Definition ∞ Profitability Floor refers to a theoretical price level below which a significant portion of market participants, particularly miners or long-term holders, would incur substantial losses if they were to sell their assets. For miners, this often relates to their operational costs, while for investors, it concerns their average acquisition price. This level acts as a psychological or economic support zone. It represents a critical threshold for market sustainability.
Context ∞ News reports frequently discuss the profitability floor, especially for Bitcoin miners, when analyzing potential market bottoms or periods of extreme price pressure. If prices fall below this floor, it can lead to miner capitulation and reduced network security. For investors, breaching their aggregate cost basis can trigger increased selling pressure. Understanding the profitability floor helps in assessing the underlying support levels and potential turning points in market cycles.