$2 Billion in Bitcoin Leaves Grayscale’s GBTC since January 12
Grayscale’s GBTC, now a spot bitcoin ETF, has seen significant outflows of bitcoin since transitioning into a publicly traded ETF. In the past six days, the nine newly launched spot bitcoin ETFs, including GBTC, collectively traded $16.53 billion. GBTC, which commands the majority of this trade volume, experienced a substantial reduction in its bitcoin holdings. In just 24 hours, the trust shed over 14,300 bitcoin, decreasing its total holdings to 566,973 bitcoin.
Factors Contributing to the Sell-off
There are several reasons for the intense selling of GBTC. Shareholders may have felt constrained when the shares transitioned from trading at a premium to a discount. Long-term investors and speculators who bought GBTC at a lower price may also be selling for gains. Additionally, some investors may be exploring alternatives with lower management fees. Despite this, GBTC remains the most actively traded spot bitcoin ETF with the highest trading volume.
Equilibrium Emerging with Competing ETFs
While attention was initially focused on the expected influx of funds into GBTC, a modest equilibrium has emerged. IBIT and FBTC, along with seven other ETFs, now hold a combined total of 53,479 bitcoin, slightly surpassing the outflows experienced by GBTC since January 12. However, these alternative ETFs still remain significantly smaller compared to GBTC’s vast reserves.
Hot Take: GBTC Faces Significant Bitcoin Outflows Despite Transition to ETF
Since transitioning into a spot bitcoin ETF, Grayscale’s GBTC has experienced substantial bitcoin outflows. This suggests that investors may be seeking alternatives with lower fees or selling for gains after the shares transitioned to a discount. Despite this, GBTC remains the most actively traded spot bitcoin ETF. The competition from other newly launched ETFs and the growth of their bitcoin reserves indicate a shift in the market, as investors explore different options for exposure to bitcoin. As the ecosystem evolves, it will be interesting to see how GBTC and other ETFs adapt to changing investor preferences and market dynamics.