Bitcoin selloff by short-term holders spikes amid market fears, data shows high volume of losses in 2023
Quick Take
A closer examination of the roughly 8,000 Bitcoins (BTC) transferred into exchanges on Oct. 12 reveals a heightened sense of trepidation among short-term holders, affirmed by trading activities highlighted in CryptoSlate insights earlier today, Oct. 12.
Large-scale ‘whale’ activity, a trend seen throughout 2023, has often coincided with Bitcoin price fluctuations without an exclusive link to bullish or bearish events. However, short-term holders (STH) also play a crucial role in the Bitcoin economy.
Defined as investors who have retained Bitcoin for fewer than 155 days, STHs are often viewed as more speculative than long-term holders as they are often more price sensitive.
STH Bitcoin holders sold approximately 24,000 BTC at a loss to exchanges under unfavorable conditions. This activity marks the second-highest volume this year. Further, these investors typically entered the market when Bitcoin was trading above $29,000 back in July and August.
The dread within the market was only more intense once this year on Aug. 17. On this day, the Bitcoin market took a significant hit, with the value plummeting from $30,000 to $26,000. Consequently, around 30,000 BTC were sold at a loss by the same cohort.
Notably, the FTX collapse in November 2022 saw STH transfers peak to around 65,000 BTC.
James Van Straten
James fervently appreciates data, technology, and trend-spotting. As a tech and liberty maximalist, he hails Bitcoin as the 21st century’s paramount invention.
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