"God of Victory" Long 40x 73.49 BTC, Entry Price $93,196

Bitcoin ETFs have seen a significant reversal in flows, with $1.7 billion in inflows recorded over the past three days. This marks a sharp contrast to earlier outflows in the first week of 2026.

The surge in inflows contributed to Bitcoin briefly surpassing $97,000, pushing it above key support levels of $90,000 to $92,000. The Crypto Fear and Greed Index currently stands at 61, signaling growing investor optimism.

BlackRock’s IBIT led the inflow trend on 15 January, capturing approximately $648 million of the $843.6 million in inflows recorded that day. Other ETFs such as Fidelity's FBTC and ARK 21Shares' ARKB also saw notable inflows.

Why Did This Happen?

The recent inflows align with post-year-end rebalancing strategies, as investors locked in 2025 gains before re-entering the market above the 50-day exponential moving average. The inflow trend coincides with ongoing discussions around a key US crypto regulatory bill, despite delays in Senate proceedings.

Bitcoin’s price action has been supported by supply-side dynamics, including continued staking activities by companies like MicroStrategy. This has contributed to tighter BTC supply ahead of the next halving event.

How Did Markets React?

Bitcoin’s rise has been mirrored by broader market trends. The S&P 500 reached new highs, while energy and commodity prices saw mixed reactions. The US gasoline price decline has eased headline inflation pressures, supporting a favorable macroeconomic backdrop for risk assets.

Bitfinex analysts noted that Bitcoin’s recent volatility included a sharp 8.5% move off the yearly open, followed by a $3,000 drop in early trading that triggered approximately $180 million in long liquidations within an hour.

What Are Analysts Watching Next?

Analysts are closely monitoring the potential geopolitical impact of US actions related to Venezuela. The capture of Nicolás Maduro is expected to influence energy markets and indirectly affect Bitcoin through changes in energy costs and risk sentiment.

Over the long term, the potential reintegration of Venezuelan oil into global markets could lower electricity costs for energy-intensive industries, including Bitcoin mining. However, any meaningful production increase is likely years away and contingent on US political and economic engagement.

Investor positioning remains a key factor. Bitcoin’s performance is being closely watched for signs of sustained strength, especially as major ETFs continue to attract new capital. The market is also looking for clarity on US regulatory developments and how they may shape the long-term institutional adoption of Bitcoin.

Bitcoin’s ability to maintain key price levels will depend on the interplay between macroeconomic conditions, geopolitical events, and market sentiment. Traders are advised to monitor ETF flows, energy market developments, and regulatory updates as key indicators for the asset’s near-term direction.