Bitcoin ETFs experienced a wave of inflows totaling $870 million yesterday. As Bitcoin itself came within $175 of breaking its all-time high of $73,737.94. BlackRock’s iShares Bitcoin Trust (IBIT) recorded $3.36 billion in trading volume—the highest in six months, according to Coinglass. This surge in ETF activity signals heightened institutional interest. Possibly driven by fear of missing out (FOMO) on Bitcoin’s next big move.
Bloomberg Intelligence analyst Eric Balchunas commented on the unusual ETF trading pattern. Noting that ETF volume typically spikes during downturns or crises. This recent uptick, he suggested, likely reflects institutional FOMO as Bitcoin approaches a record-high level.
Bitcoin’s Price Approaches Record High
At the time of writing, Bitcoin is trading at around $71,740, up 0.8% on the day and 8.1% for the week, according to CoinGecko. With Bitcoin on the brink of a new all-time high. Investor anticipation has fueled an inflow of capital into Bitcoin-focused ETFs.
Analysts are closely watching Friday’s U.S. nonfarm payroll (NFP) report. A key economic indicator that may influence the Federal Reserve’s decision on interest rates. Singapore-based trading firm QCP Capital noted that the NFP report, expected to show 110,000 new jobs, could set market expectations ahead of the Federal Reserve’s next meeting.
The CME FedWatch Tool currently shows a 99.6% probability that the Federal Reserve will lower rates by 25-50 basis points. Indicating high investor expectations for a rate cut. Such a move could further strengthen Bitcoin’s appeal, as lower interest rates often drive demand for alternative assets like Bitcoin.
Institutional FOMO and Economic Catalysts
Yesterday’s spike in ETF inflows aligns with several favorable economic developments. Today’s U.S. GDP report revealed a 2.8% increase for the third quarter. Slightly below the 3% growth reported in Q2 but still robust enough to support continued market optimism. Analysts like BRN’s Valentin Fournier suggest that Bitcoin’s current momentum, combined with economic catalysts like the GDP data, could set the stage for a breakout beyond its previous all-time high.
“Bitcoin appears to have entered an acceleration phase, aligning with expectations around the presidential election and other favorable catalysts,” Fournier wrote. He recommends a heavy investment preference for Bitcoin over Ethereum, given the cryptocurrency’s near-record performance and favorable macro backdrop.
Conclusion
With Bitcoin ETF inflows hitting new highs and the price nearing record levels, the stage is set for potential gains. Institutional FOMO, upcoming economic data, and an optimistic outlook for Bitcoin’s long-term value reinforce the possibility of an all-time high. As investors watch the NFP and Fed’s next move, Bitcoin’s upward momentum remains strong, promising an exciting period for traders and holders alike.