Definition ∞ Supply Tightening describes a reduction in the available quantity of an asset in the market, making it more difficult for buyers to acquire. This condition can result from various factors, including decreased production, increased long-term holding, or removal of assets from liquid trading platforms. As supply becomes more restricted, it often leads to upward price pressure if demand remains constant or rises. It is a fundamental driver of asset value.
Context ∞ In cryptocurrency news, supply tightening is a frequently discussed phenomenon, particularly for digital assets with programmed scarcity like Bitcoin, where halving events directly reduce new supply. On-chain analysis often points to assets moving from exchanges to cold storage as evidence of supply tightening, indicating a collective decision by holders to retain their assets. This trend is closely watched as a potential precursor to significant price appreciation in digital asset markets.