yearly lows. These factors suggest that institutional flows continue to be the driving force behind Bitcoin’s solid market strength.

Based on the historical pattern of event-driven price movements and the sustained institutional demand, the report maintains a positive outlook for Bitcoin in December. 

As the ETF verdict approaches, K33 Research’s report suggests that the narrowing time window is expected to fuel enthusiasm and drive prices higher. However, it is worth noting that once the event occurs, prices may experience a temporary surge before potentially stabilizing, according to the report. 

 BTC’s Bull Run Indicator

Renowned crypto analyst Ali Martinez has identified a significant development in the Bitcoin market that suggests a bullish outlook for the cryptocurrency. 

According to Martinez, the Realized Price of Bitcoin has surpassed the Long-Term Holder Realized Price, signaling an increase in market momentum and attracting new investors willing to purchase Bitcoin at higher prices. 

Martinez’s analysis highlights that similar occurrences in the past have preceded substantial price surges, further fueling optimism regarding Bitcoin’s future performance. 

Bitcoin

The Realized Price of Bitcoin refers to the average price at which all previously transacted coins were acquired. It considers the price at which each Bitcoin unit was last moved on the blockchain. 

On the other hand, the Long-Term Holder Realized Price focuses specifically on coins held by long-term investors, providing insights into their average acquisition price. When the Realized Price surpasses the Long-Term Holder’s Realized Price, it suggests that newer investors are entering the market and are willing to buy Bitcoin at higher valuations.

As seen in the above chart, Bitcoin experienced significant gains following this bullish signal on three separate occasions in the past. Specifically, the cryptocurrency surged 12,736%, 4,474%, and 819%, respectively, following similar events. 

Bitcoin

In addition to Martinez’s bullish outlook for BTC, the largest cryptocurrency on the market has demonstrated relatively stable price action above $44,000 in the past hour. 

This stability increases the potential for continued upside and consolidation above key levels, positioning Bitcoin for further gains and surges in the future. It remains to be seen if the cryptocurrency will see any corrections following its impressive 16% surge over the past few days. 

Featured image from Shutterstock, chart from TradingView.com