January 21 News, against the backdrop of intense volatility in global risk assets in 2026, a highly noteworthy signal is emerging in the Bitcoin market: large capital continues to accumulate, while retail investors are panic-selling. On-chain data from Santiment shows that in the past nine days, wallets holding between 10 and 10,000 BTC have collectively accumulated an additional 36,322 BTC, worth approximately $3.2 billion at current prices, representing a 0.27% increase in holdings. This “whale and shark” level of capital flow is regarded by the market as a potential prerequisite for a price breakout.
In stark contrast, retail behavior shows a different trend. During the same period, small coin-holding addresses sold about 132 BTC in total, with overall holdings decreasing by 0.28%. This divergence typically indicates that emotional capital is exiting during the decline, while more experienced investors are quietly building positions. Such structural divergence in on-chain investment strategies often appears near phase-bottom regions.
From a price perspective, Bitcoin initially surged over 7% at the start of 2026, but later retreated due to Trump’s announcement of tariffs on multiple European countries, which reignited pressure on global risk assets. BTC subsequently fell below the $88,000 level, then rebounded to hover around $89,000, with short-term volatility significantly amplified.
For investors paying attention to Bitcoin trends and Gate trading activity, this shift in capital structure has high reference value. Historically, when savvy funds continue to buy while retail investors sell off, it often signals room for subsequent price recovery. Despite ongoing macro uncertainties, on-chain capital behavior indicates that the medium- to long-term bullish logic for Bitcoin remains intact.
Currently, Bitcoin price forecasts, whale movements, and on-chain capital flows have become some of the most critical indicators to watch in the 2026 crypto market. As long as this capital divergence persists, the market could trigger a new directional rally at any time.
Disclaimer: The information on this page may come from third parties and does not represent the views or opinions of Gate. The content displayed on this page is for reference only and does not constitute any financial, investment, or legal advice. Gate does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the information and shall not be liable for any losses arising from the use of this information. Virtual asset investments carry high risks and are subject to significant price volatility. You may lose all of your invested principal. Please fully understand the relevant risks and make prudent decisions based on your own financial situation and risk tolerance. For details, please refer to
Disclaimer.
Related Articles
BTC drops 0.75% in 15 minutes: quick pullback triggered by short-term position trimming and capital outflows
2026-04-14 16:45 to 17:00 (UTC), the BTC market saw a clear ups-and-downs move, with a 15-minute return of -0.75%. The price quickly dropped from the 74529.4 to 75233.4 USDT range, with an amplitude of 0.94%. During this period, trading volume increased by about 12% compared with the average of the prior hour; market attention rose, and volatility significantly intensified.
The main drivers of this sudden move were short-term holders collectively cutting positions and a large outflow of exchange funds. From 16:45 to 17:00, the net outflow of BTC was approximately 4,800 BTC
GateNews4m ago
Bitcoin Reclaims $76,000 as US March PPI Misses Forecasts
Bitcoin surged past $76,000 following lower-than-expected US Producer Price Index data for March 2026, which indicated a 4% year-over-year increase. The rise reflects strong market support despite declining leveraged positions.
GateNews1h ago
BTC 15-minute rise of 0.64%: a technical breakout of key resistance combined with weak liquidity amplifies volatility
2026-04-14 15:30 to 15:45 (UTC), BTC saw short-term fluctuations within the 74,795.5 to 75,319.3 USDT range, with a return of +0.64% and a range of 0.70%. During this period, market attention warmed up, volatility intensified, trading volume rose slightly compared with the previous hour, and short-term buy orders pushed the price upward quickly.
The main driver of this unusual move was BTC’s short-term technical breakout above the 74,000 USDT key resistance, which generated a long signal and triggered rapid responses from quantitative and programmatic buy orders. At the same time, because the order book depth has been rising since 2025
GateNews1h ago
Bitcoin Reclaims $75,000 for Second Time Since US-Iran Conflict, Up 7% in 24 Hours
Bitcoin surged to $75,000 amid rising U.S.-Iran tensions, adding $98 billion to its market cap and causing $500 million in liquidations. Technical analysts suggest that holding support above $67,000 could lead to an increase toward $80,000, despite highlighting $50,000 as a critical level if support fails.
GateNews1h ago
BTC 跌破 75000 USDT
Gate News bot 消息，Gate 行情显示，BTC 跌破 75000 USDT，现价 74993.6 USDT。
CryptoRadar2h ago
Goldman Sachs files a Bitcoin premium income ETF application with U.S. regulators
Gate News message, according to the submitted filings, Goldman Sachs has filed an application with regulatory authorities for a Bitcoin Premium Income ETF.
GateNews2h ago
