
Briefing
Bitcoin’s recent price recovery to $116k, initially boosted by macro optimism and strong ETF inflows, now confronts renewed selling pressure. This suggests that while macro events spurred a rally, underlying demand is softening as investors increasingly lock in profits. The Net Unrealized Profit/Loss (NUPL) has notably risen, confirming widespread investor profitability, a condition that frequently signals impending demand exhaustion.

Context
Many are wondering if Bitcoin’s recent rally signals a robust continuation of its uptrend or if it represents a fleeting rebound. Investors are also keenly observing whether institutional demand remains a consistent force in driving market strength. This data helps clarify the true conviction behind current price levels.

Analysis
The Net Unrealized Profit/Loss (NUPL) metric measures the overall profitability of the Bitcoin network, showing if the average investor holds coins at a gain or loss. A rising NUPL indicates more investors are holding profitable coins. This past week, NUPL increased alongside other profitability metrics, showing many investors are in profit.
This widespread profitability, coupled with weakening spot market flows and cautious futures funding rates, indicates that while the market has momentum, it lacks deep conviction. Elevated profit realization often precedes a period where new demand struggles to absorb selling pressure, making the market fragile.

Parameters
- Key Metric ∞ Net Unrealized Profit/Loss (NUPL)
- Observed Pattern ∞ NUPL and other profitability metrics rising
- Core Data Point ∞ Bitcoin recovered to $116k, then faced renewed sell pressure
- ETF Flows ∞ Significantly strengthened net inflows
- Spot Market ∞ Cumulative Volume Delta (CVD) weakened, volumes flat
- Futures Market ∞ Funding rates softened

Outlook
The market faces a critical test. Bitcoin’s price needs sustained new demand to absorb profit-taking and prevent a deeper correction. Watch for a rebound in spot trading volumes and a sustained increase in futures long demand to confirm renewed strength. A decline in ETF inflows would signal further weakening.

Verdict
Bitcoin’s recovery is fragile, demanding fresh capital to overcome persistent selling pressure.
Signal Acquired from ∞ Glassnode Insights