A Paradoxical Scenario: Potential Bitcoin ETF Approval Could Lead to Price Decline
As the crypto market awaits the potential approval of spot Bitcoin ETFs in early 2024, experts suggest that it may not necessarily lead to a bullish phase for Bitcoin. In fact, their analysis indicates a potential downturn in Bitcoin’s price, with a forecasted decline to around $32,000 in January 2024.
Bitcoin ETFs and the “Sell-the-News” Phenomenon
CryptoQuant, an analytics firm, notes that the market anticipates a 90% likelihood of spot Bitcoin ETF approvals by early January. While this optimism suggests constructive dialogue between ETF issuers and the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), it also sets the stage for a classic “sell-the-news” event.
Analysts at CryptoQuant argue that there are increasing odds that the ETF approval will be a “sell-the-news” event due to high unrealized profits held by Bitcoin market participants. Short-term holders are experiencing profit margins of 30%, historically preceding price corrections.
The recent announcement from Blackrock about seeding its ETF with $10 million is seen as a bullish sign. However, miner behavior may impact the market. With the surge in Bitcoin prices, miners have started increasing their selling activities, which could contribute to downward pressure.
Cathie Wood and Nic Carter Expect BTC Price to Decline
Cathie Wood, CEO and CIO of ARK Invest, acknowledges the possibility of a short-term sell-off but remains bullish on Bitcoin’s long-term prospects. She believes that even modest institutional investment could have a significant impact on Bitcoin’s price due to its scarcity and the anticipated influx of institutional funds post-ETF approval.
Nic Carter, funding partner at Castle Island Ventures, highlights a dichotomy in the market’s response to the spot Bitcoin ETF approval. While he agrees with the short-term sell-off sentiment, he is optimistic about the medium-term effects. Carter believes that the ETF would unlock new capital classes, fostering structural flows that would benefit Bitcoin.
Ali Martinez’s Historical Perspective
Ali Martinez, Global Head of News at BeInCrypto, offers a historical perspective on Bitcoin. He notes that strong BTC performances towards the year’s end have often led to bearish trends in January. This pattern suggests that January 2024 could see a spike in profit-taking and aligns with other analysts’ predictions of a price drop.
Hot Take: Will Bitcoin ETF Approval Lead to Price Decline?
The potential approval of spot Bitcoin ETFs is creating a paradoxical scenario in the crypto market. While some anticipate a bullish phase for Bitcoin, several experts suggest that it could actually lead to a price decline. The optimism surrounding ETF approvals sets the stage for a classic “sell-the-news” event, as high unrealized profits and miner behavior may contribute to downward pressure. However, others remain bullish on Bitcoin’s long-term prospects, emphasizing its scarcity and the anticipated influx of institutional funds post-ETF approval. Ultimately, only time will tell how the market will respond to this significant development.