Glassnode’s latest onchain analysis reveals a resurgence in speculative activity in the bitcoin (BTC) market after months of stagnation. This shift marks a potential change in market sentiment, with both short and long-term holders displaying increased engagement.

Mt Gox Preparations Spark New Wave of Bitcoin Speculation

Analysts at Glassnode reported the reappearance of speculative behavior in the bitcoin (BTC) market following a prolonged period of inactivity and sideways price movement. This renewed activity was sparked by market reactions to an internal wallet consolidation by the Mt Gox Trustee on May 28, 2024. Mark Karpeles, the former CEO of Mt. Gox, confirmed that these movements were preparatory steps for the distribution of 141,000 BTC to creditors, expected to conclude by October.

The report notes that Glassnode’s Point-in-Time metrics provided insight into this event, showing the significant movement of coins across several transactions on the specified date. “A major impact of such a large pool of long-dormant coins being spent is that unfiltered metrics like Realized Cap, [Spent Output Profit Ratio (SOPR)], and Coindays destroyed will show a large spike associated with these Mt Gox coins,” Glassnode’s report details.

The report adds:

Theoretically, these coins have been revalued to a higher cost-basis during the wallet management transactions.

The analysis highlighted that the majority of bitcoin investors currently hold unrealized profits, indicating a return of market confidence. Glassnode noted that both long and short-term holders have experienced a reset in their Sell-Side Risk ratio, suggesting a newfound equilibrium in the market. This condition is typically observed during bull market corrections from new all-time highs (ATHs).

The proportion of coins held by long-term holders in an unrealized loss is minimal, reflecting strong conviction among these investors. Conversely, the analysis highlights that short-term holders are more sensitive to price volatility, with significant investments occurring near the current spot price.

Further, Glassnode’s report suggests that despite recent price consolidation, the market is primed for increased volatility. The Sell-Side Risk ratio reset across both cohorts points to exhaustion of profit and loss within the current price range, hinting at potential substantial market movements. This equilibrium phase, coupled with the anticipation of Mt Gox distributions, positions the market for heightened speculative activity.

Source : Bitcoin News by Jamie Redman - Jun 9, 2024