Bitcoin Whales Sell 500,000 BTC, Institutions Buy 900,000 BTC

Over the past year, significant Bitcoin whales, including early adopters, miners, and anonymous mega-holders, have sold more than 500,000 BTC, valued at approximately $50 billion at current prices. This substantial selling activity has not caused a market collapse. Instead, institutional investors have stepped in, absorbing nearly 900,000 BTC during the same period. This shift in ownership dynamics indicates Bitcoin's transition from a speculative asset to a structured allocation within traditional investment portfolios.

Data from 10x Research reveals that institutional players, including spot Bitcoin ETFs, corporate treasuries, and asset managers, have been actively acquiring Bitcoin. This trend suggests a growing institutional interest in Bitcoin, which could drive new highs in the future. The absorption of Bitcoin by institutions has helped stabilize the market, preventing the price from collapsing despite the significant sell-off by whales.

Many whales are now using Bitcoin as collateral or contributing it to equity-linked financial vehicles, rather than selling it openly on the market. This strategy allows them to maintain exposure to Bitcoin while also gaining equity exposure. Edward Chin, co-founder of Parataxis Capital, notes that this realignment means less volatile price swings and more predictable accumulation, especially as institutional investors prioritize long-term holding over short-term speculation.

Bitcoin's price action has been relatively stable, hovering below its $110,000 peak for months. Despite bullish headlines, including crypto-friendly policy shifts and treasury announcements from firms, Bitcoin has maintained a steady price. This stability is a result of the institutional buying and the restructuring of exposure by whales, which has led to a more predictable market.

The current Bitcoin price prediction is neutral, as BTC is consolidating just above the 50% Fibonacci retracement level ($107,840) from its recent swing move. The 2-hour chart shows a low-volatility "fib squeeze," trapped between the 50% and 61.8% levels. Price sits between key moving averages: the 50-SMA at $108,624 and the 100-SMA at $107,944. Momentum indicators suggest indecision, with a breakout or breakdown looking imminent.

Bitcoin's power base is shifting, and so is its character. Traders should watch the charts, but also the wallets. The shift in ownership dynamics and the growing institutional interest in Bitcoin could drive new highs in the future. However, the market remains volatile, and traders should be prepared for potential price swings.