With Bitcoin's increasing presence in traditional financial systems and speculation around a US BTC strategic reserve, there are discussions about potential supply shocks in the upcoming years. However, a new report indicates that such shocks are unlikely to happen in 2025.
Analyzing Bitcoin Long-Term Holder (LTH) Supply
Despite discussions of constrained supply due to halving and rising institutional interest, a report by CEX.IO presents a different scenario. Historically, the decline in long-term holder (LTH) dominance post-halving increases market liquidity. In 2024, LTH dominance fell by 9%, releasing 1.58 million BTC into circulation. This trend is projected to continue, with about 1.4 million BTC transferring from LTH to short-term holders in 2025, balancing potential supply constraints.
ETF Dynamics, OTC Activity, and Market Liquidity
ETFs, once considered potential triggers for supply shocks, have shown lesser significance. Despite US spot Bitcoin ETFs holding 1.13 million BTC in 2024, much of this accumulation comes from arbitrage strategies rather than direct investments. Considering that ETFs cover less than 4% of Bitcoin's trading volume, their impact is diminished. Changes in exchange reserves and activity on OTC platforms also indicate a market that is more balanced rather than susceptible to shocks.
Market Conditions and Liquidity: Insights
Key metrics reveal improvements in liquidity. Despite reduced BTC demand, USD liquidity surged by 61% in 2024. Major exchanges consolidate their positions, providing support for future growth in 2025. The report confirms that Bitcoin's current supply state is not vulnerable to significant shocks in the near future.
The combination of LTH supply analysis, ETF dynamics, and market liquidity suggests that Bitcoin can withstand rising demand in 2025 without major disruptions.