- Bitcoin long-term holders are not selling despite the price nearing historical highs, breaking past patterns.
- Unlike previous bull runs, these holders seem focused on long-term value instead of reacting to short-term trends.
- This behavior may reduce Bitcoin’s circulating supply, possibly supporting price growth while reflecting market confidence.
Bitcoin’s price has been steadily increasing toward $40,000, yet holders who have kept coins for over seven years remain unmoved. Historically, these holders sold large amounts during price peaks to profit from market rallies. However, this time the sell-off activity is much lower than in past cycles.
Long-term Bitcoin holders are not yet selling their holdings
“Holders who have held bitcoin for seven years or more sold some of their holdings before the end of the previous bull market.” – By @t0_god
Read more 👇https://t.co/CceTJrODF1 pic.twitter.com/SWGBbHnsMC
— CryptoQuant.com (@cryptoquant_com) January 31, 2025
During the 2017 bull run, Bitcoin soared to $20,000, and many long-term holders sold significant amounts. A similar trend was visible in 2021 when Bitcoin crossed $60,000, yet the sell-offs were less intense than in 2017.
Currently, data shows a significant change in behavior, as holders are not rushing to sell despite improving prices. This could suggest increasing confidence in Bitcoin as a long-term investment asset and not just a short-term profit tool.
How This Cycle Compares to Previous Ones
In previous years, Bitcoin’s price swings heavily influenced long-term holder behavior. During the bear market of 2018, most holders avoided selling as prices remained low. Yet when prices rose in 2021, many liquidated parts of their portfolios to lock in profits.
Today’s low sell-off levels indicate a change. Even with Bitcoin showing strength in its recovery, these holders seem focused on the asset’s future potential. This behavior aligns with the growing perception of Bitcoin as a digital store of value.
This shift could also reflect the market’s maturity, as investors are no longer reacting quickly to price volatility but staying focused on long-term trends. Could this behavior suggest that holders are preparing for even greater price surges in the future?
Market Effects and Broader Implications
The decision by long-term holders to keep their coins affects the market in many ways, including by limiting the available supply. When supply decreases, it creates conditions for price stability, and it can also create upward momentum when demand increases.
This holding behavior also sends a signal to institutional investors who view long-term holder actions as an indicator of confidence in Bitcoin. Yet the market remains unpredictable, and a sudden change in economic conditions or regulations could still disrupt this stability.
Bitcoin holders’ decisions are shaping the market by showcasing their commitment, which plays a vital role in its ongoing evolution.
Read the full article here