JPMorgan: Bitcoin Traders Likely to Unwind Futures Positions

Bhushan Akolkar
January 25, 2021
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Bitcoin trades are more likely to unwind their futures position citing a slowdown in Bitcoin institutional participation, says JPMorgan!

Just as Bitcoin (BTC) continues to face downward pressure over the last week, the institutional interest also seems to wane down at the moment. JPMorgan analysts think that Bitcoin price return to $40,000 seems to be doubtful as to the institutional inflows to the biggest Bitcoin fund – Grayscale Bitcoin Trust (GBTC) – seem to be slowing down.

JPMorgan strategists led by Nikolaos Panigirtzoglou noted that the GBTC four-week rolling average “appears to have peaked”. As per the last Grayscale update, the net assets under management (AUM) of its Bitcoin Trust has dropped to $20.4 billion.

JPMorgan states that fund slid is faster at 22% whereas the BTC price has dropped 17% during the same period.

Courtesy: Bloomberg

The analysts also added that as institutional inflows slow down, Bitcoin traders are likely to unwind their positions. The strategists wrote:

“At the moment, the institutional flow impulse behind the Grayscale Bitcoin Trust is not strong enough for Bitcoin to break out above $40,000″. They added: the “risk is that momentum traders will continue to unwind Bitcoin futures positions. The near-term balance of risks is still skewed to the downside”.

Recently, Grayscale has, however, resumed back to Bitcoin buying. As per data on Bybt, the Grayscale Bitcoin Trust (GBTC) has purchased more than 40K Bitcoin since January 14, 2021, pouring more than $1.5 billion.

Institutions Are Scooping Whale Bitcoins

In another analysis, long term Bitcoin holders called “whales” and miners have been losing their supplies to institutions over the last year. Adam James with OKEx Insights told Bloomberg:

“Old-school Bitcoiners sold some of their old bags to new institutional buyers with extremely large new bags to fill”.

Below is the chart that clearly shows how Bitcoin (BTC) holding among Asian whales and miners is dropping since March 2020 and how U.S.-based institutions have accumulated during the same period.

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Why Trust CoinGape

CoinGape has covered the cryptocurrency industry since 2017, aiming to provide informative insights Read more…to our readers. Our journal analysts bring years of experience in market analysis and blockchain technology to ensure factual accuracy and balanced reporting. By following our Editorial Policy, our writers verify every source, fact-check each story, rely on reputable sources, and attribute quotes and media correctly. We also follow a rigorous Review Methodology when evaluating exchanges and tools. From emerging blockchain projects and coin launches to industry events and technical developments, we cover all facets of the digital asset space with unwavering commitment to timely, relevant information.

About Author
About Author
Bhushan is a seasoned crypto writer with over eight years of experience spanning more than 10,000 contributions across multiple platforms like CoinGape, CoinSpeaker, Bitcoinist, Crypto News Flash, and others. Being a Fintech enthusiast, he loves reporting across Crypto, Blockchain, DeFi, Global Macros with a keen understanding in financial markets. 

He is committed to continuous learning and stays motivated by sharing the knowledge he acquires. In his free time, Bhushan enjoys reading thriller fiction novels and occasionally explores his culinary skills. Bhushan has a bachelors degree in electronics engineering, however, his interest in finance and economics drives him to crypto and blockchain.
Investment disclaimer: The content reflects the author’s personal views and current market conditions. Please conduct your own research before investing in cryptocurrencies, as neither the author nor the publication is responsible for any financial losses.
Ad Disclosure: This site may feature sponsored content and affiliate links. All advertisements are clearly labeled, and ad partners have no influence over our editorial content.