Definition ∞ An exchange supply drop refers to a noticeable decrease in the quantity of a specific cryptocurrency held on centralized exchange platforms. This event typically signals that holders are moving their assets off exchanges, often to personal wallets for long-term storage or to participate in decentralized finance activities. A reduction in exchange supply can indicate a shift in market sentiment, potentially suggesting reduced selling pressure or an expectation of future price appreciation. It reflects a change in investor disposition towards holding rather than trading.
Context ∞ Crypto news frequently reports on exchange supply drops as a significant on-chain metric for market analysis. This trend is often interpreted as a bullish signal, indicating accumulation by long-term holders. A key discussion point involves distinguishing between genuine holder conviction and strategic withdrawals for staking or yield farming, which also reduce exchange supply. Observing this metric helps assess the underlying demand dynamics for a digital asset.