- The U.S.’s 12 spot Bitcoin ETFs experienced a combined net outflow of $1.2 billion over eight days, marking their longest outflow streak since their launch.
- Despite the downturn, analysts and financial advisers remain optimistic about Bitcoin’s long-term potential, particularly among younger investors.
The Bitcoin market experienced a significant shift as the United States’ 12 spot Bitcoin exchange-traded funds (ETFs) recorded a combined net outflow of $1.2 billion in just eight days. This unprecedented withdrawal occurred between August 30 and September 6, according to Bloomberg data.
A Tough Month for Bitcoin
The first week of September saw Bitcoin struggling, with prices plummeting from a high of $64,668 on August 26 to a low of $53,491 by September 7, marking a 17.28% drop in just two weeks. Analysts have long noted September as a historically challenging month for Bitcoin, often referred to as “Rektember.” However, the following month, dubbed “Uptober,” typically brings some relief as prices tend to rebound.
Analysts Remain Optimistic
Despite the recent downturn, analysts remain optimistic about Bitcoin’s long-term potential. Financial adviser Suze Orman, speaking in a CNBC interview, emphasized the importance of Bitcoin as a part of investment portfolios. Orman believes that as the younger generation accumulates wealth, their inclination towards investing in Bitcoin will drive the asset’s price higher. She stated, “The next generation of investors could significantly influence the future of crypto.”
Bitcoin ETFs vs. Traditional ETFs
Despite the outflows, Bitcoin ETFs continue to dominate the ETF landscape in 2024. Data from The ETF Store reveals that among the 400 new ETFs launched this year, the four biggest are all spot Bitcoin ETFs. These include BlackRock’s iShares Bitcoin Trust (IBIT), Fidelity’s Wise Origin Bitcoin Fund (FBTC), the ARK 21Shares Bitcoin ETF (ARKB), and Bitwise’s Bitcoin ETF Trust (BITB).
Moreover, of the top 25 ETF launches by inflows, 13 are related to crypto, with 10 focusing on Bitcoin and three on Ethereum. Notably, the iShares Ethereum Trust ETF (ETHA) was the seventh-largest ETF launch in 2024, surpassing the $1 billion mark in August.
The Future of Bitcoin ETFs
The recent outflows from Bitcoin ETFs highlight the volatility and unpredictability of the crypto market. However, the continued interest and investment in these financial instruments suggest a strong belief in the long-term potential of cryptocurrencies. As Bitcoin navigates through its September struggles, the anticipation of a more favorable “Uptober” keeps investors hopeful.
While Bitcoin ETFs have faced significant withdrawals, the overall trend and investor sentiment remain positive. With influential financial advisors advocating for Bitcoin and the launch of major ETFs, the future of Bitcoin in the investment world appears promising.
