Realized Loss Spike

Definition ∞ A realized loss spike indicates a sudden and significant increase in the aggregate amount of financial losses incurred by market participants selling their digital assets. This metric, derived from on-chain data, signifies that a large volume of coins are being sold below their acquisition price. It represents a period of intense selling pressure and investor distress. Such spikes often accompany sharp market downturns.
Context ∞ Realized loss spikes are closely watched indicators in crypto news and market analysis, often signaling periods of capitulation. Historically, these spikes have sometimes preceded market bottoms, as the exhaustion of sellers paves the way for recovery. Observing this metric helps assess the severity of market corrections and potential turning points.